How Much Should I Feed My Dog? A Canadian Calorie Guide
The bag's feeding chart is a starting point, not gospel. Calorie needs vary dramatically with breed, age, activity level and Canadian climate. Here's the math, simplified.
The RER formula
Resting Energy Requirement (RER) in kcal = 70 x (body weight in kg)^0.75. Don't worry -- the table below does the math for you.
| Weight | RER | Active adult | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kg | 234 | 421 | 281 |
| 10 kg | 393 | 707 | 472 |
| 20 kg | 660 | 1188 | 792 |
| 30 kg | 893 | 1607 | 1071 |
Canadian climate adjustments
Cold-weather walks (under -10 C, 30+ minutes daily) burn extra calories. Add 5-10% to the daily total during November-March.
Treats count
Treats should be under 10% of daily calories. Most pet parents accidentally double their dog's calorie intake with treats -- one of the top causes of Canadian dog obesity.
Read the bag, then read your dog
Bags list a range. Pick the middle and watch your dog's waistline for 2 weeks. Adjust by 10% if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
My dog is gaining weight even on the bag's serving size. Why?
The bag assumes 'active'. Reduce by 15% and re-check after 2 weeks.
Once or twice a day for feeding?
Adults: 2 meals. Puppies under 6 months: 3-4 meals.
How do I check my dog's body condition?
You should feel ribs easily but not see them. Visible waist from above.
Are treats really 10% of calories?
Yes -- and that includes training treats. Use kibble from the daily ration for training to stay in budget.
Ships dog food across Canada?
Yes -- tracked CA shipping in CAD.
Pick the right dose with our dog food collection or upgrade treats from Food & Treats.
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