Dog Calorie & Food Calculator
Enter your dog's weight, life stage and the calories in your dog food (printed on the bag as kcal/cup). You'll get a starting estimate of daily calories and how many cups to feed.
The formula vets use
First the calculator finds your dog's Resting Energy Requirement (RER) — the calories needed just to keep the body running. Then it multiplies RER by a life-stage factor to estimate the daily total (sometimes called MER, maintenance energy requirement).
RER (kcal/day) = 70 × (body weight in kg)^0.75
Daily calories = RER × life-stage factor
Cups per day = food calories ÷ kcal per cup
| Dog | Factor × RER |
|---|---|
| Adult, spayed/neutered | 1.6 |
| Adult, intact | 1.8 |
| Inactive / obesity-prone | 1.2–1.4 |
| Weight loss | 1.0 (at target weight) |
| Puppy 0–4 months | 3.0 |
| Puppy 4 months to adult | 2.0 |
| Active / working | 2.0–5.0 |
Example: a 10 kg (22 lb) neutered adult dog has an RER of about 70 × 100.75 ≈ 394 kcal. Multiply by 1.6 → about 630 kcal per day. With a food that has 350 kcal per cup, that is about 1.8 cups per day.
Tips for feeding the right amount
- Use a measuring cup or, better, a kitchen scale — "a scoop" can be very different sizes.
- The feeding chart on the bag is a starting point too; it often assumes an active, intact dog.
- For weight loss, ask your vet for a target weight and a plan — slow, steady loss is safest.
Frequently asked questions
How many calories does a dog need per day?
It depends on weight and activity. As a rough guide, a neutered adult dog of 10 kg (22 lb) needs about 630 kcal, and a 30 kg (66 lb) dog about 1,450 kcal per day.
How many cups of food should I feed my dog?
Divide your dog's daily calories by the kcal per cup on your food label. For example, 1,000 kcal ÷ 400 kcal/cup = 2.5 cups per day, usually split into two meals.
Why is my dog gaining weight on the bag's recommended amount?
Bag charts are general and often generous. Spayed or neutered and less active dogs usually need less. Reduce by about 10% and re-weigh in 2–4 weeks.
Do treats count?
Yes. Treats, chews and table scraps add calories. Many vets suggest keeping treats under about 10% of the daily total.
Sources
- The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center — Basic calorie calculator for dogs and cats
- WSAVA — Global Nutrition Guidelines