Knowing how much kibble to give your dog is no trivial matter.
An improper portion can lead to obesity, nutritional deficiencies, or simply leave your dog less energetic and more prone to illness.
Yet between the often vague guidelines on kibble bags, the advice found on online forums, and everyday guesswork, it’s easy to get confused.
In this practical guide, you’ll learn how to determine the right amount of kibble for your dog — whether they’re small, medium, or large, young or old, athletic or more of a couch potato.
The goal is to help you feed your companion accurately, so they stay healthy and in top shape — and to spare you any unpleasant surprises (or too many trips to the vet).
Factors to consider
Before filling your dog’s bowl, it’s important to understand that the amount of kibble your dog needs doesn’t depend on their weight alone.
Several factors come into play and directly influence their daily requirements. By looking at these together, you can fine-tune their portion to keep them in top health.
| Factor | How it affects the portion |
| Dog’s weight | Sets the baseline for calculating energy needs. |
| Age | Puppies and young dogs need more energy to grow, while seniors often require less. |
| Activity level | An active or sporty dog burns more calories than a sedentary one. |
| Neutering | Often slows metabolism slightly, so portions may need to be reduced. |
| Health condition | Some illnesses call for special diets, in both quantity and makeup. |
| Energy density of the kibble | Not all kibble is the same: some are more calorie-dense, so smaller portions are needed. |
By taking these factors into account, you can figure out a portion that truly suits your dog’s individual needs — instead of relying on a rough estimate.
How much kibble should you feed your dog?
Based on weight, age, and activity level, here’s a general guide to help you estimate your dog’s daily kibble needs.
These values should always be adjusted for the quality of the kibble you’re using and based on your vet’s advice.
| Type of dog | Dog’s weight | Normal adult activity | Growing puppy | Senior / low activity |
| Small dog | 3 – 6 kg | 80 – 120 g / day | 120 – 160 g / day | 60 – 90 g / day |
| 6 – 10 kg | 120 – 180 g / day | 180 – 220 g / day | 100 – 140 g / day | |
| Medium dog | 10 – 15 kg | 180 – 230 g / day | 230 – 300 g / day | 160 – 200 g / day |
| 15 – 25 kg | 230 – 300 g / day | 300 – 380 g / day | 200 – 240 g / day | |
| Large dog | 25 – 35 kg | 300 – 400 g / day | 400 – 550 g / day | 260 – 330 g / day |
| 35 – 50 kg | 400 – 500 g / day | 550 – 650 g / day | 330 – 400 g / day |
These quantities are based on typical kibble with about 350 – 380 kcal per 100 g, for a moderately active dog.
If your dog is especially sporty or very sedentary, you’ll need to adjust accordingly.
Small dogs: how much kibble to give
Small dogs — meaning those weighing up to about 10 kg — have some very specific needs.
Contrary to what you might think, their metabolism is often faster than that of large dogs: pound for pound, they actually burn more energy.
That means you shouldn’t rely only on the volume of food in the bowl. A small dog may need a fairly concentrated portion to meet their needs, while still avoiding excess that can quickly lead to weight gain (and with it, joint or heart problems).
Also, because their stomachs are small, it’s best to split their daily ration into two or three meals to prevent digestive discomfort.
Examples of small dog breeds and average daily portions
| Small dog breed | Average adult weight | Average kibble per day |
| Chihuahua | 1.5 – 3 kg | 50 – 80 g |
| Yorkshire Terrier | 2.5 – 4 kg | 60 – 90 g |
| Pomeranian (Dwarf Spitz) | 2 – 4 kg | 60 – 90 g |
| Bichon Frise | 4 – 6 kg | 80 – 120 g |
| Shih Tzu | 4.5 – 8 kg | 90 – 140 g |
| Miniature Dachshund | 4 – 6 kg | 80 – 120 g |
| Jack Russell Terrier | 6 – 8 kg | 100 – 140 g |
| Pug | 6 – 8 kg | 100 – 140 g |
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | 5 – 8 kg | 90 – 140 g |
| Boston Terrier | 7 – 10 kg | 110 – 160 g |
These figures are, of course, rough averages, calculated for an adult dog with moderate activity, fed standard kibble (~360 kcal / 100 g). They should always be adjusted based on the exact calorie density of your dog’s food and your dog’s body condition.
Medium dogs: how much kibble to give
“Medium” dogs, weighing between 10 and 25 kg, include a wide range of breeds.
They’re often active, playful dogs that need a well-balanced portion to support their muscles while avoiding excess weight gain.
Because their metabolism is generally slower than that of small dogs — but they’re still much more energetic than many calm large breeds — it’s important to find the right balance.
A diet that’s too rich can quickly lead to extra pounds, especially after spaying or neutering.
Examples of medium dog breeds and average daily portions
| Medium dog breed | Average adult weight | Average kibble per day |
| Beagle | 10 – 15 kg | 180 – 230 g |
| Cocker Spaniel | 12 – 15 kg | 180 – 230 g |
| Border Collie | 15 – 20 kg | 230 – 280 g |
| French Bulldog | 11 – 14 kg | 180 – 220 g |
| Shiba Inu | 8 – 12 kg | 160 – 200 g |
| Welsh Corgi Pembroke | 10 – 12 kg | 180 – 210 g |
| Standard Schnauzer | 14 – 20 kg | 220 – 270 g |
| Brittany Spaniel | 14 – 18 kg | 220 – 260 g |
| English Springer Spaniel | 18 – 23 kg | 250 – 300 g |
| Siberian Husky | 20 – 25 kg | 260 – 320 g |
These amounts are for adult dogs with normal physical activity, fed standard kibble (~360 kcal / 100 g). You’ll need to adjust them based on your dog’s actual exercise level, the specific type of kibble, and of course your dog’s individual profile (whether they’re neutered, more laid-back, or very sporty).
Large dogs: watch both quantity and quality
Large dogs, weighing over 25 kg, have very specific nutritional needs.
While they certainly eat a greater volume of food, their growth and muscle maintenance especially require well-formulated diets that support their joints and help prevent excess weight.
It’s crucial not to simply think “more kibble because they’re big.” Overfeeding a large dog can speed up the onset of issues like dysplasia or arthritis.
It’s better to carefully follow the recommendations, taking into account your dog’s activity level and the quality of the kibble (some formulas are specially designed for large breeds).
Examples of large dog breeds and average daily portions
| Large dog breed | Average adult weight | Average kibble per day |
| Labrador Retriever | 28 – 35 kg | 350 – 450 g |
| German Shepherd | 30 – 40 kg | 370 – 480 g |
| Golden Retriever | 28 – 35 kg | 350 – 450 g |
| Boxer | 25 – 32 kg | 330 – 420 g |
| Siberian Husky (large) | 25 – 28 kg | 300 – 400 g |
| German Shorthaired Pointer | 25 – 32 kg | 330 – 420 g |
| Dalmatian | 25 – 30 kg | 320 – 400 g |
| Doberman | 30 – 40 kg | 370 – 480 g |
| Rottweiler | 40 – 50 kg | 450 – 550 g |
| Great Dane | 50 – 70 kg | 500 – 650 g |
These ranges are for an adult dog with normal activity, fed standard kibble at around 360 kcal / 100 g. For very active or very sedentary dogs, you’ll need to adjust up or down, always keeping an eye on their body shape.
How to measure and portion out kibble?
Getting your dog’s daily portion right is just as important as picking the right brand.
Too often, people simply fill the bowl by eye, which can easily lead to overfeeding… or underfeeding.
To keep your dog healthy and in good shape, it’s best to choose a method that’s precise and well suited.
Use a kitchen scale
The most reliable solution is to weigh the portion with a digital scale, just like you would for a recipe.
This lets you track exactly how many grams you’re giving, based on your dog’s weight, activity level, and the recommendations on the kibble bag.
✅ Advantages:
- Extremely precise
- Very helpful if your dog needs to gain or lose weight
🚫 Disadvantage:
- A bit less convenient if you’re in a hurry day-to-day
Use a measuring cup or scoop
Manufacturers often provide graduated measuring cups that match the density of their kibble. You simply fill to the line indicated for your dog’s weight.
✅ Advantages:
- Fast and convenient
- No equipment needed
🚫 Disadvantage:
- Less precise than a scale, since density varies from one brand to another (some kibble pieces are larger or more compact).
Adjust according to your dog’s body shape
No matter which method you use, the key is to regularly check your dog’s body condition.
You should be able to easily feel their ribs without pressing hard, and see a clear waist when looking from above. That’s the best daily guide for tweaking their portion.
Summary table of portioning methods
| Method | Precision | Ease of use | Best for... |
| Kitchen scale | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ | Dogs needing weight control or strict diets |
| Measuring cup | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Quick daily use |
| By eye (guessing, to avoid) | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | …but far too imprecise for health |
FAQ: other common questions
1. Should I always split my dog’s meals?
Not necessarily. For a healthy adult dog, one meal a day may be enough. But splitting into two (morning and evening) can help with digestion and prevent hunger spikes, especially in breeds prone to bloat.
2. Can I mix kibble with a bit of meat or veggies?
Yes, in small amounts. It can even make meals more enticing. Just be sure to reduce the kibble portion to compensate, so you don’t exceed your dog’s daily calorie needs.
3. Should I adjust my dog’s portion on days with a lot of exercise?
For occasional exertion (like a hike or an unusually active day), there’s no need to increase the portion. But if it’s a regular thing (such as hunting dogs, agility training, or frequent long runs), you’ll need to slightly raise the amount or opt for a more energy-dense kibble.
4. What if it’s very hot and my dog eats less?
That’s normal — many dogs eat less during hot weather. Keep offering the usual portion, let your dog eat at their own pace, and make sure they’re drinking plenty of water. If this goes on for a while, monitor their weight.
5. How can I tell if my dog is eating too much or too little?
Check their shape: you should be able to feel their ribs without seeing them, and their waist should be clearly defined when viewed from above. If you notice a layer of fat or, on the other hand, ribs sticking out too much, adjust the portion and talk to your vet for tailored advice.
Conclusion
Feeding your dog well means giving them the best chance to stay healthy, active, and happy for many years to come.
By carefully adjusting the amount of kibble to their weight, age, activity level, and body shape, you’re taking a simple but vital step for their well-being.
And remember: every dog is unique. Keep an eye on their body condition, make adjustments when needed, and if you’re ever unsure, ask your vet for advice.
That’s the key to having a balanced, energetic companion who’s always ready to join you on life’s adventures!
⚠ Important:
The information in this guide is for general reference only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every dog is unique. If you have any doubts about their weight, diet, or health, always consult your veterinarian for personalized guidance.