How it works
First we estimate resting energy: 70 × body weight in kg to the power of 0.75. That's what your dog would burn lying still for a day.
Then we multiply by a life-stage factor — about 1.6 for a neutered adult, 1.8 for an entire adult, and more for puppies and working dogs — to get daily calories.
Finally, dividing by your food's energy (kcal per kg) gives grams per day. Count treats in that total, weigh portions rather than scooping, and adjust by body condition over a few weeks.
Quick reference
| Weight | Calories a day | Grams of dry food |
|---|---|---|
| 5 kg | ≈ 374 kcal | ≈ 104 g |
| 10 kg | ≈ 630 kcal | ≈ 175 g |
| 20 kg | ≈ 1,059 kcal | ≈ 294 g |
| 30 kg | ≈ 1,436 kcal | ≈ 399 g |
| 40 kg | ≈ 1,781 kcal | ≈ 495 g |
Daily energy for a neutered adult dog (factor 1.6), and grams of a 3,600 kcal/kg dry food.
Questions
How much should I feed my dog a day?
It depends on weight, life stage, activity and your food's energy. As a starting point, a 20 kg neutered adult needs roughly 1,060 kcal a day — about 295 g of a typical 3,600 kcal/kg dry food.
Should I follow the feeding guide on the bag?
Use it as a starting point. Bag guides cover a wide range of dogs; your dog's body condition over the next few weeks tells you whether to feed a little more or less.
Do treats count?
Yes. Keep treats to around 10% of daily calories and reduce meals slightly on days with lots of treats.
General guidance for healthy pets, not veterinary advice. Needs vary — your vet can advise for your pet.