What Is the Recommended Quantity of Food for a Small Dog?

Small dogs have high metabolisms and energy.

Small dogs may not necessarily have small appetites. They tend to have big personalities and high energy, and that means big hunger. Still, you have to be careful not to over feed.

Time Frame

Many veterinarians recommend feeding your small dog two times a day.

The pet experts at Purina recommend feeding your small-breed, adult dog two to four times a day, but in small quantities. Many veterinarians will urge you to feed only twice a day.

Expert Insight

Ask your veterinarian about the quantity of food. He may tell you to follow the guidelines on the bag, but may vary it slightly depending on if your dog is overweight or not.

Features

The quantity of food depends on the dog's weight. Look at the recommendations on the back of the bag of dog food and divide that by two to four meals.

Identification

Your dog's activity level affects food quantity.

Small adult dogs--such as a Westie--in the 10-pound range should eat about 180 grams (about a cup) of dry kibble food per day.

Size

Dogs ranging from 10 to 20 lb should eat anywhere from 1 to 2 cups of food. Most vets urge going with less feed rather than more because of potential weight problems.

References

• Purina: Feeding a Smaller Dog
• Doctors Foster and Smith: Dog Feeding and Storage of Pet Food FAQs
• Dog Breed Info Center: Daily basic feeding guide for adult dogs

Resources

• James Wellbeloved: Dog Feeding Guidelines