As a general rule, an adult dog eats about 2–3% of its body weight in food per day, split across two meals. Puppies need more — roughly 4–6% of body weight, fed across three meals. Always check the chart on your specific Whole Paws bag and adjust for activity level and body condition.
Key takeaways
- Adult dogs: ~2–3% of body weight per day, in two meals.
- Puppies: ~4–6% of body weight, in three meals.
- Always use the bag’s chart — it’s calibrated to that recipe’s calorie density.
- Adjust for activity, age, and body condition; consult your vet for weight management.
How much Whole Paws should I feed my dog?
The bag’s feeding chart is your primary reference because it accounts for that recipe’s calorie density. As a rough starting point, an adult dog eats about 2–3% of its ideal body weight daily. Use that to estimate, then fine-tune based on whether your dog is gaining or losing weight.
Quick adult feeding estimate
| Dog weight | Approx. daily food (2–3%) | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 10 lb | ~0.2–0.3 lb | 2 |
| 30 lb | ~0.6–0.9 lb | 2 |
| 50 lb | ~1.0–1.5 lb | 2 |
| 70 lb | ~1.4–2.1 lb | 2 |
Estimates only — always confirm against the bag’s chart and your vet’s guidance.
How much should I feed a puppy?
Puppies grow fast and need more fuel — roughly 4–6% of body weight daily, divided into three smaller meals to support steady energy and digestion. Use the Puppy Recipe chart for precise amounts and see best Whole Paws food for puppies.
How many times a day should I feed?
Most adult dogs do well on two meals a day; puppies typically need three. Splitting the daily amount supports stable energy and easier digestion.
How do I adjust portions?
Watch body condition: you should be able to feel (not see) the ribs and notice a visible waist. If your dog is gaining weight, reduce slightly; if losing, increase. Active and working dogs need more; seniors and less active dogs often need less — see best Whole Paws food for senior dogs. Switching foods? Pair this with our transition guide.
Frequently asked questions
Should I feed by weight or by cup? Weight is more accurate; cups vary by recipe density. The bag chart usually gives both.
Can I free-feed Whole Paws? Scheduled meals are recommended over free-feeding for portion control.
How much wet food equals dry? Wet food is calorie-light by weight; follow the Lamb Dinner wet tub chart and adjust dry accordingly.