Get a daily calorie target, portion sizes per meal, and a feeding schedule based on your dog's weight, age, activity, and goals. Then fine-tune against your food label and your vet's advice.
Spayed or neutered
Estimated daily plan
Enter a body weight and an age above, then press See my result to view the daily feeding plan here.
Switching foods
Switch foods gradually over 7 to 10 days to avoid stomach upset.
Days 1 to 3: about 75 percent old food, 25 percent new food.
Days 4 to 6: about half and half.
Days 7 to 9: about 25 percent old food, 75 percent new food.
Day 10: fully on the new food. Slow down if you see soft stool or vomiting.
Cats can be slow to accept new food. Never starve a cat into switching; going without food for more than a day is dangerous for them.
AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) is the non-profit organization that sets the nutritional standards for pet foods in the United States, including ingredient definitions and label requirements. When you see "complete and balanced" on a pet food label, it means the food meets AAFCO's nutritional guidelines for that life stage.
AAFCO covers both dogs and cats. For users who want to understand nutritional standards and how to read pet food labels. Particularly useful for owners trying to compare brands.
Balance.IT is a free recipe generator trusted by over 20,000 veterinarians that helps dog and cat owners build custom, nutritionally complete home-cooked meals for their pets. Recipes are approved by board-certified veterinary nutritionists and include guidance on supplements to ensure all essential nutrients are covered.
Balance.IT covers both dogs and cats. For users considering home-cooked meals for their pet. Especially relevant for cats with urinary issues or dogs with food allergies who need specialized diets.
Highlights
Simple weight-based estimate
Shows how to convert calories to cups
Meant to support, not replace, vet guidance
Deep Dive
Every pet is different. Use this as a starting point, then fine-tune based on body condition and your vet's advice.
How to turn calories into portions
Look at your food bag for calories per cup or gram. Divide daily calories by that number to estimate portions.
A kitchen scale is usually more accurate than eyeballing a scoop.
Cats and other species
This calculator handles dogs and cats: switch the toggle above to Cat for cat formulas. Other pets, like rabbits or birds, need species-specific guidance from your vet.
Weight loss or medical diets
If your dog needs weight loss or has a health condition, work with your vet for a safe plan and regular check-ins.
