How do I know if I'm overfeeding my dog?

The most reliable sign is gradual weight gain over weeks or months, confirmed by a body condition assessment. A dog whose ribs are getting harder to feel, whose waist is less defined, or whose belly tuck is disappearing is likely in a mild calorie surplus. A monthly weigh-in and a quick body condition check are the simplest tracking tools.

Should I measure dog food by weight or volume?

Weight (grams) is more accurate than volume (cups) for dry kibble, because kibble density varies significantly between products and even between bag sizes of the same product. A basic kitchen scale is inexpensive and makes a meaningful difference in portion accuracy.

How much should I reduce portions if I give a lot of treats?

Estimate the calories in your dog's daily treats, then subtract that from their total daily calorie target to find how much main food to feed. If treats are adding up to 100 calories a day and your dog's target is 800 calories, feed 700 calories worth of their main food. A calorie calculator can help you establish the target first.

Do I need to adjust portions when my dog is spayed or neutered?

Often yes -- spaying and neutering typically lowers resting metabolic rate, and many dogs need their portions reduced by roughly 10-20% after the procedure to avoid gradual weight gain. It is worth recalculating and monitoring body condition closely in the months after surgery.

Dog Portion Size Guide | PetCalculator

Getting portion sizes right for dogs is harder than it sounds -- measuring cups are inconsistent, bag guidelines are often generous, and treats add up fast. Here is how to measure accurately and adjust over time.