DogsLifeFree tool
Dog calorie calculator: how many calories a day?
Enter your adult dog's weight and activity. You get the daily calorie range the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) gives for a healthy adult dog at its ideal weight, and a starting point to compare with your food's label.
The WSAVA publishes a chart of daily calorie ranges for healthy adult dogs in ideal body condition, from 2 to 49 kg, calculated from the National Research Council's maintenance energy requirement. The calculator reads that chart; between whole kilograms it interpolates.
Daily calories by weight (WSAVA)
| Ideal weight | kcal per day | Ideal weight | kcal per day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 kg (4.4 lb) | 140–177 | 20 kg (44 lb) | 790–993 |
| 5 kg (11 lb) | 280–351 | 25 kg (55 lb) | 940–1174 |
| 10 kg (22 lb) | 470–590 | 30 kg (66 lb) | 1080–1346 |
| 15 kg (33 lb) | 640–800 | 40 kg (88 lb) | 1340–1670 |
The WSAVA says these figures are a guide only: dogs are individuals, and some need more or less to stay trim.
From calories to a portion
- Find the calorie content on the food: usually kcal per kg, per 100 g or per cup.
- Divide your dog's daily calories by it to get the daily amount, and split it into meals.
- Weigh the food. The PDSA's vets recommend starting from the feeding guide on the pack, weighing portions and adjusting with your vet.
- Check body shape every couple of weeks. Ribs you can feel but not see, and a visible waist, mean the amount is about right.
Treats count. If your dog gets a lot of them, take their calories off the meals. Puppies are different: see how much to feed a puppy and the puppy feeding schedule.
Frequently asked questions
How many calories does a 20 kg dog need?
About 790–990 kcal a day for a healthy adult at its ideal weight, on the WSAVA chart. Less active dogs sit at the low end, very active dogs at the high end.
Should I use my dog's current weight or ideal weight?
Its ideal weight. The WSAVA ranges are for dogs in ideal body condition. If your dog is overweight, ask your vet for a weight-loss plan rather than feeding for its current weight.
Does this work for puppies?
No. Growing puppies need more energy per kilo and the WSAVA chart is for adults only. Use the feeding guide on the puppy food and your vet's advice, and see our puppy feeding guide.
How do I turn calories into grams of food?
The bag or tin states the calories, usually as kcal per kg or per cup. Divide your dog's daily calories by that number. The PDSA's vets suggest weighing portions rather than using a scoop.
Sources
- Calorie ranges for an average healthy adult dog in ideal body condition (updated July 2020) — World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA)
- Vet Q&A: How much should I feed my dog or cat? — PDSA