How Much Should I Feed My Dog? A Complete Guide
6-minute read · Loyal Saints Feeding Library
Quick answer
How much to feed depends on your dog's weight, age, activity level, and the food's calorie density. As a general guide for freeze-dried raw, feed about 2–3% of your dog's ideal body weight daily, split into two meals — then adjust based on body condition. Always feed to a lean, healthy weight.
Feeding the right amount is one of the most important things you can do for your dog's health — overfeeding is the leading cause of canine obesity, while underfeeding deprives them of nutrition. The right amount depends on several factors: ideal body weight (not current weight if overweight), age and life stage, activity level, metabolism, and the calorie density of the food.
For freeze-dried raw food, a common starting guideline is to feed about 2–3% of your dog's ideal adult body weight per day (puppies and very active dogs need more, seniors and couch potatoes less). Split this into two meals. The most important step, though, is to adjust based on body condition over the following weeks — you should be able to feel the ribs easily and see a defined waist.
What determines how much to feed
Ideal body weight
Feed for the weight your dog should be, not necessarily their current weight.
Activity level
Active and working dogs need more; sedentary dogs need less.
Life stage
Puppies need more per pound; seniors typically need less.
Body condition is the real guide
Adjust amounts until ribs are easily felt and a waist is visible.
Use our weight-based feeding chart as a starting point, then monitor and adjust. Loyal Saints is nutrient-dense, so portions are smaller than kibble — measure by weight for accuracy. When in doubt about your dog's ideal weight or amount, your veterinarian can assess body condition and advise.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I feed my dog per day?
It depends on ideal body weight, age, and activity. For freeze-dried raw, a common starting point is about 2–3% of ideal adult body weight daily, split into two meals, then adjusted to body condition. Use a weight-based chart as a guide and ensure your dog stays lean.
How do I know if I'm feeding my dog too much?
If you can't easily feel the ribs, there's no visible waist from above, or your dog is gaining unwanted weight, you're likely overfeeding. You should feel ribs with light pressure and see a tucked waist. Adjust portions and consult your vet on body condition.
Should I feed my dog once or twice a day?
Most adult dogs do best with two meals a day, which supports stable energy and digestion and helps reduce bloat risk in large breeds. Puppies need more frequent meals (3–4 times daily). See our feeding frequency guide for details.
How much freeze-dried raw should I feed?
A common starting guideline is about 2–3% of your dog's ideal body weight daily, split into two meals — less for seniors, more for puppies and active dogs. Because it's nutrient-dense, portions are smaller than kibble. Adjust to keep your dog lean.
Feed real food, the simple way.
Loyal Saints freeze-dried raw is complete, balanced, and easy to portion — real whole-food nutrition with no fillers or synthetic premix.
