Feeding a Puppy Large-Breed Dog
Daily calories and cups for a 51β90 lb dog, RER/MER based.
Daily calories
1873 kcal
Cups per day
4.93
Cups per week
34.5
Split the daily amount across 2 meals for most adult pets.
General estimate, not veterinary advice
This is a general starting estimate, not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Your pet's real needs depend on their health, body condition and individual metabolism. Confirm the amount with your veterinarian.
MER factors follow standard veterinary-nutrition guidance (WSAVA global nutrition guidelines; Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center calorie framework). RER = 70 Γ (body weight in kg)^0.75.
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Feeding a Puppy Large-breed dog
Large breeds typically weigh 51β90 lb. Using a 70 lb example as a midpoint, a puppy dog at that weight needs roughly 1873 calories a day, which is about 4.93 cups of a typical 380 kcal/cup food, split across two meals. Puppies need far more energy per pound than adults because they're growing, so this factor is high; taper it down as they approach adult size. Always calibrate to your dog's body condition and use the exact calories-per-cup on your bag.
Other life stages at large breed weight
Same dog, different factor. The life stage is what moves the number most.
- Adult large breedAbout 1498 kcal/day at 70 lb
- Senior large breedAbout 1217 kcal/day at 70 lb
Large breeds, breed by breed
Adult weight ranges and the aging curve for the breeds in this size class.
- Basset Hound40β65 lb
- Boxer50β80 lb
- Collie50β75 lb
- Doberman Pinscher60β100 lb
- German Shepherd Dog50β90 lb
- German Shorthaired Pointer45β70 lb
Before you change the bowl
- How much should I feed my dog?The full RER/MER portion guide
- Raw and BARF portions by body weightThe 2 to 3 percent rule and the 80/10/10 split
Frequently asked questions
How much should a puppy large breed dog eat?
A 70 lb example works out to about 1873 kcal/day, or roughly 4.93 cups of a typical 380 kcal/cup food. Enter your dog's exact weight and food above for a personalized number.
Is this veterinary advice?
No. It's a general estimate. Body condition and health vary; confirm the amount with your veterinarian.
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