Feeding a Adult Small-Breed Dog
Daily calories and cups for a 13β25 lb dog, RER/MER based.
Daily calories
541 kcal
Cups per day
1.42
Cups per week
9.9
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 Adult Small-breed dog
Small breeds typically weigh 13β25 lb. Using a 18 lb example as a midpoint, a adult dog at that weight needs roughly 541 calories a day, which is about 1.42 cups of a typical 380 kcal/cup food, split across two meals. This is a maintenance estimate for a typical neutered adult; active or working dogs need more. Always calibrate to your dog's body condition and use the exact calories-per-cup on your bag.
Other life stages at small breed weight
Same dog, different factor. The life stage is what moves the number most.
- Puppy small breedAbout 676 kcal/day at 18 lb
- Senior small breedAbout 440 kcal/day at 18 lb
Small breeds, breed by breed
Adult weight ranges and the aging curve for the breeds in this size class.
- Beagle20β30 lb
- Bichon Frise12β18 lb
- Boston Terrier12β25 lb
- Cairn Terrier13β14 lb
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel13β18 lb
- Cocker Spaniel20β30 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 adult small breed dog eat?
A 18 lb example works out to about 541 kcal/day, or roughly 1.42 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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