Dog Nutrition FAQs: Feeding, Diet & Food Safety

Our calorie calculator uses the AAFCO Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) formula: RER × activity multiplier. RER = 70 × (weight in kg)^0.75. The multiplier adjusts for neuter status, activity level, and life stage. A typical 20kg neutered adult dog needs approximately 1,200-1,400 kcal per day, but active individuals may need 30-50% more.

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The amount depends on your dog's weight, activity level, neuter status, and the calorie density of food. A 20kg adult dog typically needs 300-400g of dry kibble or 600-900g of wet food per day. Our calorie calculator shows both the daily calorie target and the grams of food needed based on your specific dog food's kcal/kg.

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Puppies under 4 months need approximately 3× their RER — nearly double an adult dog's calorie needs per kg of body weight. From 4 months to adulthood, the multiplier drops to 2× RER. Because puppies grow rapidly, they need 3-4 meals per day until 6 months, then transition to 2 meals. Monitor body condition weekly and adjust — the calculator provides a starting point, not an absolute rule.

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Veterinarians recommend feeding after a walk, not before — and waiting at least 30-60 minutes after exercise. The primary reason is bloat (GDV) prevention: exercising on a full stomach increases the risk of life-threatening stomach twisting, especially in large deep-chested breeds. If you must feed before exercise, wait at least 2 hours.

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Yes, mixing is safe and often recommended. A common approach is 75% kibble + 25% wet food by calorie. Calculate your dog's total daily calorie needs first, then split between the two. Ensure the combined diet meets AAFCO nutrient profiles — most complete & balanced kibble is formulated to be fed alone.

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Often yes. The high moisture content (75-80%) helps support kidney function by promoting hydration and flushing toxins. Dogs with chronic kidney disease are frequently recommended higher-moisture diets by veterinary nutritionists. A prescription renal diet may be needed in advanced cases.

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No, dogs do not need wet food if eating a complete and balanced dry diet and drinking adequate water. However, wet food provides meaningful benefits for hydration, palatability, and specific health conditions. It is a valuable option, not a necessity.

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Common toxic foods include grapes, raisins (cause kidney failure at 0.3-0.6 oz per kg body weight), chocolate (theobromine toxicity), xylitol (causes hypoglycemia and liver failure at 0.1g/kg), onions (hemolytic anemia), garlic, macadamia nuts, avocado, alcohol, caffeine, raw yeast dough, and moldy food. Use our toxic checker to verify any food.

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Contact ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 immediately. Time is critical. Have the food name, amount consumed, and your dog's weight ready. Do NOT induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional — some substances cause more damage coming back up.

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