Don't Trust the Feeding Guide! Are You Overfeeding Your Dog Without Even Realising It?
Let’s be blunt.
Most dog owners are feeding their dogs too much — and it’s slowly ruining their health.
Why? Because of a little chart printed on the back of the bag. You know the one. The “feeding guide” that tells you exactly how much to scoop into the bowl each day.
But here’s the truth no one tells you:
That number is based on an average dog with average activity.
And let’s face it — your dog probably isn’t average.
Feeding Guides Are Just That — A Guide, Not a Gospel
That number on the bag isn’t magic. It doesn’t know your dog’s age, breed, weight, energy levels, or whether they’re desexed. It doesn’t know they skipped their walk this week, or that they nap all day on the couch.
But here’s the kicker: most owners treat that number like law — feeding it day in, day out, no questions asked.
Result? A dog that gains weight... slowly. Silently. Until one day you realise they’ve gone from healthy to heavy.
The Real Danger of Overfeeding
Overfeeding doesn’t just mean a bit of extra padding. It means:
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Joint pain
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Early arthritis
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Chronic inflammation
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Higher risk of diabetes, heart problems, and skin issues
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And worst of all… a shorter life
And yet, most owners fear underfeeding more than overfeeding. That’s the real problem.
They think,
“That doesn’t look like enough.”
“He finished it so fast — he must still be hungry.”
“She’s giving me that look… maybe just a little more.”
This kind of thinking — though well-meaning — is what turns healthy dogs into overweight dogs. And eventually, into dogs with problems.
What to Do Instead
Use the guide on the bag as a starting point — nothing more. Then:
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Watch your dog. Are they gaining or losing weight?
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Feel their ribs. Can you feel them with light pressure, or are they buried under fat?
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Look at their shape. Do they have a clear waist when viewed from above? A “tuck” underneath?
If they’re gaining too much:
Cut the food down. In some cases — for desexed, older, or inactive dogs — you might need to reduce by up to 50%.
If they’re losing too much:
Feed a little more until they stabilise.
Pro Tip: When In Doubt, Feed Less
It’s far safer to feed too little than too much.
Feeding too much can cause:
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Diarrhoea
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Gas
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Sluggish digestion
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Weight gain
Feeding too little?
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Your dog may lose a little weight.
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They may get hungry.
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But they will not die. In fact, they’ll likely feel better.
Better digestion. Better mobility. Better energy.
And a better chance at a longer life.
Final Word
Dog food bags don’t know your dog. You do.
Instead of relying solely on the feeding chart, pay attention to what you see and feel — and trust your common sense.
Don’t feed for the average dog. Feed for your dog.
