Formula
RER = 70 × Weight (kg)0.75
Daily calories = RER × Life-stage factor
Cups = Daily calories ÷ kcal per cup
Daily calories = RER × Life-stage factor
Cups = Daily calories ÷ kcal per cup
Example: A 30 lb (13.6 kg) spayed or neutered adult dog has an RER of 496 kcal. Multiplying by 1.6 gives about 794 kcal a day. With a food of 350 kcal per cup, feed about 2.27 cups a day — roughly 1⅛ cups per meal.
Life-stage factors used
- Neutered adult 1.6 · Intact adult 1.8 · Inactive 1.2 · Senior 1.4
- Weight loss 1.0 (of target weight) · Active 2.0 · Working 3.0
- Puppy under 4 months 3.0 · Puppy 4 months to adult 2.0
Every dog is different — adjust by 10% if weight changes, and ask your vet about a body condition score.
Frequently asked questions
How many calories does my dog need?
Start with the resting energy requirement: RER = 70 × (weight in kg)^0.75. Multiply by a life-stage factor — about 1.6 for a spayed or neutered adult. A 30 lb (13.6 kg) neutered dog needs about 790 kcal a day.
How many cups of food should I feed?
Daily calories ÷ calories per cup (printed on the bag as kcal/cup). At 790 kcal and 350 kcal per cup, that is about 2¼ cups a day.
How do I feed a dog that needs to lose weight?
Use the RER of the target weight (factor 1.0) and check with your vet. Aim to lose about 1–2% of body weight per week.
Do treats count?
Yes. Keep treats under 10% of daily calories and reduce meals to match.