How Much Should a Large Breed Dog Eat? A Fresh Food Feeding Guide

One of the most common questions we get from large breed dog parents: how much should I actually be feeding?

The answer on the back of a kibble bag is a starting point, but it's not the full picture — especially when you're switching to fresh food, which is more nutrient-dense and digestible. More digestible food means more of it actually gets used by your dog's body, which changes how much they need.

The General Rule for Fresh Food Feeding

For most adult dogs, a good starting point is feeding 2–3% of their body weight per day, split into two meals.

For large breeds, that breaks down roughly like this:

• 60 lb dog: ~1.2–1.8 lbs per day (roughly 20–29 oz)
• 80 lb dog: ~1.6–2.4 lbs per day (roughly 26–38 oz)
• 100 lb dog: ~2–3 lbs per day (roughly 32–48 oz)
• 120+ lb dog: ~2.4–3.6 lbs per day (roughly 38–58 oz)

These are starting points. Adjust based on your dog's activity level, age, and how their weight responds over 2–3 weeks.

Active vs. Less Active Large Breeds

A working dog, a dog that runs daily, or a young large breed (1–3 years) will typically need the higher end of that range. A senior dog, a laid-back breed, or a dog recovering from injury will often do better at the lower end.

Puppies Are Different

Large breed puppies need more food per pound of body weight than adults — around 4–6% — but don't overfeed growing large breeds. Too much food too fast can stress developing joints. Talk to your vet about portion guidance specific to their breed and growth stage.

How to Transition Without Overfeeding

When switching from kibble, start with the 2% calculation and watch weight and energy over 2–3 weeks. Fresh food is more digestible, so some dogs do well on slightly less volume than they were eating before.

Signs you're feeding the right amount:

• Stable weight with visible waist and palpable (not visible) ribs
• Consistent energy throughout the day
• Firm, well-formed stools

Our Portion Sizes

Our meals come in 16 oz and 32 oz options. For most large breeds eating twice a day, a 32 oz container covers one meal for a 100 lb dog, or two smaller meals for a 60 lb dog.

• Barkin' Beef Bowl — hearty and filling for high-energy large breeds. From $9.49.
• Southern Shine — lean chicken with coat-supporting nutrients. From $9.49.
• Harvest Pot — salmon and vegetables, great for senior or joint-sensitive dogs. From $9.29.

Start with the Starter Pack to try all five flavors and find what your large breed loves most.