Homemade Dog Food Calculator
Short answer
Homemade dog food is portioned by calories, not cups. Start from your dog’s daily calorie target (RER × life-stage factor), then weigh your cooked recipe and match the grams to that calorie total. A balanced homemade diet should be formulated with your vet or a veterinary nutritionist.
Calories per cup is on your food’s bag (usually 300–500 kcal/cup). Adjust it for an accurate cups-per-day figure.
Your dog needs about 794 calories a day, roughly 2.3 cups.
Daily calories
794 kcal
Cups per day
2.3
Resting need (RER)
496 kcal
Per meal (×2)
1.1 cups
Each meal
1.1 cups (397 kcal) × 2 meals a day
Based on 350 kcal per cup — check your food’s label and adjust above.
Estimate only, from the RER = 70 × kg^0.75 formula with a life-stage factor. Confirm the right amount with your veterinarian and adjust to your dog’s body condition.
Consult your vet
These figures are planning estimates from the standard RER/MER formula and are not a substitute for veterinary advice. Your dog’s real needs depend on breed, body condition, health, and the specific food. Confirm the right amount with your veterinarian and adjust based on your dog’s body condition over time.
Related
Frequently asked questions
How much homemade food should I feed my dog?
Feed to your dog’s daily calorie target (RER × a life-stage factor), not a fixed cup amount — homemade recipes vary widely in calorie density. Calculate the target above, then weigh a portion of your recipe that provides those calories.
Is homemade dog food balanced?
Only if the recipe is formulated to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles. Calories are just the starting point — protein, fat, calcium, and micronutrients matter too. Work with your veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary nutritionist before switching to homemade.