Frequency of feedings

Puppies and kittens should be fed 4-6 times a day. This should gradually decrease by the time the pet reaches 50 percent of his/her adult body weight. At this stage, pets should be fed three meals per day. Dogs that burn extra calories, such as working or exceedingly active dogs, should be fed more frequently to satisfy their added energy requirements.

Because over-consumption of food is a leading cause of pet obesity, Banfield does not recommend all-day access to food. Instead, implement portion-control feeding, in which food is measured using a standard cooking cup to weigh the amount of food your veterinarian recommends for your pet’s daily intake. Feed your pet at the same times each day to regulate the digestive system and avoid accidents.

Providing enough water

Pets should have access to clean, fresh water at all times. If you are concerned that your pet is not consuming enough water, feeding canned food helps encourage water consumption. Cats typically prefer to drink at night because they are nocturnal in nature. Because cats are very sensitive to getting their whiskers wet, use a bowl with a wide surface area.

Providing snacks and treats

Treats can be an important tool for training your pet’s behavior as well as bonding with your pet. It’s important to remember that treats should only be used as a reward—not as a supplement to food or for any other reason. Unless recommended by your veterinarian for your pet’s specific situation, your pet’s physical health does not require the use of treats or supplements to stay healthy.

Skip to content

Learn more about how Purina and Petfinder are caring for pets and their owners.

Location

Use current location available

Find a dog Find a cat

Adopt or Get Involved
Dogs & Puppies
Cats & Kittens
Other Types of Pets

Favorites

Home
Dogs & Puppies
Feeding Your Dog
Dog Nutrition
How Often Should I Feed My Dog – Dog Feeding Schedule

How Often Should I Feed My Dog – Dog Feeding Schedule

It only takes 60 seconds!: Get Started

Find Your Best MatchIt only takes 60 seconds!

Get Started

Search for Animal Shelters or Rescues

Location

No location suggestions available

Enter Shelter or Rescue Name

More in Dog Nutrition

View All

Dog Nutrition
Are Antlers Safe for Dogs?
Dog Nutrition
Is Apple Cider Vinegar Good For Dogs?
Dog Nutrition
Your Dog’s Necessary Nutrients

Finding pets for you...

Resources

FAQs
Mobile App Download
News Center
Put Petfinder On Your Site
Contact Us

Adopt or Get Involved

All Adopt or Get Involved
Adopting Pets
Animal Shelters & Rescues
Other Types of Pets

About Dogs & Puppies

All About Dogs & Puppies
Dog Adoption
Dog Breeds
Feeding Your Dog
Dog Behavior
Dog Health & Wellness
Dog Training
Other Dog Information

About Cats & Kittens

All About Cats & Kittens
Cat Adoption
Cat Breeds
Feeding Your Cat
Cat Behavior
Cat Health & Wellness
Cat Training
Other Cat Information

Shelter & Rescue Registration
Sitemap
Terms of Service
Notice at Collection
Privacy Policy (updated)
Accessibility
Cookie Policy

All trademarks are owned by Société des Produits Nestlé S.A., or used with permission.