Short answer: the feeding chart on a dog food bag is an average starting point, not a fixed amount. Start with the figure for your dog's ideal weight, then adjust by around 10% every two to three weeks based on body condition: you should feel ribs easily, see a waist from above and a tuck from the side. As UAE weather cools and walks get longer, many dogs need slightly more.

Feeding guides are calculated for a typical dog of each weight. Your dog may be more or less active, neutered or not, young or older, and may simply have a different metabolism. The chart gets you close. Body condition gets you right.

How to read the chart

V-Planet's feeding guide, for example, gives a daily range for each weight band: up to 71 g for dogs up to 2.3 kg, 186 to 212 g for dogs of 9.1 to 11.3 kg, and 355 to 409 g for dogs of 22.7 to 27.2 kg, with around 27 g more per 2.2 kg above that. The amount is per day, so split it across your dog's meals.

• Use your dog's ideal weight, not current weight, if your vet says your dog is over or under weight.
• Start at the lower end of the range for less active, neutered or older dogs.
• Start at the upper end for young, very active dogs.
• Count treats. They should be a small part of the daily total, and large amounts of extras unbalance a complete diet.

For more on daily amounts, see how much vegan dog food to feed daily.

Body condition: the check that matters

Vets often use a body condition score, commonly on a 1 to 9 scale where 4 to 5 is ideal. You do not need to score precisely to use the idea at home. Check three things:

1. Ribs: run your hands along your dog's sides. You should feel the ribs easily under a thin layer of fat, without pressing hard, but not see them sticking out.
2. Waist from above: looking down, there should be a visible narrowing behind the ribs.
3. Tuck from the side: the belly should rise from the chest towards the hind legs.

Long or thick coats can hide a lot, so always use your hands as well as your eyes. Taking a photo from above and from the side once a month makes gradual changes easier to spot.

How to adjust

• Ribs hard to feel, no waist: reduce the daily amount by about 10% and recheck in two to three weeks.
• Ribs, spine or hip bones prominent: increase by about 10%, and ask your vet to check for health causes of weight loss.
• Ideal: keep feeding the same amount and recheck monthly.

Small, steady changes are better than big swings. Weigh the food with kitchen scales rather than using a cup, as scoops vary more than most people realise. For dogs that need to lose weight, see our guide on dog food for weight management in the UAE.

Why October and November are a good time to review

In the UAE, cooler months bring longer walks, beach and park visits, and more outdoor play. A dog whose portion was trimmed during the summer, when walks were short, may now be burning more energy. Some dogs start to lose condition without owners noticing, while others stay the same because their owners also raised the treats.

Do a body condition check now, and again a few weeks into your new routine. If your dog is noticeably more active and starting to feel leaner, a modest increase may be appropriate. If your dog's activity has not really changed, there is no need to feed more just because the weather has.

Special cases

• Puppies need growth diets and frequent portion reviews. V-Planet is formulated for adult dogs, so ask your vet about puppy feeding.
• Senior dogs often need fewer calories but good-quality protein to protect muscle.
• Small breeds have high energy needs for their size. V-Planet's Mini Bites are the same recipe in a smaller kibble.
• Dogs with health conditions should have portions set with their vet.

When weight changes are a vet matter

Unexplained weight loss, weight gain without a change in food or activity, increased thirst, or changes in appetite can all signal health issues. If your dog's weight changes and you cannot explain why, book a vet check rather than adjusting the bowl alone.

A simple monthly routine

1. Weigh your dog, or check body condition by hand.
2. Take a photo from above and from the side.
3. Note activity level and treats over the past month.
4. Adjust the daily amount by no more than about 10% at a time.

Frequently asked questions

Is the feeding guide on the bag accurate?

It is an average for a typical dog of each weight. Use it as a starting point and adjust based on your dog's body condition.

How do I know if my dog is the right weight?

You should feel the ribs easily under a thin fat layer, see a waist from above and a tuck from the side. Your vet can give a body condition score.

How much should I change the portion by?

Around 10% at a time, then recheck after two to three weeks. Avoid large sudden changes.

Should I feed more in winter in the UAE?

Only if your dog is more active and starting to lose condition. If activity has not changed, the portion usually does not need to.

Do treats count towards the daily amount?

Yes. Treats add calories, so keep them a small part of the daily total and reduce meals slightly if you use a lot for training.