How to Determine the Right Napa Fresh Portions for Your Dog

Feeding your dog the right amount of Napa Fresh is essential for their health, longevity and happiness.

Overfeeding, especially the carbohydrates (starches) contained in all commercial dog foods can lead to obesity and related health problems, while underfeeding can cause malnutrition and low energy. Napa Fresh contains only a handful of dog-friendly, non-starchy veggies and fruits, and contains 65% fresh meat. But, portions are still important.

Understanding how to determine the right meal portions is key to maintaining your furry friend’s well-being. This guide will walk you through practical steps and tips to help you feed your dog appropriately.

Portioning Napa Fresh is So Simple

Since Napa Fresh isn't the same as dry or canned food, substituting the same amount rarely works. Instead, to start with, use this formula: your dog's ideal weight in pounds, multiplied by .02 (2%), which gives you the amount of Napa Fresh to feed per day, in pounds. For example, a dog whose ideal weight is 50 pounds, would start with 1 pound of Napa Fresh per day, which is two 8 ounce containers. The calculation is: Ideal body weight 50 pounds x .02 = 1 pound of Napa Fresh per day.

Small dogs and tiny dogs might need to start with 3% of their ideal body weight. Only you can be the judge.

Stick with this portioning for a week or so, then re-evaluate. Is your dog gaining weight, losing weight, or about the same? Is your dog constantly begging for more food? Every dog is different, so, depending upon your dog's needs and metabolic rate (the rate at which they burn their food), you can decrease or increase the daily amount until the desired goal is met - losing weight, gaining weight, or maintaining.

Feeding even very young puppies is also easy: feed puppies smaller portions in several meals per day, using the total amount per day that you expect to feed them as an adult.

By tailoring portions you will ensure your dog gets the right balance of nutrients without overeating or under eating.

If you want a detailed and reliable dog food feeding guide, this resource offers excellent advice on portion sizes.

Tips for Measuring and Adjusting Dog Portions

Use a Food Scale or a Measuring Cup

Using a food scale or standard measuring cup to ensures accuracy. It is a happy coincidence that a standard one cup measure of Napa Fresh weighs 8 ounces (1/2 pound), and that one container of Napa Fresh is also one cup, or 8 ounces! This makes portioning a breeze.

Monitor Your Dog’s Weight

Weigh your dog regularly. If they gain or lose weight unexpectedly, adjust portions accordingly. If you can't weigh your dog, use the rib test: you should be able to easily feel your dogs ribs under a layer of flesh, but never see your dog's ribs. If you can't easily feel ribs, cut back on Napa Fresh; and if your dogs ribs are feeling like a washboard, increase the amount.

Common Sense: Watch for Signs of Hunger or Fullness

If your dog begs for food constantly, they might need more. If they leave food uneaten, reduce the portion.

Avoid Free Feeding

Leaving Napa Fresh out for more than 15 minutes can cause bacteria growth. Never leave Napa Fresh out all day. Stick to scheduled meals, morning and evening.

Talk to Us

If you’re unsure about the right portions, we are happy to provide personalized recommendations based on your dog’s age, weight and health.

Final Thoughts on Feeding Your Dog the Right Portions

Feeding your dog the right portions is a vital part of responsible pet care. It helps maintain a healthy weight, supports overall health, and keeps your dog happy and energetic. Use measuring tools, monitor weight, and adjust as needed.

For more detailed advice, check out the dog food feeding guide to ensure you’re providing the best nutrition for your furry friend.

By paying attention to these details, you’ll help your dog live a longer, healthier life with the right amount of Napa Fresh every day.