How Many Times A Day Should A Puppy Eat?

Q: Can I change my puppy’s meal schedule?

Yes. Shift the schedule gradually over several days and remain consistent once a new routine is established.

Q: Why does my puppy seem hungry all the time?

Puppies burn calories quickly and often have strong appetites. If stools and growth look normal, appetite is usually normal as well.

Q: Is it okay to give treats between meals?

Yes, using treats for training is beneficial. Just ensure treats make up no more than 10% of daily calories.

Puppies grow fast—really fast—which means they need the right amount of food at the right times to fuel healthy development. But how often should a puppy eat each day? Their ideal feeding schedule depends on age, size, and breed. A consistent routine not only supports growth but also helps with potty training and behavior. Here’s what every puppy parent should know.

Who This Is For

This guide is perfect for:

New puppy parents
Families adjusting feeding schedules
Anyone wanting to support healthy puppy growth and easy training

A small puppy wearing the yellow Nova felted fabric dog collar.

General Feeding Guidelines by Age

8–12 Weeks Old

👉 4 meals per day

Your puppy’s stomach is tiny, their energy is high, and their nutritional needs are huge.

Small, frequent meals prevent tummy upset and blood sugar drops.

3–6 Months Old

👉 3 meals per day

As their digestive system matures, they can handle slightly larger meals less often.

This is also a key phase for potty training and routine-building.

6–12 Months Old

👉 2 meals per day

Most puppies transition to twice-daily feeding here, depending on their size and breed.

Large & Giant Breeds

May stay on 3 meals per day longer
Slower growth rate means more controlled feeding
Prevents overeating and reduces bloat risk

Why Meal Frequency Matters

Supports Healthy Growth

Puppies need steady nutrition throughout the day to support bone density, muscle development, and brain growth.

Helps With Potty Training

Consistent feeding = predictable potty times.

Perfect for using your leash, harness, and waste bag holder during regular bathroom breaks.

Prevents Overeating

Spreading meals out helps avoid bloating, vomiting, and digestive upset.

How Much Should a Puppy Eat Per Meal?

This depends on:

Age
Weight
Breed
Activity level
Food type (kibble vs fresh/wet food)

Always follow your vet’s recommendation or the feeding chart on your puppy’s food.

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Signs You’re Feeding the Right Amount

Your puppy is:

Energetic (but not hyperactive)
Growing steadily
Having regular, solid stools
Not showing ribs or becoming round in the belly

If anything feels off—low energy, loose stools, constant hunger—adjust their meal size or speak with your vet.

Tips for a Healthy Puppy Feeding Routine

1. Feed at the Same Times Daily

Predictable mealtimes = predictable potty breaks.

2. Keep Water Available

Except a couple hours before bedtime to reduce nighttime accidents.

3. Use Feeding Time for Training

Offer part of the meal by hand to teach manners and basic commands.

👉 Keep your Pink Papyrus treat pouch handy to reward calm behavior.

4. Don’t Free-Feed

Leaving food out all day complicates potty training and can lead to overeating.

5. Transition Slowly Between Foods

Mix the new and old food over 7–10 days to prevent stomach upset.

FAQs

Q: Can I change my puppy’s meal schedule?

A: Yes—just shift gradually over several days and keep it consistent once changed.

Q: Why does my puppy seem hungry all the time?

A: Puppies burn calories quickly. If growth is normal and stools are healthy, appetite is usually normal. When in doubt, ask your vet.

Q: Is it okay to give treats between meals?

A: Absolutely—just keep treats under 10% of daily calories and use them for positive reinforcement.

Written by Christine Abdelmalek

Founder and SHE-E-O of Pink Papyrus

Obsessed with crafting dog accessories—beautiful, brilliantly functional, and made with love.