🐾 Freshpet Feeding Chart Explained
Feeding your dog the right amount of food is crucial for their overall health, but finding the perfect balance can be a challenge. If you’ve recently switched to Freshpet, you’re likely wondering how much to feed your pup and whether you’re hitting all the right nutritional marks. Freshpet’s feeding guidelines may vary depending on your dog’s size, age, and specific recipe. Don’t worry—here’s everything you need to know to get your dog the proper nutrition they deserve!
Key Takeaways: Quick Answers to Your Freshpet Feeding Questions 🐶
- How much Freshpet should I feed my dog? This depends on your dog’s weight and the recipe, but general guidelines suggest 1/2 to 7 cups depending on size.
- How do I transition my dog to Freshpet? Gradually, over 10 days by mixing in increasing amounts of Freshpet with their old food.
- Is Freshpet suitable for all dogs? Yes, there are options for dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds.
- Are there different feeding amounts for puppies? Yes, puppies typically need more food to support their growth.
- Can I overfeed my dog with Freshpet? Overfeeding is possible. Always follow the feeding chart based on your dog’s weight and adjust as necessary.
🍽 How Much Freshpet Should You Feed Your Dog?
Your dog’s food requirements depend largely on their weight and the specific Freshpet recipe you’re using. The Freshpet feeding chart offers easy-to-follow guidance to ensure you’re feeding your pet the right amount. Let’s break it down.
| Weight Intervals (lb) | Multi-Protein Recipe | Shredded Chicken Recipe | Beef & Chicken Recipe |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-10 | 1/2 – 1 cup | 3/4 – 1 1/4 cups | 1/2 – 3/4 cups |
| 11-20 | 1 – 1 1/2 cups | 1 1/4 – 2 1/4 cups | 3/4 – 1 1/4 cups |
| 21-35 | 1 1/2 – 2 1/2 cups | 2 1/4 – 3 1/4 cups | 1 1/4 – 2 cups |
| 36-50 | 2 1/2 – 3 1/4 cups | 3 1/4 – 4 1/4 cups | 2 – 2 3/4 cups |
| 51-65 | 3 1/4 – 3 3/4 cups | 4 1/4 – 5 1/4 cups | 2 3/4 – 3 1/4 cups |
| 66-80 | 3 3/4 – 4 1/2 cups | 5 1/4 – 6 cups | 3 1/4 – 3 3/4 cups |
| 80-100 | 4 1/2 – 5 1/4 cups | 6 – 7 cups | 3 3/4 – 4 1/2 cups |
| +25 | +1 cup | +1 1/4 cup | +3/4 cup |
💡 Pro Tip: Start with the recommended serving and adjust based on your dog’s activity level. Highly active dogs may need a bit more, while couch potatoes might need a little less!
🛠 How to Transition Your Dog to Freshpet Without Upsetting Their Stomach
Switching your dog’s diet too quickly can lead to digestive upset. Luckily, Freshpet has laid out a simple, step-by-step process to make the transition smooth.
| Day | Food Mix |
|---|---|
| Day 1-3 | 25% Freshpet, 75% old food |
| Day 4-6 | 50% Freshpet, 50% old food |
| Day 7-10 | 75% Freshpet, 25% old food |
| Success! | 100% Freshpet |
By transitioning slowly, you give your dog’s digestive system time to adjust to the new food, reducing the risk of diarrhea or stomach upset. Always monitor your dog during this period to ensure they’re adjusting well.
🐶 Are There Different Feeding Requirements for Puppies?
Yes, puppies have different nutritional needs as they’re rapidly growing, and they generally need more food than adult dogs. Freshpet’s puppy feeding chart ensures your puppy gets the right amount of food at each stage of growth.
| Weight (lb) | 2-3 Months | 4-5 Months | 6-8 Months |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-15 | 1 1/2 – 3 1/2 cups | 1 1/3 – 3 cups | 1 1/4 – 2 2/3 cups |
| 16-30 | 3 2/3 – 5 3/4 cups | 3 1/4 – 5 cups | 2 3/4 – 4 1/3 cups |
| 31-50 | 6 – 8 1/2 cups | 5 1/4 – 7 1/2 cups | 4 1/2 – 6 1/3 cups |
| 51-80 | – | 7 1/2 – 10 2/3 cups | 6 1/2 – 9 cups |
| +20 | – | +1 2/3 cups | – |
💡 Tip: Puppies should be fed multiple times per day to maintain energy and support growth. Always follow portion guidelines and adjust as needed based on your puppy’s activity level and breed.
🍗 Does Freshpet Provide Different Recipes for Various Needs?
Yes! Freshpet offers multiple recipes depending on your dog’s preferences and dietary requirements, such as multi-protein, shredded chicken, or beef & chicken options. Each recipe has slightly different feeding recommendations, so it’s important to check the chart specific to the recipe you’re feeding.
For example, the shredded chicken recipe has slightly higher serving recommendations compared to beef & chicken. This variance allows you to select the best option for your dog’s nutritional needs and taste preferences.
⚖️ How Can I Avoid Overfeeding My Dog with Freshpet?
It’s easy to overestimate how much food your dog really needs, especially when switching to a new diet. Overfeeding can lead to weight gain, joint issues, and decreased energy. Stick closely to the feeding chart and monitor your dog’s body condition regularly.
Signs your dog might be overeating:
- Weight gain
- Lethargy
- Difficulty moving or reluctance to exercise
Monitor your dog’s weight and adjust portion sizes if necessary. You can also consult your vet to ensure you’re feeding the correct amount.
📊 Freshpet Feeding Solutions at a Glance
| Question | Quick Answer | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| How much Freshpet to feed? | Depends on your dog’s weight and recipe. | Adjust portions based on activity level. 🐕⚖️ |
| How to transition to Freshpet? | Slowly over 10 days by mixing with old food. | Prevent stomach upset by transitioning gradually. 🍽️ |
| Does Freshpet cater to puppies? | Yes, with separate guidelines for growth. | Feed puppies multiple times per day for optimal nutrition. 🐶🍼 |
| Are there different recipe options? | Yes, like multi-protein, chicken, and beef. | Choose based on your dog’s preferences and needs. 🥩🍗 |
| Can I overfeed my dog? | Yes, overfeeding can cause health issues. | Stick to the chart and adjust as needed. ⚖️ |
FAQs
🐾 Comment: “My dog is gaining weight after switching to Freshpet. Am I feeding too much?”
It sounds like your dog might be consuming more calories than they need, which is quite common when transitioning to a fresh food diet like Freshpet. Even though Freshpet is made with whole, fresh ingredients, it’s still crucial to monitor portion sizes. Freshpet’s moisture content tends to be higher compared to kibble, which may lead to overfeeding if you’re estimating based on dry food habits.
Here’s what you can do:
- Revisit the Feeding Chart: Ensure you’re following the recommended portions based on your dog’s current weight, not their ideal weight. This could result in smaller portions than you’re used to feeding.
- Adjust for Activity Levels: If your dog is more sedentary, reduce the portions slightly. Freshpet feeding guidelines are based on average activity levels, so adjust accordingly if your dog has low energy demands.
- Monitor Body Condition: Instead of relying solely on weight, observe your dog’s body condition. You should be able to feel their ribs easily, but they shouldn’t be sticking out. Their waist should also be visible when viewed from above.
Lastly, consider adding more exercise to your dog’s routine to help balance their calorie intake. If you’re unsure, a vet visit can give you personalized recommendations.
🐶 Comment: “How do I know if my puppy is getting enough Freshpet?”
Puppies have higher caloric and nutrient demands than adult dogs, so it’s essential to follow Freshpet’s puppy feeding guidelines closely. Puppies can burn through energy quickly due to their rapid growth, so ensuring they get the correct portion sizes for their age and weight is crucial.
Here’s how to tell if your puppy is getting enough:
- Check Their Growth: Puppies should be steadily gaining weight as they grow. Weigh them every few weeks and compare their weight gain to expected growth rates for their breed.
- Watch Their Energy Levels: Puppies should have bursts of high energy followed by restful periods. If they seem lethargic, it could be a sign they’re not getting enough nutrients.
- Monitor Stool Quality: Healthy, well-fed puppies typically have firm, well-formed stools. If your puppy’s stools are loose or inconsistent, they might not be digesting their food properly, or they could need more calories.
If you’re concerned about over- or underfeeding, check your puppy’s body condition. They should have a well-proportioned figure without excess fat, and their ribs should be slightly palpable under the skin. Puppies can also benefit from multiple meals per day, so make sure you’re dividing their portions into at least three feedings for younger pups.
🐕 Comment: “Can I mix Freshpet with my dog’s kibble long term?”
Yes, you can mix Freshpet with kibble long-term, but there are a few things to keep in mind to maintain nutritional balance. Freshpet is formulated to provide a complete and balanced diet, so mixing it with kibble could alter the overall nutrient profile your dog is receiving. Here’s how to do it properly:
- Portion Adjustments: When combining Freshpet with kibble, you’ll need to reduce the portions of both. Make sure you aren’t feeding full servings of each, as this could lead to overfeeding and weight gain. Ideally, stick to the 50/50 ratio, or follow the portion guidelines based on each product’s feeding chart.
- Monitor Digestive Health: Some dogs may need time to adjust to the combination of wet and dry food. Keep an eye on your dog’s stool quality, as a mix could cause digestive upsets for sensitive dogs. If your dog’s stool remains firm, you’re on the right track.
- Nutritional Variety: Mixing foods can provide variety in texture and flavor, which many dogs enjoy. However, if you’re using kibble and Freshpet, ensure both foods are of high quality to provide the necessary proteins, fats, and nutrients your dog needs to thrive.
If you’re unsure about the long-term combination, consult your vet to ensure that your dog’s dietary needs are being met with the mix.
🐩 Comment: “How do I handle feeding Freshpet to a senior dog with lower activity levels?”
Senior dogs typically have lower calorie needs due to reduced activity, but their nutritional needs may increase. Freshpet is an excellent choice for seniors because of its fresh ingredients, but it’s important to adjust portion sizes and ensure your senior dog gets the right nutrients for aging joints, digestion, and immune support.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Portion Control: Senior dogs usually require smaller portion sizes. Stick to the lower end of the feeding chart and adjust based on your dog’s body condition. A senior dog should have a visible waistline, and you should be able to feel their ribs without pressing too hard.
- Monitor Weight Regularly: Weigh your dog frequently, as seniors are more prone to weight fluctuations. Too much weight can strain their joints, while too little can indicate they’re not absorbing nutrients properly.
- Joint Support: Consider adding supplements like glucosamine or fish oil to support joint health, as senior dogs may need more than what their diet alone can provide. Some Freshpet recipes are already rich in Omega-3s, which promote joint mobility.
Freshpet’s moisture content is also helpful for seniors with dental issues, as the softer texture can be easier to chew than kibble. However, always balance their portions to avoid unwanted weight gain.
🐕🦺 Comment: “My dog seems hungry even after I feed them Freshpet. Should I increase the portions?”
It’s not uncommon for dogs to appear hungry after meals, but this doesn’t necessarily mean they need more food. Freshpet is nutritionally balanced and designed to meet their caloric needs when served according to the feeding chart.
Here’s what might be happening:
- Behavioral Hunger: Some dogs are naturally food-driven and may act hungry, even when they’ve had enough. Make sure your dog isn’t begging or pacing just out of habit.
- Activity Levels: If your dog is especially active or has had a burst of energy that day, they may need a slight increase in food. You can safely increase their portion by 10-15%, but watch their body condition to ensure they’re not gaining weight.
- Health Check: If your dog continues to act ravenous despite proper feeding, consider a vet visit to rule out underlying issues such as thyroid problems or parasites, which can affect appetite.
To help curb the hunger cues, consider offering low-calorie vegetables like carrots or green beans as a filler snack. This will provide them with something to munch on without adding unnecessary calories.
🐕 Comment: “Can I freeze Freshpet, and does it lose nutrients when thawed?”
Yes, Freshpet can be frozen, but it’s important to note that the texture and taste might change slightly upon thawing. However, in terms of nutrient preservation, freezing Freshpet will generally not result in a significant loss of nutrients. The ingredients used in Freshpet—such as real meats, vegetables, and fruits—are minimally processed, and freezing helps retain the product’s freshness without the need for artificial preservatives.
That being said, when thawing, it’s essential to do so gradually in the refrigerator, rather than leaving it out at room temperature. Thawing it slowly ensures that the cell structure of the ingredients remains intact, which helps to prevent any degradation in quality. If you thaw Freshpet too quickly, you could lose some of the moisture and softness that makes it appealing to your dog.
💡Pro Tip: Once thawed, be sure to use the food within 24 hours to maintain its freshness and ensure that it’s safe for your dog to consume.
🐶 Comment: “My dog has allergies. Can Freshpet still be a good option for them?”
Freshpet can be a great option for dogs with allergies, but it’s critical to choose the right recipe. Freshpet offers several recipes that avoid common allergens like wheat, soy, and corn, which are often culprits in triggering allergic reactions. Additionally, the fresh ingredients and minimal processing in Freshpet can reduce the risk of adverse reactions compared to dry, highly processed foods.
However, it’s important to closely examine the ingredient list for each recipe. Some dogs might have protein-specific allergies, such as to chicken or beef, which are often present in many Freshpet formulas. In that case, you might need to opt for a single-protein recipe or one with a novel protein like lamb or turkey.
If your dog has severe allergies, you may want to consider getting them tested by a veterinarian to pinpoint exactly what triggers their symptoms. This can help you make informed decisions when choosing the right Freshpet formula. Always monitor for signs of itching, redness, or digestive upset after introducing any new food.
🐩 Comment: “Does Freshpet have enough nutrients to replace my dog’s kibble entirely?”
Absolutely! Freshpet is designed to be a complete and balanced diet that can fully replace kibble or any other type of food you’re feeding. It meets the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards, meaning it provides all the essential vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates your dog needs to stay healthy.
Freshpet’s recipes contain high-quality proteins (like real chicken, beef, or turkey), along with fruits, vegetables, and natural fiber sources to support digestive health and overall wellbeing. Unlike some kibbles, which can be heavily processed and include fillers, Freshpet’s ingredients are minimally processed to preserve their nutrients, flavor, and moisture.
If you’re transitioning from kibble to Freshpet, ensure you follow the transition plan to avoid digestive upset. The fresh, natural ingredients can be easier on your dog’s stomach, leading to better nutrient absorption and overall vitality. With consistent feeding, Freshpet can offer the nutritional completeness that your dog requires, while also providing a palatable and moisture-rich meal.
🐕🦺 Comment: “Can Freshpet help with my dog’s weight loss plan?”
Freshpet can be an excellent component of a weight-loss plan for dogs, as it contains fresh, whole ingredients with a higher water content, which can help your dog feel full without consuming too many calories. Because Freshpet is rich in lean proteins and low in fillers like corn or soy, it can help support muscle retention while promoting fat loss.
To use Freshpet in a weight-loss plan, start by determining your dog’s ideal weight with the help of your vet. Then, adjust the portions according to the feeding chart—but use the portion size for your dog’s target weight, not their current weight. This ensures that you’re feeding them the appropriate amount of calories for weight loss without underfeeding them essential nutrients.
Additionally, you can mix low-calorie vegetables like green beans or carrots into their Freshpet meals to add bulk and fiber, making them feel fuller for longer. Exercise is another key factor, so be sure your dog is getting enough physical activity each day. Monitor their progress weekly and adjust portions as needed, aiming for gradual weight loss to avoid putting unnecessary strain on their system.
🐕 Comment: “Does Freshpet have enough fiber for dogs with sensitive stomachs?”
Yes, Freshpet provides adequate fiber from natural sources like peas, sweet potatoes, and carrots, which are included in many of their recipes. These ingredients offer a balance of soluble and insoluble fibers, which help to regulate your dog’s digestion, firm up stools, and reduce the risk of stomach upset.
Dogs with sensitive stomachs often benefit from diets that are low in artificial ingredients and preservatives, and Freshpet fits this bill perfectly. The high moisture content and natural fiber sources work together to ease digestion and maintain regularity. If your dog has been struggling with loose stools or constipation on a traditional kibble diet, switching to a fresh food like Freshpet can often provide relief.
However, it’s essential to monitor your dog’s reaction when switching to any new food. If they have an especially sensitive gut, you may want to start with the Freshpet Sensitive Stomach recipe, which includes limited ingredients to avoid common triggers for digestive upset. Keep an eye on your dog’s stool quality during the transition, and adjust the portions as needed to ensure a smooth shift to their new diet.
