Feeding Guide For Labrador Retriever
A healthy adult Labrador Retriever usually needs about 2.5 to 3 cups of good-quality dry dog food each day. It’s best to split this into two meals — one in the morning and one in the evening.
However, puppies, older dogs, and very active Labs may need more or less food. So, always adjust the amount based on your dog’s age, size, energy level, and health.
How To Calculate the Right Portion for Your Labrador
Dog food labels give basic advice, but every Labrador is different. The best way to feed your Lab is to look at their weight and how active they are:
| Weight | Cups per day (low activity) | Cups per day (high activity) |
|---|---|---|
| 55 lbs | 2.5 cups | 3 cups |
| 70 lbs | 3 cups | 3.5 cups |
| 85 lbs | 3.5 cups | 4 cups |
Always use a standard 8 oz measuring cup for accuracy.
Why Getting a Lab’s Diet Right Really Matters?
Labradors love food and are really good at begging with their big, sad eyes — it’s hard to say no! But giving them too many treats can lead to weight gain, which can hurt their joints and even shorten their life. That’s why it’s important to feed them the right kind and amount of food. It helps them stay at a healthy weight, keeps their muscles strong, and gives them steady energy to enjoy life.
How Often Should a Labrador Be Fed?
For adult Labs, feeding them twice a day — once in the morning and once in the evening — is usually best. This helps keep them full, reduces begging, and lowers the risk of stomach problems like bloat.
For Lab puppies, they need more frequent meals. Feed them 3 to 4 small meals a day until they are about 6 months old. After that, you can switch to 2 meals a day like adults.
How to Adjust Food for Puppies, Seniors & Active Labs?
Feeding a Lab Puppy
Puppies grow fast and need lots of energy. Choose food made specially for puppies — it should have more protein and healthy fats. Ask your breeder or vet how much to feed, and slowly increase the amount as your puppy gets bigger.
Feeding a Senior Labrador
Older Labs aren’t as active but still enjoy eating. Switch to senior dog food that has fewer calories to prevent weight gain. Look for food with joint-support ingredients like glucosamine to help keep them comfortable.
Feeding an Active Working Labrador
Labs that work, hunt, or train daily burn lots of energy. They need food with more protein and fat to keep their strength up. Slightly bigger meals can help them stay fit and avoid losing muscle.
What Type of Food Should a Labrador Eat?
A balanced diet for a Labrador should include:
High-quality protein (chicken, beef, fish)
Healthy fats (for a shiny coat)
Complex carbs (for steady energy)
Fiber (for digestion)
Most people feed their Lab dry kibble, but it’s okay to mix in some wet food or raw meat for variety. Just make sure to talk to a vet before trying raw or homemade food.
For safe and trusted feeding advice, check websites like the American Kennel Club (AKC) or PetMD.
Signs You’re Feeding Too Much — or Too Little
Not Sure If You’re Feeding the Right Amount? Here’s a Simple Way to Check:
Do a quick body check on your dog:
Ribs should be felt, not seen.
A visible waist when viewed from above.
Their belly shouldn’t be hanging or sagging.
If your dog looks chubby or feels heavy, try cutting back on food a little and add more walks.
If their ribs are sticking out and they look too skinny, it might be time to give them a bit more to eat.
Healthy Treats and Snacks for Labradors
Treats should only be a small part of your Labrador’s daily food—no more than 10% of what they eat in a day. Choose healthy, low-calorie options like carrot sticks, green beans, or dog-friendly training treats. Giving too many treats can lead to quick weight gain, so it’s best to keep them in check.
Water and Feeding Schedule Tips
Fresh, clean water should always be available. Feeding at the same times every day helps with digestion and makes house training puppies easier.
Best Dog Food for Labradors (Expert Picks)
Choosing the right dog food can feel overwhelming. Some highly rated options for Labs include:
Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult — Formulated for joint support and weight management.
Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed — Great balance of nutrients for muscle and joint health.
Orijen Original Dry Dog Food — High in protein and good for active Labs.
Always pick a food that lists real meat as the first ingredient and skip fillers like corn or soy when possible.
Frequently Asked Question(s)
How much should a Labrador eat per day in kg?
In weight terms, a healthy Lab typically eats about 2–3% of their ideal body weight per day. For example, a 30 kg Lab may eat around 600–900 grams of food daily, depending on calorie density.
Can Labradors eat human food?
A few human foods are safe in small amounts — plain cooked chicken, rice, or pumpkin can help with sensitive stomachs. But avoid chocolate, grapes, onions, and anything heavily seasoned. When in doubt, stick to vet-approved treats.
How can I tell if my Lab is overweight?
Look for a tucked waist and easy-to-feel ribs. If you can’t feel the ribs without pressing hard, it’s time to cut back and get moving.