Have you heard the saying, “What gets measured gets managed?”

It’s not just true in business. It’s also true when it comes to your dog’s nutrition and figuring out which dog food is best for your pup.

The truth about dog food

If you’ve ever stood in the dog food aisle at Summerville PetSmart or browsed local pet boutiques like Hollywood Feed in Carnes Crossroads or WoofGang Bakery in Cane Bay or Moncks Corner, you know there’s no shortage of choices. Grain-free, raw, limited ingredient, organic…the list goes on!

Here’s the good news: most dog foods you’ll find at reputable stores offer the basic nutrition your dog needs. While ingredient quality matters, the bigger issue for most pet parents isn’t what food they’re serving; it’s how much.

Why quantity matters more than you think

Even small variations in how much you feed your dog can make a big impact on their health. A few extra bites a day might not seem like much, but over time, it can lead to weight gain that stresses joints, affects heart health, and shortens lifespan. Underfeeding your dog can cause health problems, too.

Talk to your veterinarian about the right portion size and feeding schedule for your dog’s breed, age, and activity level. Then, be sure to measure every meal, not just estimate. It’s one of the simplest ways to keep your dog at a healthy weight.

Don’t forget exercise

Feeding the right amount of food is only half the equation. Exercise plays a major role in keeping your dog fit and happy. Most dogs need more activity than we realize. A great baseline is three active days per week, with several hours of movement and play.

At Dogtopia of Summerville, our pups at dog daycare often walk, run, and play the equivalent of 10 or more miles per day! That kind of activity not only keeps them in great shape but also helps with behavior, confidence, and longevity.

Adjust food when your dog’s activity changes

If your dog recently started attending dog daycare or dog boarding in Summerville, you may need to adjust how much you feed them. All that extra play burns calories, and some dogs may need a bit more food to maintain a healthy weight.

Whenever your dog’s routine changes, such as adding in more play, longer walks, or boarding stays, it’s a good idea to check with your vet about portion adjustments. They can help you keep your pup’s diet balanced and in sync with their activity level.

At Dogtopia of Summerville, we’re passionate about helping pet parents raise healthy, happy dogs. Whether your pup joins us for daycare, boarding, or just a quick visit, our team carefully measures all meals and records the amount eaten.

Ready to give your dog the Most Exciting Day ever?

Book a Meet & Greet to try dog daycare and boarding in Summerville today!