Guides

Plain-English answers on growth, feeding, and aging. Sources for every number are on the methodology page.

The 7 Dog Years Myth: How Dogs Actually Age

The 7-year rule is wrong. Dogs age fast in year one, then the rate depends on size. Here's the real math, size by size, with vet-sourced numbers.

How Much Should I Feed My Puppy?

Puppies need more calories per pound than adult dogs. Here's the formula vets use, why the bag's chart is only a starting point, and what to watch instead.

Is My Puppy Overweight? Body Condition Beats the Scale

A number on the scale can't tell you if your puppy is overweight. Learn the WSAVA body condition check vets actually use, and how to adjust portions.

Puppy Growth by Week: What to Expect and Track

There's no real week-by-week puppy weight chart. Learn the two verified checkpoints, the 4-month doubling rule, and how to track your puppy's own curve.

Wet vs Dry Dog Food: Getting Portions Right

Wet and dry dog food pack calories at very different densities. Here's how to read the label, convert between formats, and mix them without overfeeding.

When Do Dogs Stop Growing?

Small dogs finish growing by 10-12 months; giants can take until 18-24 months. See the size-by-size timeline and how to estimate adult weight.