How much should a beagle puppy eat a day?

You’re standing in the kitchen, puppy food scoop in hand, staring at your wiggly beagle puppy who’s already bouncing at your feet—you know they’re hungry, but how much is too much? It’s a question every new beagle owner faces; these curious, food-loving pups make it hard to resist extra bites, but getting their daily portions right is one of the biggest steps toward keeping them healthy long-term.

Figuring out the right amount to feed your beagle puppy can feel tricky—these little hounds have endless energy and a reputation for begging, but overfeeding sets them up for weight issues later. Most 8-week-old beagle puppies need about 1/2 cup of high-quality puppy food split into four small meals daily. As they hit 12 weeks, you can bump that to 3/4 cup total and drop to three meals, since their tummies are growing stronger.

Always check the feeding guidelines on your puppy food bag, but remember those are just starting points—every beagle is different. A playful puppy who runs around the yard might need a bit more than one who prefers napping on the couch. Keep an eye on their body condition too: you should be able to feel their ribs slightly under a thin layer of fat, and they should have a visible waist when viewed from above. If their ribs are hard to find, cut back a little on portions.

Don’t forget to follow local pet laws, either—many areas in the US and Europe require puppies to have regular vet checkups, and your vet can help tailor a feeding plan to your beagle’s specific needs. Some places also have regulations about pet food safety, so stick to brands that meet AAFCO (in the US) or FEDIAF (in Europe) standards to make sure your puppy gets all the nutrients they need. Avoid giving too many table scraps, too—human foods like grapes or chocolate are toxic to dogs, and even safe snacks can throw off their balanced diet.

Beagles are prone to obesity as adults, so building good eating habits now is key. Try to feed them at the same times every day to keep their digestion on track, and use a measuring cup to avoid guessing portions. If you’re switching foods, do it gradually over 7-10 days by mixing a little more of the new food with the old each day—this helps prevent upset tummies. And always have fresh water available for your puppy, especially after meals and playtime.

By adjusting portions as your beagle grows, watching their body condition, and working with your vet, you’ll make sure they get the right amount of food to stay healthy and happy. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but with a little observation and care, you’ll find the perfect feeding routine for your furry little friend. Before you know it, they’ll be growing into a strong, energetic adult beagle—all thanks to the good start you gave them with proper feeding.