Important Disclaimer
The information provided here is for general pet health education only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never disregard professional veterinary advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately.
- Species & breed
- Dog
What a great name for a Lab! Hershey sounds like he's right in that classic adult Lab range, and it's a really common question — figuring out the right amount to feed can feel surprisingly tricky.
Here's the honest answer: the best starting point is the feeding guide printed on your specific bag of dog food. Every dry food is formulated differently — the calorie density varies quite a bit between brands and formulas — so a general number I give you might not match what's right for that food.
That said, here are some general principles that apply to most adult dogs Hershey's size:
- Feeding guides on bags are usually based on weight and activity level. Look for the row that matches 60–65 lbs and consider whether Hershey is lightly active, moderately active, or very active. Labs can range a lot on this scale!
- Most guides give a daily total, split into two meals. Feeding twice a day (morning and evening) is generally recommended for adult dogs rather than one large meal — it's easier on digestion and can reduce the risk of bloat, which Labs can be prone to.
- Treats count. If Hershey gets regular treats or table scraps, that adds up. Many vets suggest treats make up no more than 10% of daily calories.
- Body condition matters more than the number on the scale. You should be able to feel Hershey's ribs without pressing hard, but not see them. He should have a visible waist when viewed from above. Labs are famously food-motivated and prone to weight gain, so it's worth checking this regularly.
A few easy at-home steps:
- Measure meals with an actual measuring cup rather than scooping by eye — it makes a bigger difference than most people expect.
- Reassess every few months, especially if his activity level changes with the seasons.
- If you've recently switched foods, give his digestive system a week or two to adjust before deciding if the amount is right.
When to see your vet:
Feeding amount is actually a great thing to confirm at Hershey's next routine checkup — your vet can assess his body condition in person and give you a personalized recommendation based on his health history. If you notice he's gaining weight despite normal portions, losing weight, seems constantly hungry, or has changes in energy or digestion, those are all good reasons to schedule a visit sooner rather than later. Labs are prone to obesity-related issues as they get older, so staying on top of this now is a really smart move! 🐾
Was this answer helpful?
Your feedback helps us improve answers for every pet.