Feeding Charts for Every Size Goldendoodle

If you’ve welcomed a Goldendoodle into your family, one of the first questions that pops up is: how much should I be feeding this fluffy ball of energy? 

The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Goldendoodles come in minis, mediums, and standards—and each size has its own nutritional needs.

Feeding the right amount is about more than just keeping their tummies full. It’s about fueling healthy growth, supporting their gorgeous coats, and giving them the best shot at a long, happy life.

We’ll walk through everything you need to know about feeding your doodle: from the factors that affect portion size to easy-to-use charts tailored for every size Goldendoodle.

Goldendoodle Feeding by Size

Now let’s get to the good stuff. Above you’ll find feeding charts broken down by size—mini, medium, and standard Goldendoodles. Each chart gives you calorie ranges and approximate cups per day, based on kibble that has about 380 calories per cup.

Mini Goldendoodles (15–35 lbs) usually need between 400 and 950 calories per day as adults, depending on their exact weight. That translates to around 1 to 2.5 cups of food daily. Puppies, of course, need more frequent meals and about 30–60% more calories than their adult counterparts, spread over three to four feedings a day.

Medium Goldendoodles (35–50 lbs) fall in the 800 to 1,250 calorie range as adults, which comes out to roughly 2 to 3.3 cups of food. Their puppies are more demanding—often needing 1,100 to 1,900 calories per day while growing, divided into three meals.

Standard Goldendoodles (50–90 lbs) are the true athletes of the doodle family. Adults typically need anywhere from 1,200 to over 2,000 calories per day, which is about 3 to 5.5 cups of kibble. Puppies in this size group need even more energy, sometimes up to 3,000 calories daily to fuel steady growth. For them, three meals a day works best until they transition to adult feeding.

Learn about what foods and food allergies to avoid here.

Related articles:

Do Later Doodle Generations Have Better Health?

Which Doodle Breed is Healthiest?

How Big do Mini Goldendoodles Get & What Impacts Growth?

Why Doodle Feeding Guidelines Matter

Goldendoodles are lively, affectionate, and sometimes a little goofy, but one thing’s for sure: they thrive when their nutrition is on point. Too much food can put them at risk for obesity, joint strain, or even long-term health issues. Too little food, on the other hand, may stunt their growth or leave them low on energy.

Feeding guidelines give you a starting point, but it’s important to remember that the “right” amount can vary from doodle to doodle. Calorie counts on kibble bags differ too, so always check how many calories your brand has per cup. Think of the charts as a roadmap, not a strict set of rules.

What Affects How Much Your Goldendoodle Eats

The amount your Goldendoodle needs depends on a few big factors. Age is one—puppies are little calorie-burning machines, while seniors tend to slow down and need less. Size is another obvious one: minis, mediums, and standards burn fuel at very different rates. Activity level plays a huge role too. A couch companion will need fewer calories than an adventure buddy who’s running, hiking, or playing fetch every day.

Even metabolism and coat type can make a difference. Curly-coated doodles sometimes burn more energy during grooming and coat growth, while leaner-bodied doodles may naturally need extra calories to keep weight on. That’s why vet check-ins and regular body-condition checks are essential.

Goldendoodle Puppy Feeding Needs

Puppies are growing fast, and their bodies need a steady stream of nutrients. Instead of just two meals a day, puppies do best with three or four smaller meals to keep their energy stable and support growth. Their caloric needs are higher—typically about one and a half times what an adult of their size would eat.

Portions should be adjusted every few weeks as your puppy gains weight. And remember: it’s not just about calories, but about making sure they get the right balance of protein, fat, and vitamins.

Adult Goldendoodle Feeding Needs

By the time your Goldendoodle reaches adulthood, feeding usually shifts to twice a day. This schedule helps regulate digestion and prevents overeating. Adult doodles need a consistent calorie count to maintain their weight and energy. If your dog is spayed or neutered, they may need slightly fewer calories since their metabolism slows down.

Senior Goldendoodle Feeding Needs

As doodles age, their metabolism drops and they don’t burn through food as quickly. Seniors often thrive on fewer calories, balanced with joint-support supplements and foods that maintain lean muscle mass. Keeping their weight in check is especially important at this stage to reduce strain on their hips and joints.

Tips for Dietary Success

The best way to know if you’re feeding the right amount is by checking your doodle’s body condition. You should be able to feel, but not see, their ribs, and when you look from above, you should notice a gentle waistline. Activity levels can change with the seasons, so don’t be afraid to adjust portions up or down.

When switching foods, transition gradually over a week: start with 25% new food, then 50%, then 75%, before going fully to the new diet. Keep treats capped at about 10% of daily calories, and remember to count fresh toppers like cooked veggies or wet food in your dog’s daily total.

FAQs

How do I know if my Goldendoodle is overweight? Run your hands along their ribs. If you can’t feel them without pressing, they may be carrying extra pounds.

Can I free-feed my Goldendoodle? It’s not recommended. Free-feeding often leads to overeating and makes it harder to track how much your doodle is eating.

What’s the best food brand for Goldendoodles? It depends on your dog’s size, age, and sensitivities. High-quality kibble, fresh food, or a vet-guided raw diet can all work.

Will my doodle’s food needs change over time? Absolutely. Puppies, adults, and seniors all have different requirements, and even activity levels across seasons can make a difference.

Feeding your Goldendoodle the right way is one of the simplest and most important things you can do to keep them healthy. Minis, mediums, and standards all have different needs, but the principle is the same: start with a chart, then adjust based on your dog’s body and lifestyle.

At the end of the day, no two doodles are exactly alike, so keep an eye on your pup, trust your vet’s guidance, and make adjustments as needed. A well-fed Goldendoodle is a happy, healthy companion—and that’s what every doodle parent wants.

Have more questions about doodles? Ask our doodles experts here.

Jenna and the JLDD Team