Puppy feeding and growth
How much should I feed the runt of the litter?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Feed the runt according to its own current weight on the food chart, the same as any other puppy, rather than trying to match littermates. A smaller puppy may need extra attention to ensure it gets its full share at mealtimes, especially if raised alongside larger, more food motivated littermates.
Feed the individual, not the litter average
The smallest puppy in a litter should have its food amount calculated from its own current weight, exactly like its larger littermates, rather than being fed a portion scaled to match them or held back on the assumption that it needs less simply because it is smaller.
Making sure the runt gets its fair share
A smaller puppy can sometimes be pushed away from a shared bowl by bigger, more assertive littermates, or may simply eat more slowly and lose access to food before finishing. Feeding the runt separately, with supervision, helps ensure it consistently gets its full intended portion.
Watching growth over time
A runt that is gaining steadily on its own curve, even if it stays smaller than its littermates long term, is likely just naturally smaller, which is normal within a litter. One that is not gaining at all, or is notably weaker than the rest, is worth a vet check.
Key takeaways
- Feed the runt based on its own current weight, not a portion scaled to littermates.
- Feed a smaller puppy separately if bigger littermates tend to crowd it out at the bowl.
- Steady individual growth, even if smaller overall, is usually a normal pattern within a litter.
- A runt with no weight gain or noticeable weakness should be checked by a vet.