How much to feed
What should I do if I do not own a kitchen scale?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Use the same measuring cup or scoop every single time, filled to a consistent level, and check occasionally against a scale at a friend's house, a pharmacy, or a shop if you can, to know roughly how accurate your method is. Consistency matters more than perfect accuracy in the short term, since a steady, repeatable portion lets you judge and adjust based on body condition even without exact grams.
Making a consistent measure without a scale
Choose one specific cup or scoop and always fill it the same way, either level or with a consistent slight mound, rather than switching between different containers or fill styles from meal to meal.
Mark the container if needed so it is not accidentally used for something else, since a different cup used by mistake introduces exactly the kind of error you are trying to avoid.
Getting an occasional accuracy check
A basic kitchen scale is inexpensive and widely available, so it is worth buying one when convenient, even if you mostly measure by cup day to day afterward.
In the meantime, postal scales, pharmacy scales, or a friend's kitchen scale can all give you a one off check of how many grams your chosen cup actually holds.
Judging by results either way
Whether or not you have a scale, body condition checks every two to three weeks are what actually confirm the amount is right, so keep doing those regularly.
If your dog's weight is trending the wrong way, adjust the fill level of your consistent cup slightly rather than guessing at a completely different amount. Small, deliberate adjustments to a consistent measure tend to work better than switching to a different container altogether, which reintroduces the very inconsistency this whole approach is meant to avoid in the first place.
Key takeaways
- Without a scale, use one consistent cup or scoop filled the same way every time.
- Get an occasional accuracy check using any scale you have access to, even if not your own.
- A basic kitchen scale is inexpensive and worth buying when convenient.
- Body condition checks every two to three weeks confirm the amount regardless of measuring method.