Figuring out how much to feed

[Sarah Kuiper]

I'm feeding Roomba Fromm puppy gold and trying to figure out the proper amount that he needs. I've been using the guide on the back as a guideline but it says growing puppies can need 2-4x the amount suggested!? That seems like a pretty significant increase to me. He is definitely classified as a growing puppy! Just turned 16weeks old yesterday. He weighed 25lbs yesterday at the vets meaning he's gained about 8lbs in the last 4 weeks. Does this seem about right?

I'm wondering if I should be feeding him more or less? He is definitely not overweight and the hubby thinks he's too skinny. He takes no time gobbling down all his food and always will look around for more for a few minutes. The vet didn't say anything about him being underweight. I can feel his ribs/hip bones but not too much. I'd love your insight!

-F1b goldendoodle. (Mom 50lbs, Dad 80)
-current weight 25lbs, gaining about 2lbs a week
-currently feeding 1 cup of Fromm puppy Gold, 3x daily
-treats include mostly ice cubes, 3-4 training biscuits a day, usually broken in 1/2 and spaced out throughout day, 15 minutes of a bully stick in the AM, but only has ever finished 1 seven inch so far, and the hubby usually slips him something from his plate (against my wishes!) About once a day, usually the size of a quarter.
-not yet neutered
-activity includes 2-3 fetch sessions for about 15 minutes, daily walk around 15 min, wondering around/jumping on and off couch, and about 2 hours of nightly zoomies where I feel like his sprinting/playing non stop!

[Lori, Winnie, Bob and Indie]

I looked on the website for Fromm Puppy Gold and they recommend that a 4 month old 25lb pup eat 2 7/8 cups/day. Sounds like you are feeding just the right amount!

If you can feel his hips and ribs, but they are not jutting out, and your vet didn't say anything about him being underweight, I wouldn't worry about it. He is doing great!!  

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

That info on the label about "growing puppies needing 2-4x the amount" is just a standard feeding statement that's put on all their food bags. It doesn't apply to formulas that are made specifically for puppies. Some people feed an ALS formula rather than a "puppy" formula, and in those cases, the puppy may need more food, as the guidelines are for adult dogs. 

I agree with Lori, you're feeding the right amount. I would not increase it.

Your biggest concern should be your DH sharing food from his plate, as that's the best way to create a dog who is a picky eater AND a beggar. There's nothing wrong with giving a dog a little "people food" once in awhile, but never ever from your own plate or from the table, and never ever anywhere but in his own bowl at his regular mealtime. I would insist that he stop doing that.

[Jessica, Loki and Moose]

Oh he is such a cute bugger!

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

OMD!  He is adorable.

[Sarah Kuiper]

Thanks all :-) we love him!