Dog Food Portions & Feeding Schedule for UAE Dogs

So, you’ve just walked into your apartment in Dubai Marina or a villa in Khalifa City, and your dog is giving you "the look." You know the one—the soulful, starving-artist gaze that suggests they haven’t eaten in three years, despite having a full bowl of premium kibble just a few hours ago.

As a pet store owner here in the UAE, the question I get asked more than "Do you deliver to Ras Al Khaimah?" is definitely "How much should I actually be feeding my dog?"

The truth is, those generic charts on the back of the dog food bag? They’re usually written for dogs living in temperate climates who spend hours hiking in the woods. They aren't necessarily designed for a Frenchie living in a climate-controlled apartment in Downtown Dubai or a Golden Retriever navigating the 45°C humidity of an August afternoon in Sharjah.

Getting the portion sizes and timing right isn't just about preventing your pup from getting "chonky." It’s about energy management, digestive health, and adapting to the unique rhythm of life in the Emirates.

Why the UAE Climate Changes the Rules of Feeding

In most parts of the world, "seasonal feeding" means giving more food in the winter to keep dogs warm. Here, we have the opposite situation. During the peak summer months, most UAE dogs become significantly less active. If you’re only taking your dog for a quick five-minute "business trip" outside because the pavement is melting, they aren't burning many calories.

We’ve noticed that many owners continue to feed the same high-calorie portions in July that they did in January. The result? A noticeable "summer weight gain" that puts massive strain on their joints.

Metabolism and the "AC Factor"

Most of our pets spend 22 out of 24 hours in air conditioning. While this keeps them safe from heatstroke, it also means their bodies aren't working hard to regulate temperature. A stable, cool environment often leads to a slower metabolic rate compared to a dog living outdoors in a milder climate.

Dog Food Portion Guide: The UAE Reality Check

While every dog is an individual, we’ve found that a "less is more" approach works best as a starting point, especially for indoor breeds.

The General Portion Framework

Note: 1 Cup = Approx 240ml. Always check the specific kcal/kg of your brand. [Insert internal link to Dry Dog Food category]

Establishing a Feeding Schedule That Works with Your Lifestyle

In the UAE, our schedules are often dictated by the sun and our work hours. Most of us are either early risers to beat the heat or late-night walkers. Your feeding schedule should reflect that.

1. The Morning Rush (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM)

Feed your dog after their morning walk, but give them at least 30 minutes to cool down first. Feeding a panting, overheated dog is a recipe for digestive upset or, in large breeds, the much-feared Gastric Torsion (bloat).

2. The Mid-Day Gap

If you’re working in the DIFC or Abu Dhabi Global Market and your dog is home alone, resist the urge to leave a giant bowl of "free-choice" food. In our experience, free-feeding leads to boredom eating. If you’re worried about them being hungry, a slow-feeder or a treat-dispensing toy with a tiny portion of their daily allowance is a better bet.

3. The Evening Wind-Down (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM)

The evening meal is usually the main event. Again, ensure the walk happened well before or will happen well after the meal. During Ramadan, many owners find that shifting the schedule slightly later helps keep the dog calm while the family enjoys Iftar.

What Most UAE Pet Owners Don’t Realize

Here is a bit of "insider" knowledge we’ve picked up over years of talking to local vets and nutritionists across the Emirates.

1. Hydration is part of the portion. If you’re feeding dry kibble, your dog needs significantly more water. In the UAE's dry air, many dogs are perpetually slightly dehydrated. We often suggest adding a splash of bone broth or even plain water to the kibble. It increases volume (making them feel fuller) without adding calories.

2. The "Treat Inflation" in UAE Households. We are a generous culture. We love to share. But in many UAE households, the dog isn't just getting their dinner; they’re getting scraps from the table, a treat from the nanny, and a chew stick from the kids. If you’re giving treats, you must reduce the meal portion. A single commercial dental chew can be 10-15% of a small dog’s daily calorie needs.

3. The Floor Temperature Matters. If you have marble or tile flooring (as most of us do in Dubai and Abu Dhabi), it’s great for cooling the dog down, but it can also make older dogs reluctant to stand and eat if the floor is slippery. Using a silicone mat under the bowl helps them stay stable while eating their portion.

Our Recommendation for Pet Owners in the UAE

If you’re looking for the gold standard of feeding in this region, here is what we suggest based on what we see working for our happiest, healthiest four-legged customers:

• Prioritize Nutrient Density: Because the heat often suppresses appetite, you want a food that packs a punch. Brands like Orijen, Acana, or Royal Canin’s breed-specific formulas are popular here for a reason—they use high-quality proteins that are easier for the dog to process when they’re feeling sluggish from the humidity. [Insert internal link to Premium Dog Food brands]

• Invest in a Kitchen Scale: Stop using a random plastic cup. Weighing food in grams is the only way to be 100% consistent. A 10-gram difference sounds small, but over a month, it's the difference between a fit dog and a lethargic one.

• Adjust for the "Winter": From November to March, when we’re all out at the dog parks in Al Qudra or hiking in Hatta, your dog will be burning way more energy. Don't be afraid to increase their portion by 5-10% during these active months.

FAQs About Feeding Dogs in the UAE

Q: My dog won't eat during the day when it's hot. Is that normal?

Absolutely. Many dogs in Dubai and Sharjah naturally self-regulate. They might skip breakfast and want a larger meal late at night when the temperature drops. As long as they aren't losing weight unintentionally, it’s usually nothing to worry about.

Q: Can I change the feeding schedule during Ramadan?

Yes, dogs are incredibly adaptable. If your household routine changes, you can shift their feeding times by an hour or two. Just try to keep the interval between meals consistent.

Q: How quickly can I get food delivered if I run out?

We know how it goes—you realize the bag is empty at 9 PM on a Tuesday. We offer same-day delivery in Dubai and next-day delivery across Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and the northern emirates. We’ve built our logistics to ensure your dog never misses a scheduled meal.

Q: Is wet food better for the UAE climate?

Wet food is fantastic for hydration. However, it can spoil quickly if left out in the heat. If you’re using wet food, make sure your dog finishes it in one sitting, and always wash the bowl immediately to avoid attracting ants—a common UAE struggle!

Keeping Your Dog Happy and Healthy

At the end of the day, no chart can replace your own observation. Feel your dog’s ribs—you should be able to feel them easily without a thick layer of padding, but they shouldn't be sticking out like a desert gazelle's.

Living in the UAE offers a unique lifestyle for us and our pets. Whether you're navigating the parks of Jumeirah Village Triangle or the breezy beaches of Umm Al Quwain, getting the food portion right is the simplest way to ensure your best friend stays by your side for years to come.

If you’re unsure which brand fits your dog’s specific needs or need a recommendation for a high-protein diet that stands up to an active lifestyle, feel free to browse our curated selection. We’ve hand-picked everything we stock specifically for the needs of pets living right here in the Gulf.