How Much Chicken for Dog by Weight (kg)?

Chicken is one of the most common proteins fed to dogs. It’s lean, packed with nutrients, and usually easy on the stomach. Many dog owners use it as part of homemade meals, toppers for kibble, or treats. But one question comes up often: how much chicken should I feed my dog based on weight in kilograms?

The right portion depends on your dog’s size, activity level, age, and whether chicken is the main diet or just a supplement. Feeding too little won’t meet nutritional needs, while feeding too much could cause weight gain or nutrient imbalance. Let’s break it down in simple steps.

Why Chicken Is Good for Dogs

Chicken is more than just tasty—it has real health benefits when fed properly.

• High-quality protein: Builds muscle, supports tissue repair.

• Low in fat: Especially lean if you use skinless breast.

• Rich in amino acids: Supports heart and immune health.

• Contains essential vitamins and minerals: B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium.

• Digestible: Easy on most stomachs, making it good for dogs with sensitivities.

That said, chicken should not be the only food your dog eats. Dogs need a balanced diet with fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

How Much Chicken to Feed a Dog by Weight (kg)

As a general rule, dogs need 2–3% of their body weight in food per day. If you are feeding only chicken (not recommended as a long-term diet without supplements), that percentage applies directly to chicken. If chicken is just part of the meal, adjust portions accordingly.

Here’s a feeding chart based on weight:

Dog’s Weight (kg)	Daily Chicken Portion (grams)	Notes
2–5 kg	40–120 g	For toy/small breeds, split into 2–3 meals
6–10 kg	120–200 g	Active small dogs may need more
11–20 kg	220–400 g	Medium breeds like Beagles or Cocker Spaniels
21–30 kg	450–600 g	Large breeds, split into 2 meals
31–40 kg	650–800 g	Add vegetables or rice for balance
41–50 kg+	850–1000 g	Giant breeds need more nutrients than just chicken

👉 Remember: These amounts assume chicken is the main protein source. If chicken is only a topper or treat, reduce the portion size.

Chicken as a Main Diet vs. Supplement

• As the main diet: If you are feeding homemade chicken meals, make sure you add vegetables, rice, or supplements to balance nutrients. Pure chicken-only diets can lead to deficiencies.

• As a supplement: If chicken is mixed with kibble or wet food, cut the portion in half (for example, a 20 kg dog may only need 100–200 g of chicken daily as an add-on).

Raw vs. Cooked Chicken

Both raw and cooked chicken can be fed, but each has pros and cons.

• Cooked chicken: Safer because cooking kills bacteria like salmonella. Always serve plain—no salt, spices, onion, or garlic.

• Raw chicken: Sometimes used in raw diets, but it carries a risk of foodborne illness. If feeding raw, use only high-quality, fresh chicken.

Most owners prefer boiled or baked chicken breast for safety.

How to Serve Chicken to Dogs

• Use boneless chicken breast or thigh for lean protein.

• Boil, steam, or bake—avoid frying or seasoning.

• Shred into small pieces to mix with kibble.

• Combine with plain rice or pumpkin for dogs with upset stomachs.

• Never feed cooked bones (they splinter and can injure your dog).

Risks of Feeding Too Much Chicken

Even though chicken is healthy, too much can cause issues:

• Imbalanced diet: Dogs need more than protein—missing fats, carbs, and micronutrients leads to deficiencies.

• Allergies: Some dogs develop chicken allergies over time, leading to itching or stomach upset.

• Weight gain: Overfeeding chicken adds calories and fat.

• Digestive issues: Too much can cause diarrhea or loose stools.

Moderation is key. Stick to the feeding chart and adjust based on your dog’s activity level.

Adjusting Portions Based on Dog Type

• Puppies: Need more calories (about 5% of body weight daily in food). Chicken should be part of a balanced puppy diet.

• Senior dogs: May need less chicken due to slower metabolism, but still require protein for muscle maintenance.

• Active/working dogs: Can eat more than the average 2–3% because of higher energy needs.

• Overweight dogs: Reduce portions and use lean cuts like skinless breast.

Example Meal Plan Using Chicken

For a 20 kg dog needing about 2.5% body weight in food daily (≈500 g total food):

• 250 g chicken breast (protein source)

• 150 g cooked rice or sweet potato (carbs)

• 100 g vegetables like carrots, spinach, or pumpkin (fiber + vitamins)

• Add omega-3 oil or supplements (for balance)

This way, chicken provides protein but the meal stays nutritionally complete.

Conclusion

So, how much chicken for dog by weight in kg? A good rule of thumb is 2–3% of body weight in total food daily, with chicken making up part or all of that protein. For example, a 10 kg dog may eat about 150–200 g of chicken a day if chicken is the main protein.

However, chicken alone is not a balanced diet, so always combine it with other ingredients or feed alongside commercial dog food. With the right balance, chicken can be a safe, healthy, and tasty part of your dog’s meals.

FAQs

How many grams of chicken should I feed my 5 kg dog?

A 5 kg dog needs around 100–120 g of chicken daily if chicken is the main protein. If feeding alongside kibble, reduce the portion to 40–60 g. Always adjust based on activity level and age.

Can I feed my dog only chicken?

No, chicken alone is not balanced. While it provides protein, it lacks essential fats, vitamins, and minerals. Long-term chicken-only diets can lead to deficiencies. Always combine chicken with other foods or commercial dog food.

Is chicken breast or thigh better for dogs?

Both are safe, but chicken breast is leaner with less fat, making it better for overweight dogs. Thigh meat contains more fat and flavor, which may be good for active or picky eaters.

How often can dogs eat chicken?

Dogs can eat chicken daily as long as it’s part of a balanced diet. It can be fed as a topper, treat, or main protein source. Avoid seasoning, bones, and fried chicken.

How much chicken should a 20 kg dog eat?

A 20 kg dog needs about 250–400 g of chicken daily if it’s the primary protein source. If chicken is added to kibble, 100–200 g is usually enough. Divide portions into 2 meals for best digestion.