Bloodhound Feeding Guide
How much to feed your Bloodhound — daily calories, portion sizes, and feeding schedule
The Bloodhound is a beloved large breed from Belgium, ranked #42 in AKC popularity. A gentle giant whose nose is so powerful it can follow a scent trail that is over 300 hours old across more than 130 miles. The Bloodhound is a member of the Hound Group — dogs originally developed to track game using their exceptional sense of smell. Their feeding plan should account for their tendency toward weight gain during less active periods. An adult Bloodhound needs between 1552 and 1971 calories per day, though this varies with age, weight, activity level, and individual metabolism.
Adult Bloodhounds (80–110 lbs) typically need 1.2 to 2.2 cups of high-quality dry food per day, divided into two meals. Choose a large-breed formula to support joint health and manage the risk of Bloat. Needs long daily walks with ample opportunity to use their nose; scent work and tracking activities provide excellent mental stimulation.—adjust portions based on activity level. Budget $85–127/month for food costs.
Daily Calorie Needs for Bloodhound
Adult
1552-1971
kcal/day
Puppy (peak)
1802
kcal/day (6-9 mo)
Senior
1242-1577
kcal/day
Note: Feeding guidelines are estimates based on standard veterinary formulas. Every dog is different — consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Feeding Strategy for Bloodhounds
The Bloodhound has a moderate energy level, making portion control straightforward but still important. Feed 4.1-5.2 cups of quality kibble daily, divided into two meals. A standard adult maintenance formula with balanced macronutrients works well. Monitor weight monthly, as moderate-energy breeds can gradually gain weight if portions aren't adjusted for actual activity.
Bloat Prevention for Bloodhounds
Bloodhounds are predisposed to Bloat (commonly known as bloat), one of the most serious emergencies in veterinary medicine. The stomach fills with gas and can twist on itself, cutting off blood supply. How you feed your Bloodhound directly impacts this risk. Deep-chested breeds like the Bloodhound are anatomically more susceptible, but proper feeding practices significantly reduce the odds.
Essential Feeding Practices
- Divide daily food into 2-3 smaller meals instead of one large feeding
- Use a slow-feeder bowl to prevent gulping air while eating
- Avoid vigorous exercise for at least 30-60 minutes before and after meals
- Keep your dog calm during and after mealtimes — excitement increases air swallowing
- Consider moistening kibble with warm water to reduce expansion in the stomach
- Avoid elevated bowls if your vet hasn't specifically recommended them
Bloodhound Feeding Schedule
Morning (7-8 AM)
2.1-2.6 cups kibble
Evening (5-6 PM)
2.1-2.6 cups kibble
Split Meals
Portion Sizes by Food Type
Daily Portions for Bloodhound
Based on average adult weight and activity level
| Food Type | Daily Amount | Calories | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Kibble | 4.1-5.2 cups | 1552-1971 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~380 kcal per cup |
| Wet Food | 6.2-7.9 cans | 1552-1971 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~250 kcal per 13oz can |
| Raw Diet | 26-53 oz | 1552-1971 kcal | 2 meals/day | 2-3% of body weight |
- Amount
- 4.1-5.2 cups
- Calories
- 1552-1971 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~380 kcal per cup
- Amount
- 6.2-7.9 cans
- Calories
- 1552-1971 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~250 kcal per 13oz can
- Amount
- 26-53 oz
- Calories
- 1552-1971 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
2-3% of body weight
Exercise & Feeding for Bloodhounds
Moderate daily exercise (45-60 minutes of walks and play) keeps the Bloodhound fit and helps regulate appetite. Most Bloodhounds do well on a consistent daily portion without needing exercise-day adjustments. If your dog gets significantly more activity on weekends (long hikes, beach trips), you can add a small handful of kibble to their evening meal on those days.
Joint Health & Nutrition
Joint health is a primary nutritional concern for Bloodhounds, which are predisposed to Hip Dysplasia and Elbow Dysplasia. Diet plays a preventive and management role at every life stage. For puppies, controlled growth rate and proper calcium-phosphorus ratios protect developing joints. For adults, maintaining ideal body weight reduces mechanical stress on joints. Specific nutrients can slow cartilage degradation and reduce inflammation.
Recommended Joint Supplements
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Using a puppy formula designed for small breeds
Large and giant breed puppies need controlled calcium and phosphorus levels to prevent developmental orthopedic diseases. Always choose a large-breed puppy formula that supports slow, steady growth rather than rapid weight gain.
Feeding one large meal per day
Bloodhounds are at risk for bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), a life-threatening emergency. Always split daily food into 2-3 smaller meals and avoid exercise immediately after eating. Consider an elevated bowl and a slow-feeder.
Skipping joint supplements until problems appear
For breeds predisposed to joint issues, preventive supplementation with glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids can help protect cartilage before damage occurs. Starting these supplements early — even at 1-2 years old — is more effective than waiting for symptoms.
Switching foods abruptly without a transition period
Any diet change — brand, flavor, or formula — should happen gradually over 7-10 days. Mix increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of the old. Abrupt switches cause digestive upset (diarrhea, vomiting, gas) in most dogs, Bloodhounds included.
Not accounting for treats in the daily calorie budget
Treats should never exceed 10% of your Bloodhound's daily calorie intake. A single dental chew can contain 70-90 calories — significant for a dog that only needs 1425 calories per day. Subtract treat calories from meal portions.
Bloodhound-Specific Feeding Tips
Tip 1
Tip 2
Tip 3
Tip 4
Tip 5
Breed-Specific Nutritional Needs
Based on health conditions common in Bloodhounds, consider these nutritional adjustments:
Meal Frequency
Feed 2-3 smaller meals per day instead of one large meal. Use a slow-feeder bowl. Avoid exercise 30 minutes before and after meals.
Glucosamine & Chondroitin
Add a joint supplement with glucosamine (500-1000mg) and chondroitin. Consider foods with added omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) to reduce inflammation.
Bloodhound Ideal Weight
To determine if your Bloodhound is at a healthy weight (80–110 lbs target): Rib test: You should be able to feel the ribs without pressing hard, with a thin layer of fat covering them. Waist check: Viewed from above, there should be a visible waist behind the ribs. Tuck-up: From the side, the abdomen should tuck up behind the rib cage. Their short and dense coat can mask weight gain, so hands-on assessment is essential.
Male Bloodhound
80-110 lbs
36-50 kg
Female Bloodhound
68-96 lbs
31-44 kg
Related Guides
Feeding Guides for Similar Breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Feeding Guidelines Disclaimer
The feeding recommendations on DosageGuide.com are estimates based on standard veterinary nutrition formulas (RER = 70 × weight^0.75) and general guidelines from AAFCO and veterinary nutrition resources.
Every dog is unique. Actual calorie needs vary based on breed, metabolism, activity level, health conditions, spay/neuter status, and the specific food brand you use. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.
These guides are for general reference and do not replace professional veterinary guidance. Adjust portions based on your dog's body condition score and weight trends.