Labrador Retrievers are famously food-loving, tail-wagging companions. But knowing how often to feed them goes beyond satisfying their appetite — it’s about fuelling their energy, supporting healthy growth, and preventing weight gain (a common challenge for this breed). So if you’re a proud Lab parent wondering, "How often should I feed my Labrador Retriever?" — you’re in the right place. At Petdirect, we get pet, and we’re here to guide you through each life stage with feeding tips tailored to your pup’s needs.
Feeding Labrador Puppies
Labrador puppies are bundles of growing energy who need the right nutrition in the right amounts. Until your puppy reaches six months of age, they typically need to eat three to four times per day. Their bodies are developing rapidly, and frequent feeding helps maintain stable energy levels and promotes healthy growth.
Choose a high-quality food designed specifically for large breed puppies, such as options from Hill’s Science Diet or Royal Canin. These options are crafted to support strong bones and balanced growth.
Explore our full range of puppy food to find the pawfect match for your young Lab.
Feeding Adult Labradors
Once your Labrador hits the 12-month mark (or slightly earlier for some), it’s time to move to adult dog food and shift to two meals a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Labradors are enthusiastic eaters, and free-feeding (leaving food out all day) is not recommended — it can lead to overeating and weight gain.
Adult Labs thrive on balanced nutrition that supports joint health and energy levels. Consider switching to an option with glucosamine and omega-3s, such as those from Black Hawk or Eukanuba.
Shop our range of dry dog food or wet dog food for a variety that keeps mealtimes interesting.
Feeding Senior Labradors
From around seven years of age, your Labrador is considered a senior. As they slow down, they’ll likely need fewer calories, but more support for their joints, digestion, and immune system. Feeding twice a day still applies, but you may need to reduce portion sizes or switch to a senior-specific formula.
Look for senior diets that support mobility and weight, such as Hill’s Prescription Diet or Pro Plan Senior options. These formulas often include antioxidants, glucosamine, and easily digestible ingredients.
You can also take a look at our weight management range if your senior Lab is dealing with extra kilos.
How Much Should I Feed My Lab?
Feeding your Lab the right amount is just as important as frequency. Portion size depends on your dog’s:
- Age and life stage
- Activity level
- Weight and body condition
- Food type (dry, wet, raw, or mixed diet)
Always follow the feeding guidelines on your dog’s food packaging, as each formula varies in calorie content. You can also use an automatic portion-controlled solution like one of our smart feeders to support healthy habits.
For variety and added nutrition, you might want to include meal toppers or raw add-ins from brands like K9 Natural or RawMate.
Keeping Your Labrador At A Healthy Weight
Labradors are prone to love their food... perhaps a bit too much. Overfeeding, even by small amounts, can lead to obesity, which puts pressure on their joints and overall health. To help manage your Lab’s weight:
- Stick to a regular feeding schedule
- Measure out meals accurately
- Limit treats, or opt for low-calorie or natural NZ-made treats
- Make sure they get daily exercise
You can explore our training and reward treats range for healthier options that still get tails wagging.
Feeding FAQs From Our Pet Community
Can I feed my Labrador once a day? For most Labradors, feeding once per day isn’t ideal. Splitting meals into morning and evening reduces hunger between meals and supports better digestion.
Can I mix dry and wet food? Absolutely! Many Lab parents choose to offer a mix of dry and wet food to keep things interesting and ensure hydration support. Just be sure to adjust portions to avoid overfeeding.
Is raw feeding safe for Labradors? Some pet parents choose a complete and balanced raw diet. If you're curious, brands like ZIWI and Animals Like Us offer nutritionally complete raw-inspired options. If you’re new to raw feeding, chat to your vet or explore our Health & Wellness Hub for insights.
Happy Tummy, Happy Labrador
Feeding your Labrador properly is one of the most important ways you can support their health and happiness. Whether they’re a playful pup or a wise old tail-wagger, choosing the right feeding routine makes all the difference. At Petdirect, we get pet — and we’re here to help you find everything you need, from dog food to dog bowls and smart feeders.
Need fresh food delivered before the next hungry bark? Enjoy the ease of our Autodeliver service, or unlock benefits with our Pet Perks programme.
Because when it comes to nutrition, your Labrador deserves the best and we’re here to fetch it for you.