Understanding Energy Needs and Nutrition for Active Dog Breeds

If you’re the proud parent of an energetic dog breed like a Border Collie or Labrador, you've probably wondered how to fuel those endless bursts of zoomies. Active breeds are full of life — and that means their bodies need extra energy and nutrients to keep up. In this guide, we’ll help you understand your dog’s energy needs and how to meet them with the right nutrition, schedule, and supplements. Because at Petdirect, We Get Pet.

What Makes A Dog Breed “Active”?

Active dog breeds tend to be high-energy, intelligent, and built for movement. Whether they were bred for herding like the Australian Kelpie or for endurance like the German Shorthaired Pointer, these dogs thrive on physical and mental stimulation. They often need more exercise, playtime, and — importantly — calories than low-energy breeds.

How Much Energy Does Your Active Dog Really Need?

Compared to less active dogs, energetic breeds can burn through calories quickly. Things like age, weight, breed, and daily activity level all play a part, but a general rule is this: the more your dog moves, the more energy (kilojoules) they need from food.

Dogs training for agility or tracking might need up to 2–3 times more energy than a couch-loving canine. It’s important to match your dog’s food intake to their energy output — too little leads to fatigue, and too much can cause weight gain.

Choosing The Best Food For Active Dog Breeds

When it comes to an active dog’s diet, quality matters as much as quantity. Look for diets rich in high-quality animal protein, healthy fats, and digestible carbohydrates. For active breeds, consider foods specifically formulated for their lifestyle, such as:

• ACANA – rich in protein and whole ingredients
• ZIWI – air-dried, NZ-made nutrition with high meat content
• Pro Plan – targeted formulas supporting performance dogs
• Hill’s Science Diet – tailored nutrition backed by science

You can browse our full range of dry foods and wet foods to find the perfect fit for your high-energy pup.

How Often Should You Feed An Active Dog?

Instead of one or two large meals, many pet parents of active dogs find success feeding smaller portions more often — especially if their dog is training or doing high-intensity activities. This helps maintain steady energy levels and prevents mid-day energy dips.

Don’t forget hydration. Active dogs lose moisture faster through panting and movement, so keep fresh, clean water available at all times. Products like smart water fountains can encourage your dog to drink more regularly.

Supplements And Extras For Energy Support

For active breeds needing extra support, specially formulated dog supplements can help nourish joints, improve recovery, and support healthy metabolism. Some helpful supplements include:

• Joint support for mobility and recovery
• Omega fatty acids for coat and immune health
• Science-based nutrition supplements

If your active dog struggles with staying calm during downtime, you may also want to explore calming support products.

Watch For Signs Of Overseen Or Underfed Energy Needs

Active dogs need a fine balance. Signs your dog could be underfed include low energy, weight loss, or reduced interest in play. On the flip side, weight gain or sluggishness may indicate overfeeding or not getting the right nutrients. A healthy dog is alert, lively, with a healthy coat, consistent energy, and an ideal body condition score.

We’re Here To Help Fuel Their Adventure

At Petdirect, we know keeping up with an active dog isn’t always easy — but proper nutrition makes a big difference. From high-protein formulas, beneficial supplements, and hydration tools to tips and treats, we’ve got everything your dog needs to thrive. Join our Pet Perks programme to earn rewards while you shop, or earn Airpoints™ with every adventure-fuelling order.

Because at Petdirect, We Get Pet — and that means we get how important it is to keep your active dog happy, healthy, and fuelled for fun!