Australian Shepherd Feeding Chart: Portions by Age and Weight

Aussies are versatile working dogs — herding, agility, search-and-rescue. Their pet-life caloric needs vary widely by activity. Like Border Collies, match portion to actual workload.

Daily portion guide (adult)

Adult weight	Low activity (pet)	Moderate	High / working
40 lb (18 kg)	1 ¾ cups	2 cups	2 ½ cups
50 lb (23 kg)	2 cups	2 ¼ cups	2 ¾ cups
65 lb (29 kg)	2 ½ cups	2 ¾ cups	3 ¼ cups

Split into 2 meals. Reduce 10% for neutered.

Puppy (8 weeks - 12 months)

Large-breed puppy formula (Aussies project to medium-large adult range). 3-4 meals until 4 months, then 2-3.

Senior (8+ years)

Adult -10%. Joint support; mental enrichment via puzzle feeders.

What makes feeding an Aussie different

Working dog metabolism. Aussies bred and worked as herders eat substantially more than pet Aussies. Same dog, different fueling.

MDR1 sensitivity. Many Aussies (and Mini Aussies / Miniature American Shepherds) carry MDR1 variants. Genetic testing available; relevant for any drug or supplement use.

Allergies. Common in the breed — skin, ear, paw signs. Elimination diet conversation if recurring.

Mental load fueling. Like Border Collies, mental work is as fatiguing as physical. Puzzle feeders and food-based training sessions extend engagement without adding calories.

Common breed concerns and feeding

Hip / elbow dysplasia: lean weight + appropriate puppy formula.
Allergies: elimination diet if recurring skin / ear flare-ups.
MDR1: drug / supplement caution.
Epilepsy (some lines): if diagnosed, vet may recommend specific dietary considerations.

Sample daily routine

Active pet Aussie, 50 lb:

6:30am: 1 cup breakfast (slow feeder)
7-8am: 45-min run / agility
12pm: 10-min training session
4pm: 30-min walk + puzzle work
6pm: 1 cup dinner

What to track in Flok

Activity level vs portion match.
Weight monthly.
Skin / ear flares (allergy pattern).
Mental enrichment time.

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FAQ

My Aussie is gaining weight — what do I cut first?

Treats. Most weight gain in active breeds comes from treats and table scraps, not main meals. Audit treat count for a week first.

Mini Aussie portions?

Scale by weight. A 30-lb Mini Aussie eats roughly 75% of a 40-lb standard at same activity.

Should I test for MDR1?

If using ivermectin-based products, yes. WSU’s MDR1 test is straightforward.

Sources

This is a general guide. Caloric needs vary by individual. Consult your vet for personalized portions. Last reviewed: 2026-04-28.

This is a general guide. Caloric needs vary by individual, neuter status, activity, and life stage. Consult your vet for personalized portions. Last reviewed: 28 April 2026.