If your dog has recently been spayed or neutered, you might be wondering whether you need to change how much food you’re feeding—especially if you’re feeding a high-quality, nutritious raw diet like Poppy’s Picnic. The simple answer? Not necessarily. Every dog is different, and a blanket reduction in food isn’t always required.

Why People Think You Should Cut Back

It’s often said that spayed or neutered dogs are more prone to weight gain. This belief comes from the fact that hormone levels drop after surgery, which can reduce metabolic rate and sometimes increase appetite. However, this doesn’t mean that every dog will suddenly pile on the pounds. It depends on your dog’s age, activity level, breed, and even their individual metabolism.

For example, a young, active Labrador on Poppy’s Picnic Power Balls may still need the same portion sizes even after being neutered. Meanwhile, an older or less active pup may require a small adjustment.

Quality Food Matters

Dogs fed a poor-quality, highly processed diet are more likely to gain weight after spaying or neutering because those foods are often packed with carbs and fillers. With Poppy’s Picnic’s fresh, raw meals—made from proper meat and veg, with no hidden nasties—you’re already giving your dog the best possible foundation for maintaining a healthy weight.

The balanced nutrition found in Poppy’s Picnic, including their RAW Power range, helps promote lean muscle and steady energy. This means many owners don’t need to change a thing post-neutering.

Watch and Weigh

Rather than automatically reducing your dog’s food, it’s better to:

• Keep an eye on their waistline: You should be able to feel (but not see) their ribs, and they should have a visible tuck behind the ribs when viewed from above.

• Weigh your dog every 2–4 weeks: A small gain or loss can be adjusted with slight tweaks to their meal size.

• Use our feeding calculator or ask the Poppy’s Picnic team for personalised support based on your dog’s age, weight, and activity levels.

Remember: Every Dog Is Unique

Some dogs will need slightly less food after being spayed or neutered. Others won’t need any changes at all. The key is to monitor and adjust if needed—not to restrict unnecessarily.

If you’re unsure, you can always reach out to the friendly Poppy’s Picnic team for advice on tailored feeding amounts. They’ll help you keep your dog in tip-top condition, with food that’s fit for a champion—neutered or not!