Feeding Guide

How to Feed Dogs

Valu-Pak is a farm-store exclusive brand made in Memphis, TN by Specialty Feeds Inc. The FREE line (available in four formulas) contains no corn, wheat, soy, or gluten — setting it apart from most grocery or big-box store kibble at a competitive price point. This guide helps you pick the right formula for your dog's life stage and activity level. Always verify feeding amounts on your specific bag label.

Note: Dog feeding recommendations are general guidelines. Individual dogs vary in metabolism, activity level, and health status. Always follow the specific feeding guide on your bag, and consult your veterinarian if your dog has health conditions that may affect dietary needs. Always read your specific feed bag label for manufacturer-recommended feeding rates.

Feeding by Life Stage

Stage	Age / Weight	Daily Amount	Protein Target	Notes
Puppy	Weaning – 12 months (24 months for large breeds)	Consult bag label (typically 20–30% more than adult maintenance per lb body weight)	24–28%+	Puppies need more protein and fat than adults for growth. The 28/20 Black Bag is a strong puppy choice. Large-breed puppies benefit from controlled growth — avoid overfeeding.
Active / Working Adult	1–7 years, highly active	Consult bag label — typically 2–4 cups/day for 50–75 lb dogs	26–30%	Working dogs, hunting dogs, and dogs with jobs burn significantly more calories. The 30/20 Purple Bag is designed for this. High fat supports sustained energy better than high carbs.
Adult Maintenance	1–7 years, moderate activity	Consult bag label	22–26%	The 26/18 Blue Bag or 22/12 Orange Bag fits most adult pet dogs well. Feed twice daily rather than free-choice to prevent obesity.
All Life Stages	Any age	Consult bag label	24%	The 24/20 Silver Bag is AAFCO-approved for all life stages — convenient if you have multiple dogs at different ages.
Senior Dog	7+ years (varies by size)	Consult bag label; reduce by ~20% if activity decreases	22–26%	Contrary to old advice, healthy senior dogs do NOT need reduced protein — adequate protein helps maintain muscle mass. Reduce total calories if weight gain is a concern.
Pregnant / Nursing	Gestation through weaning	Free-choice in final weeks of pregnancy and lactation	26–28%+	Nursing dams have extreme calorie demands — similar to puppies. Switch to a higher-protein formula during late gestation and lactation.

* These are general industry guidelines based on extension service recommendations. Actual needs vary by breed, body condition, and environment. Always verify with your feed bag label.

When to Switch Feed Types

Dogs respond well to gradual feed transitions. A typical 7-day blend is appropriate for most dogs. Sensitive stomachs (common in dogs that have been on low-quality food for a long time) may benefit from a 10–14 day transition. The main difference you'll notice when switching from a corn/soy/wheat-based kibble to Valu-Pak FREE is typically improved stool firmness (less bulk, better consistency) within 1–2 weeks. Skin and coat improvements often show up in 4–8 weeks as the dietary fat and omega content change. Itchy dogs or dogs with food sensitivities often improve on a corn/soy/gluten-free formula.

Transitioning to Non-GMO Feed

Switching dogs to Valu-Pak FREE from a conventional kibble is a standard 7-day feed transition. Most dogs accept the new food readily — it's often more palatable because it uses real meat as the first ingredient.

7–10 Day Transition Schedule

1Days 1–2: 75% old food / 25% Valu-Pak FREE mixed together
2Days 3–5: 50% / 50% blend — watch for loose stools
3Days 6–7: 25% old food / 75% Valu-Pak FREE
4Day 8+: 100% Valu-Pak FREE

What to Watch For

✓Softer stools for a few days are normal and expected when changing any dog food
✓Some dogs initially eat less of a new food — this usually resolves in 2–3 days
✓Improved stool firmness and reduced stool volume within 1–2 weeks (a sign of better digestibility)
✓Skin and coat improvement typically visible over 4–8 weeks as omega fatty acids normalize

Recommended Products for Dogs

Available at BooneTop Farms & Feed, 1460 Highway 100 West, Centerville, TN

Valu-Pak Dog Food

FREE 30/20 (Purple Bag)

Best for: Working dogs, athletic dogs, puppies

Usually In Stock

Valu-Pak Dog Food

FREE 28/20 (Black Bag)

Best for: Active dogs and puppies

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Valu-Pak Dog Food

FREE 26/18 (Blue Bag)

Best for: Active adult dogs

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Valu-Pak Dog Food

FREE 24/20 (Silver Bag)

Best for: All life stages — multi-dog households

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Valu-Pak Dog Food

FREE 22/12 (Orange Bag)

Best for: Adult maintenance, lower-activity dogs

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Browse All Products →

Seasonal Feeding Considerations

🌱 Spring

Increased outdoor activity in spring means more calorie burn. Adjust portions up for working or very active dogs. Spring shedding is intense — omega-3 supplementation or a higher-fat formula helps reduce excess shedding.

☀️ Summer

Hot dogs eat less — reduced appetite in heat is normal. Make sure fresh water is always available. Don't force portions — monitor body condition rather than strictly following cup recommendations.

🍂 Fall

Hunting season for many working breeds. Working dogs may need the 30/20 Purple formula during heavy working weeks. Monitor body condition closely — hardworking dogs can lose weight quickly.

❄️ Winter

Outdoor dogs in cold climates need more calories to maintain body temperature. Increase daily ration by 10–20% for dogs that live outside or work in cold. Indoor pets may need slightly less.

Questions About Feeding Your Dogs?

Text or call us — we're farmers too and happy to help you find the right feed.

Text 931-217-5556 Call (931) 217-5556

1460 Highway 100 West, Centerville, TN 37033 · Mon/Thu/Fri 10am–6pm · Sat 10am–3pm