What is the rationale for serving size for a dog? (spaniel, food)

[titaniummd]

Sorry about redundancy in questions but:

What is the rationale for serving size for a dog? I buy one bag of food and for the weight, it suggests 1 3/4 to 2 cups, whereas another recommends 1 3/4 cups and another 1 cup per day. Should it be based upon how many calories per day, Basal Metabolic rate, or something else?

I have seen some bags show 378 cal/cup (1 cup per day, for ex) as opposed to another saying 433 cal/cup (1 3/4 cup per day). It is so inconsistent.

I realize it is also based upon energy level.

[titaniummd]

Metabolic Energy Requirements For Dogs

Somebody gave me this link from the Bichon Frise Community.

[kelly3120]

woo wooooooo been looking for this for a while
THANKS!!!!!!!

I give under that amount already and I give treats and some yummy leftover randomly.
Makes me feel like I'm on the right track =)