A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Prefer a diet for medium-dog growth, divided into three meals, without excess energy or non-prescribed mineral supplements.
Adult : Adjust the ration to the actual activity and divide it into two meals in order to limit large food intakes.
Senior : Choose an easily digestible formula, adjusted to the decrease in activity, while maintaining a sufficient protein intake to preserve muscle mass.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Complete, good-quality kibble for a medium-sized and active dog is generally suitable, provided it supplies digestible animal proteins, appropriate fats, and a controlled mineral balance. A home-prepared ration is possible only if it is formulated with a veterinary nutritionist.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount depends on the energy density of the food, the actual weight, the activity and the body condition. The manufacturer's indications serve as a starting point, then the ration is adjusted according to changes in weight and silhouette.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 17 - 19 kg | 230 - 280 g | 2 |
| 20 - 22 kg | 260 - 320 g | 2 |
| 23 - 24 kg | 290 - 350 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be gradual over about one week, by gradually increasing the proportion of the new food. A slower transition may be necessary for a dog with a sensitive digestive system.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, particularly after exercise and in hot weather. It is preferable to let the dog calm down before drinking large quantities or receiving its meal.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats are useful for training, but they must be small, low in calories and deducted from the daily ration. Pieces of its usual ration can be used as rewards during training sessions.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration with a kitchen scale.
- Divide the daily ration into two meals.
- Avoid intense exercise around meals.
- Check the weight and body shape each month.
- Deduct treats from the daily ration.
Never give
Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic in quantity, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts, cooked bones and very fatty or very salty foods should be avoided, as they can cause poisoning, digestive disorders or serious injuries.
