A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Provide a growth diet suited to the medium size in three meals, then two, without excess that promotes overly rapid growth.
Active adult : Adjust the energy density and the ration to the volume of exercise, with two daily meals and without a large meal just before exertion.
Adult at rest : Reduce intake during periods without hunting or with lower activity in order to prevent weight gain.
Senior : Maintain quality digestible proteins and adjust energy, texture and minerals according to body condition and the veterinary assessment.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
A complete high-quality diet for an active adult dog, rich in digestible animal proteins and providing an appropriate energy content, is generally suitable. A home-prepared ration can also be offered if it is formulated with a veterinarian in order to avoid nutritional imbalances.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount must be calculated according to the energy density of the food, body condition and exercise level. Hunting days or intense training can justify a higher intake, while rest periods often require reducing the ration.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 24 kg | 300 - 380 g | 2 |
| 25 kg | 310 - 400 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change of food must be carried out gradually over about a week, increasing each day the proportion of the new food. A slower transition is preferable in case of digestive sensitivity or during a period of significant exertion.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Fresh water must remain accessible at all times. During long outings, small regular drinks of water should be offered, without waiting until the dog is very thirsty, then monitor its recovery on return.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can make recall and training easier, but their intake must remain moderate and be deducted from the daily ration. Favor small, digestible rewards, easy to carry and low in fat.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration regularly rather than measuring it by eye.
- Split the daily feeding into two meals.
- Avoid a large meal just before or after intense exertion.
- Adjust the quantities according to the dog's physique and workload.
- Store the food in a dry place in an airtight container.
Never give
Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic in toxic quantities, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts and cooked bones are dangerous for the dog and can cause poisoning, digestive disorders, neurological damage or internal injuries.
