A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Choose a food for the growth of medium-sized dogs and divide the ration into three meals until about six months.
Adult : Adjust the intake to the actual activity and divide the ration into two meals for digestive comfort.
Senior : Favor an easily digestible formula, moderately energetic and adjusted to mobility and body condition.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Complete, high-quality kibble adapted to size, age and activity level is a practical solution. A home-prepared ration based on meat, starches and vegetables may also be suitable if it is formulated and supplemented with the help of a veterinarian in order to avoid deficiencies.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily ration depends on the energy density of the food, age, neutering and the intensity of exercise. The manufacturer's guidelines serve as a starting point, then the quantities are adjusted according to changes in weight and body condition.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 20 kg | 250 - 290 g | 2 |
| 22 - 23 kg | 270 - 320 g | 2 |
| 25 kg | 290 - 340 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be gradual over about a week. It is advisable to gradually increase the proportion of the new food while decreasing the old one in order to limit digestive upsets.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, especially after exercise and aquatic activities. On hot days or during long outings, small amounts should be offered regularly without waiting for intense panting.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can support training, but they must remain small, low-calorie and included in the daily ration. Simple food rewards or part of the day's kibble help limit excesses.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the daily ration rather than serving it by eye.
- Wait before and after intense exercise to give a substantial meal.
- Check body shape and weight each month.
- Adjust the ration on days of high activity.
- Ask the veterinarian’s advice before any home-prepared ration.
Never give
Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic in large quantities, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts and cooked bones are dangerous for dogs and can cause poisoning, digestive, neurological or kidney damage and internal injuries.
