A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Growth food adapted to the expected size, divided into three meals, without unnecessary calcium supplementation.
Adult : Controlled ration in two meals, adjusted to ideal weight and actual activity.
Senior : Digestible food, possibly less energy-dense, with joint and dental monitoring.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Good-quality kibble for a medium, active dog is generally suitable, with a protein and energy content consistent with its expenditure. The ration must be reassessed according to the season, activity and body condition.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The ideal amount depends on actual weight, daily activity, age and the energy density of the food. It is preferable to adjust the ration with the help of the manufacturer or the veterinarian rather than follow a fixed amount all year round.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 19 - 19 kg | 336 - 461 g | 2 |
| 19 - 20 kg | 342 - 469 g | 2 |
| 20 - 20 kg | 347 - 476 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary change must be made gradually over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. A gentle transition is particularly useful in active dogs whose digestion can be sensitive to sudden variations.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, especially after exercise, in hot weather or during hunting periods. Hydration deserves special attention in this hardy dog.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can be useful for training and recall, provided they remain moderate and are included in the daily intake. It is better to favor small rewards that are easy to hand out during effort or work.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration each day rather than serving by volume.
- Avoid intense exertion just before and after the meal.
- Deduct training treats from the daily ration.
Never give
As with other dogs, you should avoid in particular chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, xylitol, alcohol, cooked bones and very fatty foods, as they can cause poisoning or digestive disorders that are sometimes serious.
