A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Choose a complete food for a medium-sized puppy, divided into three meals, with monitored growth and without non-prescribed mineral supplements.
Adult : Serve a ration adapted to activity in two meals and regularly check the silhouette under the abundant coat.
Senior : Favor an easily digestible formula, moderately energy-dense and adapted to changes in activity, joints and kidney function.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Complete, high-quality kibble, rich in digestible animal proteins and correctly balanced in fat, meets its needs well. The formula must be adapted to the life stage and activity level, with a medium-sized puppy food during growth.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount depends on the energy density of the food, age, neutering and the intensity of exercise. The manufacturer's guidelines are a starting point to be adjusted according to body condition and the veterinarian's advice.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 15 - 16 kg | 220 - 250 g | 2 |
| 17 - 18 kg | 240 - 280 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change of food must be carried out gradually over about one week by mixing the old and the new ration in changing proportions, in order to limit digestive disorders.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, with increased vigilance after exertion and in hot weather. On a hike or during a sporting session, regular breaks allow the dog to drink without waiting to return home.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional, small in size and be deducted from the daily ration. They can support training, but must not replace a complete diet or encourage weight gain.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration rather than estimating it by eye.
- Adjust portions to the actual activity level.
- Split the adult ration into two daily meals.
- Avoid intense exercise just before and after the meal.
- Check body condition under the coat each month.
Never give
Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic in large quantities, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts and cooked bones are dangerous for the dog and can cause poisoning, digestive lesions or an obstruction; any suspected ingestion requires contacting a veterinarian quickly.
