A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Choose a food for large-breed puppies, divided into three meals, and closely monitor the growth rate and body condition.
Adult : Divide the ration into two meals and adjust it to work, season, weight and the energy density of the food.
Senior : Favor an easily digestible ration that preserves muscle mass, with an energy intake adapted to any possible decrease in activity.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Complete, quality kibble formulated for large-breed dogs is a practical solution, with identified animal proteins, an appropriate energy density and a controlled mineral balance. A home-prepared ration is possible only if it is formulated with a veterinary nutritionist in order to avoid deficiencies or excesses, especially during growth.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount depends on the energy density of the food, body condition and activity level. The manufacturer's guidelines serve as a starting point, then the ration is adjusted according to changes in weight and silhouette, ideally with the help of the veterinarian.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 30 - 35 kg | 340 - 430 g | 2 |
| 35 - 40 kg | 390 - 480 g | 2 |
| 40 - 45 kg | 440 - 540 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be gradual over about 7 to 10 days. You should increase each day the proportion of the new food while reducing the old one, then slow down the transition in case of loose stools or digestive discomfort.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain accessible at all times, particularly after exercise and in hot weather. During travel or work with the herds, several water points must be provided and renewed regularly.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can support training, but they must remain small, low in fat and counted in the daily intake. Part of the kibble from the ration can be used as a reward in order to limit additional calories.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration rather than using an approximate volume.
- Split the daily food into two meals for the adult.
- Avoid intense exercise just before and during the two hours following the meal.
- Check the body shape and weight at least once a month.
- Adjust the quantities when treats are given.
Never give
Chocolate, fresh or dried grapes, onion, garlic in toxic quantities, leek, products containing xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts and raw risen dough are dangerous. Cooked bones can splinter and cause an obstruction or a digestive perforation. In case of suspected ingestion, you must quickly contact a veterinarian or a veterinary poison control center.
