A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Choose a formula for giant breeds, control the growth rate and split the ration into three meals before gradually moving to two.
Adult : Weigh the ration, split it into two meals and adjust it to activity as well as body condition.
Senior : Favor a digestible diet with controlled energy, with monitoring of weight, muscles, joints and kidney function.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
A complete, high-quality diet formulated for large or very large dogs is recommended. For the puppy, a formula specific to the growth of giant breeds helps to control energy and the calcium-phosphorus balance. A home-prepared ration may be suitable only if it is calculated by a veterinary nutritionist in order to avoid deficiencies and excesses.
Amounts
How much should you give?
Needs vary greatly between a 45 kg adult and a 100 kg subject. The quantity indicated by the manufacturer is a starting point that must be adjusted to body condition, activity, season, age and the energy density of the food. The daily ration is ideally divided into two meals.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 45 - 60 kg | 500 - 700 g | 2 |
| 60 - 80 kg | 650 - 850 g | 2 |
| 80 - 100 kg | 800 - 1 000 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change of food must be gradual over about 7 to 10 days, increasing each day the proportion of the new food. A slow transition limits digestive upsets and makes it possible to monitor tolerance, appetite and stool quality.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, especially in hot weather, after walks and with a dry diet. The bowl must be large enough, stable and cleaned every day.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats are useful for training, but their quantity must remain moderate and be included in the daily caloric intake. Favor small low-fat rewards and avoid table scraps, particularly unsuitable for a dog predisposed to weight gain.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh each ration rather than estimating by eye.
- Split the daily intake into two meals for the adult.
- Avoid intense exercise before and after meals.
- Check body condition each month.
- Adjust the ration with the veterinarian during growth.
Never give
Chocolate, fresh or dried grapes, onion, garlic, leek, avocado, macadamia nuts, alcohol, caffeine and products containing xylitol are dangerous. Cooked bones can break and cause an obstruction or a perforation. Very fatty or very salty foods also increase digestive, metabolic and cardiovascular risks.
