A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Choose a food for large-breed puppies and split the ration into three meals to support steady growth.
Adult : Adjust the intake to the activity level and maintain an athletic silhouette by monitoring body condition.
Senior : Reassess calories, digestibility, and joint support with the veterinarian according to health status.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Complete, quality kibble for large dogs is a practical solution, with an energy content adjusted to activity. A home-prepared ration may be suitable if it is formulated and supplemented with the help of a veterinarian in order to avoid imbalances.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount depends on the energy density of the food, weight, age, neutering and activity. The ration table is a reference point to be compared with the manufacturer's recommendations and changes in body condition.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 30 - 35 kg | 330 - 430 g | 2 |
| 36 - 45 kg | 400 - 520 g | 2 |
| 46 - 55 kg | 480 - 620 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change of food must be gradual over about a week, increasing each day the proportion of the new food. A slower transition may be necessary in case of loose stools or digestive sensitivity.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain accessible at all times, particularly after exercise and in hot weather. It is preferable to let the dog calm down before drinking a large quantity all at once.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional, small in size and counted in the daily ration. For training, part of the kibble can be used in order to limit additional calories.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration rather than measuring it by eye.
- Serve two meals per day in adulthood.
- Avoid intense exercise just before and after meals.
- Regularly check the ribs, waist, and changes in weight.
- Adjust the ration to the energy recommendations of the chosen food.
Never give
Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic in toxic quantities, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts, cooked bones and very fatty or very salty foods should be avoided, as they can cause poisoning, digestive disorders, internal injuries or pancreatitis.
