A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Use a complete food for medium-sized puppies, divided into three meals, to support steady growth without excess energy.
Adult : Adjust the energy density and the ration to the actual activity level, with two daily meals and monitoring of body condition.
Senior : Favor a digestible formula maintaining muscle mass, adjusted to decreased activity and any potential joint needs.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Complete, high-quality kibble, formulated for medium dogs and adapted to the activity level, is a practical solution. A balanced home-prepared ration can also be suitable if it is calculated with a veterinary nutritionist. Digestible animal proteins, a controlled energy intake and the balance of minerals are priorities.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount is determined based on ideal weight, body condition, activity and the energy density of the food. The manufacturer’s guidelines serve as a starting point, then the ration is adjusted according to changes in weight and body shape.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 20 - 23 kg | 250 - 320 g | 2 |
| 24 - 27 kg | 300 - 370 g | 2 |
| 28 - 30 kg | 340 - 420 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change of food must be gradual over seven to ten days, by gradually increasing the proportion of the new food. This transition limits digestive upsets. In the event of persistent diarrhea, vomiting or loss of appetite, veterinary advice is necessary.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Fresh, clean water must remain available at all times, particularly after exertion and in hot weather. During long outings, regular breaks should be planned and enough water carried, without letting the dog drink a very large amount all at once after intense exercise.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats are chosen in a small format and given in moderation, especially during training. Their caloric intake must be deducted from the daily ration. Low-fat rewards or part of the day's kibble make it possible to multiply reinforcements without promoting weight gain.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the daily ration rather than using an approximate measure.
- Split the food into two meals for the adult.
- Avoid intense exercise just before and just after the meal.
- Check weight and body shape every month.
- Deduct treats from the day's ration.
Never give
Chocolate, fresh or dried grapes, onion, garlic in quantity, leek, avocado, macadamia nuts, alcohol, caffeine and any product containing xylitol are dangerous. Cooked bones can break and cause an obstruction or a perforation, while very fatty foods expose in particular to digestive disorders and pancreatitis.
