A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Choose a formula for large breeds, monitor the growth rate and split the ration into three meals before gradually moving to two.
Adult : Adjust the ration to the ideal weight and activity, with two daily meals and no intense effort around meals.
Senior : Favor a digestible formula, moderately energy-dense and suited to maintaining muscle mass, with increased monitoring of weight and mobility.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Complete premium-quality or higher kibble, formulated for large or very large dogs, is a practical option. For the puppy, a formula specifically for the growth of large breeds helps control energy intake and mineral balance. Any home-prepared ration must be developed with a veterinary nutritionist.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily ration must be determined based on ideal weight, age, activity and the energy density of the food, then adjusted according to changes in body condition. It must be divided into two meals rather than given all at once.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 40 - 45 kg | 430 - 500 g | 2 |
| 46 - 52 kg | 500 - 570 g | 2 |
| 53 - 60 kg | 570 - 650 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change of food must be gradual over about a week, by gradually increasing the proportion of the new food. A slower transition may be necessary in a sensitive dog in order to limit diarrhea, gas or food refusal.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Fresh, clean water must remain available at all times. Consumption must be monitored in hot weather, after activity and when feeding dry food, without letting the dog drink an excessive amount immediately after intense exertion.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional, be small in size and be deducted from the daily ration. They can be used for positive training, but fatty leftovers and very high-calorie rewards promote weight gain.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh each portion rather than estimating it by eye.
- Split the daily food into two meals.
- Avoid intense exercise before and after meals.
- Check body condition each month.
- Choose a diet suited to large-breed dogs.
Never give
Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic, leek, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts, cooked bones and very fatty foods should be avoided, as they can cause poisoning, obstruction, pancreatitis or other veterinary emergencies.
