A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Provide a suitable growth food in several meals and monitor regular weight gain without excess.
Adult : Measure the ration precisely and adjust it to activity to prevent overweight.
Senior : Reassess energy intake and favor a suitable formula with the veterinarian according to body condition and health.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
High-quality kibble adapted to the life stage is a practical option. A home-prepared ration can also be suitable if it is formulated by a veterinarian in order to properly cover all nutritional needs.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily ration must be calculated based on ideal weight, activity and the energy density of the food. The manufacturer's recommendations serve as a starting point, then the quantity is adjusted according to changes in body shape.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 20 - 27 kg | 366 - 503 g | 2 |
| 27 - 33 kg | 460 - 630 g | 2 |
| 33 - 40 kg | 553 - 756 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be gradual over about a week, gradually increasing the proportion of the new food in order to limit digestive upsets.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Fresh, clean water must remain available at all times, particularly after exercise and in hot weather. An unusual increase in consumption warrants veterinary advice due to the breed’s renal predispositions.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and be deducted from the daily ration. Small, low-calorie rewards are preferable during training.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh each portion rather than estimating it by eye.
- Use an anti-gulp bowl if the dog swallows too quickly.
- Deduct treats from the daily intake.
- Regularly monitor the silhouette and weight.
Never give
Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts and cooked bones are dangerous for dogs and can cause poisoning or serious digestive damage.
