A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Growth food adapted to the expected size, divided into three meals, without unnecessary calcium supplementation.
Adult : Controlled ration in two meals, adjusted to ideal weight and actual activity.
Senior : Digestible food, possibly less energy-dense, with joint and dental monitoring.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
A high-quality diet, rich in highly digestible animal proteins and formulated for a large active dog, is generally well suited to this breed. The exact choice must take into account age, actual activity, body condition and individual tolerance.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily quantity must be adjusted to the weight, age, physical activity and energy density of the chosen food. It is preferably divided into several meals for better digestive comfort.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 25 - 30 kg | 425 - 582 g | 2 |
| 30 - 35 kg | 495 - 677 g | 2 |
| 35 - 40 kg | 565 - 772 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be made gradually over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. A gradual transition makes it possible to check that the dog is tolerating it well and to adjust the ration if necessary.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, with increased vigilance after exercise and in hot weather. Good hydration directly contributes to comfort, recovery and the overall proper functioning of the body.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can be useful in training and to reinforce good behavior, but they must remain moderate. They are included in the total daily intake in order to avoid gradual weight gain.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration each day rather than serving by volume.
- Avoid intense exertion just before and after the meal.
- Deduct training treats from the daily ration.
Never give
As with other dogs, it is necessary to avoid in particular chocolate, grapes, onion, garlic, alcohol, sweeteners such as xylitol, cooked bones and very fatty foods, as they can cause severe digestive disorders, poisoning or more serious complications.
