Diet

Feeding your Chesapeake Bay Retriever well

United States

The diet must meet the needs of a sporty and active dog while avoiding excesses. Nutritional quality and adjusting portions to daily activity are essential to maintaining its physical condition.

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?

Premium-quality kibble, rich in protein and providing vitamins and minerals, is recommended. The choice of food must be adapted to age, weight, health status and the intensity of activity.

Amounts

How much should you give?

The daily amount must be individualized according to the dog’s actual needs and regularly reassessed to limit the risk of overweight. A veterinarian can define the most appropriate ration.

WeightDaily amountMeals/day
25 - 29 kg415 - 569 g2
29 - 32 kg467 - 639 g2
32 - 36 kg518 - 709 g2

Change

Managing the food transition

Any change of food must be gradual over seven to ten days, gradually increasing the proportion of the new food to limit digestive upsets.

Hydration

Water: do not overlook it

Clean, fresh water must remain available, especially after long outings, sporting activities or work in the water.

Little extras

Treats, in moderation

Rewards can support positive education, but they must remain moderate and be integrated into the daily energy intake to avoid excesses.

Good habits

For a top-notch bowl

  • Choose a premium-quality food rich in protein.
  • Adjust the portion to the weight and activity level.
  • Regularly monitor body condition to prevent overweight.
  • Ask the veterinarian for advice to individualize the ration.

Never give

Chocolate, grapes, xylitol, onion, garlic, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts, cooked bones and very fatty or very salty foods are dangerous for dogs. In case of ingestion, contact a veterinarian quickly.

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