Diet

Feeding your Portuguese Pointer well

Portugal

The Portuguese Pointer needs a quality diet, adapted to its age, its size and its level of physical activity. The needs of an active hunting dog differ significantly from those of a less active subject.

A menu for every age

Needs change over time

  • Puppy : Choose a complete food for the growth of a medium-sized dog and regularly monitor changes in weight.

  • Adult : Adjust the energy density and the ration to the actual level of activity, especially during hunting periods.

  • Senior : Reassess the intake with the veterinarian according to body condition, mobility and changes in health.

Which food?

Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?

A complete and balanced diet for a medium-sized dog is suitable, provided that its energy density and composition are adapted to the animal’s actual activity. The choice can be made with the veterinarian.

Amounts

How much should you give?

The daily quantity must be determined according to weight, age, body condition, physical expenditure and the energy value of the food. The manufacturer's recommendations must be adjusted with the veterinarian if necessary.

WeightDaily amountMeals/day
16 - 20 kg315 - 432 g2
20 - 23 kg341 - 468 g2
23 - 27 kg392 - 538 g2

Change

Managing the food transition

Any change in diet must be gradual in order to limit digestive disorders, by mixing the old and the new food over several days.

Hydration

Water: do not overlook it

Fresh water must remain available at all times, with increased vigilance after long walks, hunting sessions and in hot weather.

Little extras

Treats, in moderation

Treats must remain occasional and be included in the daily energy intake in order to avoid unwanted weight gain.

Good habits

For a top-notch bowl

  • Adjust the ration to the daily activity level.
  • Regularly monitor weight and body condition.
  • Keep fresh water available at all times.
  • Carry out any dietary transition gradually.

Never give

Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts and cooked bones should be avoided, as they can cause poisoning or serious digestive damage in dogs.

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