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 kibble for an active medium-sized dog generally constitutes a suitable base. The formula must offer a good balance between quality proteins, controlled fats and digestibility, with an adjustment of intake according to hunting seasons or calmer periods.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily quantity must always be adjusted to the actual weight, body condition and intensity of exercise. A dog that hunts or goes out a lot will have significantly higher needs than an individual living mainly as a companion.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 19 - 21 kg | 320 - 440 g | 2 |
| 21 - 23 kg | 348 - 478 g | 2 |
| 23 - 25 kg | 376 - 516 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary transition must be done gradually over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. Mixing the old and the new food with a gradual increase of the new ration is the safest method.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. Hydration is particularly important after exertion, in hot weather and during long outings in nature.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can be useful for training and recall, but they must remain measured and be deducted from the daily ration if they are given regularly. It is better to favor simple and digestible rewards.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Adapt the ration to the actual intensity of the exercise
- Split meals into two servings per day for the adult
- Avoid intense effort just before and just after the meal
- Leave fresh water available at all times
Never give
As with other dogs, chocolate, grapes, onion, garlic, avocado, cooked bones, alcohol, xylitol and very fatty foods should be avoided, as they can cause severe digestive disorders, poisoning or metabolic complications.
