A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Choose a growth food for a medium-sized dog, divided into several meals and adjusted to support steady growth without excess.
Adult : Adjust the ration to the actual activity level, prudently increasing intake during periods of sustained work.
Senior : Favor a digestible diet, control energy intake and monitor weight as well as joint mobility.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
A complete diet for a medium-sized and active dog is suitable, in the form of quality kibble or a home-prepared ration formulated with a veterinarian. It must provide digestible animal proteins, fats in a quantity adapted to the effort and a balanced mineral intake.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount must be calculated according to the energy density of the food, the weight, the age and the actual expenditure. The manufacturer's table is a starting point to be adjusted according to changes in body shape and the veterinarian's advice.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 20 - 22 kg | 331 - 455 g | 2 |
| 22 - 23 kg | 355 - 487 g | 2 |
| 23 - 25 kg | 378 - 519 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be gradual, ideally over a week, by gradually increasing the proportion of the new food. This transition limits digestive upsets and makes it possible to check that the ration is well tolerated.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain accessible at all times. During long outings, in hot weather or after exertion, small amounts of water should be offered regularly and a calm recovery period planned.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can support training, especially recall, but they must remain occasional and be deducted from the daily ration. Small, digestible and low-fat rewards are preferable.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration rather than estimating it by eye.
- Avoid a large meal just before or just after intense exertion.
- Adjust intake between hunting and rest periods.
- Regularly monitor weight and body condition.
Never give
Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic, leek, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts and cooked bones are to be avoided, as they can cause poisoning, digestive disorders or internal injuries.
