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 complete, quality diet is suitable on a daily basis. When it is used for hunting, a food formulated for hunting dogs can cover its increased needs, before a return to a classic diet after the activity season.
Amounts
How much should you give?
An adult of 20 to 28 kg often receives 280 to 450 g of kibble per day depending on activity.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 17 - 21 kg | 331 - 454 g | 2 |
| 21 - 24 kg | 355 - 487 g | 2 |
| 24 - 28 kg | 406 - 557 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change of food must be gradual over seven to ten days in order to limit diarrhea and loss of appetite, especially during hunting season.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Fresh water must remain available at all times. Needs increase sharply after exertion, in cover and in hot weather. Take water into the field.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats remain measured and are deducted from the ration. They are useful for training in retrieving and recall, without making the dog gain weight out of season.
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
Chocolate, grapes, xylitol, onion, garlic, alcohol, caffeine, cooked bones and very fatty leftovers are dangerous. In case of ingestion, contact a veterinarian.
