A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : A growth diet for a large dog helps support bone and joint development without excess energy.
Adult : A balanced and digestible ration, adjusted to actual activity, helps maintain muscle mass and ideal weight.
Senior : With age, a diet that is more moderate in energy and enriched with joint support can become useful depending on the dog's condition.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
A complete diet for a large active dog, in the form of good-quality kibble or a well-supervised mixed ration, generally suits the breed well. Digestibility and protein quality are important points.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount must be adjusted to the dog's weight, activity and body condition. It is recommended to divide the ration into 2 meals per day for better digestive comfort.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 38 - 39 kg | 576 - 788 g | 2 |
| 39 - 39 kg | 586 - 801 g | 2 |
| 39 - 40 kg | 595 - 813 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary transition must be done gradually over about a week, or even longer in sensitive subjects. This progression limits digestive disorders and facilitates acceptance of the new ration.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, especially after exercise, in hot weather and for dogs fed mainly with kibble. Good hydration also contributes to overall digestive comfort.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can be useful in training, but they must remain measured and integrated into the daily ration. It is better to favor simple and digestible rewards to avoid excess calories.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Split the daily ration into 2 meals.
- Avoid intense exertion in the hour before and after the meal.
- Adjust the ration to the actual activity level and to the silhouette.
Never give
As with other dogs, it is necessary to avoid in particular chocolate, grapes, onion, garlic, avocado, alcohol, coffee, cooked bones and very fatty or very salty foods, as they can cause digestive or neurological disorders or sometimes serious poisoning.
