A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Growth must be gradual with a large-breed puppy food in order to support the bone structure without excessive energy.
Adult : The ration aims to maintain a stable weight, with two meals per day and an adjustment according to actual activity.
Senior : A more digestible and moderately energy-dense formula helps preserve mobility, muscle mass and joint comfort.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Premium kibble for large dogs, or a home-prepared ration formulated with a veterinarian, are well suited if the energy intake remains adapted to its age, its size and its activity. A formula supporting the joints can be of interest in the adult and the senior.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The quantity varies according to the energy density of the food, age, sex, sterilization and activity. In this large dog, it is preferable to split the daily ration to limit digestive discomfort and better control appetite.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 40 - 45 kg | 430 - 520 g | 2 |
| 45 - 50 kg | 500 - 600 g | 2 |
| 50 - 54 kg | 580 - 700 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary transition must be done gradually over about a week, by increasing little by little the proportion of the new food. This gradual approach helps to limit digestive upsets and makes it easier to accept the new ration.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. After exertion, heat or a dry meal, you must check that he drinks enough while avoiding excessive immediate activity in this deep-chested dog.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and represent a small part of the total caloric intake. It is preferable to choose simple, easily digestible rewards, then to deduct them slightly from the daily ration if they are given often.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Split the ration into two meals per day.
- Avoid intense exertion just before and after meals.
- Check the weight each month with the goal of a clearly defined silhouette.
- Clean and refill the water daily.
Never give
As with other dogs, you should avoid chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, avocado, alcohol, xylitol, cooked bones and very fatty foods. These products can cause severe digestive disorders, poisoning or metabolic complications.
