A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Choose a complete food for the growth of medium-sized dogs and divide the ration into several meals.
Adult : Divide the daily ration into two meals and adjust it to the activity level to maintain a healthy weight.
Senior : Adjust the energy intake to the possible decrease in activity while maintaining quality proteins.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Quality complete kibble or a properly formulated home-prepared ration may be suitable. A diet based on meat, vegetables and starchy foods must be balanced with the help of a veterinarian in order to avoid deficiencies.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount depends on the energy density of the food, weight, age, sterilization and activity. It must be measured then adjusted according to changes in body condition.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 18 - 21 kg | 342 - 469 g | 2 |
| 21 - 24 kg | 355 - 487 g | 2 |
| 24 - 27 kg | 397 - 544 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change of food must be carried out gradually over several days by mixing the old and the new food, in order to reduce the risk of digestive disorders.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Fresh, clean water must remain available at all times, particularly after exertion and in hot weather. Access can be divided just after a very intense activity in order to avoid a massive and sudden intake.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and be deducted from the daily ration. Small low-calorie rewards are preferable for training sessions.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Divide the daily ration into two meals.
- Serve meals in a calm environment.
- Avoid any intense effort at least one hour before and after the meal.
- Weigh the dog regularly and adjust the ration to its body condition.
Never give
Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic in toxic quantities, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts and cooked bones should be avoided, as they can cause poisoning, digestive lesions or obstruction.
