A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Growth food for medium to large size, in three meals, without calcium supplement or violent effort.
Adult : More energetic ration on hunting days or long outings, more measured at rest.
Senior : Digestible food, possibly with joint support, while monitoring weight out of season.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Quality kibble for a medium-sized dog, possibly a sport formula during periods of exertion, is well suited. A home-prepared ration is only conceivable with the advice of a veterinary nutritionist.
Amounts
How much should you give?
An adult of 18 to 29 kg often receives 250 to 420 g of kibble per day, to be adjusted according to herding activity.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 18 - 22 kg | 240 - 340 g | 2 |
| 22 - 26 kg | 280 - 400 g | 2 |
| 26 - 29 kg | 320 - 440 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
- Slightly increase the ration on days of exertion and reduce it during rest.
- Split into two meals and avoid intense exertion right after.
- Monitor weight outside the hunting season.
Never give
Chocolate, grapes, xylitol, onion, garlic, alcohol, caffeine, cooked bones and very fatty leftovers are dangerous. In case of ingestion, contact a veterinarian.
