Diet

Feeding your Dogo Canario well

Spain

The Dogo Canario has significant dietary needs, consistent with its large size and developed musculature. Its feeding budget must be anticipated before adoption.

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?

Quality kibble for large dogs, controlled growth in the young, without seeking artificial mass.

Amounts

How much should you give?

The daily amount must be adapted to the dog's weight, age and activity level, without overly intensive exercise during growth in order to preserve its joints.

WeightDaily amountMeals/day
40 - 46 kg564 - 765 g2
46 - 51 kg632 - 856 g2
51 - 57 kg700 - 946 g2

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

Permanent water, frequent breaks during exertion, vigilance in the heat: the massive build dissipates temperature poorly.

Little extras

Treats, in moderation

Measured treats, deducted from the ration. Avoid any mass gain supplement without veterinary advice.

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.

Ready to welcome your Dogo Canario?

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