A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Very rapid growth requires a complete diet strictly adapted to large breeds to support the skeleton without excess.
Adult : The ration must cover muscle maintenance and limit overload on the joints, with one or two meals per day depending on the dog's profile.
Senior : A more digestible diet adjusted to activity helps preserve ideal weight and joint comfort.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
High-quality kibble formulated for large or giant dogs generally provides a practical and balanced base. Some breeders also use a well-designed home-prepared or raw diet, but it must remain strictly supervised to cover all nutritional needs.
Amounts
How much should you give?
Quantities must always be adjusted according to the dog's age, weight, growth and activity. In the Great Dane, it is essential to avoid improvised rations so as not to unbalance its growth.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 45 - 53 kg | 640 - 866 g | 2 |
| 53 - 62 kg | 740 - 1000 g | 2 |
| 62 - 70 kg | 840 - 1133 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary change must be gradual over several days to limit digestive upsets. In a dog of this size, the regularity of the ration and of the transition matters as much as the quality of the ingredients.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must be available at all times. Good hydration is essential on a daily basis, especially after outings, in hot weather and for the young growing dog.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and be included in the overall caloric intake. It is better to favor small, simple rewards to support training without promoting weight gain.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Split meals during growth.
- Regularly adjust the ration to weight and body condition.
- Choose a high-quality complete diet for large breeds.
Never give
Chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, alcohol, xylitol and cooked bones must be absolutely avoided, as they can cause severe poisoning, digestive disorders or potentially fatal complications in dogs.
