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?
Complete, good-quality kibble for an active medium-sized dog is generally well suited, provided it offers digestible proteins and an energy density consistent with the effort expended. A home-prepared or mixed diet can also be considered, but it must be formulated rigorously with the help of a veterinarian to avoid imbalances.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The ideal amount varies depending on weight, age, neutering and activity level, with needs often higher in dogs that hunt or are very active. It is preferable to base it on the manufacturer’s or veterinarian’s recommendations and then adjust according to the observed body condition.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 20 - 22 kg | 331 - 455 g | 2 |
| 22 - 23 kg | 355 - 487 g | 2 |
| 23 - 25 kg | 378 - 519 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. A gentle transition, by gradually increasing the proportion of the new food, is particularly useful in an active dog whose digestive comfort also determines recovery and the quality of work.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. After exertion, in hot weather or during prolonged outings, you must be even more attentive to hydration, because this dog can keep going for a long time without always stopping on its own.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can be useful for training and recall, but they must remain moderate and included in the calculation of the daily ration. It is better to favor simple rewards, well tolerated and given wisely so as not to disrupt weight or dietary balance.
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
As with other dogs, you should avoid in particular chocolate, grapes, onion, garlic, alcohol, xylitol, cooked bones and very fatty or very salty foods, as they can cause poisoning, severe digestive disorders or veterinary emergencies.
