A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : A growth diet for a medium-sized puppy, divided into 3 to 4 meals, helps support development without excess weight gain.
Adult : The ration must be adjusted to the actual activity level, with 2 meals per day to limit digestive upsets and better control weight.
Senior : In older dogs, a more digestible and moderately energy-dense formula helps preserve muscle mass while avoiding weight gain.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Premium kibble for an adult dog of medium size and active generally suits very well, with a good content of animal proteins and an energy density consistent with its exercise. A home-prepared or mixed diet can also be suitable if it is properly balanced with the help of a veterinarian.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The ideal quantity varies according to weight, age, sex, sterilization and above all the level of activity. A very athletic subject or one that hunts regularly will have needs clearly higher than those of a companion dog walked in a moderate way. The ration is adjusted according to body condition rather than remaining fixed.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 15 - 18 kg | 220 - 260 g | 2 |
| 18 - 20 kg | 250 - 300 g | 2 |
| 20 - 22 kg | 280 - 330 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be gradual over 7 to 10 days in order to limit digestive upsets. It is preferable to gradually mix the old food and the new one, while monitoring appetite, stools and overall tolerance.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Hydration is essential, particularly for an active dog that works outdoors, swims or is active in hot weather. Clean, fresh water must be available at all times, including when returning from outings or days of hunting.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can be useful for training and recall, but they must remain measured and included in the calculation of the daily ration. It is better to favor small, simple and digestible rewards rather than fatty extras or ones given without control.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration rather than estimating it by eye.
- Adjust the energy intake according to the hunting season and the intensity of outings.
- Split the ration into 2 meals per day.
- Regularly monitor body condition and waistline.
Never give
As with other dogs, chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, alcohol, coffee, cooked bones, xylitol and very fatty or very salty foods should be avoided, as they can cause poisoning, digestive disorders, pancreatitis or more serious complications.
