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?
Premium kibble for small dogs generally suits very well, provided it is adapted to its age, its activity and its physiological status. A home-prepared or mixed diet can also be considered if it is formulated rigorously with a professional.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The ration must be adjusted according to actual weight, body condition, daily activity and the energy density of the chosen food. A small dog that is not very sporty but greedy can quickly receive too much, hence the benefit of weighing portions and reassessing the ration if needed.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 4 - 5 kg | 101 - 147 g | 2 |
| 5 - 6 kg | 119 - 173 g | 2 |
| 6 - 7 kg | 137 - 199 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary transition must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. It is preferable to gradually increase the proportion of the new food while observing appetite, stool quality and digestive comfort.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. As with all dogs, hydration deserves special attention in summer, after walks and in the case of an exclusively dry diet.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and represent a small part of the daily intake. They are useful for training, but it is better to favor simple, low-calorie rewards so as not to unbalance its ration.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh portions rather than feeding by eye.
- Split the daily ration into two meals.
- Adapt the diet to age, activity and body condition.
- Limit treats to avoid excess on a small build.
Never give
As with all dogs, chocolate, grapes, onion, garlic, avocado, cooked bones, alcohol, xylitol and very fatty or very salty foods should be avoided, as they can cause digestive, neurological, urinary or cardiac disorders that are sometimes serious.
