A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : A puppy food for a medium to large breed helps support steady growth without excess energy, in order to spare the joints.
Adult : The adult needs a ration adjusted to its activity, with a good balance between digestible proteins, energy and weight control.
Senior : In the older dog, a more moderate calorie formula adapted to joint comfort can help preserve mobility and overall condition.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Premium kibble for medium to large dogs, rich in digestible proteins and well balanced in energy, generally works well. For very active dogs, a working or high-maintenance formula may be relevant if it remains well tolerated.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount depends mainly on adult weight, activity, age and the energy density of the chosen food. It must be adjusted individually with the help of the veterinarian if the dog loses weight, gains weight or changes its pace of life.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 20 - 25 kg | 355 - 487 g | 2 |
| 25 - 30 kg | 425 - 582 g | 2 |
| 30 - 35 kg | 495 - 677 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary transition must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. It is advisable to gradually increase the proportion of the new food while monitoring stools, appetite and overall comfort.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. Hydration deserves special attention after exercise, during hot weather and if the diet is very dry.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can be useful in training, provided they remain simple, digestible and given in small quantities. They must be included in the calculation of the overall ration to avoid weight gain.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Split the daily ration into at least 2 meals.
- Avoid intense exertion in the half-hour before and after meals.
- Regularly monitor body condition to adjust the ration.
Never give
As with all dogs, chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, avocado, cooked bones, alcohol, raw bread dough and foods containing xylitol should be avoided, as they can cause sometimes serious poisoning or digestive complications.
