Diet

Feeding your Greater Swiss Mountain Dog well

Switzerland

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog needs a high-quality diet, adapted to large dogs and to its activity level. Vigilance is particularly important during growth, in order to avoid excess energy intake and mineral imbalances.

A menu for every age

Needs change over time

  • Puppy : A large-breed growth formula helps support harmonious development without overloading the body.

  • Adult : A complete diet for a moderately active large dog helps maintain muscle mass and a stable weight.

  • Senior : A more digestible and less energy-dense recipe can help preserve mobility and limit weight gain with age.

Which food?

Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?

Premium kibble for large dogs, formulated according to age and physical activity, suits most individuals well. A recipe rich in digestible proteins, with a controlled mineral intake during growth, helps support its muscle mass without promoting excessive weight gain.

Amounts

How much should you give?

The daily amount varies according to weight, activity, the energy density of the food and physiological status. The rations below are orders of magnitude for an adult in good body condition and must be adjusted with the veterinarian if needed.

WeightDaily amountMeals/day
35 - 40 kg380 - 450 g2
40 - 45 kg430 - 520 g2
45 - 50 kg480 - 580 g2

Change

Managing the food transition

Any dietary transition must be done gradually over about a week, by increasing little by little the share of the new food. This precaution limits digestive upsets and helps to better assess tolerance of the new formula.

Hydration

Water: do not overlook it

Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, especially after exercise, in hot weather or with a dry diet. In this large dog, good hydration contributes to overall comfort and recovery.

Little extras

Treats, in moderation

Treats should remain occasional and be included in the daily caloric intake. It is preferable to favor small, simple, and easily digestible rewards so as not to encourage weight gain.

Good habits

For a top-notch bowl

  • Weigh the portions to avoid excess.
  • Split the daily ration into 2 meals.
  • Adjust the intake to the actual activity and body shape.
  • Limit rich treats and table scraps.

Never give

As with all dogs, you should avoid in particular chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, cooked bones, alcohol, xylitol and very fatty foods, as they can cause severe digestive disorders, poisoning or a veterinary emergency.

Ready to welcome your Greater Swiss Mountain Dog?

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