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?
A complete diet for a large active dog, in the form of good-quality kibble or a ration supervised by a professional, is well suited to this breed. The choice should prioritize digestibility, protein quality, and adaptation to the effort provided.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount must be adjusted according to weight, body condition and the intensity of activity, notably in dogs used for hunting. It is preferable to reason with the veterinarian or the food labeling rather than applying a fixed ration to all individuals.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 33 - 34 kg | 509 - 696 g | 2 |
| 34 - 35 kg | 523 - 715 g | 2 |
| 35 - 36 kg | 537 - 734 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be introduced gradually over several days, ideally over a week or more. This transition limits digestive upsets and makes it possible to check good tolerance of the new food.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must be available at all times. Hydration is particularly important after exertion and in hot weather, as the breed does not tolerate high heat well.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and be included in the daily energy intake. They are useful for educational work, provided that simple products are chosen and the ration is not unbalanced.
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, chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, alcohol, xylitol and cooked bones should be avoided, as they can cause severe poisoning, digestive disorders or potentially fatal complications.
