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 the 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 active dogs is often the simplest and most consistent solution. A home-prepared ration may be suitable if it is rigorously balanced, because a dog at this level of activity does not tolerate nutritional approximations well.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The ideal amount depends on weight, metabolism, training intensity and physiological status. It is preferable to adjust the ration with a veterinarian or based on the manufacturer's recommendations, then to correct it according to the dog's body condition and recovery.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 20 - 26 kg | 362 - 497 g | 2 |
| 26 - 32 kg | 446 - 611 g | 2 |
| 32 - 38 kg | 530 - 725 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. In an athletic dog, this transition is best made even more cautiously so as not to disrupt energy, appetite and stool quality.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must always be available, with increased vigilance before and after exertion. Hydration is essential for an endurance or sprint dog, especially in mild to warm weather or after intense outings.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain useful and measured, in support of training or motivation. It is better to favor digestible rewards suited to active dogs, without letting the extras unbalance the daily ration.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Adjust the ration to the dog's actual activity level.
- Split meals and avoid intense exertion right after eating.
- Keep fresh water available at all times, especially after exercise.
- Reevaluate quantities according to the season and training.
Never give
Chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, alcohol, xylitol, cooked bones and certain very fatty or very salty foods must be absolutely avoided, as they can cause serious digestive disorders, poisoning or metabolic complications in dogs.
