A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : A growth diet for a small dog, divided into 3 to 4 meals per day, helps support development without excess weight gain.
Adult : Two meals per day with a measured portion help maintain a stable weight and good vitality.
Senior : A more digestible formula and sometimes a little less caloric can be useful if activity decreases or if joint sensitivities appear.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
High-quality kibble for small dogs, formulated according to age, activity level and body condition, is generally very suitable. A home-prepared or mixed diet can also be considered, but only if it is well balanced with the help of a veterinarian.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount varies mainly according to actual weight, activity and the energy density of the chosen food. It is preferable to base it on the dog's body condition and the manufacturer's recommendations rather than on a fixed ration.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 3 kg | 55 - 70 g | 2 |
| 4 - 5 kg | 70 - 95 g | 2 |
| 6 kg | 90 - 110 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. A transition over 7 to 10 days generally makes it possible to switch calmly from one food to another.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must be available at all times. Hydration deserves special attention in summer, after walks and if the dog is fed a 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 small portions should be preferred and deducted from the total ration if they are given often.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration rather than measuring it approximately.
- Split the food into at least 2 meals per day.
- Adjust the ration as soon as activity or weight changes.
Never give
As with other dogs, chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, macadamia nuts, alcohol, xylitol, cooked bones and very fatty foods should be avoided, as they can cause digestive, neurological, kidney or metabolic disorders that can sometimes be serious.
