A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : An adapted growth diet is necessary to support harmonious development without excessive weight gain.
Adult : The ration must cover daily activity while maintaining a lean and muscular silhouette.
Senior : With age, energy intake is adjusted and weight, mobility, and overall condition are monitored more closely.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
A premium complete food for an adult medium-sized dog is generally suitable, with an appropriate content of quality protein and energy. The exact choice must take into account age, exercise level, possible neutering and individual digestive sensitivity.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount depends on the energy density of the food, the dog's actual activity and its body condition. It is recommended to divide the ration into two meals per day and to readjust it if the dog gains or loses weight.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 14 - 15 kg | 259 - 355 g | 2 |
| 15 - 15 kg | 270 - 370 g | 2 |
| 15 - 16 kg | 280 - 384 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary transition must be done gradually over about a week, or even longer in sensitive dogs. The proportion of the new food is increased little by little in order to limit digestive upsets and to check that it is well tolerated.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. Increased vigilance is required after exercise, in hot weather and during trips or stays outdoors.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can be useful for training, but they must remain moderate and included in the calculation of the overall ration. It is better to favor small simple rewards and avoid repeated extras that promote weight gain.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration rather than pouring it in at random.
- Divide the food into two meals per day.
- Regularly monitor the silhouette and body condition.
Never give
As with other dogs, chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, alcohol, xylitol, raw bread dough, cooked bones and very fatty foods should be avoided. These products can cause digestive, neurological, hematological or metabolic disorders that are sometimes serious.
