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?
High-quality kibble for small dogs, or a well-balanced complete wet ration, generally works very well. The formula must remain digestible, with good-quality proteins and controlled energy density to avoid weight gain.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount depends mainly on actual weight, age, sterilization and activity. It must be finely adjusted to maintain a harmonious silhouette without overload.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 3 - 4 kg | 83 - 121 g | 2 |
| 4 - 5 kg | 101 - 147 g | 2 |
| 5 - 6 kg | 119 - 173 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary transition must be done gradually over several days in order to limit digestive disorders. The old food is reduced little by little while the new one increases.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. Particular vigilance is required during hot periods, for seniors and in the case of an exclusively dry diet.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and counted in the total ration. They are useful for training, but their excess quickly promotes overweight in this small breed.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration rather than serving it by eye.
- Split the food into two meals per day for the adult.
- Limit treats and table scraps to prevent overweight.
- Adjust quantities according to age, neutering/spaying, and actual activity.
Never give
As with other dogs, you should avoid chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, avocado, alcohol, cooked bones, xylitol and foods that are too fatty or too salty, as they can cause digestive, neurological, cardiac disorders or severe poisoning.
