A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : A good-quality growth diet, divided into several meals, helps support harmonious development without excess.
Adult : The ration must be adjusted to daily activity to maintain muscle mass and avoid any unnecessary weight gain.
Senior : With age, a more digestible formula and monitoring of weight as well as mobility become particularly useful.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
A complete, high-quality diet, rich in animal proteins and formulated for medium to active dogs, is generally well suited to this breed. The choice must take into account age, exercise level and body condition.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount depends on the density of the food, the ideal weight, sterilization and actual activity. An adult generally weighs from 18 to 28 kg. The manufacturer's indications serve as a starting point, then the ration is adjusted according to body condition.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 18 - 21 kg | 344 - 472 g | 2 |
| 21 - 25 kg | 362 - 497 g | 2 |
| 25 - 28 kg | 408 - 560 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. A slow transition makes it possible to observe the dog's tolerance and to adjust the ration if necessary.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, especially after exertion and in hot weather. Hydration deserves particular attention in this active dog that readily spends time outdoors.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can be useful in training, provided they remain occasional and are included in the daily ration. It is better to favor simple, appetizing and low-calorie rewards.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weighing the ration helps to stay consistent from one day to the next.
- Adjusting the quantities to the seasons and to the actual level of exercise limits weight variations.
- Splitting meals can improve digestive comfort in very active dogs.
Never give
As with other dogs, chocolate, grapes, onion, garlic, alcohol, cooked bones, xylitol and very fatty foods should be avoided, as they can cause severe digestive disorders, poisoning or veterinary emergencies.
