A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : A large-breed growth diet helps support development without excess energy.
Adult : The ration must cover the dog's actual activity while maintaining a lean, muscular silhouette.
Senior : A more digestible and moderately energy-dense formula can help preserve overall comfort with age.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
A complete premium diet for a large active dog generally suits this breed well, with good-quality proteins and energy adjusted to its level of exercise. The chosen formula must also help maintain healthy skin, a quality coat and proper muscle mass.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The exact amount varies depending on weight, activity, age, sterilization and the type of food used. It must be adjusted gradually by observing the dog's body condition in order to avoid both overweight and insufficient intake.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 25 - 27 kg | 401 - 550 g | 2 |
| 27 - 28 kg | 425 - 582 g | 2 |
| 28 - 30 kg | 448 - 614 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be carried out gradually over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. A transition spread over about a week is often well tolerated in this type of dog.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, all the more so for an active dog that runs a lot or during hot periods. After exertion, it is preferable to let the dog recover calmly before a hearty meal.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can be useful in training, but they must remain moderate and integrated into the daily ration. It is better to favor simple and digestible rewards so as not to unbalance the energy intake.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Split the ration into 2 meals per day.
- Weigh portions rather than feeding by eye.
- Avoid intense exercise just before and just after meals.
- Adjust the ration according to the season and actual activity.
Never give
As with other dogs, you should avoid chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, avocado, alcohol, xylitol, cooked bones and very fatty foods, as they can cause poisoning or sometimes serious digestive disorders.
