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 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?
Premium kibble for large active dogs generally works well, provided you offer a digestible formula, rich in quality animal proteins and properly balanced in energy. The exact choice must be adjusted with the veterinarian according to age, body condition and exercise pace.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount varies according to weight, age, sterilization, physical activity and the energy density of the food. It is preferable to divide the ration into 2 daily meals and to avoid meals that are too large in a single serving.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 35 - 38 kg | 553 - 756 g | 2 |
| 38 - 42 kg | 530 - 720 g | 2 |
| 42 - 45 kg | 570 - 773 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary transition must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. A change that is too abrupt can cause loose stools, a decrease in appetite, or digestive discomfort in this large dog that is sensitive to variations.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. After exertion, the Scottish Deerhound must be able to rehydrate calmly, without excessive and hurried intake, especially in hot weather.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and be included in the calculation of the daily ration. It is better to favor simple, digestible, low-fat rewards to avoid unbalancing the diet.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration each day rather than serving by volume.
- Avoid intense exertion just before and after the meal.
- Deduct training treats from the daily ration.
Never give
As with other dogs, it is necessary to avoid in particular chocolate, grapes, onion, garlic, xylitol, alcohol, cooked bones and very fatty foods, as they can cause poisoning, severe digestive disorders or potentially serious complications.
