A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Regular growth without excess is essential to limit stress on the joints of a large Nordic dog.
Adult : The ration must be adjusted to the actual activity level, with monitoring of weight and endurance.
Senior : With age, easily digestible food and careful monitoring of body mass help preserve mobility.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
A complete and highly digestible diet for a large active dog is generally suitable, with a good-quality protein intake and an energy density adjusted to the effort. The ration must remain consistent with daily expenditure to avoid unnecessary weight gain.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount depends on weight, age, sex, sterilization, exercise level and the type of food given. In this breed, it is preferable to adjust the ration to the actual body condition rather than relying on a fixed amount.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 34 - 35 kg | 525 - 718 g | 2 |
| 35 - 37 kg | 544 - 744 g | 2 |
| 37 - 38 kg | 562 - 769 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be done gradually over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. A slow transition is all the more useful in a large active dog whose nutritional balance must remain stable.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must be available at all times, with increased vigilance during exertion, when traveling and especially in hot weather. Good hydration is part of the essential measures for this breed that is not very tolerant of high heat.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can be useful for training and motivation, provided they remain moderate and are included in the total 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 daily ration into at least 2 meals.
- Avoid intense exercise just before and just after meals.
- Adjust the ration according to the season and the actual activity level.
- Regularly monitor the body shape to limit overweight.
Never give
As with dogs in general, it is necessary to avoid in particular chocolate, grapes, onion, garlic, avocado, alcohol, caffeine, xylitol and cooked bones, as they can cause serious digestive, neurological or toxic disorders.
