A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Growth must be slow and steady with a diet for large or giant breed puppies, well balanced in minerals.
Adult : The goal is to maintain muscle mass without excess weight thanks to a measured and stable ration.
Senior : A more digestible diet adapted to mobility can help preserve its comfort with age.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
A complete, high-quality diet, adapted to giant dogs, generally suits the Neapolitan Mastiff well. During growth, the balance of minerals, calcium and phosphorus must be particularly carefully managed in order to support bone development without excess.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The quantity must be adapted to the dog's weight, age, body condition and activity level. In this large mastiff, it is better to avoid meals that are too copious and adjust the ration with the help of the veterinarian if necessary.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 50 - 58 kg | 550 - 750 g | 2 |
| 58 - 64 kg | 650 - 850 g | 2 |
| 64 - 70 kg | 750 - 950 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary change must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive disorders. A transition that is too abrupt is all the less desirable in a breed sensitive to gastrointestinal disorders.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. In hot weather or after outings, care must be taken to maintain good hydration without causing excessive drinking just before or just after a large meal.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and be included in the daily ration. It is preferable to favor simple, low-calorie rewards so as not to encourage weight gain.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Choose a diet formulated for giant dogs.
- Split the daily ration into several meals.
- Weigh the ration to limit weight gain.
- Avoid intense exertion just before and just after meals.
Never give
As with other dogs, chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, alcohol, xylitol, cooked bones and very fatty or very salty foods should be avoided, as they can cause poisoning, severe digestive disorders or worsen the risk of dietary imbalance.
