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, good-quality kibble generally suits the Norwegian Buhund very well, provided it is formulated for an active medium-sized dog. The key is to choose an easily digestible diet, high in protein and suited to its age and lifestyle.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount must be adjusted to the dog's weight, age, neutering status and activity level. A very athletic dog will not have the same needs as a dog living more indoors, even within the same breed.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 12 - 14 kg | 238 - 326 g | 2 |
| 14 - 16 kg | 270 - 370 g | 2 |
| 16 - 18 kg | 302 - 414 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be carried out gradually over about a week, or even a little longer in sensitive dogs. A slow transition helps to limit digestive upsets and to check good tolerance of the new ration.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. Hydration is particularly important after exercise and during hot weather, as the Norwegian Buhund tolerates high temperatures less well.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can be useful in the training of the Norwegian Buhund, but they must remain moderate and integrated into the overall ration. It is preferable to favor simple, low-fat rewards to avoid gradual weight gain.
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, chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic, xylitol, alcohol, yeast dough and cooked bones should be avoided, as they can cause digestive, neurological, hematological or metabolic disorders that are sometimes serious.
