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?
Complete high-quality kibble formulated for large or very large breed puppies, then for giant adults, is generally the most suitable. It must provide controlled energy and a good mineral balance in order to support growth without accelerating it excessively.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount must be adjusted to age, weight, body condition and activity level, then reassessed regularly with the veterinarian. In this breed, it is better to think in terms of monitoring silhouette and growth than in terms of the simple volume given.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 50 - 63 kg | 730 - 986 g | 2 |
| 63 - 77 kg | 890 - 1200 g | 2 |
| 77 - 90 kg | 1050 - 1413 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary transition must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive disorders. An even more cautious adaptation is desirable in a giant dog sensitive to digestive imbalances and to overly abrupt changes in ration.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. Vigilance must be increased in hot weather, after walks and for dogs fed exclusively on a dry diet.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and counted in the daily intake, as the breed easily gains weight if the extras multiply. Simple, digestible rewards given in small quantities are preferred.
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 all dogs, chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, xylitol, alcohol, cooked bones and very fatty foods should be avoided, as they can cause poisoning, severe digestive disorders or worsening of the risk of stomach torsion.
