A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : The Schipperke puppy needs a complete diet for growth, richly formulated but well rationed to avoid early weight gain.
Adult : In adulthood, the ration must cover its activity without excess calories, ideally in two meals per day.
Senior : In the senior, a more digestible diet and weight monitoring help preserve mobility and overall comfort.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
A complete, good-quality diet for a small active dog generally suits the Schipperke well. Kibble formulated for its size and activity level makes it easier to maintain a correct weight and good physical condition.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount must be adjusted according to the dog’s actual weight, its activity, its age and the energy density of its diet. It is preferable to split the ration into two meals in order to avoid snacking and to better control intake.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 3 - 5 kg | 89 - 129 g | 2 |
| 5 - 6 kg | 119 - 173 g | 2 |
| 6 - 8 kg | 149 - 216 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. A staggered transition over about one week is generally good practice.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
The Schipperke must have permanent access to clean, fresh water. Increased vigilance is useful after exercise, during hot periods and for very active individuals.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and be included in the calculation of the daily ration. It is better to favor small rewards and avoid excesses in this breed that is easily prone to weight gain.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh portions rather than estimating them by eye.
- Split the daily ration into 2 meals.
- Adjust energy intake according to the dog's actual activity.
- Limit treats for dogs that gain weight easily.
Never give
As with other dogs, chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine and cooked bones should be avoided, as they can cause serious digestive, neurological or metabolic disorders that are sometimes fatal.
