A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : choose a food for a small-breed puppy, rich in nutrients and split into several meals.
Adult : maintain a quality ration adapted to ideal weight and split the food into two meals per day.
Senior : adapt the energy intake and monitor weight, chewing and digestion more closely.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Premium kibble for small dogs generally suits the Silky Terrier very well, with a formula rich in digestible animal proteins and a controlled energy intake. Depending on the household's habits, a well-balanced home-prepared ration can also be considered with the veterinarian's advice.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The ideal amount depends on the dog's actual weight, its age, its sterilization, its activity and the energy density of the chosen food. It is preferable to adjust the ration according to body condition rather than always feeding by eye.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 3 - 4 kg | 80 - 116 g | 2 |
| 4 - 4 kg | 92 - 134 g | 2 |
| 4 - 5 kg | 103 - 151 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. A smooth transition also makes it possible to check good tolerance of the new food and to adjust quantities more easily.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain accessible at all times. Hydration deserves special attention in hot weather, after exercise and in dogs fed mainly with kibble.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and be included in the overall caloric intake for the day. They are a good training aid, provided that small portions and simple, digestible products are preferred.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration rather than measuring it approximately.
- Split the daily amount into two meals.
- Quickly adjust portions if activity changes.
- Introduce any new food progressively.
Never give
As with other dogs, it is necessary to avoid in particular chocolate, grapes, onion, garlic, avocado, alcohol, xylitol and cooked bones, as they can cause serious digestive disorders, poisoning or potentially life-threatening complications.
