A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : A growth diet suited to a small active dog helps support bone, muscle and nervous development without excess energy.
Adult : In adulthood, the ration must cover the dog's actual physical activity and maintain a lean silhouette, with a good protein intake.
Senior : In seniors, energy is adjusted, muscle mass is preserved and joint comfort and weight are monitored more closely.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
A premium complete diet for an active small-sized dog generally suits the breed well, in the form of kibble or a home-prepared ration formulated with a professional. Digestibility, protein quality and adaptation to the life stage must take precedence over marketing effects.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount must be adjusted according to actual weight, activity, age and the energy density of the chosen food. A very active dog will expend more than an individual living more calmly at home.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 9 - 11 kg | 187 - 256 g | 2 |
| 11 - 12 kg | 214 - 293 g | 2 |
| 12 - 14 kg | 240 - 329 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary change must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. Ideally, the proportion of the new food should be increased little by little while monitoring appetite, stools and overall condition.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. Hydration is particularly important after exertion, in hot weather and for dogs fed mainly with dry food.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can be useful in training, provided they remain moderate and fit into the overall caloric intake of the day. It is preferable to favor small, simple rewards rather than very fatty products or too many of them.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration rather than measuring it approximately.
- Ideally split the ration into 2 meals per day.
- Adjust the intake in case of a clear increase or decrease in activity.
- Monitor the stools and body condition when changing food.
Never give
As with other dogs, chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, avocado, alcohol, cooked bones and products containing xylitol should be avoided, as they can cause serious digestive, neurological or metabolic disorders that may be potentially urgent.
