A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : a growth diet for small dogs is recommended, divided into 3 meals then 2 depending on age and development pace.
Adult : the ration must be adjusted to activity and ideal weight, generally in 2 meals per day.
Senior : a more digestible food and sometimes less caloric can help preserve joint comfort and ideal weight.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Premium kibble for a small active dog generally works well, provided it is digestible and formulated with good-quality proteins. The diet must be adjusted according to age, body condition and the veterinarian's recommendations.
Amounts
How much should you give?
Daily amounts vary according to the weight, activity and energy density of the chosen food. It is preferable to split the ration into two daily meals and to adjust gradually according to the dog's body condition.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 6 - 8 kg | 110 - 145 g | 2 |
| 8 - 10 kg | 145 - 175 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be done gradually over several days in order to avoid digestive upsets. A slow transition makes it possible to check good tolerance of the new food and to limit refusal of the bowl.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. Hydration deserves particular vigilance in hot weather, after exercise and if the diet is exclusively dry.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can be useful for training and motivation, but they must remain moderate and integrated into the daily caloric intake. It is preferable to choose simple, digestible rewards and given at the right time.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration rather than estimating it by eye.
- Split the food into 2 meals per day.
- Adjust the quantities according to actual activity and body condition.
- Limit treats to prevent weight gain.
Never give
As with other dogs, chocolate, grapes, onion, garlic, xylitol, alcohol, cooked bones and foods that are too fatty should be avoided, as they can cause digestive or neurological disorders or sometimes severe poisoning.
