A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : A growth diet for a medium-sized puppy, divided into several meals, helps support development without excess energy.
Adult : A complete ration adapted to its activity level helps maintain its muscle mass and a stable weight.
Senior : With age, a more digestible formula and closer monitoring of intake help preserve mobility and body condition.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Premium kibble for an adult dog of medium size and active generally suits very well, with a digestible composition and an appropriate protein intake. For very sporty individuals, a more energy-dense formula can be useful, while a neutered or less active dog will require a better controlled caloric density.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount varies according to weight, actual activity, sterilization and the energy density of the food. It is preferable to adjust the ration with the veterinarian or according to the manufacturer's recommendations, then to correct it based on the dog's body condition.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 15 - 17 kg | 200 - 280 g | 2 |
| 17 - 19 kg | 230 - 320 g | 2 |
| 19 - 20 kg | 250 - 350 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be done gradually over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. A transition over about a week is often well tolerated, by gradually increasing the proportion of the new food.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, especially after exercise, in mild to warm weather and during long outings. An active dog like the Welsh Springer Spaniel benefits from particular vigilance regarding hydration.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats can be very useful for training, provided they remain moderate and integrated into the overall ration. It is better to favor small, simple and digestible rewards rather than extras that are too rich or too frequent.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Split the ration into 2 meals per day.
- Weigh portions rather than estimating them by eye.
- Adjust the ration to actual activity and to sterilization.
- Limit treats if the dog gains weight easily.
Never give
As with other dogs, it is necessary to avoid in particular chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, xylitol, alcohol, cooked bones and very fatty foods, as they can cause poisoning, severe digestive disorders or neurological and metabolic damage.
