Alpine Dachsbracke
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Feeding

Feeding your Alpine Dachsbracke well

Austria

The Alpine Basset needs a complete diet adapted to its age, its weight and its sustained activity. The energy density must support work or long outings without causing weight gain during less active periods.

A menu for every age

Their needs change as they grow

  • Puppy: Choose a suitable growth food and divide the ration into several meals to support steady development.

  • Adult: Adjust the energy density to the work and outings in order to maintain an athletic silhouette without excess weight.

  • Senior: Reassess calories, digestibility and joint support with the veterinarian according to body condition and activity.

Which food?

Kibble, wet food, or homemade meals?

Complete good-quality kibble for an active adult dog is generally suitable, provided that the ration is adjusted individually. A balanced wet or home-prepared diet can also be considered with the help of a veterinarian in order to properly cover the needs in proteins, lipids, minerals and vitamins.

Portion sizes

How much should you feed?

The daily ration depends on the energy value of the food, weight, age, sterilization and activity level. The manufacturer's indications are a starting point to be adjusted according to changes in body shape and the veterinarian's advice.

WeightDaily amountMeals per day
15 - 16 kg220 - 250 g2
17 - 18 kg240 - 280 g2

Changing food

How to switch foods successfully

Any change in diet must be gradual over about one week, by increasing little by little the proportion of the new food. This transition limits digestive upsets and makes it possible to check good tolerance of the new ration.

Hydration

Don't overlook water

Fresh, clean water must remain available at all times, especially after a long walk, a tracking session or in hot weather. During extended outings, it is useful to bring water and to offer regular breaks.

A little extra

Treats in moderation

Treats can support training, especially recall, but they must remain small and be deducted from the daily ration. Low-calorie rewards are preferable to avoid weight gain.

Good habits

Make mealtimes count

  • Weigh the daily ration rather than measuring it by eye.
  • Deduct the treats used during training.
  • Avoid intense exercise just before and after the meal.
  • Regularly monitor the silhouette and weight.

Never feed these foods

Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic in large quantities, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts and cooked bones must be kept out of reach, as they can cause poisoning, digestive disorders or serious internal injuries.

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