Diet

Feeding your Austrian Black and Tan Hound well

Austria

The diet must support an active dog while taking into account its tendency to gain weight. Energy intake must be adjusted according to the intensity of outings and reduced when activity decreases.

A menu for every age

Needs change over time

  • Puppy : Prefer a complete food for the growth of medium-sized dogs, divided into several meals.

  • Adult : Adjust the intake to the actual activity and monitor body condition to prevent weight gain.

  • Senior : Reassess energy, digestibility and intake with the veterinarian according to changes in activity and health.

Which food?

Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?

A complete diet for an adult medium-sized dog, rich in quality animal proteins and adapted to the activity level, is suitable for the breed. The precise choice must take into account age, health and veterinary recommendations.

Amounts

How much should you give?

The daily ration must be calculated according to the energy density of the food, the weight, the age, the body condition and the dog's actual expenditure, then re-evaluated regularly.

WeightDaily amountMeals/day
19 - 20 kg339 - 465 g2
20 - 20 kg320 - 440 g2
20 - 21 kg329 - 452 g2

Change

Managing the food transition

Any change in diet must be gradual over about a week in order to limit digestive disorders.

Hydration

Water: do not overlook it

Fresh water must remain available at all times, with increased vigilance during and after long outings or in hot weather.

Little extras

Treats, in moderation

Treats can be used for training and recall, but their intake must be deducted from the daily ration to limit weight gain.

Good habits

For a top-notch bowl

  • Weigh the ration rather than giving it by eye.
  • Adjust portions between the hunting season and the rest period.
  • Avoid a large meal just before or after intense exertion.
  • Monitor weight and body shape each month.

Never give

Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic in toxic quantities, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts and cooked bones must be avoided due to risks of poisoning, obstruction or digestive injuries.