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> Index of every page on this site: [llms.txt](https://www.pedibase.com/llms.txt)
+11
Feeding
# Feeding your Cairn Terrier well
United Kingdom
Its diet must be complete, balanced and adapted to its age, its weight, its activity level and its state of health. The daily ration must support its active temperament without promoting overweight.
A menu for every age
## Their needs change as they grow
- Puppy: Choose a complete food for the growth of small breeds and divide the ration into several meals suited to its age.
- Adult: Adjust the ration to daily activity and regularly monitor body condition.
- Senior: Reassess energy intake and favor a formula suited to age with the veterinarian's advice.
Which food?
## Kibble, wet food, or homemade meals?
High-quality industrial kibble, formulated for a small active dog, is a suitable option. The energy density and composition must be chosen with the veterinarian when needs change.
Portion sizes
## How much should you feed?
The daily amount depends on the energy value of the food, the dog's weight, age and activity. It is advisable to follow the manufacturer's guide, then adjust the ration according to body condition with the help of a veterinarian.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals per day |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 6 kg | 115 - 140 g | 2 |
| 6 - 7 kg | 130 - 155 g | 2 |
Changing food
## How to switch foods successfully
Any change of food must be gradual over several days, gradually increasing the proportion of the new food in order to limit digestive upsets.
Hydration
## Don't overlook water
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, especially after a walk, an agility session or in hot weather.
A little extra
## Treats in moderation
Treats should remain occasional, small in size and be deducted from the daily ration. They are particularly useful as a reward during short training sessions.
Good habits
## Make mealtimes count
- Weigh the daily ration rather than estimating it by eye.
- Adjust the quantities to the actual level of activity.
- Deduct food rewards from the ration.
- Avoid intense exercise right after the meal.
### Never feed these foods
As with all dogs, you should avoid in particular chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic in toxic quantities, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts and cooked bones, which can cause poisoning, digestive disorders or internal injuries.
## Ready to welcome your Cairn Terrier?
Find a verified breeder near you and get off to a great start, right from the food bowl.
[Find a breeder](https://www.pedibase.com/en/breeders-of-cairn-terrier)
## Compare Cairn Terrier with other breeds
- [West Highland White Terrier vs. Cairn Terrier](https://www.pedibase.com/en/compare/west-highland-white-terrier-vs-cairn-terrier)
## Discover other breeds
[Dandie Dinmont Terrier
](https://www.pedibase.com/en/dog-breed/dandie-dinmont-terrier)
[Scottish Terrier
](https://www.pedibase.com/en/dog-breed/scottish-terrier)
[West Highland White Terrier
](https://www.pedibase.com/en/dog-breed/west-highland-white-terrier)
[Skye Terrier
](https://www.pedibase.com/en/dog-breed/skye-terrier)
[Bedlington Terrier
](https://www.pedibase.com/en/dog-breed/bedlington-terrier)
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