A menu for every age
Their needs change as they grow
Puppy: Choose a formula for giant breeds, control the growth rate and split the ration into three meals before gradually moving to two.
Adult: Weigh the ration, split it into two meals and adjust it to activity as well as body condition.
Senior: Favor a digestible diet with controlled energy, with monitoring of weight, muscles, joints and kidney function.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or homemade meals?
A complete, high-quality diet formulated for large or very large dogs is recommended. For the puppy, a formula specific to the growth of giant breeds helps to control energy and the calcium-phosphorus balance. A home-prepared ration may be suitable only if it is calculated by a veterinary nutritionist in order to avoid deficiencies and excesses.
Portion sizes
How much should you feed?
Needs vary greatly between a 45 kg adult and a 100 kg subject. The quantity indicated by the manufacturer is a starting point that must be adjusted to body condition, activity, season, age and the energy density of the food. The daily ration is ideally divided into two meals.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals per day |
|---|---|---|
| 45 kg | 515 - 630 g | 2 - 3 |
| 45 - 72 kg | 740 - 900 g | 2 - 3 |
| 72 - 100 kg | 940 - 1150 g | 2 - 3 |
Changing food
How to switch foods successfully
Any change of food must be gradual over about 7 to 10 days, increasing each day the proportion of the new food. A slow transition limits digestive upsets and makes it possible to monitor tolerance, appetite and stool quality.
Hydration
Don't overlook water
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, especially in hot weather, after walks and with a dry diet. The bowl must be large enough, stable and cleaned every day.
A little extra
Treats in moderation
Treats are useful for training, but their quantity must remain moderate and be included in the daily caloric intake. Favor small low-fat rewards and avoid table scraps, particularly unsuitable for a dog predisposed to weight gain.
Good habits
Make mealtimes count
- Weigh each ration rather than estimating by eye.
- Split the daily intake into two meals for the adult.
- Avoid intense exercise before and after meals.
- Check body condition each month.
- Adjust the ration with the veterinarian during growth.
Never feed these foods
Chocolate, fresh or dried grapes, onion, garlic, leek, avocado, macadamia nuts, alcohol, caffeine and products containing xylitol are dangerous. Cooked bones can break and cause an obstruction or a perforation. Very fatty or very salty foods also increase digestive, metabolic and cardiovascular risks.
