A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Growth food adapted to the expected size, divided into three meals, without unnecessary calcium supplementation.
Adult : Controlled ration in two meals, adjusted to ideal weight and actual activity.
Senior : Digestible food, possibly less energy-dense, with joint and dental monitoring.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
A complete, high-quality diet, chosen according to the dog's age, size and activity, meets its needs. The ration of a dog used for hunting must be adjusted upward according to its actual expenditure.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily quantity must be individualized according to age, size, body condition and activity. Food should be divided into two meals per day in order to better control intake and limit overweight.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 8 - 9 kg | 168 - 230 g | 2 |
| 9 - 11 kg | 190 - 260 g | 2 |
| 11 - 12 kg | 211 - 289 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change of food must be gradual over seven to ten days, gradually increasing the proportion of the new food to limit digestive upsets.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Fresh, clean water must remain available at all times. Needs increase with heat, exertion and a dry diet. Take water along on walks and offer regular breaks.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats remain occasional and represent less than 10 % of the daily energy intake. They are deducted from the ration in order to avoid weight gain.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Split the daily ration into two meals
- Adjust the intake to age, size and activity level
- Increase the ration only when physical expenditure justifies it
- Regularly monitor body condition to prevent overweight
Never give
Chocolate, grapes, xylitol, onion, garlic, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts, cooked bones and very fatty or very salty foods are dangerous for the dog. In case of ingestion, contact a veterinarian quickly.
