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Feeding

Feeding your Irish Red Setter well

Ireland

This active breed needs a good-quality diet, digestible and adapted to its level of exercise. The intake must support muscle mass without promoting weight gain.

A menu for every age

Their needs change as they grow

  • Puppy: A growth diet for a medium to large puppy helps support development without excessive energy intake.

  • Adult: The ration must cover high physical expenditure while maintaining a lean, athletic silhouette.

  • Senior: With age, energy intake is adjusted according to activity in order to preserve muscle mass without promoting overweight.

Which food?

Kibble, wet food, or homemade meals?

Complete premium kibble for medium to large, active dogs generally works well, provided it is adapted to the dog's age, activity level and digestive sensitivity. A home-prepared ration is only conceivable with a balance validated by a professional.

Portion sizes

How much should you feed?

The daily amount must be adjusted according to actual weight, energy expenditure, sterilization and the season. In this athletic dog, it is preferable to think in terms of body condition and activity level rather than a fixed ration.

WeightDaily amountMeals per day
18 - 20 kg336 - 461 g2
20 - 23 kg341 - 468 g2
23 - 25 kg373 - 512 g2

Changing food

How to switch foods successfully

Any change in diet must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. A transition that is too abrupt can upset a dog that is already sensitive on a gastric level.

Hydration

Don't overlook water

Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, especially after exercise and in hot weather. After sustained activity, a return to calm should be encouraged before the meal.

A little extra

Treats in moderation

Treats should remain occasional and included in the daily ration. They are useful in training, but their accumulation quickly promotes overweight in a dog that does not get enough exercise.

Good habits

Make mealtimes count

  • Split the daily ration into at least two meals.
  • Avoid large meals before a sporting outing.
  • Weigh the ration rather than pouring it at random.

Never feed these foods

As with other dogs, chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, avocado, alcohol, cooked bones, xylitol and very fatty foods should be avoided, as they can cause severe digestive disorders, poisoning or worsen the risk of metabolic disorder.

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