A menu for every age
Their needs change as they grow
Puppy: Choose a formula for large breeds, divided into three meals at the beginning, and follow the growth curve without improvised mineral supplementation.
Adult: Give the ration in two meals and adjust it to activity, season and body condition.
Senior: Favor a digestible diet, moderately energy-dense and suited to joint, kidney or cardiac monitoring recommended by the veterinarian.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or homemade meals?
Complete, quality kibble for large dogs is a practical solution, provided that its energy density matches the actual activity. A home-prepared ration may be suitable if it is formulated and supplemented by a veterinary nutritionist. Improvised changes and calcium supplements in the puppy should be avoided.
Portion sizes
How much should you feed?
The daily amount depends heavily on the caloric density of the food, the target weight, age, season and the work performed. The table provides guidelines for standard dry kibble, to be adjusted according to the manufacturer's recommendations and changes in body condition.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals per day |
|---|---|---|
| 40 - 45 kg | 400 - 520 g | 2 |
| 46 - 50 kg | 450 - 580 g | 2 |
| 51 - 55 kg | 500 - 650 g | 2 |
Changing food
How to switch foods successfully
Any change of food must be gradual over about 7 to 10 days, by increasing little by little the proportion of the new product. A slower transition is preferable in case of soft stools, without continuing if vomiting, significant diarrhea or lethargy appear.
Hydration
Don't overlook water
Fresh, clean water must remain available at all times, especially after exercise and in hot weather. To reduce digestive discomfort, it is preferable to let the dog calm down before allowing it to drink a very large amount of water all at once.
A little extra
Treats in moderation
Rewards make learning easier, but they must remain small and be deducted from the daily ration. Pieces of the usual food or simple, low-fat treats are better suited than table scraps.
Good habits
Make mealtimes count
- Weigh the ration rather than using an approximate measuring cup.
- Split the daily amount into two meals for the adult.
- Avoid intense exercise just before and after meals.
- Check body condition each month and adjust gradually.
- Use part of the ration as a training reward.
Never feed these foods
Chocolate, fresh or dried grapes, onion, garlic in quantity, leek, alcohol, caffeine, xylitol, macadamia nuts, cooked bones and very fatty or very salty foods should be avoided, as they can cause poisoning, obstruction or serious digestive disorders. Any doubt after ingestion justifies a quick call to the veterinarian or to a veterinary poison control center.
