A menu for every age
Needs change over time
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 home-cooked diet?
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.
Amounts
How much should you give?
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/day |
|---|---|---|
| 40 - 45 kg | 400 - 520 g | 2 |
| 46 - 50 kg | 450 - 580 g | 2 |
| 51 - 55 kg | 500 - 650 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
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
Water: do not overlook it
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.
Little extras
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
For a top-notch bowl
- 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 give
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.
