A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : A quality growth diet, split into several meals, helps support development without excess energy.
Adult : The ration must maintain a lean silhouette and a good level of endurance, with two meals per day in most cases.
Senior : Energy intake can be adjusted downward if activity decreases, while preserving muscle mass and joint comfort.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Complete, good-quality kibble, rich in well-assimilated animal proteins and suited to active medium-sized dogs, often provides a practical and consistent base. In very athletic individuals, energy density can be adjusted according to actual expenditure and the season.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount must be adapted to the weight, body condition and level of exercise, then distributed regularly. It is preferable to adjust the ration by observing the dog's silhouette and endurance rather than by following a fixed volume all year round.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 16 - 18 kg | 220 - 280 g | 2 |
| 18 - 20 kg | 250 - 320 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be made gradually over several days in order to limit digestive upsets and to check good tolerance of the new formula. A slower transition is preferable for sensitive or very active dogs.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. Vigilance must be increased after exercise, during heat, and on hunting days or during long outings in natural terrain.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats are useful for training this intelligent dog, but they must remain moderate and be included in the total daily calorie intake. It is better to favor small, simple and tasty rewards to keep its motivation without unbalancing its ration.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration rather than pouring it in by guesswork.
- Split the daily meals into two servings for the adult.
- Adjust the energy intake during periods of intense activity.
- Regularly monitor the silhouette and stools.
Never give
As with other dogs, chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, xylitol, alcohol, cooked bones and very fatty or very salty foods should be avoided, as they can cause digestive, neurological or metabolic disorders that are sometimes serious.
