A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Choose a growth food adapted to adult size and control weight gain without excess.
Adult : Adjust energy to real activity while maintaining a lean and muscular silhouette.
Senior : Maintain quality proteins, monitor weight and adapt the texture according to health status.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Complete foods for small dogs, rich in quality animal proteins, are generally suitable. A home-prepared ration is only conceivable if it is formulated by a veterinary nutritionist.
Amounts
How much should you give?
Quantities depend on ideal weight, age, neutering/spaying and actual activity. The manufacturer’s guidelines are a starting point to be adjusted according to body condition.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5 kg | 80 - 120 g | 2 |
| 2 kg | 100 - 150 g | 2 |
| 3.5 kg | 120 - 180 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary transition must be done gradually over seven to ten days by mixing an increasing proportion of the new food. In case of loose stools or decreased appetite, you must slow down even more.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Fresh, clean water must remain available at all times, ideally in several places. During outings or in hot weather, offer small amounts at regular intervals.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats for the Ratier de Prague must remain occasional, be deducted from the daily ration and not exceed about 10% of energy intake.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the daily ration rather than measuring it by volume.
- Split the food into at least two meals.
- Adjust the ration after sterilization or a decrease in activity.
Never give
Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic in large quantities, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts and cooked bones are dangerous. They can cause poisoning, digestive disorders, kidney damage or lesions of the digestive tract. In case of ingestion, contact a veterinarian quickly.
