A menu for every age
Their needs change as they grow
Puppy: A growth diet for a large dog helps support development without excess energy or minerals.
Adult: The ration must be adjusted to actual activity in order to maintain lean muscle mass and good body condition.
Senior: In older dogs, a more digestible formula is preferred, with careful monitoring of weight, mobility, and appetite.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or homemade meals?
Premium kibble for large dogs often constitutes the simplest and most consistent solution. The formula must provide good-quality proteins, a consistent energy density and a controlled mineral intake, especially during the growth period. Any home-prepared or mixed ration deserves to be validated with a veterinarian.
Portion sizes
How much should you feed?
The quantity depends on weight, physical activity, age, metabolism and the caloric density of the chosen food. For this large athletic dog, it is preferable to split the daily ration into two meals and to adjust according to body condition rather than relying solely on a standard guideline.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals per day |
|---|---|---|
| 30 - 35 kg | 320 - 400 g | 2 |
| 35 - 40 kg | 380 - 470 g | 2 |
| 40 - 45 kg | 430 - 520 g | 2 |
Changing food
How to switch foods successfully
Any dietary transition must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. The proportion of the new food is increased little by little while reducing the old one, while monitoring appetite, stool consistency and digestive comfort.
Hydration
Don't overlook water
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. After exercise, calm rehydration should be encouraged and food intake too close to intense exertion should be avoided.
A little extra
Treats in moderation
Treats can be useful in training, but they must remain measured and included in the calculation of the total ration. It is better to favor simple, digestible and low-fat rewards, especially for a dog that must maintain an athletic build.
Good habits
Make mealtimes count
- Split the daily ration into two meals.
- Avoid intense exercise just before and just after meals.
- Weigh the dog regularly to adjust the ration.
- Change the food gradually over several days.
Never feed these foods
As with all dogs, chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, raisins, avocado, cooked bones, alcohol, coffee, xylitol and very fatty or very salty foods should be avoided. These products can cause severe digestive disorders, neurological poisoning, kidney damage or serious veterinary emergencies.
