Yugoslavian Shepherd
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Feeding

Feeding your Yugoslavian Shepherd well

Serbia, Macedonia

Large mountain dog, the Yugoslav Shepherd needs a complete diet, not too energy-rich if it lives in the lowlands. Growth must remain slow to protect the joints.

A menu for every age

Their needs change as they grow

  • Puppy: Slow growth of a large dog, in three meals, without calcium supplement.

  • Adult: Ration adjusted to actual activity, often lower on the plains than in the mountains.

  • Senior: Digestible food and joint support, while maintaining a lean weight.

Which food?

Kibble, wet food, or homemade meals?

Quality kibble for large dogs, with controlled growth for the young, is well suited. Avoid overly rich formulas intended for intensive sporting dogs if it does not have equivalent activity.

Portion sizes

How much should you feed?

An adult weighing 30 to 45 kg often receives 400 to 650 g of kibble per day depending on activity, climate and sterilization.

WeightDaily amountMeals per day
30 - 35 kg400 - 540 g2
35 - 40 kg460 - 620 g2
40 - 45 kg520 - 700 g2

Changing food

How to switch foods successfully

Any change of food must be gradual over seven to ten days in order to limit diarrhea and loss of appetite, especially during a change of routine or season.

Hydration

Don't overlook water

Fresh water must remain available at all times, especially in summer. This double-coated dog dehydrates quickly during exertion in hot weather.

A little extra

Treats in moderation

Treats remain occasional. For this large size, they are deducted from the ration to avoid joint overload.

Good habits

Make mealtimes count

  • Do not try to make him massive: weight kills the joints.
  • Two meals are better than one for this large format.

Never feed these foods

Chocolate, grapes, xylitol, onion, garlic, alcohol, caffeine, cooked bones and very fatty leftovers are dangerous. In case of ingestion, contact a veterinarian.

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