GIANT ADULT

Between 18 and 24 months, depending on the breed, the Giant dog finally reaches adulthood. It then has all the bodytype and physiological characteristics that make it an exceptional dog admired both for its impressive size and its courage and gentleness. To keep it in good health throughout its life, a tailor-made food is essential.

• A naturally big appetite.  Giant dogs are exceptionally greedy and are capable of swallowing a huge daily ration of 1000-2000 g per day.

• A proportionately small digestive tract. In the Giant dog, the intestines only account for 2.8% of total body weight, compared to 7% in small-sized dogs. As a result Giant dogs have a lower digestive capacity. They therefore need a food with a very high energy content to minimise the volume of food and avoid digestive overload.

• High energy requirements. These vary with breed, exercise levels and lifestyle. For example the German Mastiff has 40% higher energy requirement than those of any other Giant dog and a Saint-Bernard living in the mountains has its requirements increased by 25% to 50%.

• An average life expectancy of 7 to 9 years. As a result, the effects of time and ageing become visible rather early in the life of a Giant dog.