Dog kibble in Tunisia: choosing by size and age

Small dogs have a fast metabolism and a small jaw: their kibble is smaller and richer in energy. Large dogs gain weight easily and put a lot of strain on their joints: their formulas are less dense, with bigger kibble that makes them chew.

On bags you often see « mini » or « S » for dogs under 10 kg as adults, « medium » or « M » for 10 to 25 kg, « maxi », « large » or « L » above that, and sometimes « XL » for very large breeds. Choose by the weight your dog will reach as an adult.

A puppy needs a growth food, labelled « puppy » or « junior ». How long depends on size: usually up to 10 to 12 months for small and medium dogs, and often up to 18 or 24 months for large breeds, as the manufacturer advises.

For a large-breed puppy, do not pick a generic puppy formula: a « large » or « maxi puppy » formula limits growth that is too fast, which strains bones and joints. Some ranges also offer a « starter » formula for weaning and the mother.

The daily amount is in the chart on the bag, in grams per day by weight. Use your dog's ideal weight, not necessarily its current weight if it is a bit round.

Then adjust to its activity: a guard dog that spends the day outside does not burn as much as a flat dog. The right check is simple: you should feel the ribs under your hand without seeing them. Split the amount into two meals for an adult, three or four for a young puppy.

Grain-free formulas often replace rice or wheat with peas, lentils or potatoes. They can help a dog that digests some grains poorly, but they are not better for every dog.

In 2018 the US FDA opened an investigation into a possible link between some legume-rich foods and a canine heart disease, dilated cardiomyopathy. No cause and effect link has been established so far, but it is a reminder that « grain-free » is not a sign of quality in itself. If in doubt, talk to your vet.

An open bag keeps its qualities for about 4 to 6 weeks. Work out your dog's daily amount and choose the bag it will finish in that time: a small dog is fine with 1.5 to 3 kg bags, a large dog justifies 12 to 20 kg bags.

Large bags cost less per kilo. Keep them closed in a cool, dry place, especially in summer, and put the bag inside an airtight bin or box to protect it from insects and rodents.

A dog is usually called senior at around 7 to 8 years, a little earlier for very large breeds. Senior formulas are generally lower in calories and suited to a dog that moves less.

There is no rush to change if your dog keeps a steady weight and good shape on its adult food. However, loss of appetite, unusual thirst or weight loss should be shown to a vet before any change of food.