8 - Breed Nutrition

Chronic energy overconsumption predisposes the subject to obesity to a higher degree when it is
started at an early age. Overconsumption in the puppy stimulates the multiplication of adipose cells,
which stock fat in the adult body. Limiting the fat content is particularly important for sedentary and
neutered dogs. If the Cocker has a very active lifestyle (e.g. as a gundog), a food with a higher fat
content may be advisable.
A low kibble density to
ensure the feeding volume
is sufficient
While limiting the fat content avoids the feeding
amount being reduced to an unacceptable
level, it is important not to feed the dog
too high a volume too. The key is to observe
the recommended feeding guide, adapting it
as the dog’s weight develops. To help ensure
the dog accepts the feeding amount as satisfactory
– who can resist a begging Cocker?
– it is a good idea to try to ensure the dog is
satiated. That is why the density of Cocker
25 kibbles is so low. At the same weight of
food, the volume is greater than that of a
standard food.
Achieving satiety with
psyllium
"Recommended ration for a 26-lbs Cocker
(1 hour of activity per day)"
Cocker 25 contains the husk of psyllium* seeds. The fibre in this husk – mucilage – helps trap
water, forming a gel in the stomach. The envelope of psyllium seeds contains 25-30% mucilage.
Psyllium seeds have traditionally been used for their appetite-suppressing qualities. They
slow down the rate at which the stomach is emptied, giving the dog the feeling that it
has eaten its fill. Psyllium also has positive effects on digestive transit, regulating
the movement of intestinal content and facilitating the elimination of stools.
200
150
100
50
150
100
50
200
17
With
Cocker 25
150
100
50
0 0
200 mL
180 mL
200
200 mL
580 mL
of Cocker 25
kibbles
With a standard food,
higher density
200
150
100
50
0 0
200 mL
When the energy concentration is the same, the particular shape
of Cocker 25 kibbles means that a larger volume of the food can be
served even when the weight of the ration is reduced.
150
100
50
200
75 mL
150
100
50
200
200 mL
475 mL
of standard
food