1. Gestation (pregnancy) In week 5, increase the energy intake by 30 – 60%. Due to the increased size of the uterus, offer several meals per day. During the final weeks fat and protein requirements will increase and switching to a growth diet is recommended. Supplements are not needed and calcium and phosphorus should be avoided.

2. Parturition Parturition is giving birth or whelping. Ensure food intake is appropriate during late gestation as energy will be stored for parturition and lactation.

3. Lactation Carbohydrates are considered conditionally essential during this time. Free choice feeding or three times daily is recommended. 1 st week postpartum: 20%-50% increase of maintenance Week 4-5 postpartum: 100-200% increase of maintenance

4. Calculations 2c. For maintenance + 50% (5 th week of gestation) = 3c. + 50% (Postpartum) = 4c. + 50% (Lactation) = 6c. Increase during lactation accounts for puppy growth and increased consumption.

5. Working and Performance Increased energy is needed and should be factored by using the MER calculations. Factors to consider are: stress, heavy work, exercise, and environmental factors. Energy density should be high to factor in stomach volume and the number of calories to be consumed.

6. Seniors

7. As a dog ages there is a gradual decline in the functional capacity of the organs making it more difficult for the animal to tolerate nutritional deficiencies and excesses. The goal of a senior dog nutrition plan is to maintain health and optimal body condition. Good nutrition can be seen as preventative medicine.

8. Most senior dogs require less food to maintain a good body condition as the metabolic resting rate slows with aging.

9. Water: intake should be closely monitored since disease or medication may cause dehydration.

10. Fat: A slight decrease in fat and calories is beneficial as long as it is still rich in essential fatty acids. However, for an old dog that is underweight, increasing dietary fat by feeding growth or performance diets may provide the needed extra calories.

11. Protein: a higher dietary level of protein may compensate for decreased lean muscle mass. Older dogs may be less efficient at metabolizing protein. Higher levels of high-quality protein helps to minimize losses in the body protein reserves and supports tissue repair and immune function.