The growth

of large and giant breed puppies

Latest Nutritional Breakthroughs

 Royal Canin 02/2007 Art director: lise Langellier, Guy Rolland Production: Diffomdia Paris. Illustrations: Diffomdia/lise Langellier, Mickal Masure, Alizon Vielle Editorial coordination: Cline Davaze and Valrie de Leval Cover photographs: Lanceau, Psala

 Hermeline/Doxicat

A new reading on energy requirements during growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Adapting nutritional intake to the specific needs of the 2 growth phases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 A new interpretation of the digestive sensitivity of large-breed puppies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Guaranteeing even higher digestive safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 The development of teeth and jaws during growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Adapting the kibble to the various phases of growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 A period of high risk of infection: the immunity gap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Improving natural defenses even further . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 A nutritional program for every stage in the growth of large-breed and giant-breed puppies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Scientific glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Key innovations in the history of Royal Canin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

INTRODUCTION

1980

The first food in the world for large-breed puppies

In 1980 Royal Canin was the first brand in the world to formulate a food specifically tailored to the growth of large-breed puppies.

1980 From the 1st Large Breed Puppy Diet in the World
It was discovered that preventing puppies from gaining weight too fast limited the emergence of osteoarticular complaints in large-breed dogs. In 1980, these conclusions led to the creation of AGR (an abbreviation of Aliment Grandes Races or food for large breeds). AGR was a food formulated with a limited fat content, so as to reduce the risk of energy over-consumption during the phase of intense growth. A major nutritional breakthrough at the time, this principle reducing the risk of energy over-consumption during growth is now the accepted wisdom of all major nutritional brands. It was not until 1997 17 years later that one of our competitors was ready to launch its own formulation dedicated to large-breed puppies, a concept now widely established throughout the world.

1997 To the Size Global Approach

Our brand has passed several milestones on the road to developing the full potential of this discovery in 1997, the launch of the RCCI Size range in 1997 had a big-bang style effect on nutritional thinking, adding to the three traditional parameters age, lifestyle and physiological condition a fourth fundamental parameter: that of size. Nutrition took into account and differentiated the nutritional needs of dogs depending on whether they were small, medium or large. 2001 saw the launch of the first nutritional program dedicated to giant-breed dogs. Giant Adult led the way, followed by Giant Puppy and Giant. Royal Canin distinguishes two very different phases of growth for giant-breed puppies. - The first phase is between month two and month eight: growth is very intense and very rapid; the skeleton develops. - The second phase starts in month 8 and extends to the end of the growth period. In this phase, growth is much slower, muscle mass fills out and the puppy gains another 50% of its weight. So Royal Canin formulated two foods Giant Puppy and Giant Junior to respond to the specific needs of each phase of growth based on respect of the same principle: limiting the energy concentration of the food so as to prevent the puppy from gaining weight too quickly.

2004

New breakthroughs in the understanding of growth in large-breed puppies

The launch of the Size Health Nutrition range in 2004 reflects the new breakthrough in nutritional science by offering innovative nutritional keys to the growth of large-breed and giant-breed puppies.

Energy Requirements
A new approach to energy requirements during growth
Young puppies have an extremely high energy requirement. A low fat food necessitates a very large ration volume. This can create a higher workload on the digestive system and makes it difficult to attain an ideal weight in the puppy. With Ma xi Ba by D o g and G i an t B aby Dog, Royal Canin is now able to offer puppies from two to five months a high-energy food in a smaller ration.

Intestinal Permeability and Colonic Fermentative Activity

A new interpretation of the digestive sensitivity of large-breed puppies based on an ongoing unpublished study launched in 1998 together with National Veterinarians College (cole Nationale Vtrinaire) in Nantes (France)
The results of this study have shown the highest intestinal permeability of large-breed dogs and the fact that a rise in fermentative activity in the colon is directly correlated to the size of the dog. This is part of the new knowledge that now allows Royal Canin to take the next step in the digestive safety of food for large-breed puppies.

Natural Defenses
A new approach to immunity
A puppys immune defenses are initially determined by antibodies transmitted by the mother and by vaccinations. Recent studies by the Waltham Research Center have shifted the focus to a fact that has not been fully realized until now: that nutrition can accelerate and improve the production of antibodies by the puppy. This effect is particularly important during the critical period known as the immunity gap which a weaning puppy passes through. These new advances are expressions of our philosophy: Knowledge and Respect. A philosophy founded not on a fascination for scientific dogma, but on humility before this fledgling but maturing science that is Nutrition.

Pascal Jouannet Chief Executive Officer Royal Canin Group

Growth of large- and giant-breed puppies

1.

A new reading on energy requirements during growth

2. A new interpretation of the digestive sensitivity of large-breed puppies

3. The development of teeth and jaws during growth 4. A period of high risk of infection: the immunity gap

Nutritional responses that go even further

Adapting nutritional intake to the specific needs of the 2 growth phases

Phase #1: prioritizing the energy concentration, controlling calcium consumption Phase #2: limiting the supply of fats, protecting articular cartilage

Guaranteeing even higher digestive safety

By limiting intestinal fermentation By protecting the intestinal cell from inflammation By absorbing the excess water in the colon to limit the risk of diarrhea

Adapting the kibble to the various phases of growth

Specific kibble sizes adapted to large growing puppies Specific kibble shapes that ease prehension of food Specific textures that stimulate the young dog to chew

Improving natural defenses even further

Due to a patented complex of antioxidants (vitamins E and C, lutein and taurine) and mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS) that stimulate immunity and help fight against diseases

1. A new reading on energy requirements during growth

The greater the size of the adult dog, the more limited the proportional weight of the puppy. A newborn Yorkshire (around 140 g - .3 lb) is 5% of the weight of the bitch. In comparison, a Great Dane weighs only 600-700 g (1.3 - 1.5 lb) at birth, which is around 1% of the weight of its mother. The puppys weight increases very rapidly. It doubles within 7 to 10 days, triples within three weeks and is four or five times its birthweight after a month.

% of adult weight at birth

5 4.5 4 3.5 3 2.5 2 1.5 1 0.5 0 2 3.5 5

Weight of puppies at birth compared to adults

(Source: Royal Canin) Although the adult weight of small and large dogs may differ by a factor of 100, the weight at birth differs by a factor of 6 to 8 only. That means that a large-breed puppy grows much more than a small-breed puppy.
1.1 1

1.8

1.6 1.3

Yorkshire Miniature British Terrier Poodle Spaniel

English German Golden Bernese Setter Shepherd Retriever Mountain Dog

Great Dane

A very long period of growth

A giant-breed puppy is half its adult weight by 5 months. It continues to put on weight until the age of 18 to 24 months, by which time it has multiplied its weight by a factor of 80 to 100 (compared with 20 to 30 for a small breed). This means that its growth is a particularly delicate phase, subject to many nutritional errors. There are two distinct phases in the growth phase of large-breed and giant-breed puppies: - A growth phase that is exponentially fast, during which the main part of the skeleton is developed. - A growth phase that is much slower when muscles develop.

Great Dane at various stages of growth

Height to the withers in cm

50% of adult weight

80% of adult weight

Psaila

Renner

Renner

Psaila

month 2: 42 cm, 12 kg

month 5: 70 cm, 36 kg

month 8: 75 cm, 58 kg

Adult : 80 cm, 70 kg

The bones grow rapidly during the first few months. The second phase corresponds to muscular development, which continues until adult weight has been reached.

Theoretical growth curve of puppies: small breeds (5kg), medium breeds (15kg), large breeds (30kg) and giant breeds (60kg), expressed as a percentage of adult weight
(Source: Royal Canin)

% actual 100 % weight/ estimated 90 % adult 80 %

70 % 60 %

A large-breed puppy reaches 80% of its adult weight around the age of 8 months. Growth slows down very noticeably after that.

50 % 40 % 30 % 20 % 10 % 0% 0 4 8 12 16 20

Age (month)

Small breed: (5 kg adult)

Medium breed: (15 kg adult)

Large breed: (30 kg adult)

Giant breed: (60 kg adult)

Very intensive growth

The rhythm of growth is evaluated by the average daily gain (ADG), which is the number of grams the puppy puts on every day. The ADG is not linear throughout the growth period of the puppy. It increases after birth to reach a peak, before falling as the puppy approaches physical maturity. Contrary to small dogs, the period of intensive growth extends well past weaning for large and giant breed puppies. Major daily weight gains continue up to 8 months. This means that the consequences of nutritional errors during growth are more serious than for small breeds, whose suckling period covers the critical phase. Large-breed dogs are more susceptible to the emergence of bone complaints in this period.

10

Evolution of Average Daily Gain (ADG in grams per day) and body weight (in kg) during the growth of a large-breed puppy
Weight gain in 250 g/d Peak growth
200 45 40

Dogs weight (kg)

Development of body weight

35 30

150

25 20

100

50% of adult weight

50

15 10 5

Growth in large-breed and giant-breed puppies peaks between 3 and 5 months. During this peak, a largebreed puppy can regularly gain 150-200g a day, which is more than 1kg a week.

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

PHASE 1

PHASE 2

Age of puppy in months

The larger the dog, the later the growth peak and the longer the intense growth phase.

Evolution of Average Daily Gain (ADG) during growth in several large breeds
(from Martin 1993 and internal Royal Canin data)
300

250

The ADG peaks in largebreed and giant-breed puppies between 3 and 5 months. By month 5, weight gain is slowing down and the rhythm falls even more noticeably from month 8.

200

Boxer German Shepherd

150

100

50

Leonberger Great Dane

Weaning

3-5 months

6-7 months

8-14 months

11

A much greater energy requirement than an adult dog

Hermeline

French Mastiff puppy

The energy requirement for maintenance in an adult dog can 132 kcal/kg of body weight0.73/day (Holme, 1982). The energy requirement of a puppy is much greater, because the energy requirement for growth and maintenance are added together. At the start of the period of growth, the total need is at least double that of an adult dog. As growth advances, the factor gradually falls: - At 5 months (50% of adult weight), the energy requirement of a large-breed puppy is 1.75 times that of the adult dog. - At 8 months (80% of adult weight), the energy requirement of a large-breed puppy is only 1.3 times that of the adult dog.
Psaila

be estimated using the following equation: German Shepherd puppy

12

Energy requirement (in kcal/d)

Evolution of energy requirement of a large-breed puppy (30kg adult) during growth

(Source: Royal Canin) The total energy requirement of a large-breed puppy continues to increase until around month 7. It does not start to fall until the intense growth phase has been reached.

Maximum energy requirement Total energy requirement (TER)

Energy requirement for maintenance (ERM)

Peak growth

Energy requirement for growth (ERG) Month

gap

TER = ERM + ERG

Labrador puppies

Lenfant

The total energy requirement of a large-breed puppy changes at around month 7 at the latest, much later than the growth peak reached between months 3 and 5. After this peak, the speed of growth falls slowly, although the weight of the animal continues to increase rapidly. As a consequence, the energy requirement for growth falls slightly, while the energy requirement for maintenance (related to weight) increases significantly.

13

Specific nutritional responses:

Adapting nutritional intake to the specific needs of the two growth phases
Careful observation of large- and giant-breed puppies requires studying growth from various perspectives: the increase in size, the increase in weight (average daily gain), skeletal maturation, muscle development, etc. Growth is a very delicate period and its profile varies according to age and breed.

Objective 1: adapting the energy level to the growth phase

Two stages to consider for large- and giant-breed puppies.
1

Stage one: from weaning to 5 months

Maxi and Giant Baby Dog are specially designed for large-breed and giant-breed puppies from weaning through the end of month 5. They are rich in energy.

Renner

German Shepherd puppy The puppies demand the most energy per kg of metabolic weight at the start of the growth period. The provision of the maximum of calories in a limited ration volume helps prevent a situation in which the puppys digestive capacity is exceeded, which is a frequent phenomenon when it has to consume a large volume of food to cover its requirements.
Renner

Bernese Mountain Dog puppies

14

Up to month 5, the energy need is such that there is little risk of over-consumption: the puppys capacity to ingest large quantities is still limited. However, the owner will have to regulate the daily ration properly to prevent the dog from gaining weight too quickly. Growth must be monitored by weekly or more frequent weighing, each time updating the growth curve. In any event, the puppy must never exceed 50% of its estimated adult weight at the age of 5 months. If it does, the ration will have to be reduced. St Bernard Dogs When estimating the adult weight, account is taken of the breed, the line (the weight of parents) and the sex: females are always less heavy and reach maturity later than males. These differences are particularly marked in large breeds.
Psala

If a puppy requires 1000 kcal/day, it may be given 230 g of a 4400 kcal/kg food or 250 g of a 3950 kcal/kg food. In both cases, the energy supply is the same, but in the second case, the puppy is given 10% extra volume and the risk of digestive overload is greater.

Difference in average weight according to sex in certain large and giant breeds
(source: Royal Canin, weighing conducted during dog shows) Average weight of male (kg) 27.1 4.5 33.7 3.4 33.9 3.5 35.5 4.5 35.9 3.6 46.8 4.8 49.9 6.9 57.0 6.4 70.5 8.2 87.0 10.5 Average weight of bitch (kg) 23.2 2.0 30.4 3.6 28.8 2.4 30.7 3.4 28.4 2.7 39.7 4.9 43.3 6.5 49.9 6.8 56.6 7.1 71.6 9.2 Difference male/bitch + 17% + 11% + 18% + 16% + 26% + 18% + 15% + 14% + 25% + 21%

Large breeds Belgian Sheepdog Golden Retriever Boxer Labrador Retriever German Shepherd Giant breeds Rottweiler Bernese Mountain Dog Leonberger Great Dane Mastiff

Number 17 62 33 81 221 28 50 345 58 21

Number 10 65 32 75 194 27 52 345 130 13

In large- and giant breeds the male is always much heavier than the bitch. In some cases (German Shepherd, Great Dane) the difference is up to 26%.

15

Stage two: from 5 months to the end of growth

Growth slows down from month 5, the energy requirement falls and the digestive tract is ready to receive a much greater quantity of food. The risk of over-consumption is greater as the puppys appetite grows. It is time to offer food that is physically less dense and less rich in energy, to

Mercier

avoid the need to ration the puppy too strictly. With Maxi Puppy and Giant Puppy, the daily ration volume can be increased by 50% without the ingestion Boxer puppies of a larger quantity of calories compared with the Maxi or Giant Baby Dog ration. Several studies have shown a significant correlation between over-consumption of energy by large-breed puppies and the higher incidence of osteoarticular complaints observed in radiological scans: hip dysplasia, osteochondritis etc. (Hedhammar & Coll, 1974; Daemmrich, 1991; Kealy & Coll, 1992; Zentek & Coll, 1995)

The rhythm of growth is directly influenced by the energy supply: the surplus energy consumed accelerates the attainment of adult weight; the resulting overload on still immature joints increases the risk of osteoarticular pathology.

Evolution of osteoarticular complaints related to an over-consumption of energy

Excess of energy (> 300-380 kcal/kg BW 0.73/d between months 2 and 5)

Growth too fast

Overweight

Hormonal imbalances

Mechanical constraints on cartilage

Abnormal bone remodelling

- OSTEOCHONDRITIS - RADIUS CURVUS - HIP DYSPLASIA ETC

Radiograph screening of coxofemoral dysplasia in a 3-month-old German Shepherd puppy

16

From around month 2, its better to give less than 350 or 380 kcal/kg BW0.73/day to large-breed or giant-breed puppies respectively. By month 5 the optimal limit is below 300 kcal /kg BW0.73/day. (Hedhammar & Coll, 1974; Lavelle & Coll, 1989; Kealy & Coll, 1992.)

Objective 2: supplying all the calcium needed for growth, without excess
disrupts the mineralization of growing bones.

Psala

Great Dane puppy

More than 99% of the calcium in a body is fixed by the skeleton. A deficiency of calcium

Conversely, before 6 months the puppy is unable to protect itself against an excess of calcium: during weaning at least 50% of the calcium released in the intestine is absorbed regardless of the quantity ingested (Hazewinkel & Coll, 1991).

Fraction of calcium absorbed passively or actively according to the level of calcium consumed (in 3-month-old puppies of various breeds)
% calcium absorbed
100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 0 400 800 1200 1600 2000 2400 ingested in

(from Tryfonidou & Coll, 2002) The dog balances the small quantity of ingested calcium with very large active absorption. On the other hand, when the calcium content in the ration increases too much, the puppy continues to passively absorb at least 50% of the calcium ingested.

Calcium

Ca actively absorbed

Ca passively absorbed

mg/kg/d

17

Osteochondrosis lesion
Abnormally thick cartilage

Osteochondrosis is the result of an anomaly in the development of growing cartilage: the ossification process is altered and we see cartilage retention and thickening. Osteochondrosis may develop into osteochondritis dissecans when a fragment of cartilage is freed in the joint. Osteochondrosis is stimulated by a chronic excess of calcium in the diet.

A chronic excess absorption of calcium stimulates the production of a hormone, calcitonin, which re-establishes normal blood calcium levels. It does so by promoting the deposit of calcium in the bone tissue and limiting the uptake of calcium from bone. In the growth period the bone tissue is reshaped permanently: if the changes are slowed down, the reshaping of the bone tissue is inhibited, the structure of the bone becomes abnormal and skeletal deformations may appear. Royal Canin conducted an in-depth analysis of the main studies on the optimal calcium level for the growth of large- and giant-breed puppies.

Most of the results are deceptive, because the conclusions are based on the calcium concentration of the foods in question, although the important issue is the quantity of calcium actually ingested (in mg per kg of BW and per day) by the puppy. This quantity varies greatly based on the density of the food and the ration given.
DR

A puppy eating 500 g of food containing 1% calcium, takes in 5 g of calcium, or as much as a puppy ingesting 250 g of a food that contains 2% calcium.

The formulation of Royal Canin food for large-breed and giant-breed puppies is based on the following principle: the calcium concentration of the food is adapted to the energy concentration, so as to avoid any risk of excess or deficiency.

18

During growth, small and large breeds do not have the same calcium needs
Spontaneous fractures are observed in Great Dane puppies aged 2-3 months that take in less than 250 mg of calcium/kg/d, while Poodle puppies show normal growth with an even lower threshold. Inversely, with 1100 mg of calcium/kg/d, Great Dane puppies show clinical symptoms of osteochondrosis, while Poodle puppies show only histologic lesions. (Hazewinkel 1985; Nap & Coll, 1993). By following the Royal Canin growth program, large-breed puppies are given quantities of energy and calcium that are precisely compatible with their requirements without inducing excess. - With Maxi Baby Dog, a 2-month old large-breed puppy fed rations as recommended by Royal Canin takes in between 420 and 480 mg of Ca/kg/d. - With Giant Baby Dog, a 5-month old large-breed puppy fed rations as recommended by Royal Canin takes in between 250 and 280 mg of Ca/kg/d. The large safety margins mean that actual consumption may exceed the recommended ration (in the case of outdoor animals, skinny dogs, rationing error, etc).

Summary of the main studies that help to establish an optimal calcium supply bracket in a 2-month-old puppy
(Hazewinkel & Coll,1985-1991 ; Shoenmakers & Coll, 2000 ; Weber & Coll, 2000)
200 mg/kg/d 1100 mg/kg/d

There is no ideal calcium content broken down by age, but there is a safety zone. To feed a 2-month-old large-breed puppy as safely as possible, it is advisable to give it between 260 and 830 mg of calcium/kg/day. At 5 months, the calcium safety zone should be lowered: between 210 and 540 mg of calcium/kg/day.

DEFICIT

OK
Recommended supply: 260-830 mg/kg/d

EXCESS

260 mg/kg/d

830 mg/kg/d

19

Objective 3: protecting articular cartilage

Bernese Mountain Dog puppy All the products in the growth program for large-breed and giant-breed puppies contain glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to protect articular cartilage. These nutrients are traditionally used to check the development of osteoarthritis in old dogs. There is, however, a potential interest in using them in large-breed puppies for long-term prevention purposes. Large-breed puppies are more susceptible to premature osteoarthritis than other breeds: their hefty weight imposes mechanical constraints on their joints, they often have a very active lifestyle and dysplasia of the hip or the elbow can be stimulated by certain genetic predispositions.

20

Psala

Structure of an articular cavity

The joint is protected by a capsule covered on the inside by the synovial membrane. This membrane secretes the synovial fluid essential to the nutrition of the cartilage. After oral administration, glucosamine and chondroitin are concentrated in the synovial liquid. Synovial fluid Synovial membrane Articular cartilage

Generally, while exercise is essential to develop young puppies muscles, it is necessary to be prudent with large-breed puppies. Do not allow them to jump about and do not subject them to endurance exercise before the bones have stopped growing. Studies show that an intake of chondroitin sulfate can have a positive effect on the condition of the joints of a puppy suffering from hip dysplasia. It is observed that an improvement in mobility goes hand in hand with a reduction in pain during mobility (De Haan & Coll, 1994). A comparative study also has shown that Labrador puppies that were given chondroitin had better radiographs than control puppies (Lust & Coll, 1992).

21

2. A new interpretation of the digestive sensitivity of large-breed puppies

Large-breed puppies are known to produce rather wet stools, often of a weak consistency. The increase in the volume of the ration is generally poorly tolerated. Royal Canin has gone further in interpreting the digestive sensitivity of large-breed puppies in an unprecedented study... In the absence of a scientific study confirming and explaining these observations, Royal Canin conducted an annual study at the National Veterinarians College in Nantes, France starting in 1998. The aim was to track the development of the digestive function during growth in four different-sized breeds of dog: Miniature Poodle (4kg adult), Standard Schnauzer (12kg adult), Giant Schnauzer (25kg adult) and Great Dane (60kg adult). Every digestive parameter was studied in the four groups (4 x 6 dogs) at 3, 5, 8 and 14 months. All these animals were given the same food until they reached adulthood. (Weber, 2001, 2002, 2003).

22

Puppies have an immature digestive system

Reduced digestive performances at a young age may be explained by several factors.

Enzyme capacities are limited

(Buddington & Coll, 2003) At the moment of weaning, the puppy is lacking some enzymes that help the digestion of starch and proteins. Maturation occurs gradually during growth: for example, the activity of the pancreatic amylase doubles between weaning and adulthood.

Activity of amylase: starch-digesting enzyme (mmol of hydrolyzed substrate/min/mg of protein)

Development of the puppys enzyme capacity

(Buddington & al, 2003)
1.5

Hermeline/Doxicat

Labrador puppy

Activity of chymotrypsin: protein-digesting enzyme (in units per g of pancreatic content)

0.5

1 day

3 weeks

6 weeks

9 weeks

adult

23

The stomach evacuation time is shorter

(Weber & Coll, 2001) For solid food, the evacuation time is 4.3 h +/- 0.5 h in the puppy to 6.8 h +/- 0.9 h in the adult, which is a difference of 30%. A reduction in the time the food remains in the stomach can distort the pre-digestion of the food and disrupt the assimilation of nutrients in the small intestine.

The permeability of the small intestine is greater

(Weber & Coll, 2002) This suggests that the total structural maturation of the intestinal mucus has not been attained.

Comparable digestibility of organic matter according to age and breed

(Weber, 2003a, Royal Canin)
% digestibility

95 b b b 85 a 80 a a 5 8 14 b b c a ab b a b b

90

Age in months:
3

75

70

Miniature Poodle

Standard Schnauzer

Giant Schnauzer

Great Dane

The digestibility of organic matter is lower in 3-month-old puppies than in adult dogs of any breed.

24

Large-breed puppies display digestive peculiarities

Field observations show that the same food provides very different tolerance results in small or large-breed puppies: large-breed puppies produce stools of lower quality These data are confirmed by studies conducted on the subject (Zentek & coll,1995 ; Weber & coll, 2003). These results may be explained by the following observations made in the course of studies conducted by Royal Canin.
1

Observation 1: intestinal permeability will increase with size

(Weber & Coll, 2002) Increased intestinal permeability leads to the return of already absorbed electrolytes (sodium, potassium, etc) in the intestinal lumen. Sodium and potassium are found in much greater quantities in the stools of large dogs: the net absorption of these elements is lower in large dogs. The effect of the accumulation of these highly osmotic ions reduces the absorption of water. The lower the absorption of electrolytes, the more water left in the intestinal lumen, the wetter the stools, and the lower the quality of the stools (Rolfe & Coll, 1999, 2002; Weber & Coll, 2002; Zentek & Coll, 1995).

Consequences of increased intestinal permeability

intestinal cells

Water

Increased intestinal permeability causes the sodium ions to go back into the intestinal lumen where they generate an intake of water. The quantity of water in the intestine increases, which increases the moisture of the stools.

moisture of stools

Blood

intestinal lumen

Return of electrolytes in the digestive tube

25

Observation 2: the time food remains in the colon is increased

An extended colonic transit time stimulates the bacterial microflora into greater activity, generating the production of a very large quantity of fermentation products: short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and lactic acid in particular. These highly osmotic fermentation products lead to a reduction in water absorption and so a high water content in the stools.

Effect of size on total transit time

Time (hours)
60

(source: Weber 2003b, Royal Canin)

55.1c

50 43.2d 40 32.8b 30 22.9a 20

10

The total transit time in giant breeds is almost twice what it is in small breeds. As the colic transit time represents 80% to 90% of the total transit time, that would suggest that the residence time in the large intestine (colon) is significantly increased in large dogs.

Miniature Poodle

Standard Schnauzer

Giant Schnauzer

Great Dane

26

Having shown the lengthening of the colonic transit time in large-breed dogs, it had to be proved that it led to an increase in fermentative activity. This was possible by analyzing the fermentation products in the stools. The more the dog grows, the greater the quantity of fermentation products for the same food. So, Royal Canin has shown for the first time that fermentative activity is directly correlated to the size of the dog.

Rottweiler puppy

Psala

27

Effect of size on the fermentative activity of the colon

(Weber, 2003 ; Royal Canin)

Lactic acid Total short chain fatty acids* mmol/kg 1200 dry matter 1100
996 53.1

1184

Total fiber degradation (%)

52.5

1000
48.9

900 800 700 600 500 400

448 38.7

793

50%

40%

30%
91.1

100
70.5

The more the dog grows, the greater the quantity of fermentation products for the same food. The fermentative activity is directly correlated to the size of the dog.

20%
50.3

50 10%
19.9

0
Miniature Poodle Standard Schnauzer Giant Schnauzer Great Dane

*examples of short chain fatty acids (SCFA): acetate (C2), propionate (C3) and butyrate (C4).

28

Conclusion
It is observed that age and size factors affect large-breed puppies. These two factors predispose them to the production of wet, loose stools.

Principal explanations for the weak digestive tolerance of large breed puppies
(Source: Royal Canin studies)

Increased intestinal permeability

Low absorption of electrolytes

Predisposition of large dogs to loose stools

Longer colic transit time

High fermentative activity

29

Specific nutritional responses:

Guaranteeing even higher digestive safety

Objective 1: limiting fermentative activity
The growth management program for large- and giant-breed puppies is formulated to minimize the quantity of substrate capable of stimulating bacterial fermentation in the large intestine.
1

Avoiding digestive overload during the first period of growth

It is imperative to limit the volume of ration for young puppies as their digestive system is still far from fully functional. The greater the energy concentration, the smaller the ration volume.

30

Very high digestibility of ingredients

The more nutrients absorbed in the small intestine, the more limited the intestinal fermentation. Utilization of sources of very high quality proteins The proteins in the large-breed puppy growth management program are provided by ingredients selected because of their high digestibility. Reduced starch content During the whole growth phase, puppies are less able to digest starch than adult dogs. Rice is the only source of starch in Maxi and Giant Baby Dog to ensure maximum digestibility.

31

 Very finely ground protein and carbohydrate raw ingredients Very fine grinding enables the proteins and starches to be more easily broken down into amino acids and sugars. This leaves less work for the digestive enzymes.
1

Limitation of the quantity of fermentable fibers

Fermentable fibers are thoroughly degraded by the colonic flora. Among the fermentation products generated in their degradation are short chain fatty acids (SCFA). These compounds play an extremely important role in preserving the good health of the colonic mucosa. In addition, they acidify the intestinal lumen, thus stimulating the growth of beneficial acidophilic flora and inhibiting the growth of pathogenic strains. However, in the particular context of large-breed puppies, it is necessary to adjust the share of fermentable fibers in the total quantity of fibers so as not to exceed the colonic absorption capacity. Otherwise there is a risk that the excess SCFA will provoke an intake of water in the intestinal lumen that causes the stools to be much wetter.

Psala

Great Dane puppy

32

 The sources of fermentable fibers here are: - Beet pulp: substrate of choice for the colonic flora that feeds off it and produces SCFA (e.g.: butyrate). - Fructo-oligosaccarides (FOS): which stimulate the growth of beneficial flora such as bifidobacteria and lactobacilli.

Relation between the colons fermentative activity and the moisture of stools
SCFA are a source of energy indispensable to the proper regeneration of intestinal mucosa cells. SCFA and lactic acid are highly osmotic however, which generates an intake of water and leads to much wetter stools. It is therefore advisable to limit their accumulation in the colon of large-breed puppies.

Stomach Small intestine

Caecum

Degradation of fibers Colon

Short chain fatty acids (SCFA) Lactic acid Rectum

WATER INTAKE

MOISTURE OF STOOLS

33

Objective 2: protecting and nourishing the digestive mucosa

1

Protector role of mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS)

MOS belong to the category of non-fermentable fibers. They limit the development of potentially pathogenic bacteria through a competitive inhibition of attachment sites on the intestinal mucosa (Harmon, 1999).

Competitive inhibition of pathogenic bacteria by MOS

without MOS with MOS

Bacteria MOS

Bacteria

Cholesterol

Phospholipidic bilayer

cell membrane

Proteins

MOS possess receptors that can fasten to the attachment sites on bacteria, thus preventing their adhesion to the intestinal mucosa and their colonization.

34

Protector role of omega 3 fatty acids

EPA (eicosapentanoic acid) and DHA (docosahexanoic acid) fatty acids enter the structure of cell membranes. Their anti-inflammatory property ensures that they prevent excessive inflammatory reactions by the intestinal mucosa.

Protector role of insoluble mineral salts

Insoluble mineral salts, such as zeolite or sodium silico aluminate, adsorb bacterial toxins, gas (ammonic) and biliary acids. They form a protective film on the surface of the intestinal mucosa.

Objective 3: capturing excess water in the colon

1

Incorporation of insoluble mineral salts

Zeolite is also very porous and has a large exchange surface. This means that it helps to reduce excess water in the digestive tract.

Higher supply of non-fermentable fibers

The quantity of non-fermentable fibers has been increased to the detriment of fermentable fibers. These fibers are not degraded in the colon and are found intact in the stools. Their great hydroscopic capacity means they contribute to production of more solid feces (Wichert & Coll, 2002).

35

3. The development of the teeth and jaws during growth

Puppies do not have any teeth at birth. The first dentition starts to appear from day 20 and the denture is complete around week 5 or 6. At the beginning of the growth phase the puppy possesses 32 teeth. This first dentition does not include the first premolar or the molars.

Formation of the final dentition

The first premolars erupt around month 4 and will remain throughout the adult dogs life, without being replaced. All the other deciduous teeth are replaced between month 3 and month 5 to make way for the final dentition. The eruption of the molars occurs between months 5 and 7, the age at which dentition is final: the dog then has 42 teeth. The biggest teeth are the carnassial teeth: they are the 4th
German Shepherd puppy

maxilla premolar and the 1st mandible molar.

36

Lanceau

Final dental formula

Incisors Upper quadrant Lower quadrant 3 3 Canines 1 1 Premolars 4 4 Molars 2 3

The dental arches of a dog

Compared to the first dentition, the final dentition also includes 4 molars in the upper jaw and 6 in the lower jaw. These adult teeth are used to break the largest kibbles.

Upper dental arch

Lower dental arch

Development of tooth size

The size of the teeth increases considerably between the first and final dentition. For example, in the Leonberger, the size of the carnassial more than doubles between the first and final dentition.

37

It is very important that the size of the kibbles is adapted to the size of the teeth, to allow the puppy to chew whatever its age and size. Chewing has many advantages: Ingestion is slowed down: many large-breed puppies have a tendency to eat too quickly Aerophagia is limited (Glickman 1997; Theyse 1998) The risk of regurgitation is reduced The food is broken down more, which has a positive impact on the assimilation of nutrients The underlying bone tissue and the gums are stimulated.

Leonberger 4 months: lower fang width: 7.9mm height: 8.7mm thickness: 6.0mm

Leonberger 11 months: upper fang width: 16.1mm height: 13.6mm thickness: 13.2mm

38

Specific nutritional responses:

Adapting the kibble to the various phases of growth

The kibbles must be adapted to the dentition and the jaws of the dog in question. The physical presentation of the kibble is an integral part of the nutritional benefits that contribute to the animals health. It influences the puppys feeding behavior and has consequences for digestion.

First dentition of a German Shepherd puppy (incisors and canines)

Mercier

Mercier

The first incisors are very small in a young puppy. The canines already have their characteristic conical shape but are finer and thinner than the final teeth.

At month 5 the puppy possesses its final incisors and canines. It can be given a larger size kibble.

39

The size and texture of the Maxi and Giant Babydog kibbles are adapted to puppies that do not yet have their final dentition. Moreover, they rehydrate easily in order to obtain a gruel consistency at the start of the weaning period, if necessary. The size, shape and texture of the Maxi Puppy, Giant Puppy and Giant Junior kibble are adapted to large- and giant-breed puppies between 5 and 8 months or older than 8 months respectively. The puppy has to chew before swallowing, which slows down the speed of ingestion and limits the risk of aerophagia. The use of these kibbles also limits the frequency of regurgitation, common in greedy large-breed puppies.

Maxi Program

Maxi Babydog (10.5x4 mm)

Maxi Puppy (13x7 mm)

40

Maximum force needed to break the kibble: comparison of the various products for giant-breed puppies and dogs
N/mm
150 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 34 41 65 136

The texture of the kibbles must be adapted to the dentition of the puppy and the strength of its jaws, which develops with age. Royal Canin takes this parameter into account in the development of every new product.

Giant Babydog

Giant Puppy

Giant Junior

Giant Adult

Texture is an important quality criterion: the kibble must not be too hard, so as not to cause weariness in the puppy, but neither must it be too crumbly, so as to encourage chewing. The characteristics of the kibbles are adapted to the respective strengths of the jaws of the puppies they are given to, based on their size and their age.

Renner

Texturometer used to measure the pressure resistance of kibbles. (Royal Canin Research Center)

41

4. Growth: a period of high risk of infection: the immunity gap

The period of growth is synonymous with the puppys training period: discovering new individuals, exploring new environments, playing. In all of these activities, the puppy comes into contact with potentially infectious germs that its immune system must learn to recognize.

Phagocytosis of a pathogenic agent by a macrophage (immune system cell) Macrophages attack bacteria and viruses. They are the bodys first line of defense.

The puppys immune response occurs at two levels:

1

Cell immune response induced by T lymphocytes

(which mature at thymus level). T lymphocytes are responsible for recognizing and destroying foreign bodies.

Humoral immune response

Production of soluble proteins called antibodies (or immunoglobulins) by B lymphocytes, so called because they are produced in the bone marrow. The newborn puppys immune defenses essentially rely on the antibodies transmitted by the mother (immunoglobulins G in particular) during gestation and absorbed through the colostrum in the hours following birth. After this period the immunoglobulins are recognized as foreign proteins and are degraded. Maternal antibodies are observed for 12 to 18 weeks depending on the quantity that was absorbed during the perinatal period.

Production of antibodies by a lymphocyte (immune system cell).

42

The puppy subsequently develops its own immune defenses in response to antigenic stress: fortuitously encountered germs or vaccinations. This maturation of the immune system is a very gradual process: around week 9 the lymph glands only contain half the quantity of T cells compared with those of an adult dog (Nelson, 1998).

Maternal antibodies

The immunity gap in puppies

Protection threshold of maternal antibodies

Antibodies produced by puppy

Inhibition threshold of vaccinal response

0 4 12

The immunity gap is the period of risk of infection: the maternal protection becomes inadequate while the puppys own defenses are barely developed.

Weeks

immunity gap

Between weeks 4 and 12 the count of antibodies provided by the mother falls below the protection threshold. The count does remain high enough to inhibit vaccinal response however. This critical period is called the immunity gap.

Immune response

Principle of an immune response

Stability

During first exposure to an antigen, several days pass before the immune system responds. This is the latent period. During a second exposure to the antigen, the response is faster (shorter latent period), stronger and more lasting. This is the principle used in traditional vaccination: initial vaccination + booster.
LATENCY 2nd exposure Time (week)

LATENCY 1st exposure

43

Specific nutritional responses:

Improving natural defenses even further

Newborn Labrador puppies If there is to be an optimal response to stress, the immune system, its various organs, and its cell lines must mature correctly. Appropriate nutrition for the mother in the gestation period and for the young puppy in the neonatal period is essential for the development of the puppys immune system. The object of the growth management program is to help the puppy through the immunity gap period, when maternal protection has disappeared and the puppys own immune system has yet to fully develop. All products in the Growth Management Program for large-breed puppies contain a synergistic antioxidant complex composed of vitamins E and C, lutein and taurine, as well as mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS).

44

Psala

The positive role of certain nutrients in the immune system

Vitamin C
A deficiency in vitamin C is responsible for a reduction in the performance of neutrophilic leukocyte cells and an abnormal retarded hypersensitivity response. There is also a reduction in phagocytosis. Lutein is extracted from the petals of the African marigold (Tagetes erecta).

Vitamin E
A deficiency in vitamin E weakens the destructive functions of the lymphocytes (Hall, 1998). An increase in the supply of vitamin E provokes a proliferation of lymphocytes.

Lutein
Lutein is a xanthophyll pigment like -carotene. -carotene in food stimulates the dogs cellular and humoral immune response. It is possible to increase the plasma level of -carotene by increasing the quantity of this antioxidant in the ration. The effects are measurable from week three. Dogs that have been given a supplement show a much better vaccinal response (specific immunity) and a better non-specific immune supplementation response. Similar results have been observed with lutein in dogs (Chew, 2000).
Renner

Taurine
The sulfur amino acid taurine is a major constituent of immune cells. It also has an anti-oxidative capacity, which reinforces those of the above mentioned antioxidants. Labrador puppy

45

Antibody production following the administration of an antioxidant cocktail for 2 months prior to rabies vaccination
Ul/ml

(Smith & Coll, 2001)

The immune response recorded in the 20 dogs given a cocktail of antioxidants to stimulate immunity is significantly different to those of the control dogs. The antibody count in the serum is higher and the protection level is reached faster after vaccination.(Test conducted by Waltham Research Center)

12

10

Level of protecting antibodies

0 0 1 2 3 6 8

Administration of an antioxidant cocktail

Control group

Weeks after vaccination

Mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS)
The mannan-oligosaccharides stimulate the microbe population in the intestines and modulate the immune function (Swanson, 2002). The regular absorption of MOS improves the immune system: the ileums IgA concentration is higher in dogs given a supplement. An increase in the lymphocyte concentration has also been observed. The complex of antioxidants together with MOS will help the puppy construct its immune defenses by increasing the production of antibodies or stimulating the immune cells (lymphocytes and macrophages).

46

Role of Mannan-oligosaccharides in local immune defenses

MOS are extracted from the wall of hydrolyzed yeast
MOS

IgA

pathogens

Immune cells (B lymphocytes) secrete IgA*, which is concentrated on the surface of intestinal villus to help the animal protect itself from pathogens.

Mannan-oligosaccharides aid the recognition of pathogens by the immune cells of the intestinal mucosa (Peyers patches).

* Ig A or Immunoglobin A: antibody found in the intestine.

47

A NUTRITIONAL PROGRAM FOR LARGE BREED PUPPIES

New CANINE HEALTH

NUTRITION
program
Month 5
MAXI
FROM 56 TO 100 LBS. De 56 100 lbs./De 56 a 100 lbs.
TM

167

CUPS PER BAG

TASSES PAR SAC TAZAS POR BOLSA

Vit.C&E Taurine Lutein

IMMUNITY BOOSTER
BON DVELOPPEMENT DU SYSTME IMMUNITAIRE

End of growth (month 15)

Refuerzo del sistema inmunitario

Large Breed Puppy 32 Chiot Grande Race 32

For large breed dogs from weaning to 15 months old Pour chiens de grande taille du sevrage 15 mois Para perros de raza grande desde el destete a los 15 meses de edad
Building strong joints Dvelopper des articulations en sant Para desarrollar articulaciones fuertes

MC

DHA - brain development DHA - dveloppemet du cerveau DHA - desarrollo del cerebro

Easy to digest Facile digrer Fcil de digerir

Dog Food Net Weight 35 lbs. (15.86 kg) Nourriture Pour Chien Poids Net 35 lbs. (15.86 kg) Alimento Para Perros Peso Neto 35 lbs. (15.86 kg)

PHASE 2 Week 3 PHASE 1

For the whole weaning period* and the first part of growth to month 5: maximum energy requirement *product may be administered rehydrated then dry
GROWTH MANAGEMENT PROGRAM 1ST AGE KIBBLE ENHANCED DIGESTIVE SAFETY

The new nutritional program for large-breed puppies addresses the two phases of growth by adapting to the puppys energy requirement, digestive capacity and enzymatic faculties according to its phase of development. The transition from Maxi Baby Dog to Maxi Puppy generally occurs at the age of 5 months. For puppies susceptible to gaining weight too rapidly (Labrador), Maxi Puppy is recommended from month 4. Conversely, lean puppies or puppies with high digestive sensitivity (Beauceron, German Shepherd, Boxer, Greyhounds) can wait until the age of 6 months before making the transition.
LONG GROWTH FORMULA DIGESTIVE SAFETY IMMUNITY SUPPORT

ENERGY

CALCIUM

PHASE-1

Priority is given to the Small kibble energy concentration. adapted to the The puppy is protected against an excess of calcium. first dentition of large-breed dogs.

Quantity and quality of fibers adapted to the digestive sensitivity of large-breed puppies.

Moderate energy concentration. Calcium content adapted to the growth of largebreed puppies.

Quantity and quality of fibers adapted to the digestive sensitivity of large-breed puppies.

Build the puppies natural defenses by increasing the quantity of antibodies.

Birth

A NUTRITIONAL PROGRAM FOR GIANT BREED PUPPIES

New CANINE HEALTH

NUTRITION
program
End of growth month 18-24 Month 8

Month 5 PHASE 3 PHASE 2

The transition from Giant Baby Dog to Giant Junior generally occurs at the age of 5 months. For puppies susceptible to gaining weight too rapidly (Newfoundland), Maxi Junior is recommended from month 4. Conversely, lean puppies or puppies with high digestive sensitivity (Great Dane) can wait until the age of 6 months before effecting the transition. The new nutritional programme for giant-breed puppies addresses the three phases of growth by adapting to the puppys energy requirement, ingestion capacity and enzymatic faculties according to its phase of development.

Week 3 PHASE 1
For the whole weaning period* and the first part of growth to month 5: maximum energy requirement. *product may be administered rehydrated then dry

PROGRAMME CROISSANCE

CROQUETTE SPCIAL 1ER AGE

SCURITE DIGESTIVE RENFORCE

DVELOPPEMENT OPTIMAL DU SQUELETTE

CONSTRUCTION DES ARTICULATIONS

SCURITE DIGESTIVE RENFORCE

TAILLE, FORME & TEXTURE EXCLUSIVE

CONSTRUCTION MUSCULAIRE

SCURITE DIGESTIVE RENFORCE

ENERGY

CALCIUM

GROWTH MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

1ST AGE KIBBLE

ENHANCED DIGESTIVE SAFETY

OPTIMAL SKELETON DEVELOPEMENT

FOR JOINT BUILDING

ENHANCED DIGESTIVE SAFETY

EXCLUSIVE SIZE, SHAPE & TEXTURE

FOR MUSCLE BUILDING

ENHANCED DIGESTIVE SAFETY

Birth

Priority is given to the energy concentration. The puppy is protected against an excess of calcium.

Small kibble adapted to the first dentition of giant-breed dogs.

Quantity and quality of fibers adapted to the digestive sensitivity of giant-breed puppies.

Moderate energy concentration. Calcium content adapted to the growth of giant-breed puppies.

Presence of glucosamine and chondroitin to protect the joints.

Quantity and quality of fibers adapted to the digestive sensitivity of giant-breed puppies.

Kibble adapted to the final dentition of giant-breed puppies. Encourages the puppy to chew.

L-Carnitine to promote the development of muscles at the expense of fatty tissue.

Quantity and quality of fibers adapted to the digestive sensitivity of giant-breed puppies.

References
Adapting the nutritional supply to the specific needs of the 2 growth phases
1. Dammrich K - Relationship between nutrition and bone growth in large and giant dogs. J Nutr 1991; 121(11 Suppl): S114-21. 2. De Haan JJ et al - Controlled double-blinded clinical study of polysulfated glycosaminoglycans (Adequan) for treatment of hip dysplasia in adult dogs. Veterinary and Comparative Orthopedics and Traumatology 1994; 7(4): 58. 3. Grandjean D, Paragon BM et al - Rationnement alimentaire et prvention chez le chien. 2. Point Vt 1987; 19: 171-176. 4. Hazewinkel HA, Goedegebuure SA, Poulos PW et al - Influences of chronic calcium excess on the skeletal development of growing Great Danes. J am An Hosp Assn 1985; 21(3): 377-391. 5. Hazewinkel HA, Van den Brom WE et al - Calcium metabolism in Great Dane dogs fed diets with various calcium and phosphorus levels. J Nutr 1991; 121(11 Suppl): S99-106. 6. Hedhammar A, Krook L, Whalen JP et al - Overnutrition and skeletal disease. An experimental study in growing Great Dane dogs. IV. Clinical observations. Cornell Vet 1974; 64(2): Suppl 5:32-45. 7. Holme DW - Practical use of prepared foods for dogs and cats. In: Dog and Cat nutrition. Edney, ATB Oxford, Pergamon Press, 1982: 47-59. 8. Kealy RD., Olsson SE, Monti KL et al - Effects of limited food consumption on the incidence of hip dysplasia in growing dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc 1992; 201(6): 857-63. 9. Lavelle RB - The effect of overfeeding of a balanced complete commercial diet to a group of growing Great Danes. In: Nutrition of the Dogs and Cats. Burger IH, Rivers JPW Eds, 1989; Cambridge, Cambridge University Press: 303-316. 10. Lust G, Williams AJ et al - Effects of intramuscular administration of glycosaminoglycan polysulfates on signs of incipient hip dysplasia in growing pups. Am J Vet Res 1992; 53(10): 1836-1843. 11. Martin L - Contribution ltude de la croissance chez le chien de grande race. Thse de doctorat vtrinaire 1993, Nantes. 12. Nap RC, Hazewinkel HA et al - 45Ca kinetics in growing miniature poodles challenged by four different dietary levels of calcium. J Nutr 1993; 123(11): 1826-33. 13. Schoenmakers I, Hazewinkel HA, Voorhout et al - Effects of diets with different calcium and phosphorus contents on the skeletal development and blood chemistry of growing great danes. Vet Rec 2000; 147(23): 652-60. 14. Tryfonidou MA, Van den Broek WE, Hazewinkel HAW Intestinal Ca absorption in growing dogs is influenced by Ca intake and age and not by growth rate. J Nutr 2002; 132: 3363-3368. 15. Weber M, Martin L, Dumon H et al - Growth and skeletal development in two large breeds fed 2 calcium levels. J Vet Int Med 2000; 14 :388. 16. Zentek J, Meyer H, Dammrich K - The effect of a different energy supply for growing Great Danes on the body mass and skeletal development. 3. Clinical picture and chemical studies of the skeleton. Zentralbl Veterinarmed 1995; A 42(1): 69-80.

50

Guaranteeing even higher digestive security

17. Binder HJ, Sandle GI - Electrolytes transport in mammalian colon. In: The large intestine: physiology, pathophysiology and disease. Ed. Phillips SF, Pemberton JH & Shorter RG; Mayo foundation, Raven Press, Ltd New York, 1991; 64: 2133-2168. 18. Buddington RK, Elnif J, Malo C et al - Activities of gastric, pancreatic, and intestinal brush-border membrane enzymes during postnatal development of dogs. Am J Vet Res 2003; 64(5): 627-34. 19. Guilford WG, Strombeck DR - Classification, pathophysiology and symptomatic treatment of diarrheal diseases. In: Strombecks Small Animal Gastroenterology. 3rd Ed. Saunders Co, Philadephia 1996a: 351-366. 20. Harmon DL, Walker JA Silvio JM et al - Nutrient digestibility in dogs fed fiber-containing diets. Vet Clin Nutr 1999; 6:6. 21. Rolfe VE - Colonic fluid and electrolyte transport in health and disease. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 1999; 29: 577-588. 22. Rolfe VE, Adams CA, Butterwick RE et al - Relationships between fecal consistency and colonic microstructure and absorptive function in dogs with and without nonspecific dietary sensitivity. Am J Vet Res 2002; 63: 617-622. 23. Weber M, Martin L, Biourge V et al - Influence of age and body size on the digestibility of a dry expanded diet in dogs. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2003a; 87(7-8): 242-50. 24. Weber M, Martin L, Biourge V et al - Influence of age and body size on orocecal transit time as assessed by use of the sulfasalazine method in healthy dogs. Am J Vet Res 2003b; 64(9): 1105-9. 25. Weber M, Martin L, Dumon H et al - Influence of age and body size on intestinal permeability and absorption in healthy dogs. Am J Vet Res 2002; 63(9): 1323-8. 26. Weber M, Stambouli F, Martin L et al - Gastrointestinal transit of solid radiopaque markers in large and giant breed growing dogs. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2001; 85(7-8): 242-50. 27. Wichert B, Scuster S et al - Influence of different cellulose types on feces quality of dogs. Waltham International Symposium 2002; 1728 S. 28. Zentek J, Meyer H et al - Normal handling of diets - are all dogs created equal ? J Small An Pract 1995; 36: 354-359.

Adapting the kibble to the various phases of growth

29. Glickman LT, Glickman NW et al - Multiple risk factors for the gastric dilatation-volvulus syndrome in dogs: a pratictioner/owner case-control study. J Am Med Vet Assoc 1997; 33(9): 197-204. 30. Theyse LFH, Van De Brom WE et al - Small size food particles and age as risk factors for gastric dilatation volvulus in Great Danes. Veterinary Record 1998; 143: 48-50.

Improving natural defenses even further

31. Chew BP et al - Importance of -carotene Nutrition in the Dog and Cat: uptake and immunity, Advances in Clinical Nutrition (Iams symposium), 1998, 513-522. 32. Smith BHE, Devlin P - Diets boost vaccine response in adult and senior dogs. Waltham Focus 2001; 11:1. 33. Hall J - Interactions of nutrition and immunology. Proceedings of 16th Iams Forum, ACVIM, 1998. 34. Nelson PD, Kern MR - The Influence of Age on the Immune System. In: Recent Advances in Canine and Feline Nutrition, 1998, 231-247. 35. Swanson KS, Grieshop CM, Flickinger EA et al - Supplemental fructooligosaccharides and mannanoligosaccharides influence immune function, ileal and total tract nutrient digestibilities, microbial populations and concentrations of protein catabolites in the large bowel of dogs. J Nutr 2002; 132: 980-989.

51

Glossary
Amylase: enzyme necessary for the digestion of cereal starch. It is secreted mainly by the pancreas. Average Daily Gain (ADG): this is the weight gained daily by the puppy during growth, expressed in grams/day. Chondroitin: natural cartilage extract. Its administration slows down the production of enzymes that wear down cartilage. Digestibility: relationship between the quantity digested and the quantity ingested of a food or a nutrient. The higher the digestibility, the more the animals nutritional benefit. Dysplasia: hereditary elbow or hip complaint common in large- and giant-breed puppies. In susceptible animals, hyperlaxity of the joint causes the articular cartilage to change, which can have very debilitating consequences, including development of osteoarthritis and articular luxation. Electrolytes: electrically charged minerals in solution able to create ion flows through the cell membranes. Glucosamine: fundamental constituent of the cartilage structure. Encourages the regeneration of cartilage by stimulating the synthesis of its constituent elements. Immunity gap: period in the life of the puppy during which its immune defenses are low: it loses the antibodies transmitted by its mother and is not yet able to synthesize its own. Intestinal permeability: its level determines the passage of fluids and electrolytes through the intestinal mucosa. Excessive permeability makes it easy for the electrolytes to return to the intestinal lumen and create an osmotic gradient that may cause diarrhea. Lactic acid: organic acid produced by fermentation of carbohydrates (indigestible starch, fibers) by the bacteria in the large intestine. Too high an intestinal concentration creates an intake of water that causes wetter feces. Lutein: pigment of the family of carotenoids, abundant in the eye retina. Macrophage: cells of the immune system that attack viruses and bacteria in the body. They act by phagocytosis. Mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS): non-fermentable fibers, mannose polymers, found in their natural state in the cell walls of yeast. The MOS limit the development of pathogenic intestinal bacteria through competitive inhibition at bacterial attachment sites. The MOS also stimulate the immune response by increasing the number of circulating neutrophilic leukocyte and the quantity of intestinal IgA. Osteochondrosis: osteoarticular complaint in large-breed puppies due to the irregular development of growing cartilage. It is stimulated by an excess of calcium in the food. The addition of mineral complements for growth to a complete food for puppies is not allowed. Phagocytosis: absorption of a particle by a cell: important immune defence mechanism. Short chain fatty acids (SCFA): products of the fermentation of intestinal bacteria. The main SCFA are acetic acid (C2), propionic acid (C3) and butyric acid (C4). An increased concentration in the stools indicates heightened fermentative activity in the colon. Taurine: a sulfur amino acid. Main constituent of immune cells. It also possesses an anti-oxidative capacity. Vitamin C: vitamin that plays a role in the regeneration of vitamin E to prolong its anti-oxidative activity. Vitamin E: anti-oxidative vitamin that the body needs to trap free radicals and limit cell oxidation phenomena.

52

Key innovations in the history of Royal Canin

A history of commitment to developing its knowledge of and respect for the needs of small, medium, large and giant breeds.
1967: Launch of ROYAL CANIN by a veterinarian 1980: Launch of the first growth food for large breed puppies (AGR) 1988: Launch of the veterinary ranges 1990: Launch of the first diets to respond to the diversity of dog size (RCCI) 1997: Launch of the Size Nutrition program based on the dogs age, activity, and size 1999: Launch of: Starter, a unique kibble based weaning diet for dogs A sporting dog diet (Energy 4800) A veterinary diet for the nutritional management of osteoarthritis in dogs (Mobility Support JS 21) 2000: Launch of a diet for giant breed dogs (Giant Adult) 2003: Launch of: Foods just for small breed dogs (MINI Canine Health Nutrition) and Yorkshire Terriers (MINI Yorkshire Terrier 28) Foods just for large breed dogs (MAXI Canine Health Nutrition) and breed specific foods (MAXI Labrador Retriever 30 and MAXI German Shepherd 24) Eight formulas dedicated for Professional Canine Breeders (Canine PRO) 2004: Launch of: Foods for medium breed dogs (MEDIUM Canine Health Nutrition) including Bulldogs (MEDIUM Bulldog 24) Small breed specific foods (MINI Chihuahua 28 and MINI Poodle 30) Food for very young large breed puppies (MAXI Babydog 30) The first full line of therapeutic diets to help manage allergic skin disease including canine atopy (Limited Ingredient Diets, Hypoallergenic and Skin Support formulas) 2005: Launch of: Small breed specific foods (MINI Dachshund 28 and MINI Shih Tzu 24) Food for Boxers (MAXI Boxer 26) A specialized formula, HT42d, for the reproductive bitch The first veterinary diet for the nutritional management of osteoarthritis specifically for large breed dogs (Mobility Support JS 21 Large Breed) 2006: Launch of small breed foods (MINI Beauty 26, MINI Indoor Adult 21 and MINI Dental Hygiene 24) 2007: Launch of: MINI Toy Indoor Adult 25 MINI Indoor Puppy 27 MINI Miniature Schnauzer 25

53

Notes

54

Notes

55

USA
Royal Canin USA 500 Fountain Lakes Blvd., Suite 100 St. Charles, MO 63301 Phone: 1-800-592-6687 www.royalcanin.us www.feline-nutrition.com

Canada
Royal Canin Canada 44 Victoria Street, Suite 1500 Toronto, Ontario M5C 1Y2 Phone: 1-800-527-2673 www.royalcanin.ca

2007 Royal Canin USA, Inc. 7/07