Dog Community

Puppy Food

Posted : 2/22/2008 11:10:55 AM

So we have this new puppy. she is a shelter dog and is recovering from a bout of something nasty that was very much like parvo but turns out probably wasn't.

I'm starting to think about introducing a balanced diet again (she's been on pretty much just pureed meat with cal supplement).

Here's the problem - there is a lot of debate about what she is, how old, and how big she's going to be.

The shelter: Terveren mix, 5 months old

Vet: Mix, something medium to small, 7 to 9 months old

Leonberger people (local rescuer representatives and long time responsible show breeders): 5 mos, 90% sure purebred

That's a big variation. I'll feed her some raw eventually, but her tummy can't handle it right now. Opinions on what kind of kibble to look for?

Edit: I forgot I was going to add pictures:

Gizmo83036

Posted : 2/22/2008 11:23:19 AM

I would vote for a high-quality, simple ingredient, medium protein, lower calcium all life stages food like Healthwise Chicken & Oatmeal Adult. I think that would cover all your bases.

huskymom

Posted : 2/22/2008 11:27:39 AM

My vote would be for an all life stages food too.

brookcove

Posted : 2/22/2008 12:20:45 PM

I forgot to mention the other factor - what I can get locally. By driving 45 min to a local feed store, I have access to:

Eagle Pack
Evolve
Nature's Variety (kibble and canned only)
Wellness (all varieties, including Core)
Plus the usual feed store suspects: Proplan, Nutro, etc

I can also get about anything from K9Cuisine of course, but I'd prefer to support this local guy who is doing something terrific in stocking these holistic brands.

Thanks!

TAOofGoldyShep

Posted : 2/22/2008 4:51:55 PM

Out of your choices, I might go with Eagle Pack Holistic Select.

I like Wellness but it might be too rich for her belly at the moment. I feel the same way about Evolve - possibly too rich. I don't know much about Nature's Variety.

Just want to add that your puppy is adorable and looks a lot like our imported gsd did when she was little, except she wasn't round and fluffy...but she was long-haired, golden-colored with a black face! Many good luck wishes with her.

jennie_c_d

Posted : 2/22/2008 4:55:00 PM

I'd probably go with Eagle lg/giant puppy, just to be safe. If responsible Leo breeders and rescue reps think she's a Leo, there's a good chance she's going to be a big girl. I've heard lots of good stuff about their puppy formula.