I think I've had a problem recently with what I could surmise was Shadow's fur and hide getting dry. Licking and scratching. The only thing that has changed in his life was the food. When my finances got better and I found that Nutro was making the Large Breed Adult Lamb Meal and Rice, again (the formula I fed him until they had quit making it), I bought some and then that problem started. I think that, in spite of it being the same name as the old formula, it may not really be the old formula. They may have made some ingredient substitutions that changes how he gets the oils and linoleic acid he needs. No doubt, due to following the "bottom line" of Mars Food Co. I don't say that as a criticism or condemnation, just as a likely fact of life in the world of big business. So, I've been adding Missing Link, which has helped some, in spite of it being a dry powder.
That bag of food is almost gone and I will like choose a different brand or formula. He did well on it before but I think that was due to the percentage of lamb meal then, which is high in linoleic acid and the way the supps were mixed in before, as well as the quality and source of ingredients, including supps. I totally feel for you and understand the quandry. Been there, done that, got the t-shirt, didn't like the t-shirt, and want to give it back.
I also understand budgetary concerns as well or better than most around here. I wen't below flat broke this year. I mean I have about 200 dollars in overdrafts and penalties on my bank account. Having changed jobs, I'm coming up on a lean two weeks. But at least the new job pays better (salary) once the full checks start coming in.
The way you treat your dog in this life determines your place in heaven. - chukchi proverb
