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by OGBS on 18 August 2009 - 21:08
Nan GSD,
You should read up more on the topic of protein and how it is metabolized by dogs and cats, or any other predator for that matter. Protein derived from animal sources is what dogs and cats thrive on. It is essential for their diet. I would be more worried about not getting enough protein from the proper sources (as in getting it from grains).
A good web site to read about dog nutrition is:
www.dogfoodproject.com
You need to watch out using the lower protein pet foods. Many of them contain way too much grain and that grain is a part of the overall protein content of the food. You are getting a food that has very little animal protein. Grains (carbs) are stored in a dog's, or cat's body as fat. A dog being overweight, especially as a pup, will lead to many more health problems, both short and long term.
If you aren't going to feed raw, or cook for your dog, I would look for a food that you will want to use for the dog as an adult and calculate the calcium/phosphorus ratio to see if it appropriate for a large breed pup. If it isn't I would use their large breed puppy formula if they have one, or, find a pet food manufacturer of equal quality that makes one.
Veterinarians (most, not all) know very little about pet nutrition and regularly tell their clients with overweight pets that they look great. Their version of great = more business down the road.
The person(s) who have mentioned about calcium/phosphorus ratios are right on when it comes to raising pups, especially large breed pups.
You should read up more on the topic of protein and how it is metabolized by dogs and cats, or any other predator for that matter. Protein derived from animal sources is what dogs and cats thrive on. It is essential for their diet. I would be more worried about not getting enough protein from the proper sources (as in getting it from grains).
A good web site to read about dog nutrition is:
www.dogfoodproject.com
You need to watch out using the lower protein pet foods. Many of them contain way too much grain and that grain is a part of the overall protein content of the food. You are getting a food that has very little animal protein. Grains (carbs) are stored in a dog's, or cat's body as fat. A dog being overweight, especially as a pup, will lead to many more health problems, both short and long term.
If you aren't going to feed raw, or cook for your dog, I would look for a food that you will want to use for the dog as an adult and calculate the calcium/phosphorus ratio to see if it appropriate for a large breed pup. If it isn't I would use their large breed puppy formula if they have one, or, find a pet food manufacturer of equal quality that makes one.
Veterinarians (most, not all) know very little about pet nutrition and regularly tell their clients with overweight pets that they look great. Their version of great = more business down the road.
The person(s) who have mentioned about calcium/phosphorus ratios are right on when it comes to raising pups, especially large breed pups.
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