Diet Suggestions

Hi everyone,

We have prospects for a new puppy (found a breeder with a pregnant mom) and now we are waiting.....

I really really want to start our new dog off on the right paw, and would like any input on the very very best diet for a sheepdog. Does anybody out there make things at home, like brown rice, turkey, etc. Or does anybody recommend a high quality commercial dog food (like when you're too busy to prepare stuff at home).

Any and all input would be greatly appreciated!

Diane in Burbank
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That's the $25,000 question! In all seriousness, it's a question that gets asked a lot and there really is no definitive answer. Different dogs do better on different foods. The main things that you want to look for are in the top ingredients are meat and whole grains (like brown rice). Stay away from corn and wheat can sometimes trigger allergies.

There are a million threads on this if you do a search. Start here:
Search results for food and feeding

Good luck!
This is such a fun question!!! I love the response above: you need to feed what you feel most comfortable with. I know dogs that have excelled on Iams, done great on Flint River Ranch, etc.

My pup didn't do well with any dog food so we have put him on a completely raw diet. He gets hamburger and lamb and chicken and some pureed (sp) veggies and organs. Just to name a bit! He has done so well on it, but I know it isn't for everyone! :wink: If you're curious you can check out this link. I've found it very informative and pretty easy to follow: http://www.rawdogranch.com/

I would stay away from canned food for a while . . . :cry:
Your breeder and your vet will also have recommendations on what food to give.

At the very least, you'll need a small supply of whatever food the breeder will be feeding the puppies, then you can gradually switch your puppy over to whatever food you have chosen.

The first couple days in a new home are confusing and stressful for a puppy so having a sudden change in diet at the same time could mean tummy troubles too.
Wow - these are all excellent suggestions. I am very interested in preparing food for her, but I know there will be a lot of times where time is in issue, so I'd like to use a good commerical brand when things get hectic. We tried to get Abby to eat the raw food diet, but she was fussier than a cat, and wouldn't have any of it!

That is really good advice to slowly introduce the new food, and I will definitely start with what she is already used to.

She is due to be born the 2nd week of April, so we'll have a couple of months to educate ourselves. I've just heard so much about enhancing the life and lifespan by feeding home made food.

You all are great! I love this forum!

Diane
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