AboutLabman Expertise What kind of food is best, dogs that won't eat, dogs that eat too fast, judging your dogs weight, preventing joint problems in large breeds, feeding puppies, supplements, avoiding health problems, healthy skin and coat, etc.
Experience Much of what I know about dog diets comes from my years of experience and training with dog guides and other service dogs. I can share their proven methods with you. They can't afford anything but the best to give a dog the same long, active life you want for your pet.
They breed most of their dogs, and have pedigrees, X-rays, other
medical records, and complete life histories on thousands of dogs. Their staff veterinarians are in touch with each other, top nutritionists, academic researchers, etc. They have investigated and tested many different diets. Nobody knows more about producing and maintaining healthy dogs, has more incentive to do so, and to share what they know with those such as me caring for the dogs. Unlike many others giving diet advice, they aren't selling anything. They are giving away dogs after very expensive training. It costs them the price of a new car to replace ones no longer able to work. They don't skimp on food.
I have also done extensive reading in this area.
Education/Credentials My degree in chemistry allows me to understand how real research is done and evaluate the proof behind diet claims. I am not taken in by the junk science behind many diets.
Question My 18 month old german shepherd has been on royal canin (as recommended by the breeder) and has done very well. I also supplement this with a few ounces of raw turkey or chicken every day. I have recently alternated with blue buffalo whose protein content is 42% as compared to 26% for royal canin. Both are expensive. Is it worth it and is this too much protein? Her stools are fine with both. Thank you.
Answer I have never seen any evidence that premium foods are any better for dogs. When I have asked for proof of it on other sites, many times the answer I get suggests a lack of critical thinking skills. Those advocating them lose credibility with me when I catch them in clever half truths and distortions. If they had a strong case, they shouldn't need to be deceptive. I am afraid much of what you find on the net is posted by small, part time reps that distribute the premium brands.
I do know the service dog schools have looked at different diets and settled on common brands. Even their breeding stock eats Pro Plan, Iams, and such. They have far more data to base decisions on than anybody, maybe even the large manufacturers.
The excess protein in the higher formulations is burned off as energy. that does put somewhat of a greater burden on the kidneys, but shouldn't hurt a healthy dog.
