[Sean]

Hi Chris, this site (https://labdoor.com/rankings/fish-oil) is pretty useful. They analyze supplements for accuracy and rank them.

[Jordan L]

Thanks for the great responses! He isn’t suffering, more something I know should not be bothering him. Especially since it seems to be getting worse, I know there has to be something triggering it I can at least try to prevent.

I do know he has an allergy to grass and other common contact allergens, as sometimes he breaks out into a mild rash on his tummy and chest when he has been rolling around. We give him a Zytrec and it goes away in an hour or two. We have also had a few emergencies with his paws swelling up like sausages because of what the vet thinks are ant bites between his paws. I don’t really think we have an issue with ants- we have treated the yards as best we can, but there is only so much we can do when he is outside. I originally thought the first one was a bee sting it was that bad and came on that quickly, but it has happened multiple times since then. He licks and licks until it becomes infected and he’s unable to walk on that foot.

The past year he has been a mess medically and we are taking him to the vet about every other month for urgent issues. I am at a loss on where to start, as even our vet just thinks it’s contact dermatitis!

I am switching his brand of dog food ASAP, looking at a limited-ingredient grain free kibble. i am also going to add a fish oil to his diet to help his oil production and hopefully reduce some of the dandruff and shedding. This is just a start, but hopefully we will see progress soon.

[Jordan L]

I know this topic has probably been worn down but I have become completely overwhelmed with my research and all the choices out there.

My almost 5 yr old boxer has recently started shedding a concerning amount and is itching all over. He has a bit of dandruff and he has constant ear infections and subsequent scabs from itching his ears so much. I can see spots where his fur is uneven and his skin is starting to show because it is so thin. When we took him to the vet, she recommended oatmeal bathes, fish oil, and an antibac./anti-itch spray for his raw spots.

He has been on the same food since he was a puppy, Science Diet Lite for Large Breeds. I know it isn’t the most amazing food out there, but he tends to have a sensitive tummy and until now he has shown no signs of needing to change. My immediate response at this point is to try something new with his food. We are on a pretty strict budget, so I hate to spend double the amount we are already paying for his food, but I do not want to skimp when it comes to his health.

Any suggestions on where we can start, brand wise? TIA!

[JeffreyT]

Check out Dr. Karen Becker’s articles on yeast. I do her povidine foot soak for itchy paws and it’s helped.
http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/05/03/eating-these-foods-can-make-your-dog-itch-like-crazy.aspx

The fresh and frozen raw are probably the healthiest and most cost effective but the bulk of my pups’ diet is a variety of freeze dried raw, with water added to rehydrate. They are Stella and Chewys, Primal, Orijen, and Stewarts Bison. Their favorites are Trudog, Only Natural Niblets and Vital Essentials…I soak these overnight.

For a quick meal I give the air dried raw from Real Meat Food Co or Ziwi Peak and rotate between brands and proteins.

Be prepared for a cleansing reaction, like loose stools, which could happen as you go to better foods. You may want to consider adding digestive enzymes and probioitics to help with potential digestive issues when changing…I use in most meals, it also supports the immune system and overall health.

Also consider having Perfect Form on hand from Honest Kitchen or canned pumpkin, and give during transition for stomach issues. But first check to see if it’s ok to give to yeasty dog, not sure.

Fish oil can help itchy skin and also good for heart, joints, brain, etc. Good brands for these supplements include Mercola Krill, Animal Essentials, Dr. Peter Tobias, Wholistic Pet Organics and Natures Farmacy.

Good luck!

[Naturella]

I also love feeding a variety of foods to my terrier mix Bruno. Since my husband and I have adopted him in 2013, he’s had, in no particular order of dry foods: Nutro Natural Choice Small Breed Puppy, Blue Buffalo Wilderness Puppy, Nutrisca Chicken & Chickpea, Dr. Tim’s Kinesis GF, Holistic Health Extension Original, Blue Allergix, and Lamb & Brown Rice, Earthborn Holisitic Coastal Catch, Primitive Naturals, and Great Plains Feast, Back to Basics Open Range, Wysong Nurture with Quail, Nulo Medal Series Lamb & Lentils, Castor & Pollux Ultramix Duck, Victor Salmon, and samples of Fromm, Victor, NutriSource, TOTW, Wysong, Orijen, Acana, Nature’s Variety Instinct (the Rabbit formula he was supposed to eat but it made him very sick, but other samples he did great with), Hi-Tek, Nature’s Logic, and many other foods I can’t recall ATM. Lined up we have Wellness CORE Ocean and Original, more Earthborn, Canidae Pure SEA, Castor & Pollux Organix GF, and right now he just got on Dogswell LiveFree Salmon.

For toppers we used The Honest Kitchen Embark, Force, Keen, and Love, and Big Dog Naturals Green Tripe (air-dried). I have used various canned foods too, like Weruva, Green Cow by Solid Gold, and Green Tripe from Petkind, and also some more dehydrated/air-dried like Sojo’s. Now I use some small Merrick dog cans and some cat food pouches and cans for some of the toppers along with coconut oil, yoghurt, raw egg, canned sardines, and a RMB for his Sunday dinner. I also almost always add extra water to the food when served with a topper so he eats “soup” most of the time. Sometimes I just give him plain kibble as part of a training routine or from a puzzle toy to stimulate his brain. He likes it just the same!

He gets regular treats (Fromm, Canidae, Yummy Chummies, and Think! Alligator and Crawfish Jerky, and also kibble as treats (a different brand and flavor of the main food he is on at the moment), He also has a few natural chews like cow and lamb ears, beef tracheas, bully sticks, pig snouts, fish skins, antlers, hooves, etc.

Sorry for the rant, lol, but yeah, rotations are awesome, and Bruno loves the daily variety, and I love how he looks and feels (shiny and soft). I used to take 10 days or so to transition from one food to the next at first, then about 7 days, then 3, then 0. Now he switches so quickly because he eats a constant variety of foods and treats.

And LM, I guess you can see the replies of a person, but it will be hard to follow an Editor’s Choice topic reply by reply from individual authors. And some topics are EC exclusive.

[DogFoodie]

I didn’t see that Karen mentioned shots, LM. Was that in another thread or something?

Karen, I would suggest adding the coconut oil, but would offer it with meals by mouth rather than topically.

Also, shouldn’t you be pointing out that you’re one of the owners of the company when you post, MaggiesDad? Each time I see one of your posts, the way it’s written appears as though you’re a consumer. That seems a little misleading (not to mention spamming).

I looked at the Allprovide product once, unfortunately, it has added fish oils and other ingredients to which my sensitive dog reacts.

[DogFoodie]

Have you ever tried a limited ingredient food, Karen? I’m not a fan of Blue Buffalo at all and guaranteed, your girl is eating chicken if she’s eating Blue Buffalo products. But, keep in mind, food sensitivities like your girl has can be the result of exposure to problem ingredients far beyond chicken and grains. For example, one of mine can’t have fish (including fish oil), flax, chickpeas, lentil, tomato, garlic, barley or millet. Right now, he’s eating Nature’s Variety Instinct Limited Ingredient Duck. He’s doing well, but has recently developed what appear to be seasonal allergies – which yours could be as well. I’m using some supplements (Quercetin with Bromelain and Papain), but something as simple as a foot rinse each time he comes back in from outside helps eliminate the pollen that he tracks into the house.

How old is your pup and how long has she been having sensitivities? How long has she been eating the food she’s eating currently.

Even if the vet thinks it’s not the food, it’s worth a try and easy enough to change.

[Amanda G]

Thank you guys for the response. Yes L M. We will be visiting our vet soon. My only issue with our vet is the reccomended prescription diet. It is not good food. Thank you so much Susan! I found the group and wow! Where have they been all my life! Lol I’m hoping this is the start of me figuring this out. We do feed sardines and salmon at least twice a week and I’m adding fish oil to his homemade food. Something just isn’t right. He’s always been so high energy and since I’ve started making his food he’s tired and again that dull coat. I also feel like he could use a few good pounds. Maybe I’m not feeding enough but everywhere I looked said for an active dog his size 3lbs of fresh food a day. I tip the scale a little over that. Thank you again for your help. I was really excited to find that group 🙂

[jella]

Dear LT, Champion did get back with me right away about the alfalfa percentage. It is a very small amount 3 %. So I agree with you about they are probably careful (hopefully) about cleaning it out if it has been sprayed with pesticides. They have been really helpful and answered all the emails. The KiwiPeak company hasn’t even bothered to answer a question I wrote days ago. So I am going to try the 6 fish formula that the company rep suggested to try first. It was a lot cheaper than the freeze dried and my dog probably eats like your dog. I will try to look see what they suggest for his weight. Just ordered it from Chewy.com. So thank you for copying everything for me and getting right back to me so fast. I hope they ship fast, he is getting used to these fried hamburgers and special foods given to him each night. LOL Oh the vet said he wasn’t allergic to virgin coconut oil so maybe I can supplement this with his dry food. At least 1 Tbl. spoon full for his hair to grow back. I read where Virgin Coconut oil kills viruses, bacteria, and fungus infections in humans I am assuming it works the same way for dogs.

[JeffreyT]

Dori..I am very sorry to hear about your son.
I would consider Standard Process as my maltese gets older..especially after seeing how well your beautiful maltese is doing at 16 years…inspirational really.

And Lazaro, I feed mostly commercial raw and give a whole food multi every other day and give joint support on alternate days. I rotate between Mercola, Dr. Peter Tobias, Nature’s Farmacy, Animal Essentials and Wholistic Pet Organics. All these companies focus on whole foods, use a lot of certified organic ingredients and limit gmo’s.

I also give enzymes/probioitcs with meals, fish oil and ubiquinol most days, and bladder support every other day for my maltese prone to stones.

Here is Dr. Karen Becker explaining the importance of Spirugreen…Mercola’s pet multi.
http://products.mercola.com/healthypets/spirugreen/

[Anonymous]

I add a GNC Mega multivitamin, because I lean toward homemade with a quality kibble as a base. I also add a fish oil capsule, as whatever oils are in the kibble tend to dissipate as soon as the bag is opened.

[DogFoodie]

My Golden has developed what I believe are seasonal allergies for the first time this spring. Our local Chicago weather-people tell us that pollen levels this spring are the highest in 20 years.

I’m getting ready to start my dog on Quecertin with Bromelain and Papain. I’m already using coconut oil and algae oil (the best I can do for Omegas since my guy can’t have fish oil). All help with seasonal allergies.

[JeffreyT]

Hi Jakes Mom, the current companies in my rotation I trust are Mercola, Animal Essentials, Dr. Peter Tobias, Wholistic Pet Organics and Nature’s Farmacy. Mercola, Animal Essentials and Wholistic Pet Organics do 3rd party testing. Dr. Peter Tobias offers certified organic products and sells other companies products that do 3rd party testing. And Nature’s Farmacy has a Guaranteed Analysis label. All these companies focus on whole food supplements, use a lot of certified organic ingredients and limit gmo’s.

Nature’s Farmacy was started years ago by serious show people. They have an all in one product that combines joint support, multi vitamin, omegas, digestive enzymes and probioitcs for those who want easy. I also love their Cornucopia powder blend of organic veggies and fruits….great stuff for anti-cancer prevention, and can be given as part of the ground veggies in homemade diets or added to any pet food to increase nutrition.

I keep up with the peer reviewed studies in Mercola and Dr. Karen Becker’s newsletters..so I believe the supplements I give help prevent disease and increase vitality and energy. I think two of the most important ones are digestive enzymes and probiotics, given in most meals. Every day they get Mercola’s Ubiquinol for heart disease prevention and healthy gums and also fish oil every day..rotating bottles between Mercola Krill, Nordic Naturals Pet, Animal Essentials capsules and New Chapter.

They get a multi vitamin/mineral every other day, and on alternate days, light joint support, rotating brands.

My 5 year old maltese gets bladder support every other day because she is prone to stones.

As they get older I will add more of Mercola’s products like eye support, mushrooms and liver/kidney support, and Animal Essentials herbs like Cardiovascular support,etc….rotating them probably. I also wouldn’t hesitate to use Standard Process, Thorne or Orthomolecular Specialtes to target specific issues as they age.

I recently learned about a cleanse recommended on Dr. Peter Tobias’ website using Livton Medi-Herb…he suggests twice a year for two months…makes sense to me. His site is awesome. I learned about it on DFA…another awesome place for info.

[DogFoodie]

My dog that is intolerant of fish has always turned up his nose at fish foods as well, even long before I confirmed his sensitivity. You’re better off adding delicate Omega 3 oils to your dog’s food just before serving. The fats in fish based kibbles oxidize and go rancid more quickly anyway.

[Ellen D]

Hi all –

I made 2 huge batches of dog food this weekend, and I wanted to consult with the experienced folk to be sure everything is balanced and I’m adding the right things.

First recipe:
-Meat mix – 50% chicken 50% beef. I bought whole chickens and cut them up. I ground the breasts without bones and then half of the wings, legs and necks bones and all, and I saved the backs and the rest of the wings and legs for RMBs which I feed 2-3 times a week. The beef was lean stew meat and some freezer burned steaks.
-Organ mix – Goat liver and kidneys. I couldn’t find any other organ meats aside from liver and kidney, so I’ll have to order some for the next batch.
-I did some maths and made sure I was using 10% bone, 5% liver, 5% kidney.
-Fruit/veg (makes up about 15-20% of the entire recipe) – banana, blueberry, pumpkin, carrots, zucchini, mango, and a handful of collard greens – all steamed and pureed.
-Herbs – turmeric, fennel, parsley, and mint.

The second recipe was exactly the same as the first except in place of the chicken and beef I used fish – whiting and mackeral with 2 cans of pink salmon with bones. I also added spinach to this one because I was making some for myself 🙂

Daily supplements – At breakfast, I mix in Dr. Harvey’s Formative Years supplement and a bit of coconut oil and at dinner I do the Grizzly salmon oil and Healthy Dogma Flee Flea Flee.

He also gets a can of sardines here and there and RMBs alternate between chicken backs, turkey necks when I can find them, goat chops sometimes. Just a couple times a week for chewing/teeth. I’d love to do more RMBs, but I don’t often have the time to give him completely undivided attention.

Am I missing anything?

[Anonymous]

I give the fish oil routinely, glucosamine, if I see any stiffness, maybe routinely if the dog is over 7, but it may be best to check with your vet, some of these supplements can have side effects and can interact with prescribed medication. I never tried coconut oil. If you think it helps and you can afford it, keep it up.

[DogFoodie]

Hi Susan,

It could be a reaction to an ingredient in the food she’s eating. Probiotics and reducing carbs are a good start. I’d do everyone I could to avoid the oral steroids, which in addition to masking symptoms, can cause problems of their own. I have a dog with both food and seasonal sensitivities – no true allergies, that’s entirely different. I’m getting ready to start my dog on quercetin with papain and bromelian. Quercetin is a natural antihistamine which works synergistically with the enzymes. Something else I wonder about with your dog is thyroid. Has he had blood work and a complete thyroid panel? Fish oil can also help calm the itch. My dog is sensitive to fish and fish oil, so unfortunately for me, that’s not an option.

Sorry for the sketchy post, I’m running out the door!

[Anonymous]

It depends on the specific problems of the individual dog. Remember supplements and food are not medication, so at best, it’s hit or miss. They don’t have to be regulated by the FDA

I like to add fish oil and glucosamine to my old guy’s water soaked kibble because he shows signs of arthritis and has dry skin, potassium citrate, because he has a history of bladder stones.

To get specific advice and dose recommendations, I would consult a homeopathic vet.
Otherwise, it’s just a guessing game, or see a veterinarian that specializes in geriatric issues, there may be prescription medication that can keep your seniors comfortable.

PS: I have never given milk thistle to my pets, I took it myself once years ago, I forget why…but I think it made me sick…

[jakes mom]

Could someone just speak generally about supplements, what they give their dog (or cats, I have both) and why? There’s so much info out there! If you’re not giving a medicine, supplement, etc for a specific problem ( and see an improvement) how do you know it’s helping and worth giving? Just believe the literature and hope it’s helping? Heartworm season is upon us, and I’ve been hearing about milk thistle after hw meds. I hear about supergreen capsules, coconut oil, fish oil, on and on. With no FDA oversight, how do I even know if it’s got what the company says it has and I’m not wasting money? I’d like to hear from people who regularly give their pets supplements, what kind and how much (per # of animal), and what companies you trust. Right now dog gets joint supplement and also RMBs and dog and cats all enjoy some coconut oil. They’re all seniors. What would you be giving them if you were me? Thanks in advance!

[Cathy M]

Thanks for all the info! I am going to read the info on the FB allergy page and definitely read about rotation diet. Harper Lee doesn’t seem bothered by the dandruff, she is not itchy. I think I will try the Aroma Paws!
After we get acclimated to the new food I will see if she needs the additional fish oil.

This is a very useful website. I’m glad my vet recommended it!

Thanks

[Anonymous]

I add the fish oil capsule because no matter how high quality the kibble, the fish oils start to dissipate the minute the bag is opened. That’s why I like capsules the best
.
He also told me that most kibble tends to contain storage dust mites (a common allergen) regardless of how well you store it, they get in during the processing.

Weekly baths (sometimes twice a week) with Malaseb shampoo (leave lather on for 10 minutes), were recommended and do help. Of course, this was all in conjunction with ASIT, which is not a medication.

[Anonymous]

I have been giving fish oil to my dogs for many years now, the only time I noticed an occasional loose stool was when I was using salmon oil and didn’t measure it properly, probably gave a little too much.
The dermatologist said my dog’s skin looks beautiful 🙂

[Anonymous]

“I believe she is drinking plenty. How do I know how much she needs”?

I thought you were asking about the fish oil. As long as you observe the dog going to the water dish occasionally, and there is some moisture in the food, it’s probably okay.
I have a dog that never went to the water dish and he developed bladder stones, so I add water to his food.
I add a little water to my other dogs meals now too, maybe a splash or 1/4 cup….just to be sure.
Of course, they may need more bathroom breaks, what goes in must come out.

[Susan]

Hi Cathy sounds like ur girl has food Sensitivitives/Intolerances. You write she always has lose stools, I wouldn’t be giving any fish oil at the moment not until you have her stomach & bowel working properly, fish oil is very hard to digest, you need to find what foods your girl is reacting too, Join this face Book group “Dog Allergy International Group” look in the Files, there’s limited ingredient foods & Hair & salvia testing kits, other wise you are just spinning your wheels trying to work out what she is re acting too…look up Jean Dodds on dog food sensitivities Vs dog food allergies all this info is in groups the files
https://www.facebook.com/groups/dogallergyinternationalgroup/

[Anonymous]

The most cost effective way is to just get the human fish oil capsules at the drugstore, at present I am using Sundown Naturals 1200mg, I put 1 capsule a day in their morning meal and they chew/gulp it down. They are small dogs.
If you want to be more careful, look into salmon oil or fish oil supplements specific for dogs from pet supply places and go by the directions on the jar.

The only side effects I know of are, fish breath or loose stools, I have not observed either with my guys.

[Cathy M]

LM-I have read things about fish oil supplements. I think I will try that first as it is the easiest. If that doesn’t help, on to the allergy dr! I believe she is drinking plenty. How do I know how much she needs?

Crazy4cats-She is still getting the Wilderness puppy while I am figuring out what to feed her next. I had not ever been told about rotation diet, so I am interested to read more.

[Anonymous]

Have you tried a fish oil supplement once a day? Might help with the dry skin. Is she drinking enough water? Maybe add a little to her kibble.
As far as the dog urine goes, that’s how it is, urine burns the grass.
It usually grows back, kind of. You can’t have a perfect yard if your dog voids on it 🙂
And I don’t trust those supplements that are supposed to save your lawn, chemical junk, imo

Check Wysong for food, my dog with food sensitivities does best on Nutrisca salmon and chickpea with a little lean meat or cooked chicken added.

[Lila S]

Thanks for the recommendation about fish oil, he does tend to be itchy. When he was younger we tried a couple different types of Blue Buffalo puppy formulas and that seemed to make him itchier and he would nibble at his legs, so I haven’t tried Blue Buffalo again.

[Anonymous]

If you decide to do allergy testing, it’s best to make an appointment with a specialist/dermatologist. I think your vet will agree, that will give you the most accurate results.
I am vegetarian too, I find stuff like chicken tenders, chicken breasts, sandwich steak in the reduced price section of my market. Cost effective, and it will keep in the fridg for a few days or you can freeze it.
I just chop it up a little, put it in a casserole dish add a little water and stick it in the oven at 350-400 for about 40 minutes to an hour. Or, just stir fry (medium heat) with a little water in a skillet. You can freeze individual portions.
But, don’t refreeze raw after it’s been thawed unless it’s cooked first.
Then I just add a tablespoon to their kibble mix and add a little water. I add a fish oil capsule too, good for itchy dogs.

[Kandi S]

I did a search about prenatal vitamins and if men can take one as a daily multivitamin or not. I was surprised to read what types of vitamins a male vs a female human should and shouldn’t take, the differences in their amounts as well as their bad side affects according to gender and the importance of where our vitamins, minerals, etc… are derived from according to our gender. Then it struck me what about a male dog vs a female dog or any pet and should they be given a different intake of vitamins according to their gender? In male humans for example; some levels of vitamins and minerals as well as where they are derived from can cause everything from a higher risk of getting prostrate cancer to heart disease. The same for females that can suffer from weak bones to fetal birth defects if they don’t get enough Calcium or Foliate Acid. I was just wondering if anyone has considered this when reading their pet food labels and if they purchase different foods according to the sexes of their dog’s and other pets? Below is just an example of one of the articles I read about that states when choosing Omega 3’s in a human male diet to make sure it’s derived from fish oil and not flax seed oil because it has been shown to increase the risk of prostate cancer in men. So, if you own a male dog vs a female dog you might want to consider these facts even though this articles facts are according to human diets. Thanks!

Increased Risk of Prostate Cancer:
While most prenatal vitamins include only vitamins and essential minerals, some include omega supplements as well. Omega 3 is derived from flax oil and has been shown to increase the risk of prostate cancer in men. Omega 3 derived from fish oil, on the other hand, has been shown to inhibit prostate cancer, so it is important to determine what type of Omega 3 (if any) is in prenatal vitamins before taking them.
Read more : http://www.ehow.com/about_5042316_prenatal-vitamins-effects-men.html

[Annette R]

Hello,
I had purchased Dinovite to give to my 3 y/o female American Bulldog in order to help her with her constant scratching and paw licking but after seeing a few reviews I am a little scared in giving this to her. I researched and noticed a common ingredient in the dinovite and in the lick o chops is Omega 3 Fish Oil.
I’m inclined at this time to just buy Omega 3 Fish Oil and feed her that in her food VS using the Divovite, my pup is sensitive and i’m scared I may cause more harm than good.
Do you guys agree?? Just a motherly gut instinct I have to not give her the Dinovite LOL.
Thanks for your comments in advance.
Annette

[E L]

Bravo sells different combinations. As C4D said above, the Bravo “Balance” on the label is a “complete and balanced” variety as recommended by the AAFCO. The blends are combination of ingredients for those who prefer to mix their own particulars. That is why that version says “supplemental.” They also have a veggie mix in the chub that some will mix with the meat blend. All their packaging looks similar so be sure to look for the AAFCO on the label if you’re looking for a complete diet.
As for your other question, No, we raw feeders do not always go only raw meat. Think of it this way, if you ate only hamburger everyday and nothing else, you would eventually have a deficiency in something. It is on those products that Bravo has the disclaimer “supplemental.” As with other species, human included, dogs do need vitamins and minerals. This is usually drawn from the fruits and vegetables you will see on the label. Or we add them as C4D had mentioned above. What we usually avoid are “grains.” In the very least, minimize them. I myself rotate the top raw (frozen) brands, supplement with a digestive enzyme, pro-biotic, and fish oils. Sometimes I make my own “stews” and throw them into the food processor (although I do not recommend that to the novice, my ingredients are carefully selected). If I have to supplement with a kibble, it would be Orijen. It all depends on how in depth you want to go.
I realize how nuts this may come off. A few years ago I would have thought the same. Then I read some horrific things about the pet food industry and went on a quest.
Good Luck.

[C4D]

Aj K, I used Derramax years ago because I had a lab mix and knew the issues with labs and Rimadyl. Even though I used small occaisonal doses and was careful, it did a number on his liver and ultimately his kidneys. The adequan is a very good choice and I realize the dog is senior, but Tramadol (more of a morphine like based pain killer but no damage to liver or kidneys) might be a better choice. We switched to that when the kidney failure set it. Fish oil supplements would be helpful and Dori offered some supplement suggestions that could be useful. Good luck with your baby!

[Ellen D]

I think I have decided what I would like to do in terms of feeding my puppy. Background: he’s about 25 lbs, labradoodle, 14 weeks, should be around 65 lbs full grown. He is a picky and light eater, so I’ve been trying to do 4 meals per day but he just isn’t that interested in food so now it’s 3 meals.

This is what I’d like to do in my perfect world. Can anyone tell me if this would work or help tweak it?

–AM meal – either homemade or pre-made raw. I have a trusted recipe for homemade when I have the time to make some. Pre-made would either be Darwin’s or Allprovide, depending on which he prefers.
–Lunch – this is where it gets trick. He goes to day care 3 days per week, and they will only feed kibble. They will not mix anything with water, open cans, etc. Has to be non-perishable something. And if he doesn’t eat lunch, he will sometimes vomit, not to mention he is already bordering on underweight. So he needs something. The other 2 days my sister in law serves as our dog walker and can feed him anything I ask her.
–PM meal – I would like this to typically be RMBs, such as chicken backs/necks/wings to begin with and progressing from there. He already gets a raw chicken wing a couple times a week and loves it.

In order to figure out portions, would I just take each meal separately and divide it in 1/3? So give 1/3 of what would be a total day’s worth of food of each the pre-made/homemade, kibble, and RMBs? I would add his supplemental items either at breakfast or dinner – organ meats, probiotics, and sardines/fish oil/yogurt, etc.

I have looked into things like a “better” kibble – ziwipeak was the only thing I could find that seemed to fit the bill. However, their maximum calcium level in their “kibble” is like 2% which is way too high for a largeish breed puppy. Do you think I could get away with giving this at lunch and then having dinner on those days be meat without bones? Does it balance out like that, or is the calcium ratio a per meal type of deal?

[DogFoodie]

Starting them on the Blue Buffalo (while I would personally never use Blue Buffalo products) actually helped to give you more information. What you need to do is compare the ingredients in all of the foods they’ve eaten and reacted to see what common ingredient they might have. Through trial and error, and many, many different foods, I’ve determined that my dog reacts to all fish (including fish oil), chickpeas, lentils, flax, probably garlic and likely tomato. Keep in mind that what might be a problem for one dog might not be the problem for the other and dogs that have food intolerances frequently have more than one. Randomly choosing a brand’s food labelled ” hypoallergenic,” will do nothing to help your dog if he’s intolerant of the ingredients in it.

I would look for a truly limited ingredient food with a meat protein and a starch that your dogs haven’t eaten before and see how they do on that for a while. Nature’s Variety Instinct LID is one of the foods I’ve found that my dog does very well on. Keep in mind anything you offer them could be a problem; ie: treats and edible chews.

[Tim J]

Hi everyone,
My question is about fish in homemade food. I know fish oils are really good for dogs but my question is, what all of the fish can you use? I know you gut them but can you use the head, tail, scales?
I grind all my food down to mush and make my mixture so can I just throw the gutted fish in the grinder or do I need to take more out of it?

Thank you.

[Anonymous]

I use the human kind, or the pet kind when I find a good deal, omega-3 1000mg-1500mg?.
I have been taking krill oil every day myself, 500mg or 1000mg/depends on the brand….anyway I have been thinking about giving my dogs 1 tab a day instead of the other stuff. I have heard good things.
It is supposed to help with a multitude of things, including dry skin, pruritis. I think it helps my dog with allergies.
Two meals a day is fine. Always have fresh water available. I add water because my old guy was not drinking enough and developed bladder stones. I load him up with water and the stones have not come back. But, you are right, I have to take him out for bathroom breaks every 2 hours.

PS: She’s a beauty! Doesn’t look her age, at all.
At present my dogs are all on Sundown Naturals fish oil 1200mg that I picked up at the drugstore on sale.

[Tal R]

Thanks LM

Adding water to the food sounds interesting, I’ll try that… can’t give her more than 2 meals a day though because I live alone and work during the day… 🙁 she seems to be ok with it for now though.

Regarding the fish oil – what exactly should I look for? Omega-3?

• This reply was modified 10 years, 8 months ago by Tal R.

[Anonymous]

How about adding some fish oil once a day? My 14 almost 15 yr old peke has shown improvement on Wysong Senior, he even lost a couple of pounds (gradually over a few months) He gets a little chicken or meat mixed in too, I feed him 4 small meals a day and soak his kibble, I also add water to his meals (hx of bladder stones)

PS: Nutrisca salmon and chickpea is potato and grain free, my other dogs like this and I was going to put my old guy on it, but he is doing so well on the Wysong, I think I’ll keep him on it.
I don’t analyze the ingredients and information on the packages, because I figure just like with people food, they lie, use different names for similar ingredients. I do pay attention to the reputation of the company and reviews and what veterinarians have to say, and of course how well my dogs do on the food.

[Anonymous]

@C4D, I agree with your comments, the homeopathic vet does address early spay/neuter in another blog, but as you know, it is complicated.
My cairn was a pet shop rescue, neutered at the age of 10 weeks due to a inguinal hernia, almost a year old and he was stiff, hind leg weakness….in fact the vet ruled out myasthenia gravis.
I took him home and put him on fish oil and glucosamine, walk him for at least an hour a day. He is 2 years old now and his gait is normal.
I avoid vaccinations for this dog and keep pesticides to a minimum.

[C4D]

Interesting article L M. Having 2 dogs with ACL/Meniscus tears in both knees, I’ve done a ton of research on this for many years. I do agree with most of the article, but find they’ve missed what seems to be a big problem that is only now becoming mainstream knowledge. Early spay/neuter is a HUGE reason for this. Here’s a UCDavis link:
http://news.ucdavis.edu/search/news_detail.lasso?id=10498

There are many more, but this just gives you some insight. My first early neuter boy was very young, healthy and athletic, but was an adopted dog and was pediatric neutered @ 8 weeks. My chocolate was rescued @ about 8 months and was already spayed. We found out when the vets (not my normal one) opened her up to spay. He did have surgery (fishing line) and it was successful, but he slowly became forever stiff as we were not as familiar with supplements and therapy back then. Our chocolate went through rehab therapy prior to surgery per my vets recommendation and did so well, she did not require surgery. We have kept her on fish oil and glucosamine supplements for over 5 years and kept her on the slim side. While she has diagnosed arthritis in both knees, she is still very active (walks up to 2 miles almost daily) and we continually do strength exercises on her. She is 10 and with the exception of a sloppy sit (which she’s always had since we found her) you would not be able to tell.
So, I really feel that the most important part of recovery is therapy along with continual supplementation of fish oil and glucosamin/chondroitin. I use human supplements.

[mswaynay]

Hey guys, I have been watching/stalking this forum for awhile and it has helped me a lot transitioning my dogs to a full raw diet. One of my dogs completely ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament and is in TPLO surgery right now, he should be coming home tomorrow, fingers crossed!

My dogs are fed half commercial raw grinds/nuggets, mainly Northwest Naturals and Columbia River Naturals, switching between meats such as lamb, beef, quail. The other half of their diet RMB that I find good deals on at the grocery store or local farmers (mainly chicken and turkey). We live in a small house so sadly don’t have room for a massive freezer yet! As far as supplements, they are already being given fish oil, green lipped mussel and K9 Level 5000. They also get sardines and local duck eggs several times a week. Thankfully he will not be put on antibiotics so thats one less thing to worry about. I did buy a exercise pen for him to be in for the next several weeks and was thinking for some of his meals I could use a Kong stuffed with grinds, frozen it would provide a pretty stimulating meal.

So any advice on what supplements, types of raw food may help his recovery, tips to keep him entertained, etc would be much appreciated! I’m sitting at home with all my other animals bored our of our minds waiting to hear from the vet!!

[Patty S]

I’m wondering if you live in an area where your dog has to be on Frontline, Advantage etc.
for fleas. When my Lab/Chow mix was about 2 years old (living in Florida) she started
scratching & biting her hind end till most of the hair was missing. Turns out she was allergic to flea bites.
She was on a preventative but they still get bitten though the fleas die. First Vet
prescribed similar to yours. Although I did not use the shampoo as it said I had to wear
gloves and to wash it off immediately if there was any contact with my skin. So why would
I put that on my dog? Second Vet, more on the holistic side, prescribed daily Omega-3
Fish oil and the problem stopped in a week or so. My dog is now 12 and has never had
this issue again.

[C4D]

I hope everything works out well for your senior girl. It’s always tough when they get to the geriatric stage. We had a 15 year old Husky mix that started urinating at night. Have you thought of putting a doggie diaper on her just to keep her dry and clean? Also I think you mentioned that she had arthritis. Have you tried adding just a bit of fish oil to her diet or some of the commercially available arthritis dog meds like cosequin? Adequin is a vet prescribed injection that you can be taught to use by the vet. There is always turmeric (my own preference) if you want to try a more natural approach. Easing the arthritis pain has helped my older dogs and while it might not help with the incontinence it could make her more comfortable. The only thing I never recommed are any of the NSAIDS. We used them in very small and occaisional doses and ended up with liver issues and quite possibly the kidney failure that occurred. Good Luck with your girl!

[Susan]

Hi Keith, that appetite stimulant is called Periactin a vet has to prescribe it, so if you do see a vet, you can ask about Periactin if the vet can’t find anything wrong but normally at that young age dogs love food, some may be fussy but they normally do eat home cook foods.. open a can of tuna or salmon in spring water, drain the water & does she eat boiled potatoes or sweet potatoes, mash some thru the fish but make out its for you & ask her do you want some….even scrambled eggs, dogs love scrambled eggs. How is she if you share your food?? some dogs want what you’re eating & look that their food bowls & think, what’s this crap, I want what you’re eating lol

[Sam Koch]

Makes sense. The licking started not too long ago too. I’ve been thinking about fish oil not just for Honey, but for my Chis at home with my parents. Thanks for the suggestions! I really appreciate it.

[Anonymous]

And, the allergies may be seasonal. The specialist I saw said he didn’t recommend skin testing unless the symptoms had been going on for 4 seasons without any significant periods of relief. Despite diet changes, etc.
Bathing once or twice a week with Malaseb helps my dog, daily fish oil supplements are good for dry itchy skin too.

[Anonymous]

Some dogs shed a lot, you could try a daily fish oil supplement…in case the shedding is related to dry skin.

She may have environmental allergies, if so, and it is causing her discomfort for 4 seasons, I would consider getting her tested. http://www.allergydogcentral.com/2011/06/30/dog-allergy-testing-and-allergy-shots/#comment-1283

Have you considered a home made diet? You could still use kibble as a base
http://www.homeovet.net/dynamic/php/downloads/dog-c8470f2c75dbe4b683205c3919ee2310/dog_diet_complete.pdf

Is she getting enough exercise? A 20 minute brisk walk 2 or 3 times a day will aid with weight loss.

[constant_lurker]

Hi all,
I’ve hit kind of a roadblock and I’m hoping someone here may have a suggestion.
My dog has a mix of environmental allergies and food sensitivities (or possible sensitivities I’m still trying to figure out). Since the summer, I’ve fed her a combination of a raw diet and The Honest Kitchen foods. Her allergies have improved greatly and I’ve been able to figure out some of the meats that set her off. Chicken (and chicken eggs) and beef are out, and unfortunately, so is fish and fish oils.
I’ve been trying to add in variety and am making headway. But I want to find a good source of useable omega 3s for her. She does very well with rabbit, which has a decent omega 3 to omega 6 ratio. We’re still iffy on lamb, though lamb heart has a decent omega3:omega 6 profile from what I can tell.
Are there other meats I can/should look at? I know (or think I know) that flax oil has lots of omega 3s, but that it doesn’t convert into the important kinds well. Are there other oils worth looking at?
Anyone have a dog with fish sensitivities who’s had good luck with krill oil?

Thanks for taking the time to read through this, and for any suggestions.

[Lori]

You could try Fromm Gold Weight Management. $48.76 for a 33-pound bag from Chewy’s.
http://www.chewy.com/dog/fromm-gold-weight-management-dry-dog/dp/41590

Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein 25% MIN
Crude Fat 10% MIN
Crude Fiber 7% MAX
Moisture 10% MAX
Omega 3 Fatty Acids 0.4% MIN
Omega 6 Fatty Acids 2.4% MIN

Caloric Content

3,484kcal/kg
1,584 kcal/lb
341 kcal/cup

Ingredients:
Turkey Liver, Chicken Meal, Pearled Barley, Oatmeal, Dried Tomato Pomace, Duck, Menhaden Fish Meal, Brown Rice, White Rice, Millet, Chicken, Flaxseed, Pea Fiber, Potatoes, Dried Whole Egg, Salmon Oil, Chicken Fat, Lamb, Cheese, Brewers Dried Yeast, Alfalfa Meal, Carrots, Lettuce, Celery, Chicken Cartilage, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Taurine, Chicory Root Extract, Calcium Sulfate, Yucca Schidigera Extract, L-Carnitine, DL-Methionine, L-Tryptophan, Sodium Selenite, Sorbic Acid (Preservative), Vitamins, Minerals, Probiotics.

• This reply was modified 10 years, 8 months ago by Lori.