FOOD
we feed a mix of foods to see which are better utilized by each litter. We are constantly looking at new foods, new ingredients, and how the puppies react to the different foods.
***We have chosen to stay away from chicken based products as we are seeing an increase in allergies later on in life.
Here is an article to read more about chicken allergies in dogs Is My Dog Allergic to Chicken? | PetCareRx
If you want to do your own research on food this is what you need to remember:
Labradors need at least 26% protein and 18% fat from their diet. If you find a food that is less than 18% fat, a supplement should be added ie. salmon oil, cod liver oil, etc. The fat content is what reduces shedding and keeps the coat healthy.
Stay away from foods that are grain free. The lack of taurine from grain free foods is correlated to heart conditions.
So now what do we recommend: (you can click the link to be taken to the website to order the product)
Below is link to amazon as well as a link to BJs.
#1 https://amzn.to/3BVrX4B - Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Beef, Pea, & Brown Rice Recipe, 40 Pounds
After using this food, I notice that the puppies are having amazing digestion and bowel movements.
This is my first choice on food at the moment.
Average: $53.22
Can also be purchased in pet stores/supermarkets or online.
Link to BJS: Rachel Ray Nutrish Beef and Brown Rice Dry Dog Food - BJs Wholesale Club
I purchase at BJs for $58.99 for 50 lb bag, but usually get $4 off per bag.
#2 https://amzn.to/3YmI3yy - Victor Super Premium Dog Food – Select - Beef Meal & Brown Rice Formula – Gluten Free Beef Meal Dry Dog Food for All Normally Active Dogs of All Life Stages, 40 lbs
- Amazon ships bad of dog food overnight with amazon prime.
- $52.99 for 40 lb bag.
Have been mixing this food with food up above and dogs like both brands.
#2 https://amzn.to/3oscZQt - Victor Super Premium Dog Food – Select - Ocean Fish Formula – Gluten Free Dry Dog Food for All Normally Active Dogs of All Life Stages, 40lbs
average : $73.99
Subscription on amazon saves you over $3 per order.
This food is amazing. We see the labradors do great on this food. It is increasing in price though.
Cannot be bought in pet stores. Only online or at your local feed store ie. tractor supply, Roberts pet shop, Robbies feed store .
# 3 https://amzn.to/43gUFsM IAMS Advanced Health Skin & Coat Chicken and Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food, 36 lb. Bag Brown
Average: $61.98
We like the ingredients in this food as a third choice.
No-tip bowls are going to be your best friend!
URBUDDIES Stainless Steel Metal Dog Bowls
Supplements
There are certain supplements that we absolutely love and use daily.
#1 Probios Vet Plus
This probiotic is a must. Helps keep the dogs happy and healthy by boosting their immune system.
#2 Ok supplement number 2 - I have been implementing after a GSP breeder told me about it.
Depening on where you live there are issues with 1. fleas and ticks and 2. medication resistant hook worms.
Now to safe guard our babies, I have started adding Diatomaceous Earth FOOD GRADE to their meals. Diatomaceous Earth is a non toxic natural substance made up from crushed fossils of freshwater organisms and marine life. It is a low cost way to control parasites internally as well as externally. It does not poison insects or paralyze them like pharmaceuticals do. It works mechanically. When a parasite comes in contact with the particles it pierces the insects protective coating and they dehydrate and die.
It can eliminate roundworms, whipworms, pinworms, and hookworms in as little as 7 days of daily use.
Externally you can "dust" your pet by putting the powder in a sock and patting your dog. For fleas, also dust the bedding and carpeted areas.
It also serves as a detox solution ,digestive aid, and intestinal cleanser, as well as a source for minerals like magnesium, potassium, zinc, selenium, etc, and as a chemical free deodorizer.
Add powder to food and MUST add water to moisten.
DOSAGE: Small dogs and puppies: 1/2 tsp per day in food
Up to 50 lbs: 1 tsp per day in food
Over 50 lbs: 1 Tbsp per day in food
100 lbs or more: 2 Tbsp per day in food
HARRIS Diatomaceous Earth Food Grade, 4lb with Powder Duster Included in The Bag
Only buy the food grade
small 4 lb bag for owners with one dog
Ginesis Bio-D (4-Pound Pail) Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth
Bigger container for owners with multiple dogs.
#3 Joint Supplement
We came across this supplement that was created by vets and we highly recommend.
It contains 99+% Pure Glucosamine Hydrochloride and Hyaluronic Acid.
Glucosamine is essential for the production and repair of cartilage, joint, fluid, tendons and ligaments.
Hyaluronic Acid provides quick relief of joint pain and inflammation and protects joing cartilage.
Supreme Top Form Small Animal 1lb | Always Free Shipping on all orders over $100. (panamvetcorp.com)
USE CODE CHAMBRAY AT CHECK OUT TO RECEIVE A DISCOUNT.
COAT ISSUES/ SKIN ISSUES/ Excessive SHEDDING
This next supplement is for those that are having issues with their puppy/ dogs coat. This supplement is great for helping build a rich thick coat.
Platinum Performance® Canine PLUS
https://www.Platinumperformance.com/platinum-performance-canine-plus/CPLUG.html