When we got our dog she was 10 weeks old and the breeder told us what food they were feeding her and that it was best if we kept to the same as a sudden change in diet can cause sickness. The first thing we did was to take her to the vet to be checked out. As it happened the vet recommended the same food that the breeder had been giving her so we were happy to carry on using it.
If you have recently got a puppy or dog or you feel that the diet for your dog isn't right the first place to go is the vet. There are so many varieties available and each one seems to provide the best for your dog - according to the suppliers anyway.
Your vet has no hidden agenda they want whats best for your dog. Isn't it lovely that vets become vets because they love animals - shame the same can't be said for our doctors! Your vet will want to discover your dogs perfect diet.
Most vets recommend a dry food and there is good reason for this. (see my post). Having dry food as your dogs main diet will help provide good dental care for your dog.
Did you know that treats can be good for your dog and some treats are specifically better for certain breeds? I didn't know that.
Since each dog is different your vet needs your input on what best to advise. Your dogs lifestyle will affect whats best. How much exercise they get or whether they are a working dog is important for your vet to know.
Some breeds are known to be prone to putting on weight - hmm I wonder if my greedy Labrador is one of those! Also after being neutered or spayed a pet is more likely to put on weight.
Therefore its possible that your vet could recommend smaller portions than they suggest on the packet of your dogs food. Older dogs can often have trouble chewing and so need a special diet.
Supplements
I would never give my dog supplements without first asking my vet.
I'm sure most of us have heard of the benefits of Glucosamine for healthy joints but even this I would first check with the vet.
Remember that you need to think about your dogs diet every now and then to make sure it is right. No dog eats the same food through out its life. Their needs change. Our dog was 8 last year and officially is considered a senior (shame she is going grey too!) and so she now needs a different diet geared towards an older dogs nutritional requirements.
If in doubt speak to your vet and make sure you know what to look out for that might indicate a change of diet is needed.
Weight gain
Dull coat
Teeth problems
Going off food
Sickness
These could all indicate that all that is needed is a change of diet.