Why feed large breed puppy food?
by Chick Newman, PhD, DVM 1
Newman Veterinary Medical Services®
There
is considerable controversy regarding the role of nutrition during the
developmental and growth periods of puppyhood, and its possible effects on the
musculoskeletal system in later life, especially in our larger (greater than 60
lb) breeds. Certain problems are believed to be at least modulated by over
supplementation of various nutrients, in the mistaken belief that rapid growth
is desirable. Included in the list of medical problems that are believed, in
part, attributable to over supplementation are: Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy,
Osteochondrosis, Hip Dysplasia.
I.
Fundamental
Considerations
The most significant problems appear to be related to the following, in order of
decreasing importance:
1. Calcium, 2. Energy, and 3. Protein.
1. Calcium: The ideal calcium content, on a dry weight basis is 1%-2%-.
AAFCO recommendation is 1%-2.5% which is generally acceptable; however, for
giant breeds, such as the Great Dane, the lower end of this range is especially
recommended. It is believed that calcium in excess of 3% on a dry weight basis
can predispose a puppy to significant skeletal abnormalities, such as those
mentioned above. Keep in mind also, that adding of vitamins, particularly
Vitamin D, will also increase absorption of dietary calcium (to possibly
excessive levels).
2. Energy: If too many calories are supplied and consumed on a daily
basis, too rapid growth results and the excess mass that must be supported on an
immature skeleton can result in microscopic damage to skeletal tissue, with
subsequent malformation and/or malarticulation of joints, degenerative changes
and potentially chronic pain. For most practical purposes, energy levels in food
can be extrapolated principally from dietary fat, which should be no less than
8% (AAFCO recommendation) to maximum of 12% on a dry weight basis.
3. Protein: As a percent of diet on a dry weight basis should range
between 15%-25% (AAFCO recommends minumum of 22%). The ideal protein
concentration is difficult to specify, since it is, in part, dependent upon
biological value of the protein source; (i.e. if of high biological value, then
less is needed {more is assimilated} and the lower end of the range is desired).
Protein markedly above the upper limit described here will be converted to
energy, rather then incorporated into protein tissue. This will, therefore, add
to the energy burden, and potentiate the problems associated with excess energy
consumption, as described above.
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II.
Feeding Method
Even though you have painstakingly found the diet that meets the recommended
calcium, energy (fat) and protein levels for your puppy, it is equally important
to control the amount of this diet which is consumed. Otherwise, the puppy may
overeat, and still obtain the nutritional excesses we wish to avoid. The
following general rules-of-thumb have been quite helpful in preventing
over consumption and promoting an ideal growth rate:
If your puppy is under 6months old, feed three times daily and allow him to
ingest as much as he wants but for a limited time (e.g.only ten minutes)!
If your puppy is between 6 months and maturity, feed only two times daily, and
allow him to ingest as much as he wants, but again, for only a limited time.
If your puppy continues to gain weight BUT appears to be "illthrifty (e.g.
a body condition score of 2/5) then he is probably growing at the desired rate.
When he reaches the age of physical maturity, you can modify the diet to obtain
appropriate weight gain and to improve the skin and body condition.
III.
Choosing a Commercial Diet
You should also know that the labels on many so-called commercial "puppy
diet" or "growth diet" packages can be misleading, as there are
just a few diets suitable for large breed puppies that are marketed as a puppy
food. In fact, many that are marketed for puppies contain excess levels of some
or all of the nutrients previously mentioned as of concern in promoting
skeletal/ joint problems. This includes the premium commercial diets. Very few
(as of this publication) offer ideal levels of protein, fat and calcium for our
large breeds! Recent interest in this issue has resulted in some
large-breed-specific commercial formulations, which should make this problem
less troubling in the near future. Alternatively, you can consider offering
certain "light" or "maintenance" diets; however, keep in
mind that not all "light" nor many "maintenance" diets are
suitable for growing large breed puppies. If you are not sure whether the diet
you have chosen is appropriate, it is recommended that you discuss your concerns
and questions with you veterinarian.
With this background in mind, the following is suggested for choosing your large
breed puppy's diet:
1. Give minimal credence to marketing claims which appear on the front of the
bag!
2. Look for the desired nutrient levels on the back of the bag
or
3. Look for a statement that the food is an AAFCO- feeding-trial approved diet
for puppy growth.
Disclaimer
1 The information contained herein represents the opinion and judgement of the
author, based upon his interpretation of revered veterinary journals, comments
and discussions with respected colleagues, anecdotal reports and comments from
and to knowledgeable veterinarians world-wide via the Veterinary Information
Network(VIN). This information is subject to extensive revision based upon the
availability of new and pertinent clinical data. The author wishes to thank in
particular Dr. Rebecca Remillard,
2 These illnesses may result from multiple factors, including inappropriate
nutrient levels, genetic predisposition and unkown environmental issues.
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