Originally Posted by yournamehere

Just an update on food here. During our visit last week to the dermatological vet, he said our dog's hair is just "his genetics." But he did notice some other areas that showed allergies. He said that even with his specialized practice, it's difficult to distinguish between environmental and food allergies. He suggested I be a bit more active in my dog-bathing, because pollens and other allergens can work their way into a dog's skin.

I mentioned what we were feeding him, and gave him a copy of the ingredients from the bag (although he's familiar with the Canidae brand). He said that most skin and hair problems in young dogs are caused by inflammation and a lack of Omega 3 oils. He personally recommends Natural Balance Fish and (sweet) Potato. Unfortunately, I've been unemployed for a year and a half; the food costs $50 for a 28 lb. bag. So we agreed to keep him on his regular food ($45 for 35 lb) and supplement his diet with Fish Oil capsules (I'm sharing mine with him - I take them, too). Once I start getting a paycheck, we'll switch him and his sister over to Natural Balance. Or, Canidae makes a Salmon and Sweet Potato food, too, at about the same price as NB.

Because of this thread, I brought up Blue Buffalo brand food, and although he agrees the majority (i.e. the first few ingredients listed) are healthy, in his opinion, there are too many fillers in that brand, and he doesn't recommend it. Don't argue with me - I'm just the messenger.

Just for you over-40 trivia buffs - Natural Balance is owned by none other than Eight Is Enough's Dick Van Patten.