I love my dog. I’m going to say that just before I explain how she’s the scourge of my existence here lately.
She’s getting older, as we all are, and I’ve decided to switch her food to something a little healthier. Actually, a friend got me thinking about it. He said he switched his dog’s food to something all natural and he stopped itching as much. He added that my dog’s food might be causing her allergies and specifically, she bites her paws. 
I’ve always given my dogs Pedigree. She’s currently eating the Adult Compete Nutrition Roasted Chicken, Rice and Vegetables formula. Don’t know if I should endorse a specific dog food. Hopefully, I won’t get the same backlash as I would endorsing a specific political candidate. I’ve always had good results with that brand. It’s not the cheapest available but it’s not the most expensive. Plus, I’ve never had it upset her stomach.
Still, if something could help her allergies, I’ve got to try it. Right? I decided to make the switch. So, there I am looking through the most expensive dog food I’ve ever considered buying. Good grief! Is some of it gold plated? She’s a 75-pound dog. A $20 bag of 6 pounds won’t last long.
After looking at the ingredients and examining prices, I decided to go with Rachael Ray Nutrish super premium food for dogs, the real chicken and veggies recipe. I felt that was similar and hopefully easier for the gradual changeover.
Sadly, Rachael thinks highly of her dog food. It’s about $30 for a 28-pound bag. Pedigree was about $28 for a 50-pound bag. Those numbers might vary a little but they are close enough.
If you’re doing the math, and trust me I did, I’m going to be paying just as much for half the dog food. Or, if you prefer, twice as much for the same amount of food. Either way. At that moment, I knew I would have to start portioning out her food more accurately. She can’t be fat and happy on those prices. She’ll have to be fit and happy, if you get my meaning.
Here’s where it gets a bit confusing. The back of the bag says dogs that are 50-100 pounds should be getting 3.5 cups to 6 cups a day. She’s about 75 pounds but she should be closer to 60, according to the vet. I selected four cups a day – two in the morning and two in the evening using a measuring cup I also purchased. I’ll be watching to see how that affects her weight.
I’m in the middle of this changeover. She’s on one-third Rachael Ray and two-thirds Pedigree. The next step will be half and half. Then, if she suffers no ill effects, 100 percent Rachael Ray.
I can report that she loves the taste of this new blend, and there have been no negative side effects to her digestive system. That’s a good sign.
Standard reporter Lisa Hobbs can be reached at 473-2191.