IAMS MY
Why Large-Breed Puppy Formulas Are Different
Why Large-Breed Puppy Formulas Are Different

adp_description_block53
Why Large-Breed Puppy Formulas Are Different

  • Share

If you’ve got a big love for big dogs, IAMS™ has a large-breed puppy formula specially made for their nutritional needs.

 

 

Nutritional Objectives

Many large-breed puppies have a tendency to grow very quickly. Unfortunately, if this tendency is encouraged by overfeeding, developmental bone problems can occur. To avoid these problems, careful feeding management is necessary. This should include

  • Consideration of optimal protein quantity and quality
  • Restriction of the energy-containing fat
  • Careful control of the calcium and phosphorus levels

 

Our specially formulated large-breed puppy formulas make feeding management easier because they are designed for fast-growing, large-breed puppies (those with an expected adult weight of more than 50 pounds).

 

 

Protein in Puppy Food

A protein level approximating 26% in these formulas promotes healthy body condition and balances the protein with the reduced number of calories in the food. Research has shown that

  • Dietary protein levels from 15 to 32% have no adverse effect on skeletal development.1
  • Body condition decreases as protein gets too low.

 

The protein in our large-breed puppy formulas supports normal skeletal and muscular growth.

 

 

Calories and Fat in Puppy Food

Fat contributes more than twice as many calories in a diet as proteins or carbohydrates do. As the fat level increases, the energy content of the diet also increases, making feeding management more difficult for large-breed puppies. Several studies have shown increases in developmental bone problems when a diet was overfed.2, 3
 

By reducing the fat content of large-breed puppy formulas to about 14%, the metabolizable energy (ME) of the diets can be kept to a low level of about 1,800 kilocalories per pound.

 

 

Calcium and Phosphorus in Puppy Food

Fat contributes more than twice as many calories in a diet as proteins or carbohydrates

 

 

Comparing with Our Other Puppy Foods

Our large-breed puppy formulas, such as IAMS ProActive Health™ Smart Puppy Large Breed, are made specifically for growing puppies with expected adult weights of 50 pounds or more. These puppy foods are unique because they are formulated with:

  • Less fat for fewer calories to optimally reduce growth rate of large-breed puppies and help safeguard against overconsumption of energy
  • A lower level of protein to ensure a proper balance of protein with energy content

 

Reduced calcium and phosphorus levels with a normal calcium-to-phosphorus ratio to promote proper bone development in rapidly growing large breed puppies.
 

1 Nap, et al. Growth and skeletal development in Great Dane pups fed different levels of protein intake. J Nutr 1991; 121:S107-S113.
 

2 Hedhammer, et al. Over nutrition and skeletal disease: an experimental study in growing Great Dane dogs. Cornell Vet 1974; 64:1-159.
 

3 Lavelle. The effect of overfeeding of a balanced complete commercial diet to a group of growing Great Danes. In: Nutrition of the dog and cat. Burger and Rivers (eds). Cambridge Univ Press, 1989:303-316.
 

4 Hazewinkel, et al. Influences of chronic calcium excess on the skeletal development of growing Great Danes, J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 1985; 21:377-391.
 

5 Goedegebuure, Hazewinkel. Morphological findings in young dogs chronically fed a diet containing excess calcium. Vet Pathol 1986; 23:594-605.
 

6 Hazewinkel, et al. Calcium metabolism in Great Dane dogs fed diets with various calcium and phosphorus levels. J Nutr 1991; 121:S99-S106.

  • Signs and Symptoms of Upset Stomach in Dogs
    Signs and Symptoms of Upset Stomach in Dogs
    adp_description_block189
    Signs and Symptoms of Upset Stomach in Dogs

    • Share

    It is a sight no dog owner wants to see – your beloved pet heaving and uncomfortable, its body racked with nausea. For many, the sound of a dog vomiting sets off alarm bells. But why do dogs vomit, and what causes an upset stomach in dogs? More importantly, when is a dog's upset stomach merely a passing concern, and when does it indicate a more serious issue? Let's delve into these questions to better understand our four-legged friends' health.


    What causes vomiting in dogs?

    Vomiting in dogs is a common occurrence and can be triggered by various factors. This process involves the forceful ejection of the contents within a dog's stomach or upper intestine. This action is often preceded by signs of nausea, such as drooling, licking lips, and swallowing excessively. Sometimes, the cause of vomiting is fairly benign – your dog may have just eaten too quickly or consumed something that didn't agree with its stomach. In other instances, it could be a sign of something more serious, such as ingestion of a toxic substance or a serious illness.


    The reasons behind a dog's upset stomach are varied and can range from mild to severe. Upset stomach, medically termed as gastroenteritis, is caused by inflammation or irritation in the stomach or intestines. This can be triggered by a sudden change in diet, food intolerances, ingestion of foreign substances, bacterial or viral infections, and even serious conditions like pancreatitis or kidney failure. 


    One common mistake dog parents make is confusing vomiting with regurgitation. When a dog regurgitates, it's typically soon after eating and is a passive process, where undigested food comes up without much effort. On the other hand, vomiting involves active abdominal contractions and results in the expulsion of partially digested food mixed with bile.


    Symptoms of an upset stomach in dogs

    Any dog owner knows that an upset stomach can leave their furry friend feeling less than their best. Recognising the signs of an upset stomach can help in providing prompt care and relief for your pet. Typical symptoms include:

    • Drooling
    • Chattering teeth
    • Lip smacking and excessive licking

    More serious signs include:

    • Vomiting
    • Belching
    • Passing gas
    • Diarrhoea
    • Increase in bowel movements.

    If your dog appears to be in pain, loses appetite, shows signs of dehydration, has a fever, or exhibits unusual behaviours such as lethargy, restlessness, or shivering, it's a clear indication that something is wrong.


    In extreme cases, an upset stomach can result in weight loss and frequent vomiting in dogs, which can be a sign of serious medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease, pancreatitis, or even cancer. It is also important to monitor stress in your dog, as this can often exacerbate or trigger stomach issues.


    How to treat an upset stomach in dogs

    When it comes to treating a dog's upset stomach, the appropriate treatment will largely depend on the underlying cause. If it's a mild case, such as a dietary change or eating too quickly, simple home remedies might be sufficient. However, if the condition persists or is associated with other serious symptoms, it's essential to consult with a vet.


    Some common dog vomiting treatments are:

    • Adjusting the feeding schedule
    • Offering bland, easily digestible food
    • Hydration is key, so ensure your dog always has access to fresh water
    • Over the counter medications can also help, but always consult with your vet before administering any medication to your pet

    The best remedies for your dog’s upset stomach are probiotics such as IAMS™ Proactive Health™ Digestive Health Supplement and pumpkin, which can aid digestion. However, it's essential to remember that these are not cures but temporary solutions. If your dog continues to vomit or display signs of an upset stomach, a trip to the vet is necessary.


    It's essential to remember that while some instances of dog vomiting or upset stomach can be managed at home, more frequent or severe symptoms necessitate a visit to the vet. Early detection of symptoms can make a significant difference in your dog's health. If your dog vomits multiple times in a day, shows no signs of improvement after 24 hours, or frequently throws up mucus, it's time to take your pet to the vet. The age and overall health of your dog also play a crucial role in this decision.


    While home-cooked foods like skinless chicken, boiled potatoes, or rice can be good short-term options for a dog with an upset stomach, they are not nutritionally complete for long-term care. It's also crucial to avoid feeding your dog raw food, which can contain harmful germs like salmonella. Always follow your vet's recommendations to ensure your dog's health and safety.


    In addition to following your vet's advice, consider integrating a digestive health supplement into your dog's diet. IAMS™ Proactive Health™ Digestive Health Supplement is a soft, chewable supplement that combines prebiotics and probiotics to regulate your dog's gut health. It contains no artificial colour, flavour, preservatives, or fillers, making it a safe and effective choice for enhancing your dog's digestive health. 


    Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments of dog vomiting and upset stomach, and consulting with a vet, when necessary, can help ensure your furry friend's well-being. Remember, their health is in your hands.

Close modal