Feeling very miserable. I took my dobe puppy to the vet today for his first vaccinations. Didn't like her much (but won't get into that) but she went off on a monologue about making sure I didn't play too many games with him because dobes can suffer joint problems when they get older. Perhaps I missed something but I wasn't aware that dobes were particularly susceptible to joint problems?

She also recommended that my pup be fed on large breed Eukanuba because this was specifically designed for my sort of pup and would help to prevent joint problems (I did notice that the practice sold Eukanuba - don't know if this is significant). This has really upset me because although Cam was on Eukanuba when he arrived, he stopped eating it, got a bit lean and scared me, so he's now on NatureDiet Puppy (which he loves - and his coat is so much better than it was). I asked NatureDiet for an analysis of the product and as far as I can see the added supplements are the same as Eukanuba - it's just not specifically designed for a large, quick growing breed. Presumably though there are two schools of thought on this issue - because I've heard discussion about the advantages of slower growth over fast growth?

Now I'm worried that Cam's not getting the right food and is going to suffer joint problems in later life and it'll all be my fault. Any advice anyone? :(

Jo

What about consulting your breeder about the best rearing diet for this breed together with exercise recommendations?

Jo

The norm is for any puppy to have only very gentle exercise when young as it can cause damage that rears its head in later life - it's not just Dobe's. Gentle games - not lots of rough and tumble or tuggung games will be fine. Look for mental stimulation - most breeds love those. Many dogs should gradually work up to normal exercise at around 12 months of age or so but not before they are physically mature.

As for his food - if he's fine on what he's on then OK - but do Nature Diet do a large breed formula. I'm guessing he's only 10 weeks or so old - in which case large breed puppy food should be good for him - but don't put him on what your vet says just coz they say so. Talking to the breeder is a good way to go. They should be very knowledgabel on the breed and put you in the right direction. They should also understand that you didn't want to stay on Euk and be OK about it.

hth

Pam n the boys

Thanks for your comments. I'm obviously very conscious that puppies shouldn't be "walked" etc and wouldn't dream of encouraging him to do anything strenuous, though I'd like to see someone play a "gentle" game with any puppy, never mind a dobe! Bless him, he finds bits of fluff behind the fridge fascinating. I can't quash his enthusiasm for life! Only wish I was that excited about the world!

:)

You leave Cam on his Nature diet, I have known pups go nuts on high protein dry foods, causing injuries like joint problems.

I think you are doing the right thing by him, next time ask to see a different vet.
Dawn.