03 Care and Feeding
Description
This article is from the Akitas Breed FAQ, by Kevin McIntyre with numerous contributions by others.
03 Care and Feeding
Akitas, as a rule, do not do well on a food high in soybeans, which is
the primary source of protein in most commercial, supermarket dog
foods. They do well on meat and bone meal-based foods and those with
fish meal. Twice daily feeding throughout their adult lives is
recommended to lessen the chance of bloat (see below for more
information on bloat). Some people add a daily natural kelp tablet for
the additional iodine.
One other thing worth mentioning here is how long to feed puppy food.
Some research indicates that feeding puppy food for too long can
increase the incidence of hip dysplasia in dogs that are susceptible
to it. The theory is that the higher percentage of protein found in
puppy formulas can accelerate growth before the developing skeleton
can support the weight. Some breeders start feeding adult food very
soon. Most people gradually switch to adult dog food at 8-10 months.
Again, this is something to discuss with your breeder and
veterinarian.
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