Different protein sources (and a weight question)?

**CaliforniaLabLover** · 03-06-2008, 02:55 AM

When mixing up protein sources (chicken, rabbit, beef, etc.) how often do you do so, and do you mix them often within the same meal? A meal of beef and chicken, or chicken and rabbit? Or do you like to give one at a time, even if still a couple within the same day (ie- chicken morning, beef evening)? Or just one protein per day?

Also- I'm still working through Nature's Variety raw patties (no time for shopping yet...though I've been browsing through the Oma's Pride "menu" with zeal)...but right now, Monty is losing weight in spite of being on 4 patties/day (which is 1/3 of a $25 bag).

Any thoughts on things I can add conveniently that may help keep (or put) some weight on him? I need to try to keep him in show condition (we're hoping for those last 4 points toward his AKC CH title), which means not losing too much weight right now. I know, I know...tall order. But right this minute, I'm working over 14 hours/day and just don't have the time to get out and shop like I'd love to.

**ObedienceLabs4Me** · 03-06-2008, 06:32 AM

I mix protein sources every couple of days. Let's say I have a 5 pound bag of rabbit, I use that up (which takes about 5 days) and then I'll give him chicken. So in a weeks time he has a couple different protein sources.

Since I don't use the prepackaged stuff, I can't really help there. But, with the ground meat and chicken I use for Caleb I actually have more of a problem not allowing him to get over weight, granted I do keep him thinner than most people who show in breed. Remind me, how long has he been on raw? Sometimes I have seen dogs appear to loose weight but it is just the muscles actually developing correctly, if you know what I mean. Raw fed dogs do have a different feel about them, and a different muscle toneness. Maybe get him some chicken backs and give him a couple of those a day in addition.

**Baloo317** · 03-06-2008, 08:41 AM

Not that I am any kind of expert, but I've mixed protein sources in the same day and both dogs have lived to tell about it.

;D

I agree with the chicken backs (I just picked up a bunch from the grocery store), Baloo has actually put on a few pounds since being on raw, which is great, as I couldn't put those pounds on him while he was eating kibble to save my life. :P

Good luck!

**kallie** · 03-06-2008, 10:23 AM

I have no set rule, but generally I give one protein (example turkey necks) in the a.m and 2 proteins (example beef liver & venison) in the p.m. They always get at least 2 different proteins sources a day, majority of the time 3 though & sometimes even 4..Today for the a.m. they had duck, tonight they will get beef liver and pork..

Jen

**Fallriver** · 03-06-2008, 10:54 AM

Julie, it is balance over time, so single proteins or mixed proteins are both fine. Because I have a bunch of dogs to feed, I am constantly pulling stuff out of the freezer and many meals are mishmashes as I use up one food and start another. Some meals, I will have tripe, egg, lamb and chicken all in one...no worries.
Single proteins are important only for dogs who have intestinal upsets...as you know, sameness and blandness helps the GI tract to recover quicker

**CaliforniaLabLover** · 03-06-2008, 12:00 PM

Originally Posted by Yellow Boys Mom

But, with the ground meat and chicken I use for Caleb I actually have more of a problem not allowing him to get over weight, granted I do keep him thinner than most people who show in breed. Remind me, how long has he been on raw? Sometimes I have seen dogs appear to loose weight but it is just the muscles actually developing correctly, if you know what I mean. Raw fed dogs do have a different feel about them, and a different muscle toneness. Maybe get him some chicken backs and give him a couple of those a day in addition.[/color]

He has now been on it for about 2 wks, I believe. I started off with just chicken/turkey to get him started and to avoid too much intestinal disruption while introducing him to raw initially, and am now adding some other proteins (rabbit for now). The weight loss I'm seeing is around his midline- a bit too much of a "waist" and pretty prominent ribs. Granted, we live in a development and he is on the treadmill daily to ensure he gets adequate exercise (esp. the past couple of weeks, when I haven't been home from work until 8:30-9pm).

I'll try some chicken backs when I can get to the store...any tips/tricks on finding them, or are they usually pretty easy to find in a grocery store or even a specialty store like Whole Foods Market (which I believe is nation-wide down here in the lower 48)?

Thanks, Dana...that makes me feel better, and is what I think makes this all so much easier, being able to throw a bunch of stuff together to make a meal down the road. Do you keep notes on what they've gotten so you don't give too much of any one thing per week?

**ObedienceLabs4Me** · 03-06-2008, 02:34 PM

Oh Julie--if I had to journal what Caleb ate I would never have started the raw diet! I do keep a mental note and that's about it.

Dana, I never thought about it--I guess I mix more than I realized with the tripe, eggs, etc.! DUH!

**imported_eastcoastmom** · 03-06-2008, 06:08 PM

Angus get whatever as well. it doesn't bother him at all.

**Cinder4evr** · 03-06-2008, 10:07 PM

You can usually get a big package of chicken wings at any grocery store. Couple of those with the Nature's variety patties should hold him until you get a chance to fill your freezer.

**CaliforniaLabLover** · 03-07-2008, 01:41 AM

Originally Posted by Cinder4evr

You can usually get a big package of chicken wings at any grocery store. Couple of those with the Nature's variety patties should hold him until you get a chance to fill your freezer.

Good thought...The only thing I'm a bit concerned about is that he tends to be a gulper, so I'm a bit worried about choking. I'll probably be a nervous nellie until I get comfortable with him eating and chewing without choking and getting an obstruction, LOL.