Do I have to feed large breed puppy food?

[STEVSH]

More recent pictures below. What is your pup's mix?
For Topaz, think black great dane pup with a white gem on her chest and white tipped feet.

 

[Kathleen]

I'm relatively new to all the giant breed needs...adopted a 9 week old Italian/Neo mastiff mix. When you're referring to "Chicken Soup" dog food, is that "Chicken soup for the dog lover's soul" food that's listed on the internet? Also, how much should I feed? I don't think she's going to be very big - mother was less than 100lbs. Thank you!

 

[Donnadft]

My neo is 5 months old. What food do you suggest?

 

[TN Dogues]

We are lucky to have a vet who stays current (and doesn't sell dog food), makes home/farm visits, and is knowledgeable about nutrition.

His reason for recommending a large breed puppy formula is simple: it has the calcium needed for bone growth, whereas the adult formula may not have as much. He never recommends a particular brand over any other but has directed me to websites that rate the dog food. (dog food analysis/dog food advisor)

We like several foods. (Keep in mind we are over 50 miles to a Petsmart and have to rely on local feed stores or Tractor Supply)

For puppies, I second the Diamond Naturals Large Breed Puppy Lamb & Rice. We raised our litter on it. The pups like it (highly palatable), their coats are shiny, and solid stools. We get it from Tractor Supply.

Chicken soup is a Diamond Product. But where we are they don't carry it.