[pyrnet] recommendations for puppy chow

[LESRVG@aol.com]

Hello,

Our Romy is now 5 months old.  We have always kept our dogs on puppy chow for 
a full year  (we had a lab and a heeler previously).  This is our first Pyr 
and we are really having a great time with him (including my 2 year old son, 
Dustin.  They play together like I have never seen a person/kid and dog play 
together before...just wonderful).  

Now, back to the point, based on my reading and research I realize that Pyr's 
develop slower than other dog breeds, even other giant breeds. 

I read on Purina's web site that large breeds should be fed "large breed 
formula" (for proper bone and joint development (BTW: we have used Purina 
large breed formula exclusively to date)) for a full year and that some large 
breeds should be on this diet for the first two years. I called Purina today 
and spoke with one of their animal care specialists.  She said that Pyr's 
should be on the "large breed formula" for two years.

There is some time for us to decide when to switch over as Romy is only 5 
months now and I will consult our vet (she is VERY good, but self-admitted 
she is not an expert on giant breed dogs), but I wanted to check with the Pyr 
group (you folks) to get your recommendations.  

ONE YEAR OR TWO???  

FYI: Based on my research, we are looking at using either Iams (blue) or 
Nutro as an adult dog chow.

Thanks folks.

Keith, Soo Yeon, Dusty (and Romy).