Ask Bill: Feeding raw to a large dog.

Q: My big dog has terrible allergies. We are controlling it with benadryl and allergy shots, but that is getting expensive and I'm worried about being dependent on medications to make him comfortable. I've heard you say that the best diet for dogs with allergies is a raw diet, but he's so big I just don't think I can afford it. What is the next best thing?

A: It's very true that raw diets are the most natural for your pet, and will almost always help with allergies, poor skin condition, ear infections, etc. But there is definitely an increased cost when looking to feed a bigger dog a raw diet. Your best bet is to switch to a grain free kibble (like EVO or Instinct) or the very low-carb Nature's Logic. You can supplement the kibble with raw and grain-free canned foods. If you would like to supplement with raw we are now carrying Bravo Raw, which has a 5lb chicken formula chub for only $8.99. This particular raw food is not intended to be used as the entire diet, but instead to "mix in" with kibble. You can decide how much or how little you would like to use while transitioning your dog to a more natural diet. By eliminating grain from his diet and incorporating more easily digestible nutrition in the form of raw meats or canned food, you will boost your dog's immune system which will help a great deal with allergies. For more information check out the pet nutrition section of our website.