Frequently Asked Questions

What level of protein should I feed my puppy?

There are two schools of thought on what level protein should be fed to pups/youngsters. Some people like to continue feeding a high level (28 - 30%) until their youngster is almost 12 months. I don't. Personally, I like to start my border collie puppies off on a really good quality puppy food (26 - 28%) and then start to reduce the protein level at around 7 - 8 weeks down to around the 22 - 21%. 

I do this because I don't want my youngsters to grow too fast too quickly - nor put on too much weight as this puts additional strain on their growing bones/joints.  Puppies' bones are still very soft and Border Collies especially, are very active and can easily damage themselves by banging into things or getting knocked by adult dogs when playing.  By keeping the protein level down, the dogs appear to develop good bone, coats and muscle without becoming too hyper - or too leggy. 

Speaking to other well-respected breeders, I have found that they are of a like mind on this topic - whether their dogs be spaniels or GSDs. What do you think?

(posted 29/10/2009)