What % Protein is Best?

[phall]

I'm in the process of switching my female greyhound, Sox, off of her prescription food. (I know this needs to be done slowly.)  She's been on a veterinarian prescribed urinary diet for some bladder issues, which look to be resolved (based on ultrasound and bloodwork).  I was going to switch her back to her previous food, which she did well on, but noticed that the % of protein on that food seems high - 28%. 

What is a good amount of protein in dry and canned dog food for greyhounds? 

(Sox is 7 years old.  Plus she has sensitivity to chicken based food so I have to be careful on what I transition her to.)

[greysmom]

A good protein percentage is really just the one your dog does best with.  But - in general - greyhounds seem to do better (defined as better stools, less gass, easily holding weight and energy) on somewhere around 20%.   Too high and they can knock you out of the house with gas emissions.  Too low and their not getting good nutrition.  If you have a typical companion dog laying around the house, something on the lower-ish end should be fine.  If your doing work or training or some sort of amateur competition, something towards the high end-ish.

That being said, we're on Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Stomach Salmon (no chicken!) for kibble.  My couch anchors just play in the yard, and it's 28% protein.  We are all doing brilliantly on it (plus Olewho carrots once a day as we need some added fiber).  So there is some wiggle room.

[HeyRunDog]

I agree with greysmom, up to 20% is the usual amount, 28% plus is for when they are still racing. The Greyhound Trust Coventry branch has a clear feeding guide http://www.greyhoundtrustcoventry.co.uk/page3/page14/index.html

[phall]

Thank you so much to you both.  This is so helpful!

[cleptogrey]

check out the calorie count on the pro plan sensitive skin. the focus varieties tend to have higher calories- not necessary. purina one  might have something to fit your dog's need.