Can I mix dog kibble with rice to lower protein for an inactive dog?

Kibble with high protein content would be correct food for a younger dog (under 2 years of age) who is still growing. Also working dogs that are out herding a lot, or getting a very large amount of exercise, should get a higher protein containing feed. Racing dogs such as greyhounds and whippets are fed a higher protein feed during training so they can make a lot of muscle. Non-working/non-racing dogs need to be fed a lower protein containing food as do dogs with kidney disease.

Hello, increased protein will likely not be of much benefit for Chloe if she is not very active. Either of those foods, provided they meet the AAFCO requirements for a maintenance life stage will be sufficient for Chloe. A higher protein food would likely benefit a working dog the most. Hope this helps

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is not so much about the amount of protein per se but more so the right protein. It is a matter of using a new protein and carbohydrate that he may tolerate better. For example, if he is on chicken and rice, switch him to lamb and potato for instance. Another option is a hydrolized protein diet and finally something like Royal canin low fat GI. That is actually what my dog is on who also has severe food allergies and he does great. Good luck!

You are correct that a senior dog doesn't need to put onto a low protein diet and it can cause more harm than good. Senior dogs need lower calories to prevent obesity because they have a slower metabolic rate.

I agree with you regarding Acana vs Natural balance, it is a better quality food. why not switch her to Acana light & fit, it is a reduced calorie diet, it will contain less calories than the natural balance and you will keep the high quality of the Acana.

Natural balance is a good brand, and the carb content should be between 30-70%, so 50% is fine. As for the 20% protein, that's a good percentage as well. Dogs should be getting between 18-22% protein in their daily diet. As for not having veggies, it will have all the vitamins and minerals your dog needs, so he doesn't need additional veggies. I hope this helps!

This would not be a complete diet for Peanut and would not meet all her nutritional needs. I'd recommend a high quality dog food like Hill's Science Diet or Royal Canin. If you really want to home cook for Peanut you can look into balanceit.com for nutritionally balanced home cooked options. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!