best food for a poodle

Question
Hello I have a lovely 2.5 year old standard. He rarely has formed stools. I have changed food several times however have yet to find one that helps his stool remain firm (presently I have found spots of blood in his stool). I am wondering though after doing some thinking one of his staples have been rawhide bones (as he loves to chew). Any suggestions on foods and healthy treats?? He eats, drinks, and plays great-this has not changed. He has a vet appt coming up however not so satisfied w/the vet so talking about food would be a waste of time. I am in the market for a new vet as well.

Answer
Hello Sonia,
First off, I would stop using the Rawhide, though this is a personal decision.  Rawhide isn't easy for a dog to digest and can actually cause blockages in the intestines because as a dog chews it up and swallows pieces, those pieces can stick together thus making it diffucult to pass through the intestinal tract.  That could be the reason for the blood in the stool.  
A better option if you want something that lasts is PorkHide.  Pigs Ears are a good option and they also make pig skin rolls and knots like the Rawhide bones.

Have you considered using a food that doesn't contain Chicken.  Some dogs can be allergic to chicken and corn, so you might consider using something with turkey or even fish.  Have you noticed your dog scratching, licking his feet or chewing at his fur.  This can be a sign of food allergy.  Depending on what you are looking to feed your dog, there is a meat based diet out there to fit it, including Bison, Deer, Wild Salmon, and some even include fruits and veggies.
Some people even go Raw and give their dogs raw meat with fresh fruits and vegetables.  You have to decide what will work best with your dog.  
Know too that when you switch a food, you have to give your dog time to adjust to it before changing foods again.  I would give a food at least 2 weeks for your dog to get used to it.

As for brands of food, I like the Nutro brands, the Royal Canin brand is made especially for Poodles, and I use Diamond Naturals Chicken (they also make a Beef or Lamb and Rice) for my kids.  The newest thing these days is a food made without Corn, Wheat, or Soy.  You may also want to stay away from Beet pulp or animal digest, which are fillers (Diamond Naturals does contain Beet Pulp, but my kids do well on it).  
http://www.diamondpet.com/products/diamond_naturals/dry_food/

Royal Canin page:
http://products.royalcanin.us/products/dog-food/poodle-30.aspx

Nutro Naturals Grain Free foods:
http://www.nutro.com/natural-dog-food/natural-choice-dog-food/grain-free-adult-v
Nutro Naturals Dry Foods:
http://www.nutro.com/natural-dog-food/natural-choice-dog-food.aspx

My Diet mix for dogs:
1 lb Hamburger (Raw)
1 can Salmon
1 tin sardines in Olive Oil
2 cups packed Spinach, cooked and chopped (you can use Chicken broth if preferred to cook it down in)
1 cup Special K or Total Cereal
1-2 eggs cooked and scrambled
1/2-1 cup applesauce
Fresh Veggies: Carrots, Cabbage (red is preferred),Sweet Potato,[Shred these veggies] Peas, Califlower (chopped small)
Optional: Cottage Cheese (great for adding weight), Yogurt (for stomach issues)

Mix it together and serve in small batches.  You can feed as a whole diet or along with dry kibble.   If you have a small dog, it freezes nicely.

You can also give Baby Carrots as a nice tasty treat, and I like the DentaSticks for helping keep the teeth clean.  

If you are in the market for a new Vet, contact local Dog Breeders in your area to see who they recommend.  You could also try a Holistic Vet if you would want to go that route and there is one in your area.  

I know this is a lot to decide on, but look everything over and if you would like other suggestions or have other questions for me, please feel free to ask.

Thanks for using AllExperts.com,
Kim