How do I choose natural dry food for my dog?

Question
Hi. Catherine,

I have a 2 yr old mini poodle and I would like to know if I need to search for food with mrs protein or not. Some labels show 40% plus protein and some show 20% plus. I walk my poodle everyday for at least 45 mins. So pls help and advise. Thanks.

Answer
Personally, I like a range of 25 - 30%, or a little higher, but not 40% and not 20. I like the Acana Grasslands - the whole Provincial line - of grain free higher protein foods. But there is also an individual component - studies have shown some dogs can be affected behaviourally by very high protein, so it`s important to always watch your OWN individual  indications he or she is doing well, or not so well, on a given food. No matter how nice it may be on paper, it has to work well for the dog or it`s not the right one! I love the Acana Grasslands, but one of my Ridgebacks didn`t do well on it, he became a little gassy and hyperactive - hence, he is now on a lower protein food (the Fromm Fourstar line).

Check out Acana, I love the product and 90% of the dogs I know who are on it are doing superbly :
well:

http://www.championpetfoods.com/acana/
I particularly like the Provincial line, on the right hand side of the Products page.
Please don`t hesitate to ask anything I can help with.
And best of luck finding an optimal food for your poodle,
Catherine