Itchy Labradoodle

Question
I bought an 8 month old Labradoodle a few months ago.  She scratches
herself non stop.  The breeder said she never had an itching problem.  I feed
her Eagle Snack Organic food like the breeder did and requested that I
continue.  She has been checked for fleas and was given Revolution.  The
breeder made her a blanket that she sleeps on in her crate (where she is used
to sleeping).  I washed it with perfume free/dye free detergent to see if that is
the problem.  She eats no table food only an occasional milk bone.  It is
driving me crazy and she does not stop at times.  I feel sorry for her a well.  
Any help you can offer would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Answer
Have you talked to the vet?  Over feeding can also lead to problems. Your dog definitely should be narrower at the waist than the hips and chest. You should be able to easily feel the ribs, but not see them. Each dog is different. Standard recommendations are a good place to start, but each dog must have its food and exercise adjusted to its individual needs. Here is a link to a good illustrated guide, http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx

There was an extensive discussion of weight in a recent newsletter from a service dog school.

''Obesity is the number one nutritional disease affecting dogs. It's estimated that 25-45% of dogs in the US are obese. Studies have shown that joint and locomotive problems increase by 57%, circulatory problems by 74%, respiratory problems by 52%, skin problems by 40% and cancer by 50% in animals that are overweight.

Large breed dogs that are overweight also are more prone to developing hip dysplasia. Obesity is especially dangerous for young puppies, as their underdeveloped frame cannot support the extra poundage that it must carry.''