feeding and health

Question
I had asked someone on this site a question that involved switching my 8 month old springer spaniel to adult food. I was wondering if it would be ok or if it would hinder his growth since I feel he still does have some growing to do. I had mentioned that my 2 year old springer was switched at 6 months and seemed just fine and that she is quite a bit smaller than our male dog. The answer I received was pretty much a reprimand about switching the female at 6 months. I was told that she will now not live as long as she should and that she will end up with a lot of health problems. I don't feel that this is necessarily true but the way she stated it all saying that it would happen not that it "could" makes me feel bad and afraid that I've ruined my dogs well being. If you could please let me know what you think about this that would be great. Thanks

Answer
I would not switch your 8 month old over to an adult food until she is considered an adult.  Which as of this point, she is not.  Right now she is still growing and needs all of the nutrition she can possibly get and puppy food will give her this.  Adult food will not.  My large breeds remain on puppy food until they are two years old.  My small breeds until they are 1 yr old.  If you are concerned about her growth, then you should add other things to her diet as well.  A cooked egg each day will provide her with extra protein.  If you can handle it, the oil in Sardines is good for their coats.  Two Sardines (two of the fish not two cans) a day is good for her coat.  There are things you can do without taking her off of a food she really does still need.  Hope this helps.