Hello,
I've read through alot of posts here already on feeding and have been researching foods for my prospective puppy for a while now.
The only six star rated food (as reviewed by dogfoodanalysis.com) available in this part of the world is Orijen. I really like the sound of the ingredients in Orijen and I feel it's the best thing I can get him as I'm not in a position to do raw at the moment.
I was talking to my vet about the food and cited the protein and fat levels, as well as the fact that it's grain free. He said that it was far too rich for ANY dog and that it will lead to all sorts of problems.
I've done my own research on various studies and there are some conflicting results, BUT the conclusion I get from them is that high protein (derived from animals) levels do not effect musculo-skeletal development in dogs negatively, whereas high levels of fat, carbohydrate and calcium (and vitamin D) can. With this in mind Orijen appears to be the best food (dry kibble) I can get for my dog?
I guess the whole purpose of this post is to look for some reassurance from people who have used this kibble, particularly the puppy kibble (large breed?). Am I doing the right thing going against the advise of my vet? or should I "play it safe" and use one of the other big brand foods with a lower protein level?

Your thoughts and opinions on this would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks.

Are you comfortable with asking this vet the extent of his nutrition education?

If not, and I wanted vet-approval, I would get a second opinion from a vet who DOES have some nutrition bakground. This may have to be a holistic vet, and may have to be a phone consultation. (You say "this part of the world" in a "boondocks" way. )

You may want to order a book or two on feeding from LB, too, many of which are DMV-written and all of which recommend raw meat. Raw meat is pretty high in protein.

Also,

http://leerburg.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=200014#Post200014