sorry if this is a dumb question, but I just got a puppy, Max, last week and I'm feeling overwhelmed. Is Purina Pro Plan a good dog food? I read conflicting things online and want to make sure I'm giving Max the best. Any advice? Thanks!

Hey there! First off, congrats on your new puppy, Max! It's totally normal to feel a bit overwhelmed at first, and I'm really glad you're reaching out for advice. Giving him the right nutrition is a great start to having him grow strong and healthy.

Purina Pro Plan is considered a very solid choice for dog food. It's formulated to meet AAFCO standards, which is important to ensure it provides all the essential nutrients Max needs. They've been around a while and use good quality ingredients in their recipes.

If you're ever wondering how Max is handling his food, here are a few things to look for:

• Healthy poop: It should be firm and easy to pick up.
• Shiny coat and bright eyes: These are signs of good overall health.
• Energy levels: Puppies are usually pretty playful, so a drop in energy could be a concern.

Now, if for some reason Max eats something he shouldn't, like chocolate or grapes, that's when we get into emergency territory:

• Chocolate: The darker it is, the more toxic it can be. Call your vet immediately if he snags any, especially in significant amounts.
• Grapes and raisins: These can cause kidney damage, so any amount is cause for concern. Again, definitely contact your vet.
• Paracetamol (acetaminophen): Keep this human medication far away from Max as it's dangerous for dogs.

If it’s something less worrisome, like eating a little grass, just keep an eye on him. For minor upsets, like mild diarrhea or vomiting, you might withhold food for a few hours and offer small amounts of water frequently to prevent dehydration. Monitoring how he does for 24 hours can be enough unless symptoms get worse.

Whenever in doubt, especially if he's acting unusual or you're seeing signs like continued vomiting, lethargy, or trouble breathing, calling the vet is the safest plan.

You’re doing great just by being so attentive, and Max is lucky to have you caring for him. If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.