When I first brought Max, my adorable Border Collie puppy, home, I was determined to give him the best start in life. Border Collies are known for their intelligence, boundless energy, and athletic build, so I knew his diet needed to match his unique needs. After trying a few different foods and dealing with some hiccups (like loose stools and picky eating), I decided to try Royal Canin Medium Puppy food. It turned out to be the perfect fit.
Here’s why I chose Royal Canin Medium Puppy for Max and how it worked wonders for him.
Why Border Collies (and Medium-Breed Puppies) Need Special Food
Border Collies, like many medium-sized breeds, grow rapidly in their first year. Max needed a food that could keep up with his energy levels, support his muscle development, and provide the right nutrients for his active lifestyle. Generic puppy food wasn’t cutting it—he’d either get too tired after playtime or have stomach issues.
Royal Canin Medium Puppy is specifically designed for breeds like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Beagles, and other medium-sized dogs expected to weigh between 23–55 pounds as adults. This tailored approach was exactly what Max needed.
What’s Inside Royal Canin Medium Puppy Food?
When I researched the ingredients and nutritional profile, I was impressed by how thoughtfully Royal Canin Medium Puppy is formulated. Here’s a closer look:
- Protein for Muscle Growth (32%)
Border Collies are naturally lean and muscular, and Max’s protein intake needed to support his active nature. The primary ingredient in Royal Canin Medium Puppy is chicken meal, a high-quality protein that’s easy to digest.Why it matters: Protein is essential for muscle development and tissue repair, especially for active breeds like Max, who spends hours running and chasing toys. - Healthy Fats for Energy (20%)
With Max’s endless energy, I needed a food that could keep him going without making him sluggish. Royal Canin includes chicken fat and fish oil, which not only provide energy but also omega-3 fatty acids (DHA) for brain development.Fun fact: Max’s quick learning of tricks like “sit” and “paw” might just be thanks to the DHA in this food! - Balanced Calcium and Phosphorus
Growing Border Collies like Max need strong bones to support their athleticism. Royal Canin carefully balances calcium and phosphorus to ensure proper skeletal development without overloading his system.Why it matters: Too much or too little calcium can cause developmental problems. This balance gave me peace of mind that Max’s bones and joints were in good shape. - Prebiotics for Digestive Health
Max had a sensitive stomach when he was younger, and I dreaded the cleanup from loose stools. The prebiotics (like beet pulp and fructooligosaccharides) in Royal Canin Medium Puppy stabilized his digestion within days.The result? Firmer stools and a much happier tummy for Max! - Vitamins and Antioxidants
Puppies’ immune systems are still developing, and Max’s health improved noticeably with Royal Canin. Vitamins C and E, along with other antioxidants, helped him fight off minor bugs he picked up from all his park adventures. - Carbs for Playtime Energy
Border Collies are famous for their high energy levels, and Max is no exception. The rice and corn in Royal Canin Medium Puppy provide quick, digestible energy that kept him zooming around without crashing.
The Results: How Royal Canin Medium Puppy Worked for Max
After switching Max to Royal Canin Medium Puppy, I started seeing results within a week. Here’s what changed:
- Increased Stamina: Max could play for longer without tiring out. Whether it was fetch, agility training, or running around the yard, he stayed energetic throughout the day.
- Shiny Coat: His coat, which was a bit dull and rough before, became incredibly soft and shiny. I could tell the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids were doing their job.
- Happy Digestion: Max’s stools became firm and regular—no more tummy troubles!
- Healthy Growth: At every vet check-up, his weight and growth were perfectly on track. The vet even commented on how well-nourished and active he looked.
- Excited Mealtime: Max is a bit picky, but he absolutely loves Royal Canin Medium Puppy. He eagerly finishes every meal, and I don’t have to coax him to eat.
Why Royal Canin Medium Puppy is Perfect for Border Collies (and Similar Breeds)
Based on my experience with Max, I think Royal Canin Medium Puppy is ideal for:
- Active Breeds: Dogs like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Cocker Spaniels who need extra energy and muscle support.
- Puppies with Sensitive Stomachs: The prebiotics and highly digestible proteins make it gentle on tummies.
- Busy Pet Parents: The kibble is easy to store and serve, and the precise feeding guidelines make portioning simple.
Potential Drawbacks
While I’m a huge fan of Royal Canin Medium Puppy, there are a couple of things to keep in mind:
- Price: It’s a bit more expensive than some other brands, but I see it as an investment in Max’s health and future.
- Contains Fillers: The inclusion of corn and wheat might not appeal to owners looking for grain-free diets, but these ingredients are well-tolerated and provide energy.
Tips for Feeding Royal Canin Medium Puppy
- Transition Slowly: If you’re switching from another brand, mix Royal Canin with the old food over 7–10 days to avoid digestive upset.
- Stick to Feeding Guidelines: Royal Canin provides clear instructions based on your puppy’s weight and age. For Max, this helped ensure he didn’t overeat.
- Mix with Wet Food: If your pup gets bored, Royal Canin’s medium puppy wet food pairs perfectly with the kibble.
Final Verdict: Is Royal Canin Medium Puppy Worth It?
For me and Max, Royal Canin Medium Puppy has been a fantastic choice. It supported his energy needs, digestive health, and overall growth during his crucial puppy months. While it’s a bit pricier, the visible benefits—like a shiny coat, strong muscles, and boundless energy—made it worth every penny.
If you have an active, medium-breed puppy like a Border Collie, Beagle, or Australian Shepherd, I highly recommend Royal Canin Medium Puppy. It’s more than just food—it’s a foundation for a healthy, happy adult dog.
