what to do for Full development of pup

[RaulBenitez]

Hello guys. I have a question.

I have a 12 week old pup. His name is Ballack. I want to know what should I feed him (as supplement of course) to make if fully develop in thickness (not fat, rather muscular) and coat. I've heard many people give their dogs steroids shots for this... and the very thought of this makes me cringe as I wont put my friend trough steroids or anything chemical for the sake of it. I think this is killing him. What can I feed him to make him "plump". At the moment I'm giving him 4 cups of Puppy chow in 3 meals and one "superpet" tablet in the morning meal. I was thinking on "brewers yeast" for full skin/coat development(plus it has garlic). as hes young, I know I cannot put him on heavy weight training or anything to over work him.
I remember I had a friend with a pair of rotties that were "strong/muscular/healthy. I want the same treatment for my dog. Those guys were like bulls, not fat but amazing. The chest, legs and the width of the head... amazing.

What do you guys reccomend? I did not wanted to insult to some members if they do use steroids or chemicals to their dogs, my personal preference will be no.

[llwaxan]

Firstly, genetics play a huge role here. Do you know anything about the dogs in Ballack's pedigree? If he comes from thick, big boned dogs chances are he will follow suit.
Secondly, you can help him follow suit by feeding a super premium dog food like Innova, Canidea, Natural Balance, California Natural--the list goes on-just do a search on this board. Do not feed puppy chow--feed him an all life stages food. Puppy food is often not very good for puppies--go figure. Also, lesser quality food contains chemicals and fillers that will stunt your puppy's growth and development, soooo switch your food source to achieve optimum health for your boy.
You can also add vegetables, yogurt, etc to the kibble--again do a search here. My pups are fed excellent food and their coats glisten.
Thirdly, excercise your puppy with walking at least 2 times a day. He is 12 weeks now and it is hot so watch the amount of time and adjust accordingly for external temps. Rotties do not do well in hot climates. Mine are never outside any longer than 20 minutes at a time now.
To make up for not being able to roam outdoors--play ball in the house. This can help with training as well--especially the "sit" and "come" commands.
Moderate, healthy workouts will build muscle slowly over time which is how you want to build it. Do not try to excelerate the process. Be patient and consitant and you will be very pleased with his overall look. But you really won't know what his finished looked will be until he is at least 2 years old. He will go through periods ogf growth were he looks funny. He is a baby and has some awkward phases to go through.
NEVER use steroids for growth! Heck, most of us won't use steroids unless it is a last resort when facing a health issue. Never for growth.
Also, do not neuter him until he is 18 months or older. But please, please do not breed him unless you are an experienced professional Code of Ethics breeder, which you likely not judging by your original question. I am not trying to be harsh, we just have too many folks on the planet who think it would be nice to breed their dogs and thus, we have far too many dogs that are put down, placed in cruel conditions, neglected, abadoned--the horror stories are endless--so please do not breed. But do keep him intact and away from all intact females until he is fully grown.
Along the way--train him with a professional trainer who uses positive training methods and socialize him in some way everyday. Give your lad a "job" and he will thrive.
This is all some good fundamental stuff to do to help your puppy become all he can be physically, mentally, and socially. All 3 aspects are vitally important.
I know other's will post more articulate (and succint) suggestions, but I did my best. So go to work and enjoy your new companion. Keep us posted too.

[RaulBenitez]

I cannot express how thankfull I am with this response. My family and Ballack appreciate your wisdom. Ballack's parents are big strong and thick. I will search for a better kibble and add supplements to it. Thanks and will follow your comments.
Specially this year, climate in the part of Mexico I live has been extremely hot. I have to wait till 8 pm to get Ballack a nice walk.
Once again thank you.