Hill's Prescription Diet z/d is it good or bad?

[lovedobe]

I really need your help guys,

my dog has sensitive stomach/skin she has been licking herself, mostly her paws butt area and stomach, she made so many hot spots on herself.

I took her to the vet and he gave steroid shot and pills for her to take for the next 2 weeks, also the vet gave prescription for "Prescription Hills Diet z/d Original Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food" I ordered the food but she has not started it yet, I have read so many bad reviews about them and have mixed feeling, what should I do at this point?

The vet I went to was not really much interested in explaining this all to me, we have another meeting in 2 weeks too, to see the progress. Do you guys have any sort of experience with hills prescription z/d food ? did it work ? is it harmful for dogs? how did u guys got rid of allergies?

I also tried changing her diet to Purina pro plan sensitive stomach and skin (salmon and rice) the same thing, before she had Purina chicken.

thank you for advice in advance

 

[Firestar Dobe]

You may want to try checking out Dog Food Reviews and Ratings | Dog Food Advisor they have reviews on all types of food. You may also want to consider a different Vet if the one you have doesn't want to have discussions with you about the pros and cons of any treatment your dog receives from him. I prefer a Vet who gives options and explanations when treating my girls.

 

[Kaiser2016]

How old is she? Any pics of the spots?

The paws sounds like a common problem with yeast. When I bathe my dog (not often, just when he starts to smell), I will add ACV and baking soda to the standing water so he can soak his feet - never had a smell issue.

For the bum, could it be worms? That's not a typical spot for Dobermans to create a hot spot. Though this might be actual allergies, hot spots can also be the result of boredom. Dobes are OCD and once they start licking, it can be hard to make them stop. What's her exercise regimen?

The prescription dog foods are just horrible, and the steroid shot is just suppressing her immune system instead of solving the problem. If your dog is young, then I'd say to try and boost her immune system and add a probiotic. If older, then maybe a specialty diet could be needed, but I'd sooner trust PPP than any of the vet recommended diets. You say PPP didn't work, then you need a better kibble.