Best Large Breed Dog Food For German Shepherd

Choosing A Dog Food For German Shepherds With Health Problems

When choosing a brand or product for your sick dog, there are multiple factors to consider. What can exacerbate their problem and what can help them?

Dogs suffering from hip dysplasia will benefit from glucosamine and chondroitin.

For dogs with a sensitive gut, you can try formulas that feature limited ingredients and have probiotics that promote gut health and can boost your dogs immune system.

Best Dog Food For German Shepherds: Our Top Picks

Below you will find five great options for feeding your German shepherd. Note the differences between these options and try to select the one that best suits your dog and her particular needs.

Note that while there are a few dog foods available that claim to be specifically formulated for German shepherds, most have problematic ingredients, which make them less desirable than the foods detailed below.

Core Health Concerns For German Shepherds

Most German shepherds are healthy dogs, but the breed is more susceptible to a number of few health concerns than other breeds are.

Many of the problems that afflict German shepherds are congenital, and therefore out of your control. However, other health issues develop in response to your pups environment or lifestyle, and you may be able to treat these in part by selecting an optimal dog food for your shepherd pup.

Some of the most common ailments that afflict German shepherds include:

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Our 2022 German Shepherds Feeding Guide

Puppy

Average Weight Approximately 10lb to 30lb

Recommended Daily Food Intake 1-2 cups a day

Adult Dog

Average Weight Approximately 60lb to 90lb

Recommended Daily Food Intake 3-5 cups a day

Senior Dog

Average Weight Approximately 60lb to 90lb

Recommended Daily Food Intake When it comes to feeding your senior German Shepherd , you must consult your vet as to the suggested amount and type of food. There are a range of factors that can affect feeding, so ensure you have spoken to a professional.

What Can German Shepherds Eat

So now we know what nutrients dogs need lets take a closer look at what exactly they can eat. These are the main foods German Shepherds can eat. However, they do come with some caveats, so read on!

These are the caveats to be aware of:

• If a fruit contains pits or seeds, these must be removed as they contain toxic cyanide.
• Most vegetables should be cooked first to help with digestion.
• Fruits, vegetables, dairy, and nuts should be fed in small amounts no more than 10% of daily calories.
• Although dogs can eat some nuts, they are not recommended due to their high-fat content, which can cause an upset stomach.
• Its not advisable to feed raw eggs or raw fish due to the risk of salmonella or listeria.
• Some dogs are lactose intolerant and can not eat certain dairy foods, depending on how much lactose they contain.

I wrote complete guides to all the fruits and vegetables your German Shepherd can eat where you can find a ton of helpful information. These articles also include the nasty ones to watch out for!

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Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Grain

When looking for a limited ingredient and grain-free food for your German Shepherds delicate stomach, you dont have to choose between flavorful taste and your dogs sensitivities. Thats because Blue Buffalos Basics Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Formula is a scrumptious, limited-ingredient diet made with fewer ingredients for food sensitivities in dogs.

This tasty formula contains a single animal protein source, real salmon, and incorporates pumpkin and easily digested carbohydrates for a simple, yet mouthwatering, meal.

And, dont forget, it also has BLUEs exclusive LifeSource Bitsa combination of handpicked antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. These select pieces reinforce your dogs overall health and wellness.

Nutro Natural Choice Healthy Weight Large Breed Adult Dog Food

Top ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Brown RiceType: Dry

A kibble formulated for GSDs watching their waistlines.

It promotes healthy weight loss while still supporting your dogs nutritional needs. Made with non-GMO ingredients and rich in naturally sourced glucosamine and chondroitin.

One great thing about this is that it comes in lamb as well, so if the chicken is one of the allergens making your dog itch, you can give that a try!

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Healthy Dog Food Is Essential For Your Gsd

These five formulas that we have chosen for you will provide your pooch with the best nutrition they require.

If you pick any of them, sleep tight, your furry companion is safe.

In case you need more ideas, take a look at our list of the best large breed dry dog food on the market. As for the wet formulas, scan through the best-canned dog food, we hope youll find something you like.

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Best Overall German Shepherd Dog Food

Dr. Garys Best Breed dog formula is our top pick for best all-around German Shepherd dog food.

This dog kibble provides an AAFCO balanced nutrition for your GSD with chicken and menhaden fish as the first proteins.

Its been formulated to tackle most of the food-related and nutritional health risks associated with GSDs. Thats why theyve added a balanced ratio of omega-3 and 6 fatty acids for a vibrant coat, quality fiber to help maintain gastrointestinal functions, and Glucosamine to support joint and connective tissue.

As opposed to most kibble for large dog breeds, this brands kibble is highly digestible, which helps avoid typical large dog bred problems such as bloating.

The majority of GSD dog parents report only positive reviews about this dog food, including helping with loose stool, food allergies, coat health, sensitive tummies, among other benefits.

• Formulated specifically for German Shepherds
• New Zealand green-lipped sea mussels support joint health
• Essential vitamins support immune system health
• EU approved

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Whats The Best Dog Food For German Shepherds With Sensitive Stomachs

Finding the right food to suit your dogs sensitive stomach can become confusing.

The best food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs contains highly digestible ingredients and is low in fat. Highly digestible ingredients are easier for German Shepherds to digest and provide more nutrients. The food should avoid the most common known allergens, such as dairy and beef. The right levels of proteins, fats, and fiber will help ensure your German Shepherd gets the nutrition they need while dealing with their stomach issues.

Supplementing with probiotics shows promise for managing digestion problems in German Shepherds and a daily regimen is advised.

The only problem?

Finding the exact dog foods that meet these requirements in an aisle full of fancy packaging and flashy marketing. Here are the top picks laid out for you, along with even more delicious options for your dogs dinner and a sensitive stomach guide for keeping your dog healthy and active.

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How To Choose The Best Dog Food For German Shepherds

When it comes to your dogs diet, youll find no shortage of choices in dog food from one-size-fits-most recipes to personalized options that fit your dogs unique needs. The decision may seem overwhelming, but there are several ways to narrow down your choices to find the best food for your German Shepherd.

First, you can consult the experts to find out what your dogs food should contain. The Association of American Feed Control Officials publishes specific dietary nutrient recommendations that apply to all dogs, according to different life stages. As of 2016, AAFCO updated those recommendations to reflect new standards for large breed puppies, based on findings about health risks associated with overfeeding, accelerated growth, and high calcium and phosphorus levels in food.

But your German Shepherds unique nutritional needs dont disappear when puppyhood ends. According to Dr. Luisana, the best dog food for your German Shepherd is one thats tailored to your pets specific nutritional needs and health concerns.

German Shepherds are prone to issues including hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and bloat all of which can be impacted, positively or negatively, by your dogs diet.

But addressing your German Shepherds overall health and wellness requires more than counting calories. Whats most important is the nutritional makeup of the food, says Dr. Luisana.

What Are Some Common Health Problems German Shepherds Face

Some common health problems German Shepherds face include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and allergies. This breed of dog is also susceptible to obesity, so it is important to choose a food that will help them maintain a healthy weight.

German Shepherds are also prone to joint problems, so a food that is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin is important for this breed of dog.

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Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy Food

Rating:

Puppy Large Breed is one of 10 dry recipes rated in our review of the Purina Pro Plan Puppy product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken, rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn, poultry by-product meal
• Type: Grain-inclusive
• Profile: All life stages
• Best for:German shepherd puppy or adult

Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy obtains the major portion of its meat protein from chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 15% fat and 45% estimated carbs which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.

A classic, field-tested formula with controlled calcium and phosphorus ratios making this option ideal for German shepherd puppies.

Recommended with confidence.

Sample buyer reviewMy puppy absolutely loves this food! She can never wait to get her next meal! Her coat is soft & shiny! Highly recommend this product!

Affordable Dog Food For German Shepherds

Although its hard to resist those puppy dog eyes at the dinner table, it may not always be safe to feed your canine companion the same foods you eat. Dogs have different digestive systems than humans, which means some people food that se.

He was a 7-month-old, out-of-control, unruly German Shepherd. He was big.

Walker owned Sierra, a dog she trained to search for lost animals, but Sierra was 16 years old and getting ready.

Best Dry Dog Food for Adult German Shepherd Reviews. Dry dog food for adult German Shepherds are formulated to support their protein and energy requirements. The best ones are also meant for optimal skin and coat health, as well as strong bones and joints. It should also be suited for their typically sensitive digestive system.

Best Dog Food for German Shepherd puppies NewbieTo Pets Blog #newbietopetsdog food reviews by vets Dog Best Sellers Best Dog Food for German Shepherd

Find the best dry dog for for German Shepherd that contains high levels of active proteins, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that your gsd dog.

Homemade Dog Food for German Shepherd Adults and Puppies Recipes. Before putting your chefs hat on to make any homemade dog food recipe, you should first consult your vet and run the ingredients by them to get it approved for your German Shepherd. They can even help you create a feeding schedule and give you insight into foods your dog can or cant eat (certain allergies.

sheriffs German shepherds are cross.

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Common Areas Of Allergies

German Shepherds show allergies in many common areas on their bodies.

For example, the ears, eyes, and belly.

Changing their diet can help these allergies, but its good to know the possibility of additional allergens and their effects on your German Shepherd.

Just think about it.

If you change your German Shepherds food and they dont show skin improvements, there may be other allergies involved for you to watch out for.

Here are other areas of concern that your German Shepherd might experience when having an allergic reaction.

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The Problem With Dog Food For Senior German Shepherds

Yet, there are problems when it comes to feeding your senior German Shepherd. Neither the Association of American Feed Control Officials nor the National Research Council has determined official dietary requirements for aging dogs.

In part, because senior dogs vary so much in their individual needs. That may explain why commercial foods for elderly dogs vary so widely in nutrient levels.

Good thing there are lots of research articles backed by science so we can figure it out.

To help you through all the legal jargon and nutritional specification, this guide for choosing the best quality dog food for your senior German Shepherd will make choices for your dogs health easier.

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German Shepherd Puppy Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin German Shepherd Puppy dry dog food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred German Shepherds 8 weeks to 15 months old As a result of increased demand, you may experience difficulty purchasing certain products in the coming months. If you need an alternative diet recommendation or help locating a product, please contact our Nutritional Advisors at 800-592-6687 or via our Live Chat function.

Available in

Senior German Shepherd Nutritional Profile

As a general guideline for estimating daily protein needs for a German Shepherd, provide ~1 gm protein/lb of body weight . This level of protein intake will minimize the risk of protein deficiency by providing a minimum intake level.

But, heres the important part

Applying that formula will just give you the minimum level of protein, not the level needed for your dog to thrive.

Senior dogs may need up to 50% more protein than this calculated amount!

Thats right

50% more protein than the general guidelines.

This is due to the fact that protein requirements increase with age due to increased protein turnover and reduced protein synthesis. Therefore, healthy senior German Shepherds dont benefit from protein restriction and may be harmed by limiting their dietary protein.

Low-protein diets are NOT in your senior German Shepherds best interest.

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Can German Shepherds Eat Regular Dog Food

Yes, GSDs can eat a wide range of foods that are generic in nature.

However, because of their large size and their activity levels, they might require a special diet. For instance, they need 18%-22% protein in their meals, with their caloric levels ranging from 1,200 to 2,100 calories per day. This also depends on your dogs activity levels and overall health.

Senior Dog Food Vs Regular Dog Food

Is there more to senior dog food than just a name on the packaging and fancy marketing?

When comparing an adult or all-life stage diet to one labeled for senior dogs, you might not notice a difference.

However, upon closer inspection of senior dog foods there are extra ingredients included to help not only fortify senior dog foods, but to improve digestibility, reduce inflammation, and support joint function.

But, dont assume that all dog foods marketed for senior dogs are the right match for your German Shepherd. Moreover, some dog foods marketed towards all life stages are actually a great match for seniors.

You just need to know what to look for in the ingredients to make an educated decision.

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Are You Feedinga Puppy Or An Adult

Large breeds puppies dont reach adulthood until 12 to 18 months.

Yet giant breeds can weigh over 100 pounds and take up to 24 months before theyre considered adults.

If youre feeding a large breed puppy

Be sure to visit our Best Large Breed Puppy Food page for our most recent recommendations.

The list below is recommended for large breed adults.

Taste Of The Wild Southwest Canyon Canine Recipe

Top ingredients: Beef, Peas, Garbanzo BeansType: Dry

A high-quality dog food made in the USA. No list of best dog foods is complete without a mention of Taste of the Wild.

It contains natural ingredients and sources its protein from lamb, boar, and beef, with the intention of feeding our domesticated buddies what their wild ancestors would eat.

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Why Are German Shepherds Susceptible To Skin Allergies

German shepherd dogs are usually susceptible to skin allergies because of the protein in their diet. The lack of protein in their diet is often why theyre susceptible to developing health problems.

Skin allergies are common because many owners feed their German shepherds food with the highest number of grains and meals instead of paying for more expensive freeze-dried raw diets.

The cheaper processed foods often lack proper nutrition and can cause skin allergies.

Raw Dog Food Or Cooked

Raw or cooked? Many owners will give their dogs a raw food diet, claiming that raw meat and vegetables are what a dog would be eating if they lived in the wild. However, dogs that live in the wild rarely live to be older than four or five years and domesticated dogs are different enough from wolves and wild dogs that feeding them the exact same diet does not always make sense.

In some instances, a raw food diet is a great choice for a German Shepherd, but do not immediately assume that it is the only choice for your dog. As long as the food is properly cooked, dry food and even homemade dog food can be great for your dog. I mix it up, sometimes raw food, sometimes cooked, but often just dry food.

If you end up giving your dog only dry food make sure they drink enough and provide some kind of running water bowl or system. Be careful they dont develop bladder stones or kidney stones. Some brands like Royal Canin also have special food for dogs with urinary problems.

The average shepherd should eat between three and five cups of dog food every day.

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