Blue Buffalo Wilderness Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Made with quality ingredients such as chicken, wholesome veggies, fruits and legumes, the Blue Buffalo food provides plenty of energy and essential nutrients for the highly-active adult German Shepherd in your life. Empowering your dog to live to its fullest is a bevy of antioxidant-rich ingredients such as peas, sweet potatoes, flaxseed, blueberries, carrots and more. The kibble also takes care of your German Shepherds coat and skin, thanks to the inclusion of menhaden fish meal which provides optimal levels of EPA and DHA. Because there are no grains, soy, meat by-products or artificial additives, this formula is a good choice for dogs who suffer from various food allergies, although any adult GSD will thrive on it as well. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Chicken Recipe is one of 10 dog food recipes included in our overview of Blue Buffalo Dog Food.;
Amount of calories for every serving: 409 per cup
Minimum amount of proteins in %: 34
Minimum amount of fat in %: 15
Maximum amounts of moisture and fiber in %: 10 and 6
Top 3 ingredients: deboned chicken, chicken meal, peas
Glucosamine, vitamins and minerals, 5 strains of probiotic organisms
Transition: How To Switch From Puppy To Adult Dog Food
Making the transition between puppy to adult food or from one brand to another is not as hard as you think. All you need to do is replace the original food with the new kibble gradually.
You can do this slowly or over the course of a month, depending on how much of the old kibble you still have.
The most common method is adding 20% of new dog food daily, so by the 5th day, your dog will have transitioned to the new food.
What I like to do is mix their new and old kibble together in a container and serve.
Adjust the radio until all the old dog food is used up, so when youre nearing the end of the bag, just throw a handful into the container!;
What Are The Common Food Allergies In German Shepherds
German Shepherds are prone to food allergies than other breeds; proteins, primarily derived from dairy products and beef, lamb, chicken, chicken, eggs, soy, or gluten, are the most significant dietary allergies in dogs. When a pet consumes these ingredients, the antibodies react with the antigens that cause allergy symptoms.
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Best Dog Food For German Shepherd With Sensitive Stomach
Sensitive stomach and allergies can usually be solved by one formula. Dog food companies generate recipes that solve both or either problem. Experts say more dogs have allergies in the past 10 to 15 years due to low-quality dog food companies marketing their ill-designed food to gullible or ill-informed consumers. Luckily, high-quality brands can step in to solve the problem.
Hills Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin Dog Food is a great way to battle both itchy skin from allergies and a sensitive stomach. Simple, minimal ingredients allow for easy digestion and a settled stomach. A boost of Omega 6 fatty acids and Vitamin E help nourish skin and build a glossy coat. Vitamin C and E build a stronger immune system so that allergies are diminished.
Healthy Weight Guidelines For German Shepherd Puppies
How much should your puppy weigh? Thats hard to say, as males and females grow to be different sizes. Different lines of German Shepherds also grow to different sizes and at different speeds.
However, we can say this. Puppies shouldnt be as roly-poly as you think. At any stage of their growth, you should be able to feel their ribs. If you cant feel your puppys ribs, you should;cut back on how much you are feeding them for a while.
Remember that growing too quickly can cause bone and joint problems in German Shepherds. Obesity is also a major health problem in all dog species. If you have questions about your German Shepherd puppys weight, you should;talk to your veterinarian.
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German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs
German Shepherd is a large breed and grows very quickly from newborn to adult puppy. German Shepherd puppies require at least 500 calories per day.
As they gain weight, the amount gradually increases. Young adult puppies need between 1500 and 1700 calories per day.
The best dog food for a German Shepherd puppy should have all the necessary nutrients in the right amounts. This is explained below:
Best Food For German Shepherds
We’ve gone over 10’s and 10’s of brands and came back with the following list of best dog food for German Shepherds.
This list takes into consideration everything from this breed’s need for ultra-high protein levels so they can maintain their strong physique and lean muscle mass, all the way to their carbohydrate and dietary fat needs so they can stay energetic and upbeat throughout the day.
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Best Dog Food For German Shepherd Puppies
Feeding your German Shepherd puppy a nutritious meal is important for healthy growth; thats why the following foods are formulated for large breed dogs.
Fromm Gold Large Breed Puppy Food* is developed for puppies with adult weights greater than 50 pounds.
The main meat ingredient is chicken, and the recipe also includes lamb and duck.
Nutro Max Large Breed Puppy Recipe* is;formulated with chicken and whole grains .
This food is an affordable option at $35 as of writing this article .
German Shepherd Dog Food Health Concerns & Risks
So, why is it important to feed your German Shepherd the right food, understand the breeds specific nutritional requirements and health risks associated with poor nutrition?
According to a study on nutritional risks of large-breed dogs, large dogs like German Shepherds have a higher;risk;of developing skeletal diseases such as hip dysplasia due to improper nutrition. Over time, skeletal diseases and obesity can lead to osteoarthritis.
GSDs tend to suffer from Gastric dilatation and volvulus bloat. Monitor your GSDs eating habits. Fast eating and gulping can increase the risk of these health problems. Feeding 3 smaller meals a day instead of one large one can also prevent this problem. Making sure your GSD does not do any strenuous physical activity after eating is also necessary. A slow down dog bowl can also help.
Other important German Shepherddog foodhealth-related risks to be aware of include:
- German shepherds tend to develop food allergies that typically manifest as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws.
- Food intolerances in German shepherds difficult protein digestion some. This can lead to;vomit or experience diarrhea.
- Inflammatory bowel disease and gastrointestinal issues that can make life doubly uncomfortable.
Now you should know why selecting the right dog food for your GSD is so important!
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Adult German Shepherd Nutrients
Adult German Shepherds also need age-appropriate food, so it is important that when he reaches the age of 15 months or so, he should be transitioned from a large breed puppy formula to adult formula as his nutrient requirements change . A high-quality adult kibble should include 18% to 24% protein and around 14% fat content.
Similar to the Siberian Huskys food needs, an average adult German Shepherd should consume anywhere between 1,700 calories and 2,400 calories a day, dependent on his size and energy levels. If he is a less active pup or an elderly dog, then he will need much less energy, and he should only consume between 1,300 and 1,600 calories.
Both adult and puppy German Shepherds generally do better on grain-free kibble as they are commonly allergic, or intolerant to, grains and most Veterinarians would suggest putting your pup on this straight away to save any dietary upset or the need to change his diet in the future. However, not all owners and experts agree on a totally grain-free diet, so this is a personal choice as there are pros and cons to each argument, so therefore we have included a mix of grain-free and grain inclusive recommendations.
Special Dietary Concerns For German Shepherds And Health Concerns
If you are a pet parent to a GSD, then you know they are full of energy, incredibly smart, and very trainable. You can learn more about this breed by watching the video below:
Now, part of ensuring that he remains healthy and performs at his optimal best is in knowing some of the health concerns that German shepherds might be prone to.
One of these concerns is of a dietary nature, while the other is a physiological impairment likely to occur as your furry friend grows older.
Fortunately, this can be prevented in most cases, and if your dog does have issues, it can be managed in a way that keeps you dog comfortable and active.
Two common health conditions you should take note of include:
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What Food Should A German Shepherd Never Eat
As stated before, you should never feed your German Shepherd animal by-products, fillers, preservatives, grains, soy, or wheat. These ingredients will make your dog sick or develop allergies. Do not feed your dog a formula with bone meal or corn syrup, either.
Check to make sure you are not feeding him expired meat, animal innards, or protein not fit for human consumption. This is especially important in a raw frozen diet.
Be wary of untrustworthy companies! Check your brand for a history of food recalls. Additionally, some companies break down bad ingredients into multiple groups to make them look healthier. Ask a veterinarian to be sure your choice of dog food is acceptable.
Lastly, if you notice any digestive issues such as hair loss, itchy skin, or lack of appetite, check for bad ingredient or possible allergens. Always consult a veterinarian, too.
Royal Canin German Shepherd Puppy Food
Royal Canin is one of the worlds largest and most popular dog food manufacturers. This kibble is tailor-made for German Shepherd puppies* and contains everything your dog will need during his growth period.
The formula is balanced to avoid digestive sensitivity, and also contains calcium and phosphorus for healthy joints and bones. Vitamins E and C, together with taurine and lutein help to maintain your pups vulnerable immune system. The diet is designed for pure bred German Shepherd puppies from age 8 weeks to 15 months.
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Wet Food Vs Dry Food For German Shepherd Puppies
Puppy food is designed to support the development of an active and large breed as well as healthy growth. German Shepherds are bigger breeds: therefore, puppies should not grow too fast as they risk the development of any potential joint problems.
Puppies need to have the right nutrients to grow strong and fit.
Dry food is affordable and convenient than canned wet food. Kibble helps to remove plaque from your puppys teeth as they eat, preventing tartar or the onset of periodontal disease.
It is also easy to use as training treats. Dry food contains negligible water content, so providing clean and fresh water is necessary.
Wet food has around 80% water content which keeps your puppy hydrated. Canned foods are mostly packed with protein which is great for a puppys development. However, canned foods are more expensive than feeding kibble because you need more of it to meet your dogs daily needs.
Best Cheap Dog Food For German Shepherds
If you are looking for the cheapest dog food for German Shepherds, IAMS Protective Health kibble is your top choice.
For a fraction of the price of other GSD dog foods, this dry food is formulated to provide your GSD pup with sustained healthy energy from a blend of wholesome grains, carbohydrates, and a power-packed trio of proteins for strong muscles.;
It also contains glucosamine and chondroitin for strong bones and joint development.;
Omega 3 & 6 from chicken fat is added to help with supper cost and slot health. We also found beet pulp and natural probiotics for healthy digestion.
- Not a breed specific formula
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Blue Wilderness High Protein Puppy Food
Wilderness wet puppy food is a high-protein, grain-free diet containing deboned turkey*.
The food also contains an important fatty acid thats found in your pups mothers milk, which is vital for good brain and eye function in puppies. Optimally balanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are included to promote healthy skin and a glowing coat.
Dr Garys Best Breed Holistic German Dry Dog Food
Top 5 Ingredients:;1. Chicken Meal, 2. Oatmeal, 3. Brown Rice, 4. Dried Beet Pulp, 5. Chicken Fat
This nutritionally dense kibble is specially crafted for your German Shepherd and include highly digestible ingredients that support maximum nutrient absorption. This wholesome diet is not only a delicious blend that your dog will crave, but includes high-quality proteins that come from eggs, chicken, and menhaden fish to promoted health maintenance and muscle development for maximum activity.
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Blue Buffalo Wilderness Salmon Recipe
Rating:
Wilderness Salmon is one of 18 dry recipes analyzed in our review of the Blue Buffalo Wilderness product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned salmon, chicken meal, peas, pea protein, menhaden fish meal
- Type: Grain-free
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best for:Adult shepherds only
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Salmon derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh salmon and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 17% fat and 38% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
A grain-free, protein-rich formula available in over a dozen flavors and recipes which makes Wilderness ideal for those who appreciate the benefits of diet rotation. Fairly priced and highly recommended.
Sample buyer reviewI have a 3 year old husky and ever since she was a puppy i had her on blue wilderness. Ive got her every flavor if not almost every flavor, and this salmon one is the one she has loved the most! Ieave her food bowl full at all times she so can eat whenever she wants. And she eats this salmon one more than every other flavor. Now i know salmon is her favorite protein (:
How Much To Feed Your German Shepherd
Portions that you feed to your canine buddy are very much dependent on his age as well as the quality of dog food you are using. You can expect that pups will grow rapidly in the first 12 months, so it is imperative that they get adequate portions of high quality formulations.
Puppies Up To Six Weeks
Ideally, six-week-old puppies should still be nursing in order to continue receiving nourishment from mineral-rich mothers milk. You would be hard pressed to find a dog food that can replicate or match the micro- and macro-nutrients as well as anti-bodies provided by a mothers milk at this stage.
Eight to 10 Weeks
At this stage, you can start weaning your pup off mothers milk and gradually introduce them to puppy food. An ideal puppy food is one that is 85% moisture as it prepares the puppies gut for the transition to solid food.
Puppies do not know how to regulate their food intake. For this reason, you should feed them up to four times a day with small portions of food.
12 Weeks
When your German shepherd puppies hit the 12-week mark, you slowly transition them from wet food to dry food. This process should also be gradual in order to avoid diarrhea and vomiting. Start with incorporating 10% dry food mixed with the wet food and gradually increase the percentage of dry food by 5% after every week. Continue to feed small portions four times a day.
14 weeks
Four Months
Eight Months
One Year
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Best Foods For German Shepherd Puppies
Below are five of our natural dry dog kibble recommendations that are made from natural ingredients, and all have the best overall nutritional content as guided by the AAFCO.
We have also considered the overall product rating given by dog owners across the world, as well as the reputation of each brand, so that you know you are choosing the best products from expert companies.
Best Dog Food For German Shepherds 2021 Comparisons And Reviews
When there are so many varieties of dog food around, it’s not easy to know which one is best for your German Shepherd.
In order to know which one to choose, you need to have a good idea of the specific needs of your German Shepherd, as how active she is and any health problems she may have will affect her nutritional requirements.
That’s where I can come in to give you a helping hand. Read on to find out which brands of food are a good choice for your dog.
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German Shepherd Nutritional Needs
German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs, so the best dog food for German Shepherds is generally formulated around those breed specific energy levels. Since they are so intelligent and a large breed with a lot of muscle mass, they are often used as police and military rescue dogs, farm and ranch helpers, therapy and seeing eye dogs, and guard dogs. So they require a lot of energy from their food.
A food that is rich in protein and amino acids is required to help them maintain a healthy weight and keep their muscles strong.
A good dog food for German Shepherds should also have a balance of complex carbohydrates and healthy fats to provide them the sustained, long-term energy they need to work long hours. German Shepherds also need more calories per day than other breeds. An adult German Shepherd at a healthy weight requires between 1700-2100 calories a day so you need a food that has a high kcal amount.