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What Type Of Food Do German Shepherds Eat

Food Requirements Of German Shepherd Puppies

What Can German Shepherds Not Eat: Never Feed These 12 Foods to Your GSD

Puppies;have the ability to store energy in a seemingly endless way.;This means that they;need a constant supply of calories; the right types of calories to keep their energy levels high and help them become happy and healthy adult dogs.If this is the first time you have a German shepherd puppy, you are probably going to ask yourself some questions about your diet.;Feeding a puppy is very different from feeding an adult dog;.;Younger children need to maintain a regular feeding schedule and their growing bodies require more nutrients from their food than adult dogs.

Questions like

  • How much food should I give my puppy?
  • How many times a day should I feed my puppy?
  • How much should a puppy eat?

If you do not follow the proper guidelines one can simply be supercharged to your puppy or have it lacking nutrients and minerals vital for its growth.

As a general rule, it can be said that you are feeding your puppy excessively if he can not see or feel his rib cage.

While, for humans, this is considered a sign of malnutrition, it is actually a guide you can use to help find out if your puppy is getting enough calories from his diet.

Best Dry Food For German Shepherd Puppies

Today, many puppies are weaned directly onto softened kibble, or transitioned from wet food to dry food at around 12 weeks. So they are likely to be already eating dry food by the time they come home with you. In fact they will probably arrive with a bag of the kibble they were weaned onto. These are our picks of the best dry dog food for German Shepherd puppies.

Tons Of Protein For Your Active Dog: Taste Of The Wild Sierra Mountain Grain

Pros:

  • Twenty-five percent of the food is simply protein
  • Includes vitamins and minerals from real fruits
  • Includes probiotics, prebiotics, and omega fatty acids

Cons:

  • The product does contain some preservatives

This product is touted as formulated with novel proteins, and claims to be highly digestible, which is a boon for German Shepherds with digestive issues. The first ingredient is lamb, and it is chock full of probiotics and prebiotics that are meant specifically for canines. The company is U.S. based, and they strive to provide food that includes ingredients from sustainable, local sources. This food does not contain artificial colors or flavors, and there are no grains included in the ingredients. One notable point Taste of the Wild is the only food on our list so far to include dried chicory root for ease of digestion.;

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Diamond Naturals Large Breed Puppy Food

This large breed puppy food is made in the USA* from pasture raised lamb and is formulated with optimal amino acids for lean, strong muscles. The food contains no fillers, no wheat, no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.

This recipe includes superfoods and antioxidants, fatty acids for a glowing coat and healthy skin, and chondroitin and glucosamine for healthy joint development.

Gentle Giants Canine Nutrition Chicken

What Do German Shepherds Eat?

Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Pearled Barley, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Dried Plain Beet Pulp

Caloric Content: 3,323 kcal/kg

The Gentle Giants Canine Nutrition Chicken Dry Dog Food is a veterinarian-approved dry dog food mix with a huge range of ingredients. It contains a great blend of farm-raised chicken, oatmeal and rice, as well as fruit and vegetables such as blueberries, carrots, apples and tomatoes.

This mix is suited to all stages of a German Shepherds life, from puppy to senior, and is a natural formula that contains both prebiotics and probiotics to assist with digestion and the absorption of food in your dogs stomach.

Vitamins A and B12 are included, as well as Taurine for optimal health. Although there arent any genetically modified inclusions in this food, some dogs who are very picky eaters have not enjoyed it. It is generally a quality choice for your German Shepherd though.

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Best Foods For German Shepherds

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.

How Many Calories Does Your German Shepherd Need

German Shepherds were bred to work all day herding livestock, which makes them high-energy dogs who are active both physically and mentally. This means that adult German Shepherds need a high-calorie diet to give them the energy to run as well as stay sharp.

For a large breed with an average weight of around 70 lb the calorie suggestions* are:

*These estimates are based on an average weight for this breed using Train Pet Dog Make sure you talk to your vet to get an accurate amount for your dog.

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Royal Canin Specialized Dog Food For German Shepherds

This Royal Canin formula is designed exclusively for pure-breed German Shepherds over 15 months old. German Shepherds can have finicky digestive systems; this recipe is intended to combat that with highly digestible proteins including chicken and a selection of specific fibers, such as brewers rice and oat groats, to aid digestion and prevent soft stools. Its available in 17- and 30-pound bags.

Royal Canin Specialized Dog Food for German Shepherds

This dry dog food is tailored exclusively for pure-breed German Shepherds and includes easy-to-digest ingredients to help support their digestive system.

Specifically Designed For Adult German Shepherds: Royal Canin

How Much do German Shepherds Eat?

Pros:

  • Lots of fiber and easily digestible proteins;
  • Vitamins and nutrients to support a healthy coat
  • Includes DHA and EPA for joints and bone health

Cons:;

  • A 30 lb bag costs over $75

Royal Canin designed this particular food for the German Shepherd breed, particularly those over fifteen months of age. This food is perfect for German Shepherds who have shown signs of digestive issues, such as bloating or recurring upset stomachs. The Royal Canin for German Shepherds is even formulated to promote skin and coat health! The only real downside to the Royal Canin choice is the price a 30 lb bag is between $75 and $80, depending upon if you order it and have it shipped . However, this food is not only designed specifically for German Shepherds, it addresses some specific nutritional needs of the breed. If your dog is prone to health issues, then spending the extra dough for this special formula food may be well worth it!

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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.

Eagle Pack Power Adult Dog Food

Rating:

Eagle Pack Power is one of 7 dry recipes included in our review of the Eagle Pack product line.

  • First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, pork meal, ground brown rice, peas, chicken fat
  • Type: Grain-inclusive
  • Profile: Maintenance
  • Best for:Adult shepherds only

Power Adult derives the majority of its animal protein from fresh chicken and pork meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 21% fat and 38% estimated carbs which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.

A time-proven, grain-inclusive design free of any legume concentrates. Contains safe, natural antioxidant preservatives. No BHT or ethoxyquin. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer reviewIf you have a dog that is extremely active this is a GREAT dog food. My Shepherd and Retrievers were skinny because they are highly active dogs. I switched to this food because of the nutrition and calories that it intails. My dogs are bulked backed up and love the taste!

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Iams Proactive Health Large Breed

Rating:

Large Breed Chicken and Whole Grains is one of 14 dry recipes covered in our review of the Iams ProActive Health product line.

  • First 5 ingredients: Chicken, ground whole grain barley, ground whole grain corn, ground whole grain sorghum, chicken by-product meal
  • Type: Grain-inclusive
  • Profile: Maintenance
  • Best for:Adult shepherds only

Iams ProActive Health Large Breed derives the majority of its meat protein from chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 25% protein, 14% fat and 53% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.

This classic, grain-inclusive large breed design has been made by Iams for years and is a nutritious fit for adult German shepherds. Calcium levels are a bit high for shepherd puppies. Easily recommended.

Sample buyer reviewIAMS is a product that I have turned to for complete nutrition for my dog as well as my cats! In fact, I have been feeding IAMS to my cats for over 20 years! Sure there are higher priced pet foods, but why would you want to pay more when you get the proper nutrition and a quality product at a reasonable price!

List Of Fruits For Your Gsd

What Do German Shepherds Like to Eat?

1. APPLE

Your GSD;can eat apples;, and generally is one of the;best fruits for dogs.;The apple is easy to digest, and most dogs love it.

2.; PEACH;

Your dog can eat peach ,a typical summer fruit.;Be careful not to give them the seed to prevent them from choking, because it is very hard.

3. Pear

The pear is tasty, and.;It is ideal as a treat for dogs that are a little thick, since it contains almost 80% water.;When you are eating pear, you can cut some cubes and give them to your dog.

4. BANANA

Although it is not good to abuse, giving small pieces of banana every now and then to your GSD is good.;Although in general, if your dog is new to fruits, you can start with others that are;easier to digest, such as apples;.;If your German Shepherd cannot eat bananas, you may observe that after eating banana he has diarrhea.;In that case, simply remove the banana from your diet completely.

5. Pineapple

;Pineapple in moderation has many benefits for dogs.;It contains vitamin C, B1 and B6, a large amount of water and is a natural source of fiber.

6. PAPAYA;

Papaya is another fruit that GSD can eat, and also for its sweetness and soft texture, many dogs like its flavor.

7.; MANGO

As in the previous case, mango is a;healthy and delicious;fruit;for many;dogs.;Mango contains fiber, and;vitamins such as A;, essential for good skin and hair health.;We must also remove the seed , before giving it to our dog.

8. Dogs can eat;Sapodilla

9. STRAWBERRIES;

10. COCONUT

11. MELON

12. WATERMELON

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Artificial Sweetener In Gum And Mints

Xylitol is one of the most toxic things a German Shepherd can eat, and is commonly found in some mints and sugar-free gums.

According to research , xylitol is 100 times more toxic than chocolate is for dogs. If they just eat one stick of gum with xylitol, a small dog could see their blood sugar levels dip considerably.

If the small dog went onto to eat a whole pack of gum with 10 sticks containing toxic xylitol, it could damage their liver irreparably and possibly even kill them.

Other foods and household items that can contain xylitol include:

  • Toothpaste
  • Over the counter vitamin supplements

What Human Foods Can German Shepherds Eat

While German Shepherds can eat human food not all human foods are safe for your GSD.; They like chewing on the occasional raw bone, but should not be fed cooked chicken bones.

Avoid anything spicy or with sugar, and NEVER give your dog chocolate; it can be fatal. In addition, steer clear of foods like grapes, raisins, and garlic.

Here are examples of some human foods German Shepherds like to eat:

  • Cooked chicken breast
  • Apples

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Lucy Pet Formulas For Life

Lucy dog food has been specifically designed to help dogs with their digestive health and stomach problems. Antioxidants included in this dog recipe assist in improving the overall immune system of the German Shepherd dog. This dog food is recommended by Dr. Fahey, a renowned veterinary dog expert.

This dog food recipe is designed to solve the dogs general health problems, focusing on maintaining the dogs gut health, which leads towards the overall health of the dogs.;

This nutrition recipe includes real ducks that are specially imported from France, which are a great source of protein for dogs. The duck meat also helps to keep their muscle strength and maintain their skin and hair.

The dietary supplements such as;Taurine and L-Carnitine;include in this food recipe helps to maintain your dogs heart health and stress reduction.

The omega-3 and natural fatty acids elements in this formula help enhance coat health and shine and decrease many kinds of canine skin allergies.

The manufactured, designed each food packet, keeping in mind the nutritional needs of the dogs of various ages and the types of breeds, and the prebiotic supplements included in that formula helps to improve the stomach and strengthen the dogs immune function.

Taste Of The Wild Wetlands Grain

Feeding RAW Food To A German Shepherd – K9 Mukbang

Top 5 Ingredients:;1. Duck, 2. Duck Meal, 3. Chicken Meal, 4. Sweet Potatoes, 5. Peas

Give your big-breed German Shepherd a wholesome diet that combines the goodness of grain-free and a variety of other nutritional ingredients. The tempting flavors not only serve as a savory option for your big pooch, but the balanced nutrients ensure healthy overall development and a great level of activity. The recipe is free from by-products and fillers and features just the right amount of nutrition perfect for your German Shepherd dog.

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How Many Calories Does Your German Shepherd Puppy Need

As your German Shepherd puppy grows , she needs a calorie-rich diet. According to the National Research Council of the National Academies, a puppy needs twice as many calories per pound of body weight as an adult of the same breed.

Lets work that out. So, an adult German Shepherd weighing 70 lb needs about 20 calories per lb per day. That would mean that a German Shepherd puppy who will reach 70 lb as an adult needs 40 calories per lb per day.*

*Theses are just guidelines. I advise you to discuss this with your vet and work out an accurate amount for your puppy.

German Shepherd Feeding Guide: Adult Years

Once your German Shepherd has ended his puppy stage and transitioned into adulthood, hes ready to eat a balanced adult diet.

Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does.

Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences.

That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then.

Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. They can get by on once per day, but its always better to split daily caloric intake between smaller meals instead of feeding it all at once.

Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this.

If youre not home for twice-daily feedings, you can use an automatic feeder. These will dispense the proper amount of food at set times each day so your dog isnt left waiting for meals.;;

Throughout the years, Ive fed a number of different high-quality dog foods to my German Shepherds.

One of my consistent go-tos is Royal Canin Adult Breed German Shepherd dry dog food. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons.

In addition, this blend also uses optimal levels of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids to make a GSDs coat pop, so to speak. You really can see the difference.

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German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart

6 Week Old German Shepherd

  • At this age, it is crucial to ensure your puppy is receiving the same nutrients as if they were being fed by their mother
  • Ideally, a 6 week old puppy should still be feeding from their mother
  • It is tricky to replace the micro and macro nutrients that a puppy receives from their mothers milk, as well as any antibodies
  • They are growing very fast, so they need enough nutrients to sustain their growth

10 Weeks Old

  • As puppies are weaned off, the amount of puppy food they require increases
  • They need to be fed at least 3 times a day
  • To help their little bodies with the transition from mothers milk to puppy food, it is best to start with wet food
  • Using wet food helps to prepare their digestive systems for whole food, which will be introduced to a puppys diet in time
  • Again, they are growing very fast, so they need enough nutrients to sustain their growth

12 Weeks Old

  • Around 12 weeks of age, the transition from wet to dry food begins
  • Ensure the transition is in small steps, to avoid causing any upset to the puppy
  • As a guide, start with a 10% dry food, 90% wet food mix and increase the dry food by 10-15% each week after that
  • They need to be fed at least 3 times a day
  • Still growing!

3 Months Old

5 Months Old

  • Additionally, around 4-5 months of age introduce some live animal products into their diet such as actual bone, raw eggs and liver
  • They need to be fed at least 3 times a day
  • As a guide, feed them a total of 1-2 cups of dry food a day

1 Year Old

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