Best Dog Food for German Shepherds: 9 Top Picks for Your Pup's Diet
Concerned about giving your dog the best food and nutrition? In this guide, you'll see what foods are recommended by pet owners and experts.
Do you have a German Shepherd?
As a German Shepherd owner, you want to ensure your dog gets the best dog food for German Shepherds that you could afford to purchase. That's why we've put together this list of the best foods.
All the foods on this list are made with high-quality ingredients and will provide your dog with the food they need to stay healthy and happy. They don't contain fillers like whole grain brown rice, corn, or wheat. Plus, they all range in price so you can stick to your budget without sacrificing your German Shepherd's diet.
Check out our list of the best dog foods for German Shepherds today! Your dog will thank you for it with a long, happy, and healthy life.
How We Pick the Best Dog Food for German Shepherds
Choosing the best dog food for German Shepherds can be a challenging task. With all of the different brands and formulas on the market, how do you know which ones have high-quality dog food that is right for your four-legged friend?
It's no secret that finding the right dog food is important because German Shepherds are large breed dogs. Not only does your dog need the right nutrients to stay healthy, but the wrong diet can also lead to serious health problems.
We did all of the hard work for you and looked at thousands of reviews on Amazon to find the best dog food for German Shepherds. Our list includes top-rated dog food.
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Venison Adult Dry Dog Food
Great Dog Food
Exclusive Insights
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe is a feast for your German Shepherd's senses. With roasted bison and venison as the main ingredients, this dog food provides a rich source of high-quality protein that's essential for maintaining lean, strong muscles.
The grain-free formula is perfect for German Shepherds allergic to grains and ensures your dog gets the best food without any unnecessary fillers.
The inclusion of K9 Strain proprietary probiotics in this dog food supports your German Shepherd's digestive health, making it a top contender for the best dog foods for this breed. The antioxidants and omega fatty acids contribute to a shiny coat and robust immune system, making it a comprehensive meal for your pet.
Customer Review
"I switched to Taste of the Wild for my German Shepherd, and the difference is night and day! His coat is shinier, and he has so much more energy. Plus, he absolutely loves the taste of the roasted bison and venison." Click the “Check Price on Amazon” button at the bottom to get the price for the great dog food.
ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Dog Food for All Life Stages, Fresh or Raw Ingredients
All Natural Dog Food With Great Ingredients
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ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food stands out with its biologically appropriate formula that mirrors the diet of a German Shepherd's ancestors. The grain-free recipe boasts a high protein content from fresh or raw ingredients like free-run chicken and turkey, whole mackerel, and chicken liver.
This ensures your German Shepherd receives the best food that's rich in meat-based protein and essential vitamins.
This dog food is suitable for German Shepherd puppies, adults, and seniors, making it a versatile choice for German Shepherd owners. The WholePrey ingredients provide a variety of essential nutrients, mimicking a natural diet and supporting your dog's overall health.
Customer Review
"My German Shepherd has never looked better since we started feeding her ORIJEN. The fresh ingredients make me confident that I'm giving her the best food possible." Click the “Check Price on Amazon” button at the bottom to get the price for the great dog food.
ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food, Sea to Stream, Saltwater and Freshwater Fish & Grains Recipe
Another great dog food.
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ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food is a unique choice for German Shepherds with its Sea to Stream recipe. The combination of saltwater and freshwater fish provides a variety of protein sources, while the wholesome grains offer fiber for digestive health. This formula is especially beneficial for German Shepherds with food allergies or sensitivities.
The balance of 70% high-quality animal ingredients and 30% grains, fruits, and vegetables ensures your German Shepherd gets a diet that's both nutritious and satisfying.
The pre- and probiotics included in this dog food aid in maintaining a healthy gut, which is crucial for a German Shepherd's overall health.
Customer Review
"ACANA's Sea to Stream recipe has been a game-changer for my German Shepherd with food sensitivities. He loves the fish flavor, and his stomach issues have cleared up." Click the “Check Price on Amazon” button at the bottom to get the price for the great dog food.
ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food – All Natural, High Protein, Grain Free and Limited Ingredient with Superfoods
Another great dog food.
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ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is crafted with care in New Zealand, using only the finest free-range beef and superfoods like green mussels and organic kelp. This high-protein, grain-free dog food is perfect for German Shepherds with a sensitive stomach or food allergies, as it contains limited ingredients and no fillers linked to health concerns.
The air-dried process locks in nutrients and intensifies flavor, providing your German Shepherd with a meal that's not only nutritious but also delicious. The inclusion of superfoods boosts overall health, supporting everything from digestion to joint health.
Customer Review
"My German Shepherd is picky and has a sensitive stomach, but ZIWI Peak has been a total hit! The air-dried beef is his favorite, and I've noticed a significant improvement in his digestion. Click the “Check Price on Amazon” button at the bottom to get the price for the great dog food.
Merrick Premium Grain Free Dry Adult Dog Food, Wholesome And Natural Kibble With Real Salmon And Sweet Potato
Another great dog food.
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Merrick Premium Grain Free Dry Adult Dog Food is a wholesome blend that combines real salmon and sweet potatoes. This formula is rich in omega fatty acids, promoting a shiny coat and healthy skin, while the glucosamine and chondroitin support joint health, making it ideal for preventing hip dysplasia in German Shepherds.
The grain-free recipe ensures that your German Shepherd is getting the best food without the risk of grain-related allergies. The high protein content from real deboned salmon aids in maintaining a healthy weight and muscle mass, essential for active dogs like German Shepherds.
Customer Review
"I've been feeding my German Shepherd Merrick's salmon and sweet potato recipe, and he's thriving. His joints are healthy, and he maintains a healthy weight effortlessly." Click the “Check Price on Amazon” button at the bottom to get the price for the great dog food.
Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Dry Dog Food, High Protein Real Chicken Kibble + Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food
Another great dog food.
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Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Dry Dog Food combines high-protein chicken kibble with freeze-dried raw pieces, offering a balanced and exciting meal for your German Shepherd. This formula is particularly beneficial for active dogs, providing the protein needed to sustain energy levels and support healthy muscles.
The inclusion of probiotics in this dog food promotes healthy digestion, which is vital for German Shepherds. The grain-free recipe caters to those with sensitivities and ensures that your dog is receiving only the best food, free from common allergens.
Customer Review
"Instinct Raw Boost is the only food my active German Shepherd will eat, and it keeps him in top shape. The mix of kibble and freeze-dried raw pieces is a hit, and it's an unbeatable value for his dietary needs." Click the “Check Price on Amazon” button at the bottom to get the price for the great dog food.
Best puppy dog food for German Shepherd puppies
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ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Puppy Large Dry Dog Food is specifically formulated to support the growth and development of large breed puppies like German Shepherds. The high protein content from fresh chicken, whole herring, and mackerel ensures that your growing puppy gets the essential nutrients for proper nutrition.
The inclusion of grains in this formula provides digestive health benefits, while the pollock oil supports immune function and healthy skin and coat. This dog food is a comprehensive meal that addresses the needs of German Shepherd puppies during their crucial growth stages.
Customer Review
"My German Shepherd puppy loves ORIJEN's large breed formula. It's packed with protein and grains that keep him full and energetic." Click the “Check Price on Amazon” button at the bottom to get the price for the great dog food.
ORIJEN Senior Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Dry Dog Food for Senior Dogs, Fresh or Raw Ingredients
Great for Your Senior German Shepherd
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ORIJEN Senior Dry Dog Food is tailored for the needs of senior German Shepherds, helping them maintain a healthy weight and joint function. The grain-free formula is rich in animal proteins and WholePrey ingredients, providing a diet that's close to what their ancestors would have eaten in the wild.
The senior-specific recipe includes nutrients like Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, Chondroitin, and Glucosamine, which are essential for supporting joint health and a healthy coat. This dog food ensures that your aging German Shepherd continues to receive the best food for their changing nutritional needs.
Customer Review
"My senior German Shepherd has a new lease on life with ORIJEN Senior. The high protein content keeps her lean and mobile. It's an affordable way to ensure she's getting the best food in her golden years." Click the “Check Price on Amazon” button at the bottom to get the price for the great dog food.
German Shepherds With Sensitive a Stomach
Exclusive Insights
Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care is an excellent option for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs or food allergies. The limited ingredient formula starts with real lamb and includes easily digestible carbohydrates like potatoes and peas.
The absence of grains that contain gluten makes it a safe choice for German Shepherds allergic to these ingredients.
This large breed dog food is fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health, and the LifeSource Bits provide a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. T
his natural dog food is enhanced with essential nutrients, ensuring your German Shepherd receives the best food for their overall well-being.
Customer Review
"Blue Buffalo Basics has been perfect for my German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach. The lamb and potato recipe is gentle on his digestion, and he's never been healthier. At $44.98 for a 22-lb bag, it's a great value for high-quality, grain-free dog food."
Buyers Guide for Choosing the Best Dog Food for German Shepherds
When selecting the best dog food for your German Shepherd, it's essential to consider their specific needs. High protein content, grain-free options, and ingredients that support digestive health are key factors to keep in mind.
Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Diet for Your German Shepherd
A balanced diet is crucial for your German Shepherd's overall health. Monitoring portion sizes, ensuring regular exercise, and incorporating healthy treats are all part of maintaining a healthy diet. Always consult with your veterinarian for personalized dietary recommendations.
Summary
In conclusion, finding the best dog food for German Shepherds means looking for high protein content, grain-free formulas, and ingredients that support digestive health.
Brands like ORIJEN, Blue Buffalo, and others offer specialized formulas that cater to the unique needs of German Shepherds at different life stages.
FAQ about the best food for German Shepherds
How much should a German Shepherd eat per day?
In terms of quantity, German Shepherds require large meals to satisfy their appetite and maintain their energy levels. Generally, 2-3 cups of dry food divided into two meals per day is recommended for an adult German Shepherd.
It's also crucial to monitor your dog's weight regularly and adjust their food intake accordingly. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, joint problems, and other health issues.
On the other hand, underfeeding can result in malnourishment and lack of energy.
What should you not feed a German shepherd?
There are a few things you should avoid feeding a German shepherd, including chocolate, onions, and grapes. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs.
Onions contain sulfides that can damage red blood cells in dogs. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. It's best to stick to dog-friendly foods like chicken, turkey, and beef when feeding your German shepherd.
What human food can I feed my German Shepherd?
There are a lot of human foods that you can feed your German Shepherd. Some good options include cooked chicken, beef, or fish, boiled eggs, rice, pasta, and fruit and vegetables.
Always be sure to consult with your veterinarian before feeding your dog any new food to ensure that it is safe and healthy for them to eat. Thanks for asking!
What are German Shepherds notorious for?
German Shepherds are notorious for being one of the best guard dogs in the world. They are fiercely loyal to their owners and have a very strong sense of protectiveness.
They are also known for their intelligence and obedience, making them an ideal choice for both police dogs and for personal protection.
Do German Shepherds have a good temperament?
German Shepherds are known for their good temperament. They are loyal, and protective, and make great family pets. They need plenty of exercise and can be a bit challenging to train, but with patience and consistency, they can be easy to obedience train. Overall, German Shepherds are great dogs for families who are looking for a pet that is both friendly and protective.
What are the pros and cons of a German Shepherd?
There are many pros to owning a German Shepherd. They are loyal and protective animals that make great family pets. They are also very smart and easy to train, which makes them ideal for working dog roles such as law enforcement or search and rescue.
However, there are a few potential cons to consider before getting a German Shepherd. They can be quite energetic and require a lot of exercise, so they may not be suitable for everyone.
They also have a strong herding instinct which can lead them to herd smaller animals or children, so care should be taken if there are any other pets or children in the home.
What are German Shepherd's weaknesses?
German Shepherds can be prone to hip dysplasia, a genetic disorder in which the thighbone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint. This can cause lameness and arthritis.
They may also be susceptible to bloat, a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach twists on itself. To help prevent bloat, feed your German Shepherd two or three small meals per day instead of one big meal. And don't let him drink large amounts of water all at once.
In In conclusion
Choosing the right dog food for your German Shepherd is crucial for their health and well-being.
But it's not just about feeding quality food to our furry friends. As responsible pet owners, it's also important to pay attention to their unique needs and adjust as necessary.
Whether it's adding supplements or changing up the protein source, taking the time to tailor your dog's diet to their specific requirements will result in a happier and healthier pup.
We hope this blog post has been helpful in guiding you towards finding the best dog food for your German Shepherd. It may take some trial and error, but once you find a formula that works for your pup, stick with it! Your four-legged friend will thank you with endless love.
So, let's raise our bowls (or paws) and make a vow to provide our German Shepherds with nothing but the best when it comes to mealtime. After all, they give us unconditional love every day, so it's only fair that we give them the same level of care in return.
Now go forth and feed those loyal companions with confidence. We're sure they'll gobble up whatever delicious meal you choose for them (maybe even doing a little happy dance as they do).
And remember, a healthy dog equals a happy owner – so cheers to many more years of joyous moments shared with our beloved German Shepherds!
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