German Shepherds are one of the most beloved dog in America, ranking number two just after Labrador Retrievers. They are one of the smartest dogs in the world, and are usually tagged with the police or military as working dogs. German Shepherds are considered a medium sized to large sized breed and they have a black to brown 2-layered coat. Being active dogs, it is important that owners know exactly what nutrients that the German Shepherd needs, and hence the best dog food for German Shepherd will be crux of this article.
Before we go about discussing the best dog food for German Shepherd. we will need to take into account the dog’s temperament and characteristics before we can advise on type of food for German Shepherd.
German Shepherd’s Characteristics
German Shepherds are usually strong, athletic and very active. They are overly protective of their family members too. They can grow up to 100 pounds, and most of it are muscle mass. In accordance to a nutritional study, German Shepherds should have a diet ranging from 1720 to 2100 calories. However, this is just for active adult German Shepherds. As a guide, if your German Shepherd happens to prefer lazing around at home, then you should feed your dog a lower calorie diet. Do not over feed your German Shepherd as it may cause more harm than benefits for your dog.
Top Ingredients In Dog Food For German Shepherd
The best dog food for German Shepherd must have at least 22% protein content for growth and 18% for maintenance for adult dogs. As German Shepherds are active, the diet must consist of at least 5-8% fat content. When they are puppies, do not overfeed them too as it will create problems when they are in their adult stage. Do look out for the first 5 ingredients listed in the food’s packaging when you buy the food, as they are required by law to state the ingredients according to the highest content first. So if the first listed ingredient is chicken, then chicken will have the highest content in the food as compared to the next ingredient. Also, look out for omega fatty acids which are important in maintaining your dog’s skin and coat, keeping it healthy and shiny.
There are in fact many types of dog food out there that can be the best dog food for German Shepherd. However, we would only recommend you to choose Orijen Adult Dog Food as it is simply the best one that you can choose for the best dog food for German Shepherd as it contains all the nutrients that your German Shepherd will need.
Orijen Adult Dog Food
In an earlier article, we have provided reviews on Orijen Puppy food, and the recommended food can be consumed by German Shepherd puppies too.
For adults, their nutritional needs will be different from the puppies. Usually, we feed lesser food to adult dogs than to puppies. Orijen Adult Dog Food is simply amazing. Many owners have switched to this bag, and their dog seems to be enjoying eating the food more than ever. It is reported that the quality of the dog’s stool also improved after eating the Orijen Adult Dog Food.
This bag of dog food for German Shepherd is packed with ingredients that are high in protein content. Since the ingredients are sourced from free-running farm animals, the food is guaranteed to be optimal for most dogs. The ingredients are delivered fresh each day, and hence the proteins and fats that your dog is taking in is unprocessed. It is 90% protein, 10% of fruits and vegetables. It has a minimum of 38% protein and 18% fats, hence ensuring that the basic nutrients for your dog is being met. The calorie content is at 478 kcal per cup, which makes it one of the best dog food for German Shepherd!
How to choose the Best Dog Food For German Shepherd
When choosing the best dog food for a German Shepherd, there are several important factors to consider.
First, it is essential to consider the dog’s age. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs and senior dogs. Puppies need a diet that is high in protein and fat to support their growth and development, while adult dogs need a diet that is balanced for maintenance, and seniors may require a diet that is tailored to support their specific needs, such as joint health.
Next, it is important to consider the dog’s activity level. German Shepherds are a large and active breed, so they require a diet that is high in protein to support their muscle development and maintenance. A diet that is appropriate for a sedentary dog may not be sufficient for a highly active German Shepherd.
Additionally, it is important to consider any health conditions that the dog may have. If the dog has a medical condition, such as allergies or a sensitive stomach, it may be necessary to feed a special diet that is formulated to address these issues.
When looking for a food, it is important to look for a high-quality, protein-rich diet that lists a meat source, such as beef or chicken, as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with a lot of fillers or by-products. It is also recommended to check the ingredient list and avoid foods with artificial preservatives, colors and flavors.
Overall, feeding a diet that is appropriate for your German Shepherd’s age, activity level, and any health conditions can help maintain their overall health and well-being. It’s important to choose a food that will meet all of their nutritional needs and support their growth and development.
What type of protein is best for a German Shepherd?
German Shepherds require a diet that is high in protein to support their muscle development and maintenance. Look for a food that lists a meat source, such as beef or chicken, as the first ingredient.
Should I choose a dry or wet food for my German Shepherd?
Both dry and wet foods can be appropriate for German Shepherds, but it’s important to choose a high-quality food that meets their nutritional needs. Wet food may be more palatable for some dogs and may be useful to increase hydration.
Are there any specific brands of dog food that are best for German Shepherds?
There are many high-quality dog food brands that are suitable for German Shepherds, it’s recommended to consult with your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations for your German shepherd.
How much should I feed my German Shepherd?
The amount of food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on their age, activity level, and any health conditions. It’s recommended to follow the feeding guidelines on the dog food package, and your vet can help you determine the correct amount to feed your individual dog.
Are there any foods that I should avoid feeding my German Shepherd?
You should avoid foods with a lot of fillers or by-products, and also check the ingredient list and avoid foods with artificial preservatives, colors and flavors. It’s also important to avoid feeding your dog table scraps and human foods that can be toxic to dogs.