German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and high energy levels. To keep your German Shepherd happy and healthy, it’s crucial to provide them with a well-balanced diet that meets their specific nutritional needs. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about what to feed your German Shepherd at every stage of their life.
The Dietary Needs of German Shepherds
German Shepherds are large, active dogs with a history as working animals. This means they require a diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates to fuel their muscles and maintain their energy levels. A proper diet is also essential for preventing obesity and hereditary health problems common in the breed.
Essential Nutrients for German Shepherds
- Protein: Crucial for muscle development and energy. Adult German Shepherds need around 18-25% protein in their diet. Puppies need a higher percentage, around 22-26%, to support their rapid growth. Good sources of protein include chicken, beef, fish, lamb, turkey, and eggs.
- Fats: Important for maintaining a healthy coat, as well as muscle, cell, and nerve function. Adult German Shepherds need about 5-8% fat in their diet, while puppies need up to 10%. High-quality fat sources include fish oil and chicken fat.
- Carbohydrates: Provide energy, especially for active breeds. Good sources of carbohydrates include brown rice, barley, and oats.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Play countless roles in maintaining bone health and immune function. German Shepherds have specific needs due to their size and activity levels.
Feeding Your German Shepherd by Age
Puppies (0-12 Months)
German Shepherd puppies need a diet that supports their rapid growth and development.
- Protein and Fat: They require a steady supply of protein and fat for healthy muscle and bone development. Aim for 22-26% high-quality protein and 8-15% fat on a dry-matter basis.
- Calories: German Shepherd puppies need between 80 and 90 calories per pound to fuel their growth.
- Feeding Schedule: From when they are first born to 12 weeks, German shepherd pups can be fed a total of 1.5 cups of dry kibble between four to six times a day. At six months, you can gradually increase the portions while decreasing the frequency.
- Supplements: Omega-3 supplements are recommended for cognitive development and a better coat. For pups with sensitive stomachs, digestive enzymes and probiotic supplements can help.
Here’s an example of a German Shepherd puppy milk chart:
| Puppy Age (Weeks) | Feedings Per Day | Amount Per Feeding | Time Gap |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 8 | 10-12 ml | Every 2 hours |
| 2 | 5 | 30-35 ml | Every 4-5 hours |
| 3 | 4 | 70-80 ml | Every 4-5 hours |
| 4 | 4 | 100-120 ml | Every 4-5 hours |
Adults (1-7 Years)
Adult German Shepherds need a balanced diet to maintain their weight and energy levels.
- Protein and Fat: An adult German Shepherd usually needs 20-25% protein in their diet. They also require 10-15% fat to keep their coats shiny and healthy and maintain muscle, cell, and nerve function.
- Calories: Most adult German Shepherds on a maintenance diet require between 1,435 to 1,780 calories per day. Active dogs may need between 1,740 and 2,100 calories per day. Calorie needs depend on the dog’s activity level, age, and health.
- Feeding Schedule: A German Shepherd should be fed twice a day, offering around 2.5 to 3.5 cups of dry kibble each day.
Seniors (7+ Years)
Senior German Shepherds are prone to obesity, so they need a diet lower in protein and fat and richer in fiber.
- Calories: A senior German Shepherd consumes around 1200 calories daily.
- Supplements: A multivitamin formula keeps the bones and joints of senior German Shepherds in robust condition. Fish oil is an excellent source of Omega fatty acids and provides a good anti-inflammatory effect.
- Carbohydrates: Because elderly German Shepherds are susceptible to obesity and diabetes, prioritize a diet with a low glycemic index.
Choosing the Right Dog Food
- High-Quality Ingredients: Look for dog foods with whole meat as the primary ingredient. Avoid synthetic preservatives.
- Specifically Formulated: Consider dog food specially formulated for German Shepherds.
- Read Labels: Always read dog food labels.
Foods to Avoid
Avoid foods that are potentially harmful to German Shepherds and dogs in general:
- Chocolate
- Onions
- Grapes
- Avocados
- Products containing the artificial sweetener xylitol
- Macadamia nuts
- Horse chestnuts
- Black walnuts
As much as possible, avoid feeding your dog table scraps or human food, which can cause digestive issues and nutritional imbalances.
Tips for Feeding Your German Shepherd
- Establish a Routine: Stick to a consistent feeding schedule.
- Control Portions: Avoid overfeeding, especially with treats. Treats should not exceed more than 10% of their daily total caloric intake to prevent weight gain.
- Fresh Water: Ensure your German Shepherd has access to plenty of fresh water. GSDs require about an ounce of water per pound of body weight each day to stay healthy.
- Monitor Weight: Regularly monitor your German Shepherd’s weight and adjust their diet as needed.
Conclusion
Providing your German Shepherd with a nutritious and balanced diet is one of the best ways to ensure they live a long, healthy, and happy life. By understanding their specific dietary needs and following these guidelines, you can help your loyal companion thrive.