German Shepherds are majestic, intelligent, and active dogs that require a well-balanced diet to thrive. As a responsible German Shepherd owner, understanding their nutritional needs is crucial for their overall health and well-being. This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know about how much to feed your German Shepherd per day, ensuring they receive the right amount of nutrients to live a happy and healthy life.
Understanding Your German Shepherd’s Caloric Needs
The amount of food your German Shepherd needs daily depends on several factors, including their age, weight, activity level, and overall health. Generally, adult German Shepherds require between 1,435 to 1,780 calories per day to maintain their weight and energy levels. However, this is just a starting point.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- Weight: A German Shepherd’s weight directly influences their caloric needs. A 50-pound German Shepherd will require fewer calories than a 90-pound German Shepherd.
- Activity Level: Active German Shepherds who engage in regular exercise and play require more calories than less active dogs.
- Age: Puppies have different nutritional needs than adults and seniors. They require more calories and nutrients to support their rapid growth and development.
- Reproductive Status: Female German Shepherds, especially those who are pregnant or nursing, may need more food.
- Overall Health: Dogs with certain health conditions may have specific dietary requirements. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog’s individual needs.
Puppy vs. Adult Feeding
Puppies
German Shepherd puppies have different nutritional requirements than adults. They grow rapidly and thus require more calories and nutrients. German shepherd puppies generally need between 80 and 90 calories per pound to fuel their growth.
Feeding Schedule:
- Under 4 months: 4 meals a day
- 4 to 6 months: 3 meals a day
- 6 months and older: 2 meals a day
Quantity:
- Under 4 months: About 1/2 to 1 cup of food per meal
- 4 to 6 months: Approximately 1 to 1 1/2 cups per meal
- 6 months and older: 1 1/2 to 2 cups per meal
During their first year, German shepherd puppies require a steady supply of protein and fat for healthy muscle and bone development. The recommended amount is about 22% to 26% high-quality protein and around 8% to 15% fat on a dry-matter basis. Omega-3 supplements are recommended for cognitive development and better coats. For pups with sensitive stomachs, digestive enzymes and probiotic supplements can help.
Adults
Adult German Shepherds require a balanced diet that can sustain their energy levels without causing weight gain. An adult German Shepherd weighing around 66 pounds would need around 1,200 calories a day.
Feeding Schedule:
- Adults: 2 meals a day
Quantity:
- Adults: Typically 2 to 3 cups per meal
For most adult German Shepherds on a maintenance diet, calorie requirements range between 1,435 to 1,780 calories per day. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1,300 and 1,780 per day.
Choosing the Right Dog Food
Selecting high-quality dog food is essential for your German Shepherd’s health. Look for dog food that contains real meat as the primary ingredient, avoiding those with excessive fillers like corn, wheat, and soy.
- Dry Kibble: Dry kibble is a popular and convenient option for German Shepherds. It helps promote dental health and is easy to store.
- Wet Food: Wet food can be a good option for picky eaters or dogs with dental problems. However, it is more expensive than dry food and can contribute to dental issues if not properly managed.
- Raw Food: A raw food diet can be a healthy option for German Shepherds, but it requires careful planning and preparation to ensure it is nutritionally complete and safe.
No matter which type of dog food you choose, make sure it is specifically formulated for German Shepherds or large-breed dogs. These formulas contain the right balance of nutrients to support their unique needs.
Creating a German Shepherd Diet Plan
Diet plans are relatively simple if you stick to specially formulated dog food for German shepherds. It’s just a matter of sticking to meal times and controlling portions. Take note that creating a customized diet plan for your German shepherd is crucial to ensure their nutritional needs are met.
Puppies: Between one to 1.5 cups of dry kibble, split into four to six meals per day.
Adults: About 2.75 to three cups of dry kibble, spread over two to three meals per day for 50-pound dogs. This can go up to 5.25 cups per day for dogs weighing 90 pounds.
German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training.
The Importance of Hydration
Water is essential for all living things, and German Shepherds are no exception. Ensure your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times, especially during hot weather and after exercise. GSDs require about an ounce of water per pound of body weight each day to stay healthy.
Treats and Snacks
Treats can be a great way to reward your German Shepherd and reinforce positive behavior. However, it’s important to choose healthy treats and offer them in moderation. For treats and snacks, opt for nutritious and high-protein, highly digestible options. Treats should never more than 10% their daily total caloric intake to prevent weight gain.
Avoid foods that are potentially harmful to German shepherds and dogs in general. These include chocolate, onions, grapes, avocados, and products containing the artificial sweetener xylitol. Macadamia nuts, horse chestnuts, and black walnuts are also dangerous for dogs. As much as possible, avoid feeding your dog table scraps or human food, which can cause digestive issues and nutritional imbalances. Stick to high-quality dog food instead.
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes when feeding a German Shepherd puppy. Here are some common errors to avoid:
- Overfeeding, especially with treats
- Feeding processed meats for protein
- Only feeding unbalanced homemade food
- Not reading dog food labels
- Ignoring necessary water intake
Consulting with Your Veterinarian
This guide provides general recommendations for feeding German Shepherds. However, every dog is unique, and their individual needs may vary. It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your German Shepherd, especially if they have any underlying health conditions.