German Shepherds are majestic, intelligent, and active dogs. As a German Shepherd owner, you want to ensure your furry friend gets the right amount of food to stay healthy and happy. Feeding your adult German Shepherd the correct amount can be challenging because their needs vary based on age, weight, activity level, and overall health. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about feeding your adult German Shepherd.
Understanding Your German Shepherd’s Nutritional Needs
German Shepherds are large, muscular dogs with high energy levels. They require a diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients to support their active lifestyle. A high-quality diet helps prevent obesity and hereditary health issues common in the breed.
Key Nutrients for German Shepherds
- Protein: Essential for muscle development and energy. Aim for 18%-22% protein in their diet.
- Fats: Provide energy and support a healthy coat. Look for foods with healthy fats like vegetable and fish oils.
- Carbohydrates: Provide energy, but should be easily digestible. Barley, rice, and rolled oats are good options, while corn, wheat, and soy should be avoided as they are harder to digest and may cause bloat.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Vital for overall health and immune function. Vitamins A and E are particularly beneficial for skin health.
Calculating Daily Caloric Requirements
The daily caloric needs of your German Shepherd depend on several factors.
- Weight: German Shepherds typically weigh between 60 and 90 pounds.
- Activity Level: Active dogs need more calories than inactive or older dogs.
- Age: Older dogs generally require fewer calories.
- Health Conditions: Dogs with arthritis or hip dysplasia may need a reduced-calorie diet to avoid putting pressure on their joints.
According to the National Research Council of the National Academies:
- Inactive or older German Shepherds need between 1,272 and 1,540 calories per day.
- Active German Shepherds need between 1,740 and 2,100 calories per day.
Most adult German Shepherds on a maintenance diet require between 1,435 and 1,780 calories per day. Female German Shepherds, typically lighter than males, may need fewer calories.
Choosing the Right Dog Food
Selecting high-quality dog food is crucial for your German Shepherd’s health.
What to Look For
- High-Quality Protein: The primary ingredient should be a whole meat protein such as chicken, beef, turkey, lamb, salmon, or rabbit.
- Digestible Carbohydrates: Barley, rice, and rolled oats are preferable.
- Healthy Fats: Vegetable and fish oils provide essential fatty acids.
- Avoid Fillers: Avoid foods containing corn, wheat, and soy, as these can be difficult to digest and may exacerbate bloat.
Recommended Dog Foods
- Instinct Duck Dog Food: A protein-rich option.
- Turducken Dog Food: Another high-protein choice.
- Merrick Lil Plates Chicken and Sweet Potato: Includes essential vitamins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and fatty acids.
- Purina Pro Plan Savor Lamb: Meets Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards.
- Purina Beyond Simply 9 Ranch Raised Lamb: Also meets AAFCO standards.
- Diamond Naturals: A popular dog food.
- Taste of the Wild: Another well-regarded option.
Feeding Schedule and Portion Sizes
German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Divide their daily food allotment into two meals. It’s often recommended to exercise your dog before meal times to aid with potty training.
General Guidelines
- Dry Kibble: Most German Shepherds require around 2.5 to 3.5 cups of dry kibble daily.
- Active Dogs: Should eat at least 3.5 cups of dry kibble.
- Inactive Dogs: Can eat around 2.5 cups of dry kibble.
[Royal Canin Feeding Guide Example](pplx://action/followup)
| Weight of Dog | Low Activity | Medium Activity | High Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26 kg | 286 g (3+3/8 cups) | 376 g (4+4/8 cups) | 436 g (5+2/8 cups) |
| 28 kg | 302 g (3+5/8 cups) | 397 g (4+4/8 cups) | 461 g (5+4/8 cups) |
| 30 kg | 318 g (3+6/8 cups) | 418 g (5 cups) | 485 g (5+6/8 cups) |
| 32 kg | 334 g (4 cups) | 439 g (5+2/8 cups) | 510 g (6+1/8 cups) |
| 34 kg | 349 g (4+1/8 cups) | 460 g (5+4/8 cups) | 533 g (6+3/8 cups) |
| 36 kg | 365 g (4+3/8cups) | 480 g (5+6/8 cups) | 557 g (6+5/8 cups) |
| 38 kg | 380 g (4+4/8 cups) | 500 g (6 cups) | 580 g (6+7/8 cups) |
| 40 kg | 395 g (4+6/8 cups) | 519 g (6+1/8 cups) | 602 g (7+4/8 cups) |
| 42 kg | 409 g (4+7/8 cups) | 539 g (6+3/8 cups) | 625 g (7+4/8 cups) |
| 44 kg | 424 g (5 cups) | 558 g (6+5/8 cups) | 647 g (7+6/8 cups) |
Note: Always provide fresh water. Adjust feeding amounts based on your dog’s body condition and consult with your vet for personalized advice.
Monitoring Your German Shepherd’s Weight and Health
Regularly monitoring your dog’s weight and overall health is essential to ensure they are getting the right amount of food.
Signs of a Healthy Weight
- You should be able to feel your dog’s ribs without excessive fat covering them.
- Your dog should have a visible waistline when viewed from above.
- Your dog should have good energy levels and muscle tone.
Adjusting Food Intake
- Weight Gain: If your dog is gaining too much weight, reduce their daily caloric intake and increase their exercise.
- Weight Loss: If your dog is losing weight, increase their daily caloric intake and consult with your vet to rule out any underlying health issues.
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfeeding: Can lead to obesity and related health problems.
- Feeding Low-Quality Food: Can result in nutritional deficiencies and health issues.
- Giving Too Many Treats: Treats should only make up a small portion of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
- Feeding Table Scraps: Human food can be harmful to dogs and can lead to weight gain and digestive issues.
Special Considerations
Puppies
German Shepherd puppies have different nutritional needs than adults. They require a diet higher in protein and fat to support their rapid growth. Unlike other breeds, German Shepherds are often switched to adult food earlier (around 6 months) to prevent rapid growth, which can lead to joint problems. Large-breed puppy foods are formulated to address these issues.
Senior Dogs
Older German Shepherds may need a diet lower in calories and higher in fiber to help maintain a healthy weight and support digestive health.
Dogs with Health Issues
If your German Shepherd has any health issues, such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, or diabetes, consult with your vet to determine the best diet for their specific needs.
Conclusion
Feeding your adult German Shepherd the right amount of high-quality food is crucial for their health and well-being. By understanding their nutritional needs, calculating their daily caloric requirements, and choosing the right dog food, you can help your German Shepherd live a long, healthy, and happy life. Always monitor their weight and health and adjust their food intake as needed. When in doubt, consult with your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations.