Bringing a German Shepherd puppy into your home is an exciting time. These intelligent and energetic dogs make wonderful companions, but it’s essential to get their nutrition right from the start. Feeding your German Shepherd puppy the correct amount is crucial for their growth and development. Overfeeding can lead to joint problems, while underfeeding can stunt their growth. So, how much should you feed a German Shepherd puppy? Let’s dive in!
Understanding Your German Shepherd Puppy’s Nutritional Needs
German Shepherd puppies have unique dietary requirements compared to adult dogs. They need a diet rich in protein and fat to support their rapid growth and development. During their first year, German Shepherd puppies generally need between 80 and 90 calories per pound to fuel their growth.
- Protein: Essential for developing tissue. Aim for food with 22% to 26% high-quality protein on a dry-matter basis.
- Fat: Assists in healthy brain, skin, and eye function. Look for food with around 8% to 15% fat on a dry-matter basis.
- Carbohydrates: Needed to support your active pup.
Puppy to Adult: Transitioning Through Life Stages
The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first four weeks of life is milk from their mother. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods.
It’s good for pups to get used to eating dry food while they are still young. After the four-week mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps:
- Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day.
- Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods.
How Much to Feed Based on Age and Weight
There is no ‘set amount’ to feed a puppy for their age. This is determined by their body weight, and whether they need more or less food. Every puppy will be different. If in doubt, speak with your breeder or vet.
Here’s a general guideline for how much to feed your German Shepherd puppy based on age:
- 8-12 Weeks: German shepherd pups can be fed a total of 1.5 cups of dry kibble between four to six times a day.
- 3-6 Months: Feed three times a day.
- 6-12 Months: At six months, the portions can be increased gradually while the frequency is decreased. Once your German Shepherd is 6 months old, you can start feeding him twice a day.
As a general rule of thumb, puppies should consume about 35–40 calories per pound of body weight per day.
Choosing the Right Food
With so many options available, selecting the right food for your German Shepherd puppy can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips:
- High-Quality Puppy Food: Look for puppy food that is rich in protein and fat.
- Large Breed Formula: Large breed puppies need to eat food specifically for them to control proper bone growth.
- Nutrient-Dense: Opt for a high-quality, nutrient-dense food that supports their active lifestyle.
- Check the Label: Always read dog food labels.
Creating a Diet Plan
Diet plans are relatively simple if you stick to specially formulated dog food for German Shepherds.
- 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.
The Importance of a Consistent Feeding Schedule
Consistency is key when it comes to feeding your German Shepherd puppy. Establishing a regular feeding schedule helps regulate their digestion and prevents begging.
- Feed at the same times each day: German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.
- Divide daily allotment: Their daily allotment of food should be split between these two meals.
- Exercise before meal times: For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training.
Supplements and Treats
- Omega-3 Supplements: Omega-3 supplements are recommended for cognitive development and better coats.
- Digestive Enzymes and Probiotic Supplements: For pups with sensitive stomachs, digestive enzymes and probiotic supplements can help.
- Treats: 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.
Foods to Avoid
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.
Monitoring Your Puppy’s Weight and Adjusting Food Intake
Regularly monitoring your German shepherd’s weight is crucial to ensure you are feeding them the right portions. This can be done through routine vet check-ups, home weigh-ins using a pet-specific scale, and visually assessing your dog. German Shepherd puppies should not be overweight, as they grow quickly and don’t need the extra strain on their bodies as they grow. Don’t forget, your puppy needs a waistline!.
Key Takeaways for Feeding Your German Shepherd Puppy
- Feed a high-quality puppy food formulated for large breeds.
- Divide their daily food intake into three to four meals until they are six months old.
- Monitor their weight and adjust food portions as needed.
- Avoid overfeeding and offering harmful foods.
- Provide fresh, clean water at all times.
The End Result
By following these guidelines and working closely with your veterinarian, you can ensure your German Shepherd puppy receives the proper nutrition to grow into a healthy, happy adult dog. Remember, every puppy is different, so pay attention to their individual needs and adjust their diet accordingly.