So, you’ve welcomed an adorable 10-week-old German Shepherd puppy into your life! Get ready for lots of love, playful moments, and of course, the responsibility of ensuring your pup grows into a healthy and strong dog. One of the most important aspects of puppy care is proper nutrition. Feeding your German Shepherd puppy the right amount of food is crucial for their development. Let’s dive into the details of how much to feed your 10-week-old German Shepherd.
Understanding the Nutritional Needs of German Shepherd Puppies
German Shepherd puppies grow rapidly, and their diet needs to support this growth. They require a balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals.
- Protein: Essential for muscle development. Aim for 22% to 26% high-quality protein on a dry-matter basis.
- Fats: Provide energy and support healthy brain, skin, and eye function. Look for food with around 8% to 15% fat on a dry-matter basis.
- Carbohydrates: Important for supporting your active pup.
German Shepherd puppies need more nutrients compared to adult dogs. It is important to feed them food specially formulated for puppies to ensure they get everything they need.
Feeding Schedule and Portions for a 10-Week-Old German Shepherd
At 10 weeks old, your German Shepherd puppy should still be eating multiple meals a day. Since there is no “set amount” to feed a puppy for their age, you should consider their weight and if they need less or more food.
- Frequency: Feed your puppy three to four times a day.
- Portion Size: German shepherd pups can be fed a total of 1.5 cups of dry kibble between four to six times a day until the 12-week mark. Once your pup has adapted to eating solid foods, you should feed them ½ to 1 cup of food per meal.
It’s essential to monitor your puppy’s body condition. You should be able to feel their ribs without a thick layer of fat. Your puppy needs a waistline. If they seem to be gaining too much weight, adjust their food portions accordingly.
Choosing the Right Dog Food
Selecting high-quality dog food is paramount for your German Shepherd puppy’s health. Look for puppy food that lists a specific meat source (such as chicken, lamb, or beef) as the first ingredient.
- Specifically Formulated: Diet plans are relatively simple if you stick to specially formulated dog food for German Shepherds.
- Avoid: As much as possible, avoid feeding your dog table scraps or human food, which can cause digestive issues and nutritional imbalances.
Supplements
Omega-3 supplements are recommended for cognitive development and better coats. For pups with sensitive stomachs, digestive enzymes and probiotic supplements can help.
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
Transitioning to Solid Food
When you pick up your puppy from your breeder, you should be provided with some feeding notes and possibly recommendations. It is a good idea to continue feeding the same brand of food and use the same feeding schedule (usually 3 times per day initially) the puppy was on before you brought your puppy home. Keep your puppy on the same food for a period of time until he adjusts to his new home, then switch slowly to another food if you prefer (mix 1:3, then 2:2, then 3:1 etc of new food to old). You can also mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture.
Water Intake
GSDs require about an ounce of water per pound of body weight each day to stay healthy. Always make sure your puppy has access to fresh water.
Treats
For treats and snacks, opt for nutritious and high-protein, highly digestible options like the American Natural Premium dog treats. 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.
Conclusion
Feeding your 10-week-old German Shepherd puppy might seem like a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and a little attention, you can ensure they get the nutrition they need to grow into a happy, healthy dog. Remember to choose high-quality puppy food, follow a consistent feeding schedule, and adjust portions based on your puppy’s individual needs. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to consult with your veterinarian or a qualified canine nutritionist.