Bringing a German Shepherd puppy into your life is an exciting journey. As they grow, their nutritional needs change, and knowing how much to feed them is crucial for their health and development. This guide focuses on feeding a 7-month-old German Shepherd, ensuring they get the right nutrients in the proper amounts.
Understanding the Nutritional Needs of a Growing German Shepherd
German Shepherd puppies have specific dietary requirements to support their rapid growth. During their first year, they need a diet rich in protein and fat for healthy muscle and bone development. The recommended amount is about 22% to 26% high-quality protein and 8% to 15% fat on a dry-matter basis.
Key Nutrients for German Shepherd Puppies:
- Protein: Essential for developing tissue.
- Fats: Assist in healthy brain, skin, and eye function.
- Carbohydrates: Important for energy.
- Omega-3 Supplements: Recommended for cognitive development and a better coat.
Feeding Schedule and Portions for a 7-Month-Old German Shepherd
At seven months old, your German Shepherd is still growing but is past the阶段 of rapid growth experienced in the first six months. You can reduce the feeding frequency to twice a day.
General Guidelines:
- Portion Size: Although there is no set amount, monitor your puppy’s weight and adjust portions accordingly.
- Frequency: Feed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.
- Calories: Most adult German Shepherds on a maintenance diet require between 1,435 to 1,780 calories per day.
Choosing the Right Dog Food
Selecting the right dog food is vital for your German Shepherd’s health. Opt for specially formulated dog food for German Shepherds.
Tips for Choosing Dog Food:
- Read Labels: Pay attention to the ingredient list and nutritional information.
- High-Quality Ingredients: Look for food with high-quality protein sources.
- Avoid Fillers: Avoid foods with excessive fillers, artificial colors, and preservatives.
Creating a Diet Plan
Creating a customized diet plan is crucial to ensure your German Shepherd’s nutritional needs are met.
Basic Diet Plan for German Shepherd Puppies:
- 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.
Adjust this plan based on your GSD’s age, weight, and activity level.
The Importance of Water
German Shepherds require about an ounce of water per pound of body weight each day to stay healthy. Always ensure your puppy has access to fresh water.
Treats and Snacks
Treats can be a great way to reward your German Shepherd, but they should be given in moderation.
Treat Guidelines:
- Nutritious Treats: Opt for nutritious and high-protein, highly digestible options.
- Limit Treats: Treats should never be more than 10% of 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.
Dangerous Foods:
- Chocolate
- Onions
- Grapes
- Avocados
- Products containing the artificial sweetener xylitol
- Macadamia nuts
- Horse chestnuts
- Black walnuts
- Table scraps or human food, which can cause digestive issues and nutritional imbalances
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes when feeding a German Shepherd puppy.
Common Mistakes:
- Overfeeding, especially with treats
- Feeding processed meats for protein
- Only feeding unbalanced homemade food
- Not reading dog food labels
- Ignoring necessary water intake
Adjusting the Diet as They Grow
As your German Shepherd grows, their dietary needs will continue to evolve. Regularly assess their physical condition and adjust their diet as needed.
Factors to Consider:
- Weight: Monitor their weight to ensure they are neither underweight nor overweight.
- Activity Level: Active dogs may need more calories.
- Health Conditions: Consult with your vet to address any specific health needs.
Tips for Picky Eaters
Some German Shepherds may be picky eaters. Here are some tips to encourage them to eat:
- Consistency: Stick to a regular feeding schedule.
- Limited Options: Avoid offering too many different foods at once.
- Make it Fun: Try adding a small amount of warm water to their kibble to enhance the aroma.
Consulting with a Veterinarian
When in doubt, always consult with your veterinarian or a certified canine nutritionist. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your dog’s specific needs and health status.