German Shepherds are muscular, active dogs with specific dietary needs. Whether you have a puppy or an adult, understanding their nutritional requirements is crucial for their overall health and well-being. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best food choices for your German Shepherd, ensuring they get the right balance of nutrients to thrive.
Understanding the Nutritional Needs of German Shepherds
German Shepherds require a diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. The ideal diet supports their high energy levels, muscle development, and overall health.
Key Nutritional Components:
- Protein: Essential for muscle development and repair. Puppies need 22-26% protein, while adults require 18-22%. Sources like chicken, beef, fish, lamb, turkey, and eggs are excellent.
- Fats: Important for maintaining a healthy coat, nerve function, and cell function. Puppies need up to 10% fat, while adults need 5-8%. High-quality sources include fish oil and chicken fat.
- Carbohydrates: Provide energy, especially for active breeds. Whole grains like brown rice, barley, and oats are good options. Vegetables and fruits offer additional vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Play countless roles in bone health and immune function. Leafy greens like cabbage, carrots, broccoli, and squash are good sources of Vitamins A, B, and E.
Caloric Requirements:
- German Shepherds typically weigh between 60 and 90 pounds. Inactive or older dogs need 1,272 to 1,540 calories per day, while active dogs need 1,740 to 2,100 calories per day.
Best Food Sources for German Shepherds
Choosing high-quality food is essential for meeting your German Shepherd’s nutritional needs.
High-Quality Dog Food:
- Look for dog foods that list real meat sources (such as chicken, beef, or fish) as the primary ingredient. Avoid foods with excessive fillers, artificial additives, or unnamed meat by-products.
- Consider brands like American Natural Premium, which are specially formulated for German Shepherds. Other good options include Instinct Duck Dog Food, Turducken Dog Food, or Merrick Lil Plates Chicken and Sweet Potato.
Raw Food Diet:
- Introducing a raw food diet early may help protect against hip and elbow dysplasia and manage hyperactivity. A raw diet should omit unnecessary fillers and sugars to maintain stable energy levels.
- If you’re interested in feeding your German Shepherd raw food, consult a vet or canine nutritionist.
Homemade Diet Plans:
- If preparing homemade meals, ensure they are balanced and complete with the necessary nutrients. Consult with a veterinary nutritionist to create a customized diet plan based on your dog’s age, weight, and activity level.
- Best Food Sources from the Alsatian Region of Germany: The environment for the Alsatian Region of Germany provided this breed with primary food sources of beef, wheat, and leafy greens like cabbage.
Feeding Schedule and Portions
Proper feeding schedules and portion control are crucial for maintaining your German Shepherd’s weight and preventing health issues.
Puppies:
- Feed puppies between one to 1.5 cups of dry kibble, split into four to six meals per day until they are 12 weeks old.
- Gradually increase portions and decrease feeding frequency as they grow. By six months, reduce feedings to three times a day.
Adults:
- Feed adults about 2.75 to three cups of dry kibble, spread over two to three meals per day for a 50-pound dog. Increase the amount to 5.25 cups per day for dogs weighing 90 pounds.
- Adjust portions based on your dog’s activity level and metabolism.
Raw Food Diet:
The following is a guide showing how much raw food a male German Shepherd needs each day based on age in months and weight:
| Age (months) | Weight range (kilos) | Raw food per day |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2.5 – 4 | 160g – 320g |
| 2 | 7 – 9 | 560g – 720g |
| 3 | 9 – 13 | 720g – 1040g |
| 4 | 15 – 18 | 1200g – 1440g |
| 5 | 18 – 22 | 810g – 990g |
| 6 | 22 – 25 | 990g – 1125g |
| 7 | 25 – 28 | 1125g – 1260g |
| 8 | 28 – 29 | 980g – 1015g |
| 9 | 29 – 32 | 1015g – 1120g |
| 10 | 29 – 33 | 1015g – 1155g |
| 11 | 32 – 34 | 1120g – 1190g |
| 12 | 32 – 35 | 1120g – 1225g |
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods are harmful and should be avoided in your German Shepherd’s diet.
Dangerous Foods:
- Avoid chocolate, onions, grapes, avocados, and products containing the artificial sweetener xylitol. Macadamia nuts, horse chestnuts, and black walnuts are also dangerous.
- Limit or avoid table scraps and human food, which can cause digestive issues and nutritional imbalances.
Treats:
- Offer nutritious, high-protein treats in moderation. Treats should not exceed 10% of their daily caloric intake to prevent weight gain.
Tips for a Healthy German Shepherd Diet
- Read Dog Food Labels: Always read dog food labels to ensure you know what you are feeding your dog.
- Provide Plenty of Water: Ensure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water at all times. German Shepherds need about an ounce of water per pound of body weight each day.
- Prevent Obesity: Provide plenty of exercise and avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity.
- Consult with a Vet: If you have any concerns about your German Shepherd’s diet or health, consult with your veterinarian.
Conclusion
A well-balanced diet is essential for the health and happiness of your German Shepherd. By understanding their nutritional needs and providing high-quality food, you can ensure they live a long, active life. Whether you choose commercial dog food, a raw diet, or homemade meals, always prioritize quality and balance to meet your dog’s specific requirements.