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This is the ultimate guide to finding the best dog food for Australian Shepherds.
Are you ready to give your Australian Shepherd the best dog food ever? We sure are! In this article, we’ll introduce you to the top dog food options for Australian Shepherds. We’re talking high-quality ingredients, perfect protein content, and all the nutrients your pup needs to thrive. We’ll even throw in some tips on what to look for in dog food so that you can make the best choice for your furry friend. Whether your Aussie is a puppy or a full-grown adult, we’ve got you covered.
This article will guide you through the best dog food for Australian Shepherds, considering breed-specific nutritional needs, activity levels, health and more. We’ll examine the nutritional value, ingredients, and benefits of various dog food brands so that you can make an informed decision. Let’s get started!
You can click this link to go to the reviews, but we encourage you to keep reading to make a more educated decision about picking the best Australian Shepherd dog food.
Why You Should Trust Us
142
hours of research went into this review. Hands-on tests, our dog’s experience, competitive analysis and more.
21
dog food manufacturing companies were under consideration for the top ten.
7
experts’ opinions and research studies were used to provide accurate information and rankings.
Chapter 1: The Research
Australian Shepherd dog food health & nutritional needs
Providing your Australian Shepherd with the appropriate food from weaning to maturity is crucial for their overall health and happiness. Before we recommend the top dog food options for your Australian Shepherd, it’s important to understand how food affects their well-being.
As a medium to large breed, Australian Shepherd has distinct nutritional needs that require careful consideration. The ideal food for your Australian Shepherd should be of high quality and tailored to their unique dietary requirements, taking into account factors such as:
Health
Activity level
Age
Weight (size)
Food & Australian Shepherd Health
Generally, Australian Shepherds are healthy dogs, but like any breed, they are susceptible to several health concerns.
Although certain health issues that Australian shepherds may experience are congenital and beyond our control, others can be influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors, such as diet. To help maintain their health and prevent some health problems that may arise from poor nutrition, it’s essential to provide Australian Shepherds with a well-balanced and nutritious diet.
Some of the most common health issues faced by Australian Shepherds include the following:
Food allergies. Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in Australian Shepherds. Food allergies in Australian Shepherds may present as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws. It’s important to note that food intolerances can also occur. However, unlike allergies, food intolerances do not involve the immune system but can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. We highly recommend conducting an at-home dog food allergy test like the 5Strands kit. This particular kit can test for up to 255 ingredients and determine which ones may cause food intolerance in your dog. Once you receive the results, you can use the list to avoid dog food formulas that contain potential allergens.
Collie eye anomaly (CEA). A genetic eye disorder affecting the retina and choroid, potentially leading to blindness. This condition is also known as Collie eye anomaly, which is commonly seen in Collies and Australian Shepherds.
MDR1 drug sensitivity. This genetic mutation affects the ability of some Australian Shepherds to process certain medications, leading to drug toxicity. The mutation can be tested, and some drugs should be avoided for affected dogs.
Epilepsy. This neurological disorder can cause seizures in dogs and is more common in certain breeds, including Australian Shepherds.
Thyroid disorders. Hypothyroidism is common in Australian Shepherds and can cause various symptoms, including weight gain, hair loss, and lethargy.
Cancer. Aussie dogs are prone to Lymphoma, a cancer of the white blood cells. They are also affected by Hemangiosarcoma, a cancer of the blood cells that can grow as a mass in the liver, spleen, or heart, as well as other body parts.
Hip dysplasia. This is a condition where the hip joint is loose and may eventually cause pain and arthritis. It is more common in larger dogs and is inherited in Australian Shepherds.
Elbow dysplasia. Similar to hip dysplasia, but with the front legs, this condition can cause pain and lameness.
Eye problems. Australian Shepherds can be prone to various eye issues, including cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and microphthalmia.
Osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD): OCD is an orthopedic condition caused by improper cartilage growth.
Food & Australian Shepherd Activity Level
The relationship between food and the activity level of Australian Shepherds is important to consider because this breed is known for its high energy levels and need for regular physical activity. The amount and type of food provided should be in balance with the dog’s activity level to maintain optimal health and weight.
Feeding an Australian Shepherd the right amount of food, with the proper balance of nutrients, will provide them with the energy they need for exercise and activities. Feeding them too much can lead to weight gain, which can cause health issues like joint problems and heart disease.
Australian Shepherds also have specific dietary needs. They require a higher protein diet to support their muscle mass and keep them healthy. They also require a higher fat diet to support their high energy level. It is important to choose a high-quality dog food that meets these requirements, with protein sources like meat, fish, or poultry and healthy fats like fish oil or coconut oil.
Food & Australian Shepherd Age
Australian Shepherds have specific nutritional needs at different stages of their life. Providing them with a diet that meets these needs is essential for their overall health and well-being.
Australian Shepherd Puppies. Require a diet that is higher in calories and protein to support their growth and development. They also need a balanced calcium and phosphorus diet for healthy bone growth. Feeding high-quality puppy food formulated explicitly for bulldog puppies can help ensure they receive the necessary nutrients during this crucial stage.
Adult Australian Shepherds. Require a diet that is lower in calories and protein to maintain their weight and prevent obesity. They also need a balanced diet of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to support their overall health and energy needs.
Senior Australian Shepherds. Senior dogs may require a diet lower in calories and fat to maintain a healthy weight and higher fiber to support digestive health. Senior dog foods often contain joint supplements to help mobility and joint health.
Australian Shepherds-Specific Dog Food Qualities To Look For
Here are the desirable characteristics of Australian Shepherd dog food.
Avoid common allergens. Australian Shepherd often develops food allergies or intolerances, so it may be helpful if your Australian Shepherd dog food is free from common allergens, such as corn, wheat, chicken, and beef. Limited-ingredient diets can help minimize allergic reactions and gastrointestinal issues.
Probiotics. Australian Shepherds can have sensitive digestive systems. Look for a dog food that adds probiotics to its formula. Dog probiotics support a healthy digestive system and immune system. Probiotics also help to reduce your Australian Shepherd’s inflammatory responses to allergens and immunological attacks.
Digestibility: Australian Shepherds can be prone to digestive issues, so look for dog food that is minimally processed, such as fresh dog food. Lower-quality kibble may contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and other ingredients that can be harder to digest and may cause digestive upset in some dogs.
Glucosamine and chondroitin. For dogs with hip or elbow dysplasia, look for food containing Glucosamine and chondroitin to help maintain healthy joints.
Antioxidants. For dogs prone to cancer, look for food containing antioxidants such as vitamin E and beta-carotene, which can help boost the immune system and reduce cancer risk.
Eye health. Look for dog food that contains eye health supplements such as lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help prevent eye problems.
Proper calcium and phosphorus balance. To avoid osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD), ensure your dog’s food contains the appropriate balance of calcium and phosphorus to promote healthy bone growth.
Low fat. Look for foods with lower fat content to prevent weight gain and support dogs with thyroid disorders. Pick recipes with healthy fats.
Avoid MDR1 sensitivity triggers. If your dog has been tested and has the MDR1 sensitivity mutation, be cautious when feeding prescription foods or foods containing certain medications, such as ivermectin and loperamide.
Other General Tips To Pick The Best Food For Australian Shepherds
AAFCO approved
High-quality protein as the first ingredient
Avoid meat meals or meat-byproducts
Made in the USA
Avoid food that contains fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Your dog’s preferences
Keep in mind that every Australian Shepherd has specific dietary needs. Seeking advice from a veterinarian can assist you in selecting the best food that meets your Australian Shepherd’s requirements.
Chapter 2: The Reviews
The best dog food for Australian Shepherds reviewed
Here are Canine Bible’s top picks for the best dog food for Australian Shepherds.
Our research team chose all dog foods listed below based on AAFCO’s nutrient guidelines, Australian Shepherd’s exclusive nutrition needs, customer reviews, price, and more. This Australian Shepherd food list also includes food for specific needs such as weight loss, allergies, and more.
Flavors: Beef, chicken, pork & turkey┊ Life stage: All ages ┊ Food type: Fresh Ingredients: Human-grade ┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO
Overview
•Flavors: Beef, chicken, pork & turkey •Life stage: All ages •Food type: Fresh •Ingredients: Human-grade •Manufactured: USA •Nutrition: AAFCO
Why We Picked & Recommended It
Nom Nom wins the spot for the best dog food for Australian Shepherds. This brand stands out because they use human-grade ingredients to create recipes that are portioned and delivered straight to your door. Feeding your dog fresh food like Nom Nom offers many research-backed health benefits, including longer lifespans, better digestibility, higher energy levels, and more. It’s also ideal for dogs with food allergies, sensitive stomachs, or other dietary concerns because they avoid cheap fillers, additives, and harmful chemicals. Unlike traditional kibble, Nom Nom dog food is gently cooked from scratch, ensuring all nutritional integrity is retained. This means that your Australian Shepherd will receive the healthiest and most nutritious meal with every serving.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
Nom Nom stands out from other dog food brands by taking a personalized approach to nutrition. Many dog food brands offer one-size-fits-all recipes, but Nom Nom takes the time to create a custom formula for each dog, considering factors like age, weight, and activity level to ensure that your dog gets the perfect balance of nutrients for their unique needs. You can tell them about your dog’s food allergies, tear stain issues, bad breath, joint problems and more and they will cook and personalize your dog’s meals to meet your pet’s needs.
Key Features
Vet-designed. All recipes are made by board-certified veterinary nutritionists that comply with AAFCO standards.
Human-grade. Cooked in human-grade kitchens with human-grade ingredients.
Excellent ingredient sourcing. They only source from reputable food suppliers, local farms, and other human food purveyors that meet USDA standards.
Pros
Level of customization is unmatched
Packaged as daily portions for easy serving
Non-processed food (zero chemicals)
Nom never uses feed-grade ingredients
Does not process ingredients to be shelf-stable
Cons
It’s on the expensive side
Our readers have access to save 50% off your first order of Nom Nom. Just use this link to get started. The discount will be applied automatically.
Spot & Tango Unkibble dog formula is our top pick for the best all-around dry dog food for Australian Shepherds. Unlike traditional dry dog food, Unkibble is less processed and has half the cost of fresh dog food. Think of Unkibble as freshly homemade dog food with the convince of kibble without the nasty preservatives, additives, and cheap fillers. It’s perfect for Australian Shepherds because it’s been formulated to surpass the specific nutritional requirements of most dry dog foods.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
UnKibble recipes are gently dried using our unique process, which gently dries out whole foods to preserve nutrients and flavor and maximize nutritional integrity. Some recipes use organ meats, one of the most nutrient-dense foods you can give your dog. In fact, entrails contain as many (or more) vitamins, minerals and other valuable nutrients as lean muscle meat.
Key Features
100% human-grade. Real ingredients
Simple, limited ingredients. Use radically simple recipes ideal for a picky eater or dog with food allergies.
Superherbs. Boosted with super herbs for join, immunity, digestive support and more
What We Like & Don’tLike
Pros
Meals customized for your dog’s weight, breed and activity level
Exceeds industry standards
Cheaper than fresh dog food
Crunchy texture
GMO and hormone free
Custom plans and scoops
Cons
It’s a bit more expensive than traditional kibble. NUTRO Ultra dry dog food is another great alternative if you want a more traditional dry dog food that’s less expensive.
Our Video Review
Our readers have access to save 20% off your first order of Spot & Tango. Just use this link to get started. The discount will be applied automatically.
Flavors: Blend of chicken, pork & salmon┊ Life stage: Puppies ┊ Food type: Fresh Ingredients: Human-grade ┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO
Overview
•Flavors: Blend of chicken, port & salmon •Life stage: Puppies •Food type: Dry •Ingredients: Fresh •Manufactured: USA •Nutrition: AAFCO
Why We Picked & Recommended It
The Gently Cooked Open Farm puppy recipe is the best dog food for Australian Shepherds. This puppy-specific formula provides the necessary nutrients for the optimal growth and development of Australian Shepherd puppies, including prebiotic fiber like pumpkin and chicory root, supports healthy digestion and calcium iodate as a source of energy production, and also promotes muscular and cognitive development in puppies.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
This formula is designed specifically for Australian Shepherd puppies and has a purposeful blend of three proteins to help prevent allergies. It also has added collagen for healthy joint development.
Key Features
Human-grade meats. High-quality meats are raised without antibiotics or added hormones.
Superfoods. Boosted with chia seeds, kale, flaxseed and other wholesome ingredients.
Flavors: Beef, chicken, lamb & fish┊ Life stage: Adult┊ Food type: Dry Ingredients: Natural ┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO
Overview
•Flavors: Beef, chicken, lamb & fish •Life stage: Adult •Food type: Dry •Ingredients: Natural •Manufactured: USA •Nutrition: AAFCO
Why We Picked & Recommended It
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula is great if you are looking for the most affordable dog food for Australian Shepherds. For a slightly lower price than other brands, this dry food is formulated to provide your Australian Shepherd pup with sustained healthy energy from high-quality animal-based proteins. This dog food helps build strong, lean muscles and maintain optimal body conditions. It is made with real meat, brown rice, and sweet potatoes, which are easily digestible and provide a balanced diet for adult dogs.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
Blue Buffalo’s exclusive LifeSource Bits are a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your dog’s immune system and overall health. It is made with real meat as the first ingredient, rare in most affordable dog food brands.
Key Features
Omegas. This dog food is also packed with omega-6 and -3 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a radiant coat.
Muscle support. L-Carnitine to help burn fat while preserving lean muscles
Bone and joint health. It also contains Glucosamine and chondroitin for strong bones and joint development.
What We Like & Don’tLike
Pros
No chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives
Cons
It may not be suitable for dogs with severe food allergies or sensitivities, as it is not specifically designed for these conditions
The inclusion of brown rice and sweet potatoes may be higher in carbohydrates than some dogs need, which could be a concern for overweight or diabetic dogs
Best Food For Senior Australian Shepherds — Orijen
Flavors: Chicken, turkey & fish┊ Life stage: Senior ┊ Food type: Dry Ingredients: Fresh┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO
Overview
•Flavors: Chicken, turkey & fish •Life stage: Senior •Food type: Dry •Ingredients: Fresh •Manufactured: USA •Nutrition: AAFCO
Why We Picked & Recommended It
Most veterinarians consider a dog a senior once it reaches seven years old. If your Australian Shepherd is in that stage of his life, it might be time to switch to a high-quality senior dog food diet. If you’re concerned about keeping your Australian Shepherd healthy during his older years, Orijin Senior dog food will support long-life vitality. It’s crafted specifically for your senior Australian Shepherd to help them stay healthy by supporting lean muscle mass and weight maintenance.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
With rich inclusions of a whole prey diet, ORIJEN dog food is made with the most nutrient-dense, succulent parts of the prey to deliver the nutrition dogs need.
Key Features
Wholeprey diet inclusions. It uses fresh and raw animal ingredients, including meat, organs, cartilage, and bone, nourishing dogs according to their natural and biological needs. Note“ “r”w” in this context means that the ingredients are super-fresh when they arrive at the factory/kitchen. The kibble is cooked by the time it is in the bag. This is high-quality cooked pet food, not raw food.
Bones and joint support. Enhanced with Glucosamine to aid with cartilage wear and tear as your pet ages.
Flavors: Chicken, lamb & beef┊ Life stage: All ages ┊ Food type: Raw Ingredients: Raw┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO
Overview
•Flavors: Chicken, lamb & beef •Life stage: All ages •Food type: Raw •Ingredients: Natural •Manufactured: USA •Nutrition: AAFCO
Why We Picked & Recommended It
As more dog parents opt to raw feed their dogs, it’s essential to understand the ins and out of a raw diet for dogs. If you are in the market for raw dog food for Australian Shepherds, Instinct Frozen Raw Bites Real Beef Recipe formula is one of our top picks for the best raw dog food delivery brands. This formula is protein-packed with 85% meat and organs and 15% non-GMO fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals to give your Australian Shepherd a complete BARF diet. It’s minimally processed, never cooked, pure, natural nutrition to keep your best friend strong.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
Raw dog food benefits a shinier coat, healthier skin, cleaner teeth, more energy, and smaller stool. Instinct Raw states that raw dog nutrition can promote strong, lean muscles and energize your pup.
What We Like Don’tLike
Pros
Never cooked
Non-GMO vegetables, fruits, and wholesome ingredients
All ingredients are frozen in their prime to maintain the highest level of nutrients
Cold-pressure processing to keep the nutrients and taste intact
Cons
Needs to be kept frozen until it’s your pet’s mealtime
Not as convenient as feeding dry dog food. Open Farm freeze-dried raw dog food is an excellent alternative for a more convenient way to feed raw.
Best Food For Australian Shepherds With Sensitive Stomach — Hill’s
If you are looking for the best food for Australian Shepherds with sensitive stomachsHill’s Science Diet For Sensitive Stomach & Skin is a top choice. This kibble is formulated to protect sensitive tummies and skin. It’s made with easily digestible ingredients, including barley, beet pulp, and brown rice, and contains no soy, wheat, or artificial that can cause upsets or skin flare-ups on your Australian Shepherd.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
Specialized formula fortified with prebiotics fiber for healthy digestion, sensitive stomachs and immune health. Prebiotic fiber nourishes healthy intestinal bacteria.
Key Features
Omega-6. Excellent source of omega-6 fatty acids to nourish your dog’s skin and help maintain a healthy, shiny coat.
Highly digestible. The food is gentle on the stomach
What We Like Don’tLike
Pros
Supports a balanced gut microbiome in your grown dog
No artificially colored, flavored, or preserved
Cons
Not recommended for puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs.
15% may still be sensitive to this diet. Another option is going fresh with a more premium option like JustFoodForDogs Balanced Remedy. Its plain composition of a single protein source, single starch source, and low-fat levels make it perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Best Food For Australian Shepherds With Allergies — Royal Canin
Flavors: Natural┊ Life stage: All ages ┊ Food type: Dry Ingredients: Hypoallergenic ┊ Manufactured: USA┊ Nutrition: AAFCO
Overview
•Flavors: Natural •Life stage: All ages •Food type: Dry •Ingredients: Hypoallergenic •Manufactured: USA •Nutrition: AAFCO
Why We Picked & Recommended It
Whether your Australian Shepherd suffers from skin allergies, food allergies, or food intolerance to certain ingredients, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein is the best hypoallergenic dog formula you feed an allergic Australian Shepherd. This vet-exclusive prescription formula helps dogs with itching, hair loss, skin allergies and digestive upset. It’s also highly digestible and supports gastrointestinal and dermatological health.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
This formula uses hydrolyzed soy protein (non-animal protein). Hydrolyzed protein is made by a process known as hybridization, which breaks down proteins to a size less likely to be recognized by the immune system, effectively stopping allergic reactions.
Key Features
Limited ingredients. Its limited ingredients also make it great against allergies. They use one single source of carbohydrates.
Supports GI health. Contains a special blend of fibers and prebiotics.
What We Like Don’tLike
Pros
Specially designed for canines with food intolerances or allergies
Helps to reduce skin and GI reactions caused by proteins
Support healthy skin and help reduce inflammation
Best dog food for Australian Shepherds with skin allergies
Best dog food for itchy skin Australian Shepherds
Cons
A bit expensive
Requires vet authorization. While we recommend Royal Canine Veterinary for the best results, unfortunately, it requires a prescription. If you can’t wait to visit your vet or don’t have the budget to afford it, ACANA Lamb & Pumpkin Limited Ingredient Diet can help also help with allergies and does not require a prescription.
Best Grain-Free Food For Australian Shepherds — Open Farm
•Flavors: Beef, chicken & turkey, salmon, lamb, venison & more •Life stage: All ages •Food type: Dry •Ingredients: Premium •Manufactured: USA •Nutrition: AAFCO
Why We Picked & Recommended It
Does your Australian Shepherd dog suffer from grain allergies or intolerances? If so, Open Farm’s grain-free dry dog food is your best bet. We picked it because they skip the grain, corn, soy and wheat in favor of science-backed superfoods like non-GMO pumpkin, carrot, leafy greens and coconut oil for a balanced and complete diet that provide antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support Australian Shepherd nutritional needs. Open Farm grain-free recipes are specifically designed for dogs with grain sensitivities.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
It’s made responsibly from ethically sourced and sustainable ingredients free from antibiotics, hormones, and artificial preservatives, making it one of the most sustainable dog food brands.
Key Features
100% traceable ingredients. Instantly trace the origin of every ingredient in their bag of Open Farm pet food
Premium ingredients. Locally sourced non-GMO fruits and veggies
Ethically sourced protein. Only uses ethically sourced and humanely raised meats
What We Like Don’tLike
Pros
No rendered poultry or meat meals
Meats from audited higher welfare farms
High in protein
Local carbon footprint per bag
Cons
It can be more expensive than other brands on the market
Flavors: Chicken, turkey, beef, lamb & more┊ Life stage: All ages ┊ Food type: Wet Ingredients: Human-grade ┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO
Overview
•Flavors: Chicken, turkey, beef, lamb & more •Life stage: All ages •Food type: Wet •Ingredients: Human-grade •Manufactured: USA •Nutrition: AAFCO
Why We Picked & Recommended It
Are you looking for the best-wet food for Australian Shepherds? JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh is our favorite choice. JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food is a convenient and healthy option for dog owners who want to feed their dogs soft-textured meals and keep them hydrated, especially those in warmer climates. Unlike traditional canned wet dog food, Pantry Fresh uses only ingredient fit for human consumption to ensure the highest quality nutrition. Additionally, they use a unique cooking process to make Pantry Fresh preserves the nutritional value and taste of the ingredients, making it a nutritious and tasty option for dogs.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
Aside from traditional flavors, they have specialized wet food for targeting health problems including joint, skin, sensitive stomach, renal, appetite loss, metabolism and liver function.
Key Features
Ready-to-serve nutrition. A team of veterinarians and canine specialists formulates every recipe.
Gently cooked. This process maximizes the nutritional value and promotes a healthy immune system.
Travel friendly. 2-year shelf life and transportable Tetra Pak® packaging make it easy to store and travel with.
What We Like Don’tLike
Pros
USDA certified meats
Organ meats
A convenient way for busy people to feed their dogs a fresh diet
Offers health-specific options
A variety pack for picky eaters
Provides the benefits of fresh dog food
Cons
More expensive than traditional wet dog food
Other Best Dog Food For Australian Shepherds
Best dehydrated dog food for Australian Shepherds.The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Gourmet is our favorite dehydrated food. Dehydrated food is often easier for Australian Shepherds to digest. Additionally, if your dog has dental problems or is missing teeth, dehydrated dog food can be easier for them to eat than traditional kibble.
Best food topper for Australian Shepherds.Portland Pet Food Company Human offers a fantastic variety of tasty fresh dog food flavors you can add as a topper to your dog’s kibble meals.
Best health-specific custom diets food for Australian Shepherds.JustFoodForDogs makes creating a custom recipe for your fur baby easy. They work with your veterinarian to create a custom recipe if your Australian Shepherd has a medical need for a restricted diet.
Best dog food for Australian Shepherds to lose weight.Natural Balance Fat Dogs Low is great if your Australian Shepherd needs to lose weight.
Best dog food for Australian Shepherds to gain weight. With 484 calories per cup, Purina Pro Plan Performance is ideal for helping your Australian Shepherd gain lean muscle mass.
The caloric needs of dogs are based on their weight. An adult Australian Shepherd usually weighs between 35 and 70 pounds, meaning most Australian Shepherds need between 780 and 1312 calories daily. You can use our dog calorie calculator to find the exact caloric needs of your dog based on his weight.
How to Switch Australian Shepherd Dog Food
If you decide to switch your Australian Shepherd’s dog food to a new dog formula, it’s advised to adhere to the following recommendations by vets:
Week 1: 25% new food and 75% old food
Week 2: 50% new food and 50% old food
Week 3: 25% new food and 75% old food
Week 4: 100% new food
Pro tip: Never change your dog’s food abruptly. It could cause an upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting.
Only increase the weekly food percentage if your Australian Shepherd seems to be doing well during each transition. Monitor closely, and if you notice any adverse reaction to his new food, stop feeding it to your dog.
Health Dietary Changes In Australian Shepherds
If your Australian Shepherd is struggling with the following health conditions, adopting a new diet or adding supplements can be beneficial to get these dog-related issues under control.
Condition
Dietary Needs & Adjustments
Coat Color Changes
Increase amino acids which can be found in protein (>75 grams per 1000 calories)
Concurrent GI Signs
Avoid foods with tryptamine and histamine, such as dairy, fermented vegetables, and meats (yes, this includes bacon); try a simple ingredient food trial.
Chronic Itching and Dermatitis
Fortify the diet with Vitamin E, B Vitamins, Zinc, omega-6, and the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil; add a dog probiotic; try a simple ingredient food trial.
Dull Coat and Scaling
Adjust EPA and DHA levels in the diet (added fish oil being the most common way); try food with added zinc.
Dandruff and Crustiness
Add Zinc and Vitamin A levels
Best Dog Food For Australian Shepherds — Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the best dog food for Australian Shepherds can be daunting, especially with the breed’s specific health conditions. However, it’s crucial to prioritize their health and well-being by providing them with the proper nutrition they need. Considering their dietary requirements and health issues, you can make an informed decision when choosing the right food for your Aussie.
We hope this guide has been informative and helpful to you. Remember to consult with your veterinarian before changing your dog’s diet. By finding the best dog food for your Australian Shepherd, you’ll be ensuring a long and healthy life for your furry friend.
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