Best Dog Food For Dobermans 2024 [Ultimate Guide & Review]

ByCanine Bible and Dr. Aukse Caraite, Veterinary Surgeon, DVM
best dog food for Doberman Pinschers

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This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Aukse Caraite, DVM.

Are you looking for the best dog food for your Doberman Pinscher? We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the best dog food for Dobermans. Our team of canine nutrition experts has conducted thorough research to provide you with a comprehensive analysis of the top dog food brands for this breed. In this article, we will delve into the science behind Doberman nutrition, compare various diets, and discuss the pros and cons of each. This invaluable resource is essential for any Doberman owner committed to ensuring their dog’s optimal health and well-being. Let’s get started!

Table of contents
In This Article:
Table of contents
In This Article:

Best Dog Food For Dobermans — At A Glance

Best Overall

Ollie

Made with fresh, human-grade
ingredients to offer the most optimal
nutrition for your Doberman

Visit Website

Read Review ↆ

Best Dry Food

Spot & Tango

A new kind of dry dog food
with the flavor and benefits of fresh
food with the convenience of kibble

Visit Website

Read Review ↆ

Puppy Pick

Open Farm

Perfect for Doberman puppies.
Contains all the nutrients puppies need to
develop and grow healthy.

Visit Website

Read Review ↆ

Best Value

Blue Buffalo

The cheapest option if you are
looking for a budget-friendly dog
food for your Doberman

Visit Amazon

Read Review ↆ

Best For Senior

Orijen

Complete and balanced nutrition
designed to meet the specific needs
of senior purebred Doberman

Visit Amazon

Read Review ↆ

Best Raw

Instinct

For dog parents looking to raw-feed
their Dobermans. Has all nutrients and
vitamins dogs need to thrive.

Visit Chewy

Read Review ↆ

Sensitive Stomach Pick

Hill’s

Formula fortified with prebiotics
for healthy digestion for Dobermans
with sensitive tummies.

Visit Amazon

Read Review ↆ

Best For Allergies

Royal Canin

Made with hydrolyzed protein for adult
dogs & puppies with food allergies
that cause skin issues. 

Visit Chewy

Read Review ↆ

Best Grain-Free

Open Farm

For dogs with allergies or sensitivity
to grain. Made with premium-quality
beef, chicken & other meats. 

Visit Website

Read Review ↆ

Best Wet

JustFoodForDogs

Shelf stable fresh wet dog food
that offers a premium and delicious
stew-like texture.

Visit Website

Read Review ↆ

The Research
Jump to: Full Reviews | Additional Info

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What Is The Best Food For Dobermans?

As a large and energetic breed, Dobermans have distinct nutritional needs that require careful consideration. The best food for a Doberman is balanced and appropriate for their life stage, health, activity levels (energy needs) and weight (size). This will ensure your Doberman is healthy, develops appropriately, and can sustain daily activities and bodily functions. When deciding the best diet for a Doberman, it’s essential also to consider individual preferences such as taste or food type. Some Dobermans may thrive on high-quality commercial kibble, while others may do better on a human-grade fresh diet or a professionally formulated home-cooked diet.

How to Pick The Best Dog Food For Dobermans

1. Consider A Doberman’s Nutritional Requirements

The optimal Doberman diet for nutrition typically includes a combination of the six nutrients they need to thrive: High-quality protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats (fatty acids and omegas), vitamins, minerals, and water.

Protein plays a vital role in your Doberman’s diet, providing essential amino acids necessary for bodily processes, including the creation of blood glucose for energy. Protein also helps build and repair muscles and other body tissues. It’s needed to make new skin cells and grow hair, hormones, and enzymes. The proteins in your dog’s diet must have a balanced amino acid profile and be provided in appropriate amounts.

Protein dietary recommendations for Doberman food:

  • Adult Dobermans. 18% dry matter protein (45.0g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
  • Puppies & Pregnant or Lactating Dobermans. 22.5% dry matter protein (56.3g for every 1,000 kcal ME).

Protein sources for Doberman food include:

Fats play a crucial, multifaceted role in a Doberman’s diet. Fats come in two forms: saturated and unsaturated. Both are important in a Doberman’s diet, but it’s essential to maintain the right balance. Saturated fats, derived from animal sources, enhance the palatability, flavor and texture of your dog’s food and facilitate the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. On the other hand, essential fatty acids, which are unsaturated fats, include Omega-3 (EPA, DHA, and ALA) and Omega-6+9 (LA and AA). These fats are crucial for the body’s cells’ development, structure, and function.

When balanced correctly, they promote healthy skin and coat, support eye health and the nervous system function, regulate hormones, fuel the brain and learning processes, help reduce inflammation, offer insulation and organ protection, support reproductive health, and serve as a reserve for energy storage. Fats are a dense energy source.

Fat dietary recommendations for Doberman food:

  • Adult Doberman. 5.5% dry matter fat (13.8g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
  • Puppies & Pregnant or Lactating Doberman. 8.5% dry matter fat (21.3g for every 1,000 kcal ME).

Fat sources for Doberman food include:

  • Meats fats
  • Fish oils
  • Olive
  • Sunflower oil
  • Canola oils

Dogs need energy for daily activities, growth, pregnancy, lactation, and exercise. This energy, measured in calories, comes from carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Omnivorous animals, including dogs, derive some energy from carbohydrates. Carbohydrates supply glucose needed by the brain, nervous system, and other critical organs for normal function in dogs. Carbohydrates should also include 2.5-4.5% fiber.

You can use our dog calorie calculator to find the exact caloric needs of your dog based on his weight. Ensure you follow the 10% rule if feeding treats to your dog. Food would equal 90% of the total calories and treats the remaining 10%.

Energy (Kcals) dietary recommendations for Doberman’s food based on life stage, weight and activity level.

Type of Dog10 lb70 lb90 lb
Puppies990——
Inactive Doberman—1,2721,540
Adult Active Doberman—1,7402,100
Pregnant Doberman—2,5703,170
Young Active Doberman—1,8762,264
Senior Active Doberman—1,4071,700
Nursing Doberman kcals vary depending on the number of puppies & weeks into lactation.

Carbohydrate sources for Doberman food include:

  • Oats
  • Brown rice
  • Potatoes
  • Quinoa
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Whole wheat

Minerals in a dog’s diet are indispensable for bone and dental health, nerve function, enzymatic reactions, fluid balance, oxygen transport, and maintaining the body’s pH level, making them essential for overall health and metabolic processes. Proper mineral balance is crucial and should be carefully managed to avoid deficiencies or excesses.

These 12 minerals are known to be essential nutrients for dogs:

  • Calcium
  • Potassium
  • Sodium
  • Magnesium
  • Iodine
  • Chlorine
  • Iron
  • Copper
  • Selenium
  • Manganese
  • Zinc
  • Phosphorus

Mineral sources for Doberman food include:

  • Sweet potatoes and pumpkin (Magnesium)
  • Fish (Iodine)
  • Beef, eggs, and liver (Zinc)
  • Poultry, nuts, and legumes (Copper)
  • Bananas and carrots (Potassium)
  • Chicken and duck (Iron)

Vitamins in a dog’s diet are integral for maintaining overall health and bodily functions. They support vision, immune health, aid in energy metabolism and nervous system function, provide antioxidant benefits, reduce inflammation, prevent diseases and ailments and more. Dogs require vitamins, but only in small amounts, and excessive doses of specific vitamins, like vitamin D, can harm them.

These 12 vitamins are known to be essential nutrients for dogs:

  • Vitamins A, B1, B6, B12, D, E & K
  • Riboflavin
  • Niacin
  • Folic Acid
  • Pantothenic Acid
  • Choline

Vitamin sources for Doberman food include:

  • Sweet potatoes and spinach (Vitamin A)
  • Eggs, chicken, and beef (Vitamin B)
  • Broccoli (Vitamin C)
  • Kale and parsley (Vitamin K)
  • Vegetables (Vitamin E)
  • Meats and fish (Vitamin D)

Water is vital in a dog’s diet to maintain hydration, support body functions such as digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste excretion, lubricate joints, regulate body temperature, ensure proper organ function, and facilitate metabolic processes. Continuous access to clean water is as crucial as providing nutritious food for overall health and well-being. Generally, Dobermans should drink 2 to 3 times the amount of their dry food intake daily. However, if water is readily available from various sources, Dobermans can naturally regulate water consumption daily.

2. Consider Your Doberman’s Health Conditions

Nutrition is crucial in managing and preventing common health issues in Dobermans. Talk to a veterinarian if your Doberman is dealing with a health condition. They can recommend the most suitable diet for them. Below are some general dietary tips to help you choose the best dog food or supplement for addressing the most common Doberman health problems.

Food allergies

Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in Dobermans. This occurs when a dog’s immune system identifies a specific protein, carbohydrate, or other ingredients in their diet as foreign and reacts to it as if it were a harmful substance. Food allergies in Dobermans may present as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws. It’s important to note that food intolerances can also occur. However, intolerances do not involve the immune system but can lead to vomiting or diarrhea.

To manage or prevent food allergies in Dobermans, consider these diet tips:

  • Avoid common allergens such as corn, wheat, chicken, and beef.
  • Conducting a dog food allergy test or at-home dog food allergy tests like the 5Strands kit (test for up to 255 ingredients) may help determine food allergies or intolerance in your dog. Use the results to avoid food formulas that contain potential allergens.

Sensitive stomach

Dobermans can have sensitive digestive systems, a condition where a dog has difficulty digesting certain foods or experiences frequent digestive upset. This can manifest in various symptoms and may be caused by various factors.

To manage or prevent sensitive stomachs in Dobermans, consider these diet tips:

Hip dysplasia

This is a common condition in Dobermans, which occurs when the joints don’t develop properly and the hip ball does not fit squarely within the socket, resulting in the rubbing of bone against bone, causing pain and lameness.

To manage or prevent hip dysplasia in Dobermans, consider these diet tips:

  • Glucosamine
  • Chondroitin
  • Omega-3 fatty
  • Food must have the right balance of calcium and phosphorus
  • Maintain a healthy weight, as excess weight puts additional stress on the joints

Von Willebrand’s disease

Von Willebrand’s disease is a blood disorder that affects the clotting process. Dobermans can be prone to this condition, which can lead to excessive bleeding after an injury or surgery. While dietary adjustments alone cannot treat serious clotting disorders, they can play a supportive role in maintaining overall health and the proper functioning of the clotting system.

To manage Von Willebrand’s disease in Dobermans, consider these diet tips:

  • Vitamin K
  • Iron
  • Zinc

Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV)

GDV, also known as bloat, is a life-threatening condition when the stomach fills with gas and twists. Dobermans, like many deep-chested breeds, are predisposed to GDV.

To manage or prevent bloating in Dobermans, consider these diet tips:

  • Small size kibble
  • Multiple meals per day
  • Slow feeding (slow-feeder bowl or puzzle)
  • Limit exercise around mealtime

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)

DCM is a heart condition where the heart muscle becomes weakened and enlarged, reducing its ability to pump blood efficiently. This can lead to heart failure and other complications.

To manage or prevent dilated cardiomyopathy in Dobermans, consider these diet tips:

  • Low-sodium diet
  • Taurine
  • L-Carnitine
  • Avoid grain-free

Chronic active hepatitis (CAH)

This chronic liver disease can lead to liver failure if left untreated. Symptoms of CAH in Dobermans can include lethargy, vomiting, and jaundice.

To manage or prevent CAH in Dobermans, consider these diet tips:

  • Low-copper diet
  • Vitamin E
  • S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe)
  • Organic
  • Low-fat diet
  • Hydration

Hypothyroidism

This is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, which can cause weight gain, lethargy, and skin infections, among other symptoms.

To manage or prevent Hypothyroidism in Dobermans, consider these diet tips:

  • Iodine
  • Avoid soy products
  • Manage weight

Cervical vertebral instability (Wobbler syndrome)

This spinal condition causes dogs to walk with uneven, wobbly steps. Dobermans are among the most common dog breeds to get Wobbler’s Syndrome, with around 50% of all Wobbler’s cases occurring in this breed. Symptoms of Wobblers in Dobermans start in middle age.

To manage Cervical vertebral instability in Dobermans, consider these diet tips:

  • Avoid obesity
  • Omega-3 fatty acids
  • Glucosamine
  • Chondroitin
  • Calcium and phosphorus ratio

3. Consider Your Doberman Activity Level

Provide a diet that suits your Doberman’s activity level. This is crucial in maintaining overall health, energy levels, and quality of life.

Inactive

Inactive Dobermans may be older, have mobility issues, or have a naturally low energy level. They require a diet lower in fat and calories to avoid weight gain. Excess weight can lead to health issues such as diabetes, joint problems, and more.

Moderate Activity

These Dobermans enjoy daily walks, regular playtime and occasional vigorous activities. They need a balanced proportion of calories, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Recipes for “adult maintenance” are usually appropriate.

High Activity

These are working dogs (herding), sports dogs (competition), or those with high energy engaging in strenuous daily activities. They require higher calories and a diet higher in proteins, fats & carbs for muscle recovery & sustained energy.

4. Consider Your Doberman’s Life Stage

Dobermans have specific nutritional needs at different stages of their life. Provide a diet that meets their life stage.

Puppy

Doberman puppies require a diet higher in calories and nutrients and a high protein count of at least 22% to 32% to support their growth and development. They also need a balanced ratio of calcium and phosphorus in their diet for proper bone growth.

Senior

Senior Dobermans are less active and have slower metabolisms, requiring fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight. As digestion becomes less efficient with age, easily digestible protein sources and fiber become necessary. Their diet should contain supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin to manage or prevent joint problems common in seniors. Protein requirements are about 25-30%.

Adult

Adult Dobermans require a moderate-calorie and protein diet to maintain their weight and prevent obesity. Adult dog food should typically have a protein content of around 18-25%, depending on their needs and activity level. Caloric and nutrient intake should match their activity level.

Pregnant

Pregnant Dobermans need more calories, particularly in the last few weeks of pregnancy, to support fetal growth and, later, milk production. Like puppies, lactating Dobermans need around 22-32% protein content. Protein supports fetal development and later, milk production for nursing.

The Reviews
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Best Dog Food For Dobermans

Best Overall Dog Food For Dobermans

4.9

★★★★★

Ollie

Who It’s For: Ideal for those who want the most optimal nutrition and potential health benefits.

VISIT OLLIE

Recipes: Beef, chicken, turkey & lamb

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: All ages

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Human-grade

Why we picked and recommended it: Ollie fresh dog food recipes win the spot for the best dog food for Dobermans. This brand uses human-grade ingredients to craft pre-portion recipes delivered directly to your doorstep. Feeding your dog Ollie comes with numerous scientifically-supported health benefits of fresh dog food, including longer lifespans, better digestibility, higher energy levels, and more. Fresh recipes are 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, Ollie is gently cooked from scratch, ensuring all nutritional integrity is retained — this means that your Dobermans will receive the healthiest and most nutritious meal with every serving.

What sets it apart from competitors: Ollie 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 Ollie takes the time to create a custom formula for each dog, considering factors like age, health, weight, and activity level to ensure your dog gets the perfect balance of nutrients for their unique needs.

Key Features

  • Caters to health-specific. Recipes are formulated to address your dog’s health concerns, such as food allergies, tear stains, bad breath, joint issues and more.
  • Vet-designed. Formulated by board-certified veterinary nutritionists that comply with AAFCO standards.
  • Excellent sourcing. Ingredients are sourced from reputable food suppliers, local farms, and other human food purveyors that meet USDA standards.

Pros

  • The level of customization is unmatched
  • Packaged as daily portions for easy serving
  • Never use feed-grade ingredients
  • Cooked in human-grade kitchens

Cons

  • It’s on the expensive side

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Best Dry Dog Food For Dobermans

4.8

★★★★★

Spot & Tango

Who It’s For: For those who want to provide the benefit of fresh dog diet with the convenience of kibble.

VISIT SPOT & TANGO

Recipes: Beef, chicken & salmon

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: Adult

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Premium

Why we picked and recommended it: Spot & Tango Unkibble dog formula is our top pick for the best dry dog food for Dobermans. 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 convenience of kibble without the nasty preservatives, additives, and cheap fillers. It’s perfect for Dobermans 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

  • Limited ingredients. Use radically simple ingredients ideal for a picky eater or dog with food allergies.
  • Superherbs. Boosted with super herbs for join, immunity, digestive support and more.

Pros

  • 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.

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Best Food For Doberman Puppies

4.7

★★★★★

Open Farm

Who It’s For: Made specifically for Doberman puppies. It has all the nutrients for proper puppy development.

VIEW ON AMAZON

Recipes: Blend of chicken, pork & salmon

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: Puppies

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Human-grade

Why we picked and recommended it: The Gently Cooked Open Farm puppy recipe is the best dog food for Dobermans. This puppy-specific formula provides the necessary nutrients for the optimal growth and development of Doberman 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 Doberman 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.

Pros

  • Made with non-GMO fruits and veggies
  • No potatoes, rendered poultry or meals
  • Serve as a topper or complete meal

Cons

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Cheapest Dog Food For Dobermans

4.8

★★★★★

Blue Buffalo

Who It’s For: Great if you are looking for the most affordable dog food for Dobermans.

VIEW ON AMAZON

Recipes: Beef, chicken, lamb & fish

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: Adult

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Natural

Why we picked and recommended it: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula has a slightly lower price than other brands. It’s formulated to provide your Doberman 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. 

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 Dobermans

4.6

★★★★★

Orijen

Who It’s For: Great senior Dobermans who need the appropriate nutrients to support them through their older years.

VIEW ON AMAZON
VIEW ON CHEWY

Recipes: Chicken, turkey & fish

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: Senior

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Fresh

Why we picked and recommended it: Most veterinarians consider a dog a senior once it reaches seven years old. If your Doberman 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 Doberman healthy during his older years, Orijin Senior dog food will support long-life vitality. It’s crafted specifically for your senior Doberman 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.

Pros

  • Protein, including poultry, fish and organs
  • Freeze-dried coated for a burst of raw flavor
  • 85% quality animal ingredients
  • Great feedback from senior dog parent 

Cons

  • A bit expensive

Raw Food For Dobermans

4.8

★★★★★

Instinct

Who It’s For: Good for those seeking to provide a more biologically appropriate, natural diet for dogs that offers several health benefits.

VIEW ON CHEWY

Recipes: Chicken, lamb & beef

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: All ages

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Raw

Why we picked and recommended it:  As more dog parents opt to raw feed their dogs, it’s essential to understand the ins and outs of a raw diet for dogs. If you are in the market for raw dog food for Doberman, 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% wholesome non-GMO fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals to give your Doberman a complete BARF diet. It’s minimally processed, never cooked, pure, natural nutrition to keep your Dobies strong. 

What sets it apart from competitors: Raw dog food may benefit your dog with a shinier coat and skin, cleaner teeth, more energy, smaller stools and more. Instinct Raw states that raw dog nutrition can promote strong, lean muscles and energize your pup.

Pros

  • Helps with allergies and weight management
  • Ingredients are frozen to maintain the highest nutritional profile
  • 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
  • It’s slightly more expensive than traditional kibble, but you can buy raw food budget

Best Food For Dobermans With Sensitive Stomachs

4.7

★★★★★

Hill’s

Who It’s For: Great for those looking for the best food for Dobermans with sensitive stomachs.

VIEW ON AMAZON
VIEW ON CHEWY

Recipes: Chicken & Barley

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: Adult

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Natural

Why we picked and recommended it: Hill’s Science Diet For Sensitive Stomach & Skin is formulated to protect Dobermans with 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 Doberman. 

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

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 Dobermans With Allergies

4.7

★★★★★

Royal Canin

Who It’s For: Excellent for Dobermans suffering from skin allergies, itchy skin, food allergies, or food intolerance.

VIEW ON CHEWY

Recipes: Natural

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: All ages

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Hypoallergenic

Why we picked and recommended it: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein is the best hypoallergenic dog formula you feed an allergic Doberman. 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.

Pros

  • Specially designed for canines with food intolerances or allergies
  • It helps to reduce skin and GI reactions caused by proteins
  • Support healthy skin and help reduce inflammation

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 also help with allergies and does not require a prescription.

Best Grain-Free Food For Dobermans

4.7

★★★★★

Open Farm

Who It’s For: Ideal for Dobermans with grain allergies or sensitivities.

VIEW ON WEBSITE
VIEW ON AMAZON

Recipes: Beef, chicken & turkey, salmon, lamb, venison & more

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: All ages

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Premium

Why we picked and recommended it: Open Farm’s grain-free dry dog food is your best grain-free dog food for Dobermans. 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 a Doberman’s nutritional needs.

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 your bag via their website.
  • Premium ingredients. Locally sourced non-GMO fruits and veggies.
  • Ethically sourced protein. Only uses ethically sourced and humanely raised meats.

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

Best Wet Dog Food For Dobermans

4.5

★★★★★

JustFoodForDogs

Who It’s For: A good choice for those looking for the best wet food for Dobermans.

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Recipes: Chicken, turkey, beef, lamb & more

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: All ages

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Human-grade

Why we picked and recommended it: JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh is our favorite wet food for Dobermans. This 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, Doberman uses only ingredients fit for human consumption to ensure the highest quality nutrition. Additionally, they use a unique cooking process to make Pantry Fresh preserve 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-specific 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 formulate 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.

Pros

  • USDA-certified meats
  • Organ meats
  • A convenient way for busy people to feed their dogs a fresh diet
  • A variety pack for picky eaters
  • Provides the benefits of fresh dog food

Cons

  • More expensive than traditional wet dog food

Other Best Dog Foods For Dobermans

  • Best dehydrated dog food for Dobermans. The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Gourmet is our favorite dehydrated food. Dehydrated food is often easier for Dobermans 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 Dobermans. 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 diet food for Dobermans. JustFoodForDogs makes creating a custom recipe for your fur baby easy. They work with your veterinarian to create a custom recipe if your Doberman has a medical need for a restricted diet.
  • Best Doberman dog food to lose weight. Natural Balance Fat Dogs Low is excellent if your Doberman needs to lose weight.
  • Best Doberman dog food to gain weight. With 484 calories per cup, Purina Pro Plan Performance is ideal for helping your Doberman gain lean muscle mass.

Additional Information
Jump to: The Research | Full Reviews 

How to Switch Doberman Dog Food

Veterinarians recommend a gradual approach when changing your Doberman’s diet to a new formula.

  • 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

Increase your Doberman’s new food portion weekly if they adjust well to each transition phase. Watch their reaction to the new diet carefully; discontinue the new food immediately if any negative responses are observed. Never change your dog’s food abruptly. It could cause an upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting.

Health-Based Food Changes In Dobermans

If your Doberman 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.

ConditionDietary Needs & Adjustments
Coat Color ChangesIncrease amino acids which can be found in protein (>75 grams per 1000 calories)
Concurrent GI SignsAvoid 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 DermatitisFortify 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 ScalingAdjust EPA and DHA levels in the diet (added fish oil being the most common way); try food with added zinc.
Dandruff and CrustinessAdd Zinc and Vitamin A levels

Frequently Asked Questions

Purina ONE can be suitable for Dobermans if you choose a formula that matches their active lifestyle and nutritional needs, particularly one designed for large breeds. Always consult a veterinarian to ensure it meets your specific dog’s requirements.

Switch your Doberman from puppy to adult food around 12 to 18 months of age. The exact timing should be based on their growth rate and size, with a veterinarian’s guidance to ensure a smooth transition.

Grain-free diets have been popular for dogs with specific grain allergies or sensitivities. However, recent studies and warnings from the FDA have highlighted a potential link between grain-free diets high in legumes and potatoes and an increased risk of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs, including Dobermans. While not all dogs on grain-free diets will develop DCM, and genetics play a significant role, it’s important to carefully consider the choice of a grain-free diet. Keep in mind that Dobermans are prone to DCM. If you’re considering a grain-free diet for your Doberman due to allergies or other health concerns, consult with a veterinarian. They can provide guidance on a nutritionally balanced diet that minimizes health risks while meeting your dog’s dietary needs.

Royal Canin does not offer a Doberman-specific formula but has large breed formulas suitable for Dobermans. These options focus on joint health, digestive health, and maintaining an ideal weight, which are crucial for the breed. Consult with a vet to choose the right one.

Best Dog Food For Dobermans — Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the best dog food for Dobermans is essential to ensure your beloved pet’s health and happiness. As we’ve explored in this comprehensive guide, the ideal diet for your Dobie should cater to their unique nutritional needs, support their overall well-being, and bring out their full potential. We hope our recommendations, insights, and suggestions have provided you with a solid foundation to make informed decisions about your Doberman’s dietary journey.

To further enrich your options, consider exploring vegan dog food alternatives, especially if your Doberman shows signs of food sensitivities or you’re looking for a diet with potential environmental and health benefits. Additionally, venturing into Doberman homemade dog food can offer a personalized approach to your dog’s nutrition, allowing you to adjust ingredients based on their specific needs and preferences. Remember, you should talk to your veterinarians first for guidance if you opt for one of the formulas in this review, a specialized vegan option, delve into homemade meals, or a combination of the three.

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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

Canine Bible
Editorial Team at Canine Bible | + posts

Canine Bible authorship represents the unified voice of our entire editorial team and our in-house veterinarians rather than a single author. Each article, blog post, and review published under the Canine Bible name undergoes a rigorous review process, involving all team members to guarantee accuracy and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. This collaborative effort is an integral part of our editorial process and aligns with our four pillars of content creation. This approach ensures our content is backed by expert knowledge and factual information, offering our readers reliable, actionable, and trustworthy content.

Dr. Aukse Caraite, Veterinary Surgeon, DVM
DVM Surgeon Veterinarian at Canine Bible | + posts

Dr. Aukse is our in-house Lead Senior Veterinarian. Dr. Aukse is a dedicated and skilled DVM Surgeon renowned for her expertise in small/companion animal surgery and medicine. With a robust academic background and extensive hands-on experience, she ensures her patients receive the highest standard of care. Dr. Aukse is happy to share her knowledge and expertise with our readers.

Dr. Caraite's career experience as a DVM Veterinary Surgeon spans over seven years, marked by comprehensive learning from esteemed institutions and substantial experience in veterinary clinics. She is currently employed at a family-run, day-opening clinic in central Gothenburg, Sweden, where she performs surgery daily and manages a large patient base for both surgical and outpatient care. Her externship at North Carolina State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, with a focus on soft tissue and oncology service, has further honed her skills, equipping her with the essential knowledge and proficiency to excel in her field.

Dr. Aukse holds a Master’s in Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (2017) and has completed an externship in Soft Tissue and Oncology Service at NC State (2018-2023). She is also has a Master’s in Small Animal Surgery with a specialization in Dog and Cat Surgery from the University of Copenhagen.

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