German Shepherds are among the most intelligent and hardworking dogs, but their nutritional needs are anything but simple. With a breed prone to hip dysplasia, digestive sensitivities, and allergies, what’s in their food bowl can be the difference between thriving and constant vet visits. Choosing the wrong diet doesn’t just mean missing out on optimal health—it could shorten their lifespan. Yet, many popular dog food brands claim to be “breed-specific” without offering what your German Shepherd actually needs. So, how do you separate marketing gimmicks from truly beneficial nutrition? In this guide, we’ll break down the best dog food for German Shepherds, uncovering the nutrients they need, the hidden ingredients to avoid, and our top expert-recommended picks to keep your loyal companion strong and healthy.
Best Dog Food For German Shepherds — At A Glance
Best Overall
Nom Nom
Made with fresh, human-grade ingredients to offer the most optimal nutrition for GSDs.
German Shepherds are a large and active breed with specific nutritional needs. The best food for a German Shepherd is balanced and appropriate for their life stage, health, activity level, and weight (size). This ensures your German Shepherd is healthy, develops appropriately, and can sustain daily activities and bodily functions. When deciding the best diet for a German Shepherd, it’s essential also to consider individual preferences such as taste or food type. Some German Shepherds may thrive on high-quality commercial kibble, while others may do better on a human-grade fresh, raw, or balanced home-cooked diet.
How to Pick The Best Dog Food For German Shepherds
1. Consider The Nutritional Requirements of German Shepherds: The optimal German Shepherd 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 German Shepherds’ diets, 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.
Minimum Protein content recommendations for German Shepherdfood:
Adult:18% dry matter protein (45.0g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
Puppies & Pregnant or Lactating: 22.5% dry matter protein (56.3g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
Fats play a crucial, multifaceted role in a German Shepherd’s diet. Fats come in two forms: saturated and unsaturated. Both are important in a German Shepherd’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.
Minimum Protein content recommendations for German Shepherd food:
Adult: 5.5% dry matter fat (13.8g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
Puppies & Pregnant or Lactating: 8.5% dry matter fat (21.3g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
Fat sources for German Shepherd 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.
Carbohydrate sources for German Shepherdfood 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 German Shepherdfood 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 and 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 German Shepherd 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, German Shepherds should drink 2 to 3 times the amount of their dry food intake daily. However, if water is readily available from various sources, German Shepherds can naturally regulate water consumption daily.
2. Consider Your German Shepherd’s Activity Level: Nutritional requirements vary based on your German Shepherd’s activity level. Pick a formula that suits your German Shepherd’s activity level. This is crucial in maintaining overall health, energy levels, and quality of life.
Inactive: Inactive German Shepherds may be seniors, have mobility issues, or have a naturally low energy level. They require a diet lower in fat and calories to avoid weight gain.
Average Activity: These German Shepherds enjoy daily walks, regular playtime and occasional vigorous activities. They need a balanced proportion of calories, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
High Activity: These are working dogs, sports dogs, or those engaging in strenuous daily activities. They require higher calories and a diet higher in proteins, fats & carbs for muscle recovery & sustained energy.
Activity Levels for German Shepherds
3. German Shepherd Diet Health Considerations: When selecting food for German Shepherds, consider their common health issues and ensure their diet includes the appropriate ingredients and nutrients to prevent or manage these conditions.
Food AllergiesGerman Shepherds can develop food allergies and intolerances. It's advisable to avoid common allergens such as corn and wheat to prevent these issues. 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 identify potential allergens or intolerances in your dog. Use the results to avoid food formulas your dog tested positive for, and always consult your vet before making any dietary changes.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)German Shepherds often suffer fromIBD. Opt for a hypoallergenic, easily digestible diet with a novel protein source and limited ingredients is often recommended to minimize inflammation and food sensitivities.
Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (Bloat)Preventing bloat involves feeding smaller, frequent meals instead of one or two large meals daily. Dogs should eat slowly, which can be encouraged using a slow feeder bowl or food puzzle. Diets with excessive fermentable carbohydrates, such as legumes (peas, lentils) and soy, should be minimized to reduce gas buildup.
Sensitive Stomach German Shepherds can have sensitive digestive systems, which may lead to difficulty digesting certain foods or frequent digestive upset. Opt for limited ingredient diets, dog food with probiotics, minimally processed options like human-grade dog food, and foods high in fiber. Additionally, avoid fatty foods. Performing a dog gut health test to assess digestive function and guide dietary choices.
Hip & Elbow DysplasiaEnsure your German Shepherd maintains a healthy weight to reduce hip stress. Add joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin can also support joint health. Adequate calcium and phosphorus are necessary, but avoid excessive amounts as they can lead to bone problems
Perianal FistulasDue to their predisposition to perianal fistulas, ensure their diet always contains omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, which can further reduce inflammation, while high-fiber foods such as pumpkin help soften stools, reducing irritation.
4. Consider Your German Shepherd's Life Stage: Buy dog food specially formulated for your dog's life stage, as their nutritional needs vary depending on their life stage.
Puppy: Requires a diet higher in calories, nutrients, and protein count to support its growth and development. Balanced ratio of calcium and phosphorus for proper bone growth.
Adult: Moderate calorie and protein content. Caloric intake should match activity level to prevent obesity.
Senior: Lower calorie needs, with a focus on easily digestible proteins, fiber, and supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health.
Pregnant: Increased calorie needs, particularly in the last weeks of pregnancy, with a high protein content to support fetal development and milk production.
German Shepherd Calorie Needs
Use our dog calorie calculator to find the exact caloric needs of your dog based on his life stage. 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%. Always work with your vet before changing your dog’s diet. You can get personalized nutritional advice from a registered vet nutritionist through Vetster anytime, anywhere. You can also chat with an online vet and ask them questions about your dog’s dietary needs.
Best Dog Food For German Shepherds
Here are the best German Shepherd dog foods of this year.
Best Overall Dog Food For German Shepherds
4.9
★★★★★
Nom Nom
Who It's For: Ideal for those who want the most optimal nutrition and potential health benefits.
Why we recommended it:Nom Nom fresh dog food recipes win the spot for the best dog food for German Shepherds. This brand uses human-grade ingredients to craft pre-portion recipes delivered directly to your doorstep. Feeding your dog Nom Nom 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, Nom Nom is gently cooked from scratch, ensuring all nutritional integrity is retained — this means that your German 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, 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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Why we recommended it:Spot & Tango Unkibble dog formula is our top pick for the best dry dog food for German 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 convenience of kibble without the nasty preservatives, additives, and cheap fillers. It’s perfect for German 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
Limited ingredients. Use radically simple ingredients ideal for a picky eater or dog with food allergies.
Superherbs. Boosted with super herbs for joint, 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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Why we recommended it: The Gently Cooked Open Farm puppy recipe is the best dog food for German Shepherds. This puppy-specific formula provides the necessary nutrients for the optimal growth and development of German 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 German 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.
Why we recommended it:Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula has a slightly lower price than other brands. It’s formulated to provide your German 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.
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 German Shepherds
4.6
★★★★★
Orijen
Who It's For: Great for senior German Shepherds who need the appropriate nutrients to support them through their older years.
Why we recommended it: Most veterinarians consider a dog a senior once it reaches seven years old. If your German 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 Great Dane healthy during his older years, Orijin Senior dog food will support long-life vitality. It’s crafted specifically for your senior German Shepherd to help them stay healthy by supporting lean muscle mass and weight maintenance.
What sets it apart from competitors: ORIJEN dog food is richly ingested with a whole prey diet, made with the most nutrient-dense, succulent parts of the prey to deliver the nutrition dogs need.
Key Features
Whole-prey 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
Cons
A bit expensive
Best Raw Dog Food For German Shepherds
4.9
★★★★★
We Feed Raw
Who It's For: Good for those seeking a more biologically appropriate, natural dog diet that offers several health benefits.
Why we 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 German Shepherd raw dog food, We Feed Raw formula is our top pick for the best raw dog food delivery brands. This formula is protein-packed with 80% meat and organs and 15% non-GMO fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals to give your German Shepherd a complete BARF diet. It’s minimally processed, never cooked, pure, natural nutrition to keep your best friend strong. You can pick between a personalized plan or buying the box. The personalized plan might be the better choice if you want convenience and a long-term solution. Buying the box is a great option if you prefer flexibility and want to try the meals first.
What sets it apart from competitors: We Feed Raw stands out because it offers the best bulk raw dog food delivery option. This lets dog owners save a lot of money while helping to reduce their carbon footprint. Another unique factor of this food is that it includes a high-quality vitamin and mineral premix for an added boost of nutrition.
Key Features
Human-grade meats: USDA meats sourced from free-range cattle and poultry that are humanly raised without antibiotics, steroids, or added hormones.
HPP (high-pressure processing): This all-natural technology employs high water pressure to neutralize food-borne pathogens such as Listeria, E. Coli, and Salmonella. Because this process uses pressure rather than heat, the nutritional value of the food is not affected.
Pre-portioned meals. Meals are portioned to your dog's daily needs for easy serving and to reduce food waste.
Pros
Great for adults, puppies and senior dogs
Free and flexible shipping
Only the lamb and venison are sourced from New Zealand. Everything else is sourced within the USA
Stacks and stores easily in a standard freezer
Six animal protein options, more flavors than most competitors, including novel proteins. You can mix and match in any plan
Sustainable dog food company practices. Delivers food in an insulated, eco-friendly, compostable cooler with dry ice.
Cons
It does not offer other raw dog products, such as treats
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
Get 25% OFF your order with the code CB25. Use Canine Bible’s link to get started.
Best Food For German Shepherds With Sensitive Stomachs
4.7
★★★★★
Hill’s
Who It's For: Great for those looking for the best food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs.
Why we recommended it:Hill’s Science Diet For Sensitive Stomach & Skin is formulated to protect German Shepherds 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 ingredients that can cause upsets or skin flare-ups on your German 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
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 German Shepherds With Allergies
4.7
★★★★★
Royal Canin
Who It's For: Great for those looking for the best food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs.
Why we recommended it:Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein is the best hypoallergenic dog formula you feed an allergic German 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.
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
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 German Shepherds
4.7
★★★★★
Open Farm
Who It's For: Ideal for German Shepherds with grain allergies or sensitivities.
Why we recommended it:Open Farm’s grain-free dry dog food is your best German Shepherd grain-free kibble. 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 provides antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support German Shepherd 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 through the QR code on the bag.
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
Why we recommended it:JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh is our favorite wet food for German Shepherds. 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, Pantry Fresh uses only ingredients that are 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 German Shepherds
Best dehydrated dog food for German Shepherds.The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Gourmet is our favorite dehydrated food. Dehydrated food is often easier for German 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 German 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 diet food for German Shepherds.JustFoodForDogs makes creating a custom recipe for your fur baby easy. They work with your veterinarian to create a custom recipe if your German Shepherd has a medical need for a restricted diet.
Best German Shepherddog food to lose weight.Natural Balance Fat Dogs Low is excellent if your German Shepherd needs to lose weight.
Best German Shepherddog food to gain weight. With 484 calories per cup, Purina Pro Plan Performance is ideal for helping your German Shepherds gain lean muscle mass.
How to Switch German Shepherd Dog Food
Veterinarians recommend gradually changing your German Shepherd'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 German Shepherd'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 German Shepherds
If your German 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
Frequently Asked Questions
Grain-free diets can be beneficial for German Shepherds with food allergies or sensitivities to grains like wheat or corn. However, grain-inclusive diets with wholesome grains like brown rice or oatmeal can also be healthy, providing fiber and essential nutrients. The key is to choose a high-quality food with digestible ingredients and no fillers.
Avoid low-quality fillers like corn, soy, and wheat, as well as artificial preservatives (BHA, BHT), artificial colors, and by-products. Also, steer clear of foods with excessive carbohydrates, as German Shepherds need a high-protein diet to support muscle health and energy levels. If your dog has food sensitivities, be cautious with common allergens like chicken, beef, and dairy.
Certain dog food brands have been identified as suboptimal for German Shepherds due to low-quality ingredients, fillers, and artificial additives. Brands frequently mentioned in this context include Ol' Roy, Kibbles 'N Bits, Pedigree, Alpo, and some Purina products, particularly Beneful. These brands often contain fillers like corn, soy, and wheat, which offer minimal nutritional value and can lead to digestive issues. Additionally, artificial preservatives and unspecified meat by-products in these foods may pose health risks.
German Shepherd owners on Reddit have shared diverse experiences regarding the best food for their dogs. Many emphasize the importance of high-quality protein sources and avoiding fillers. Some have found success with brands like Fromm's Gold and Victor Ocean Fish, often supplementing with fresh ingredients such as green beans, eggs, and cottage cheese. Others have turned to raw diets, incorporating meats like beef, chicken, and organ meats, though they note the preparation can be intensive. Additionally, some owners prefer brands like Nutro Beef/Rice or Lamb/Rice, especially for dogs with sensitivities to common proteins like chicken. It's clear that individual dogs may respond differently to various diets, so consulting with a veterinarian is recommended to determine the best nutritional plan for your German Shepherd.
The Bottom Line
Selecting the best dog food for your German Shepherd is essential for ensuring their health, happiness, and longevity. By considering the breed’s unique needs—such as high energy levels and susceptibility to joint issues—and carefully reviewing ingredient lists and nutritional information, you can make an informed decision that supports their overall well-being.
Based on our research and experience, we recommend Nom Nom as the best overall dog food for German Shepherds. However, every dog is unique, and what works well for one may not be the best fit for another. If you're looking for more great options similar to Nom Nom, check out our list of the best fresh dog food recipes. You can also opt for homemade dog food for German Shepherds, which may be less convenient but is often more affordable and allows for a more personalized approach to nutrition.
Additionally, if your German Shepherd has food sensitivities or you're interested in exploring environmentally friendly and health-conscious alternatives, vegan dog food could be worth considering. Specialized vegan formulas or carefully prepared homemade meals can offer a balanced diet, but it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian to ensure they meet your dog's nutritional needs. Regardless of the diet you choose, it’s also wise to consider pet insurance for your German Shepherd, helping you stay prepared for any nutrition-related health issues that might arise. With the right nutrition and proactive care, your German Shepherd can enjoy a long, happy, and healthy life by your side.
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