Top Rated Food for German Shepherds List in 2023 + Buying Guide
If you are determined to find the best dog food for German Shepherd, but you are short on time, and you cannot do the necessary research on the topic, we can help. To do so, we have assessed the market by reading what the specialists and fellow buyers had to say on the matter. Consequently, we have determined that the Royal Canin Breed Health is the choice that you should invest in. This food is said to support the high-energy needs of dogs, and it is shaped in a way that makes it easy to be chewed. What is more, this option can maintain the health of your pet’s skin and coat. Among the ingredients that it contains are brewers’ rice, chicken fat, pork, and natural flavors as well as vitamins and D-calcium pantothenate. If this item is out of stock, feel free to take a look at the Iams Proactive Health as it has received numerous positive reviews as well.
Comparison table
Our Top Choice
This choice is packed with rich ingredients such as vitamins that can support the nutritional needs of your beloved pet. On top of that, it can keep its coat and skin healthy. Because it has a kibble-like shape, it can be easily chewed by all dogs, regardless of their age.
Some buyers noted that this option is not guaranteed to be stomach-sensitive. Still, at the time we did the research, most did not consider this a major drawback of the food.
Most of the owners that have purchased it were happy with the results. Plus, they have noticed that their pets found it delicious.
2nd Best
This alternative is the perfect choice for all German Shepherds out there. The food was formulated to meet the needs of your dog, and it is also said to be suitable for those pets that have a sensitive digestive system. The option includes no wheat, soy or fillers.
It has been noted that some dogs did not react well to this food, as it made them throw up. However, not many cases of this kind have been reported so far.
If you need a product that can support the health of your pet’s heart and muscles, give this option a go as it won’t disappoint.
Also To Consider
This item was also formulated specially to be used with big dogs. According to the seller, it can provide your loyal companion with the necessary blend of vitamins and Omega-6 fatty acids so that its skin and coat are healthy. Also, it supports a good immune system.
There have been reports that stated that some pets do not eat this food because it is somewhat greasy. Yet, not all of those that purchased it had to deal with this issue.
This food is perfect for those pets that weight more than 55 pounds. The choice was manufactured in the USA.
9 Best German Shepherd Foods (Reviews) in 2023
Shopping for good dog food for German Shepherds is not easy. Because we are determined to help you out, we have prepared a list of models that have received positive reviews from numerous buyers out there. So, start reading and see what product you like best.
- 1. PaylesswithSS Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition German Shepherd Adult
- 2. Iams Proactive Health Adult German Shepherd Dry Dog Food
- 3. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food Adult
- 4. Royal Canin Vet Care Nutrition Dog Food Adult Large
- 5. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult Dog Chicken Formula
- 6. Royal Canin German Shepherd Dogs Food
- 7. Wellness Core Puppy Food Dry Grain Free Turkey & Chicken
- 8. Orijen Dry Dog Food
- 9. Eukanuba German Shepherd Adult Dog Food
- Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
- Frequently asked questions about food for German Shepherds
1. PaylesswithSS Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition German Shepherd Adult
This choice is likely to catch your attention as it was specifically created to be fed to German Shepherds. The food has a kibble shape, which is why your beloved dog will have no difficulties when it comes to grabbing and eating it.
Because of the numerous rich ingredients that it features, this option is also an excellent choice because it helps maintain your lovely companion’s healthy skin and coat. Also, it is worth pointing out that it contains no preservatives and additives.
As the seller notes, this kind of food is an excellent pick for adult dogs as it includes a combination of nutrients that are highly beneficial to pure breed Shepherds. Previous buyers were happy with the quality of the product. Plus, some of them claimed that, because of the fibers that it contains, this food is a good purchase for those pets that have tummy issues.
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2. Iams Proactive Health Adult German Shepherd Dry Dog Food
This alternative was also tailored to suit the nutritional needs of your pet. What is more, this is one of those rare products that were formulated to meet the necessities of dogs that have sensitive digestive systems.
The main ingredient in the product is chicken, and, thus, it is safe to say that it is rich in proteins. Furthermore, this item includes no fillers, soy or wheat. As a result, when fed regularly, it can improve your dog’s heart and muscle health.
To make the utilization of the unit as easy as possible, the manufacturer has created a graphic that informs the pet owners of the correct amount of food a pet should be fed per meal, following the weight of the dog.
One of the buyers of the food was happy to say that the choice worked great, as it improved the coat of her pet.
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3. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food Adult
Another option that you should not neglect is the one distributed by Hill’s Science Diet. This choice was made of a mix of lamb and rice, and it is considered the go-to product by many owners of large dogs. In fact, this food is recommended for those pets that are over 55 lbs. in weight.
On top of that, this item can provide your pet with a natural source of chondroitin and glucosamine. Hence, you no longer have to worry that the joints of your beloved pet are in danger. Also, this choice features high-quality proteins that contribute to the dog’s lean musculature and healthy weight.
The product also includes Omega-6 fatty acids, antioxidants, as well as vitamins and nutrients. Consequently, it can support a healthy immune system. No artificial colors, preservatives, flavors or chicken by-product meal were used in the making of this option. Previous buyers spoke highly of this alternative.
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4. Royal Canin Vet Care Nutrition Dog Food Adult Large
If you are a fan of dry food that is easily digestible, this option might be just what you need. This type of food promotes a balanced diet, as it is rich in high-quality proteins and fibers. Also, it helps your pet have healthy bones and joints regardless of the stress put on them by the weight of the dog’s body.
Also, because it was created with the needs of large breeds in mind, this kind of food can satisfy their appetite. The enriched formula of the product includes Omega 3 and fatty acids that are beneficial to one’s skin and coat. The option is said to be suitable for pets that are 15 months to 5 years old and that weight between 56 and 100 lbs.
According to reviews, the product is said to be liked even by picky eaters. The choice is also great if you need something that can restore the coat of your loyal companion.
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5. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult Dog Chicken Formula
Another item that you should check out before placing an order is the Natural Adult distributed by Blue Buffalo. This 24-lb bag of dog food is high in protein, and it is grain-free, which is why so many recommend it to those interested.
The main ingredient of the product is deboned chicken meat. Therefore, it can provide your dog with plenty of proteins. To supply your dog with a balanced diet, the item also includes wholesome fruits and veggies. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are also featured, as they can promote a shiny coat and an overall healthy skin.
This option also includes antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins that have been carefully selected by veterinarians. Therefore, a healthy immune system is also promoted. No artificial flavors, preservatives, by-product meals are included. Additionally, keep in mind that this product does not contain wheat, soy or corn. This option is manufactured in the USA.
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6. Royal Canin German Shepherd Dogs Food
This choice was created to be fed to German Shepherd puppies that are between 8 weeks to 15 months of age. Because of the beneficial ingredients that it features, this mix can support a healthy immune system.
For optimal digestion, it has both soluble and insoluble fibers. What is more, the seller noted that this formula could also support healthy joints and the reduction of inflammation in aging dogs.
Each kibble included in the deal has a hard texture that encourages chewing. Because German Shepherds are known to have sensitive skin, and a double-layered coat, this option features plenty of useful ingredients.
The seller of the product has made available a couple of directions regarding how this food should be fed in accordance with the age and the weight of the pet. So, before you have your beloved friend try it out for the first time, be sure to read the information.
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7. Wellness Core Puppy Food Dry Grain Free Turkey & Chicken
If you have been looking for a grain-free unit that you can try out, the food sold by Wellness Core might suit the needs of your pet.
This product is said to promote protein-based nutrition and, as a result, it includes no grains. Instead, it is rich is whitefish, salmon, as well as herring meat. Essential vitamins and minerals were also added. As expected, the item is free of preservatives, artificial colors and flavors as well.
As the seller suggests, this model is also packed with probiotics, prebiotics, and fibers so that your pet’s digestion system is not hindered.
Because it is high in protein, it is recommended that you do not switch to feeding this product to your pet suddenly. Instead, make sure that the transition lasts between 5 to 7 days. In this interval, you should introduce it into the pet’s meals by mixing it with the regular type of food that you use.
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8. Orijen Dry Dog Food
As another fish-based dog food, this choice is equally worth your attention. The item is made of 38% proteins, as well as 19% low-glycemic carbohydrates that can supply your pet with a balanced intake. The product includes all the ingredients and nutrients that a dog might need. Moreover, zinc and copper were also are added.
According to the statements made by the manufacturer, 2/3 of the fish used in the making of this food is fresh and free of preservatives so that your pet can enjoy a healthy and rich diet.
The remaining 1/3 is represented by dry fish. Overall, it includes 85% of wild-caught fish ingredients. This particular bag of dog food includes sustainably caught mackerel, herring, flounder, redfish, monkfish, and silver hake.
Although the product has received great reviews from those pet owners that have invested in it, many remarked that this alternative is rather expensive when compared to other choices also available.
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9. Eukanuba German Shepherd Adult Dog Food
Another kind of food that is perfect when used to feed adult dogs is the Eukanuba Breed Specific. This option features high-quality, animal-based proteins and it was created to help build strong and lean muscles so that your pet always has an optimal body condition.
On top of that, this item also includes what the seller refers to as the 3D Dentadefense system that can reduce tartar build-up in 28 days. Also, this food contains a unique mix of fibers that can promote nutrient absorption and healthy digestion.
The product also comes provided with the necessary Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that can make the skin and the coat of the pet look radiant and healthy. This alternative should only be fed to German Shepherds that are one-year-old and older. Because this choice is packed with nutrients, you do not have to give extra vitamins to your pet.
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Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
If you are a new pet owner, you’ve probably been wondering what is the best dog food for a German Shepherd. To lend you a hand, we have created a list of features that you should look for before you purchase a product from this category.
Calories
High-quality German Shepherd food has to contain plenty of calories, especially because this breed is very active and playful. If you have a baby pet, keep in mind that the specialists recommend that you feed it twice as many calories as an adult.
This is crucial because puppies have higher energy levels and because they need the extra intake because of their fast growth rate. A puppy generally needs around 40 calories per lb., every day.
On top of that, you should keep in mind that, in the case of adult dogs, the calorie intake depends on the level of activity of the pet. Therefore, a lazy dog that likes sleeping a lot will require fewer calories than one that runs around all day long.
According to the experts, you should invest in top German Shepherd dog food that enables you to provide your fluffy companion with around 1,400-1,500 calories per day.
Proteins and nutrients
Before you purchase the first type of food that you find for sale, it is crucial that you take a look at the quantity of proteins that it incorporates. Because dogs are by nature carnivores, you need to supply them with biologically appropriate food.
As studies have shown, the best dry dog food for German Shepherd should contain between 20% and 40% proteins, depending on how active the pet actually is. Apart from helping your companion generate energy, proteins also assist in the development of lean and strong muscles.
Next, read the available German Shepherd food reviews and make sure that the product that you like also features fats. Fat is a crucial ingredient because it supplies the dog with energy and because it helps create a lipid barrier that makes its skin and coat healthier.
If you are determined to purchase the best food for German Shepherd, you should also consider the added nutrients that the available choices include. Fatty acids are essential for the pooch’s cognitive function, while the added minerals and vitamins help it thrive.
From this point of view, you should make sure that you feed your pet German Shepherd homemade food that includes glucosamine and chondroitin, substances that are essential for bone and hip support. This aspect is worthy of your attention, as German Shepherds are prone to developing hip dysplasia later on, in adult life.
Extra tips and tricks
When assessing a German Shepherd dog food list, it is also recommendable that you only look for choices that include no wheat, soy or corn, as these are ingredients that are not included in the natural diet of dogs.
Plus, it is best that you select a product that features carbs such as brown rice, chickpeas or sweet potatoes. Carbs are essential because they help keep the pet’s digestive system healthy. As a result, your companion will be able to keep a healthy weight.
Lastly, be sure to invest in a product such as Royal Canin dog food for German Shepherd, that is packed with probiotics as well as prebiotics as these compounds can keep the pet’s gut flora balanced. Also, they can help it break down complex ingredients.
Frequently asked questions about food for German Shepherds
Q: How much food should my German Shepherd eat?
The answer to this question is not simple, as it all depends on the age and the weight of the dog that you own. Also, you should take into account the ingredients of the food that you are feeding the pet.
Most dog foods that you can find online come provided with feeding instructions that can help you feed your pet the appropriate quantity per meal. Therefore, it is best that you read what the seller has to say on this topic. However, because each pet has distinct needs, it might also be a good idea to have a talk with your vet and ask him/her for recommendations.
Q: How long to feed puppy food to German Shepherd?
German Shepherd puppies have to be fed special food. Wet food should be introduced as a way to make the transition from the mother’s milk to regular food. This transition period is crucial as it helps the pet’s digestive system prepare for the whole food that you are going to feed it later on.
Then, it is advisable that you gradually switch the puppy from wet to dry food. At six months you can introduce animal products into the pup’s diet such as bones or liver. At one year of age, the dog will probably start eating less food than it did when it was a puppy, and this happens because its metabolism starts slowing down. Now, it is time to feed the pet once a day, instead of twice or three times. This is the point when you can introduce adult food into its diet.
Q: How long can a German Shepherd live without food?
On average, a dog can live for a week and a half without food. However, this number is influenced by a couple of factors. For instance, the age of the pet is crucial, as puppies need more food than adults due to their growing necessities.
Next, the level of activity of the pet is also significant. An active dog needs more nutrition to live when compared to a lazy one. Additionally, breeds such as the German Shepherd are known to require a lot of food in order to survive.
Last but not least, the health of the pet should also be taken into account. In other words, a pet that suffers from numerous health issues is likely not able to go on for long periods without food.
Q: Is Pedigree dog food good for German Shepherds?
The consensus on this matter is that owners of German Shepherds should generally avoid investing in Pedigree dog food. The main reason why many consider this important is that this type of food is packed with numerous colorants that are not beneficial to the pet’s health.
However, it should be said that Pedigree can be used as an alternative to appropriate food when the owner of the pet is on a budget or unable to procure the right type of food. So, if this is the case, you can feed Pedigree to your pet for a short time.
Q: What human food can German Shepherds eat?
There are a few human foods that you can feed your German Shepherd without fearing that it will harm it. For instance, you can give it cooked fish such as pink salmon, sardines or even jack mackerel.
Also, eggs, yogurt, kefir, and cottage and ricotta cheese are also considered appropriate, as they are rich in prebiotics and probiotics. Furthermore, you can feed you GSD non-poisonous vegetables and fruits such as apples, pineapples, apricots, bananas, asparagus, carrots, lettuce, broccoli, sweet potatoes.
However, it is vital that you avoid adding onion, garlic, tomatoes, raisins, grapes, and regular potatoes to your pet’s diet.
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