This breed of dog weighs approximately 60 to 80 pounds. Most of their weight comes from their muscles and solid bones. German Shepherds are athletic and they are also very active dogs. They are also possessed unusual strength and intelligence.
Nutritional Needs of German shepherd
⦿ German Shepherds have strong and solid muscular bodies so they need high quality nutrition to maintain their energy requirements.
⦿ It is not surprising that they need high quality protein diet that supports their overall energy requirement. They also need protein for muscle strength and development and additional fat to supply energy.
⦿ On the average, German Shepherds needs an average of 1740 and 2100 caloric intake. While less active and older dogs may require lesser calorie count.
⦿ German Shepherds needs a minimum of 22% of protein for their growth while adult dogs need a maintenance protein of 18%. They also need 8% of fats for puppies and 5% for adults to support their energy requirements.
⦿ The good thing about German Shepherds is that they grow very fast so you don’t have to spend too much on puppy specific dog foods. Usually you can change to adult diet within six months time. Switching to adult formula after they reach the age of 6 months will prevent any joint and bone issues that are usually seen in animals who grow rapidly.
What are the Ingredients to look for?
The two very important ingredients to look out for a German shepherd diet are proteins and fat. It is equally important to emphasize that these ingredients should not come from just an ordinary ingredients. Their diet should come from excellent food sources.
The ideal protein source should be from whole meat sources such as beef, fish and poultry and other organ meats. Other animal by-products like chicken do not provide enough protein as compared with whole protein sources. With regards to healthy fat sources, look for foods that contains fish oil and vegetables to get omega 3 fatty acids.
These food sources are necessary to keep the dog’s coat and skin look healthy. Additional ingredients like sweet potatoes and carrots are also good for German shepherd. Smaller amounts of barley, oats, rice and other digestible carbohydrates can also be given.
How about German shepherd Puppies?
German shepherd puppies also need the same consideration as to their dad and moms. They grow fast so they also need high quality proteins. As much as possible, avoid exposing them to common irritants and allergens.
Watch out for labels with chicken, bison and beef as the main ingredients. Do not fed them foods with labels such as “by-products” as their initial offering. Preferably, pick products with good reputation and no any history of recall-free pet dog food production.
Go for products with consumer advocacy.
Recommended Dog Food Brands for German Shepherds
Every dog is unique. So you need to look for a dog food that provides for their individual needs. Some of the recommended foods for German Shepherds include:
Orjen Adult Dog Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
⦿ The Orjen Adult Dog Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is one of the high quality and most respected brands on the dog food market. There may be lots of premium brands in the market but what sets this brand apart is that it features a meticulous preparation and care in each of its product.
⦿ This brand is highly recommended for adult German Shepherds because it targets every nutritional requirement of this breed. It offers high protein content from quality sources, lots of essential vitamins and minerals and grain-free to prevent the onset of allergy. With Orijen you can be assuring that your dog will achieve their optimum health.
⦿ Orijen may be a bit pricey compared with other brands but you can be assured that every dollar you pay for this product is worth it. German Shepherds may consume approximately 2 cups of food a day depending on their weight and activity level. So one bag of Orijen may usually last for about a month.
Taste of the Wild, Wetlands Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
⦿ The Taste of the Wild, Wetlands Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is one of the best-selling dog food brands online. Dog owners love this product because of its great quality at a reasonable price. The product is made in USA and it is also grain free.
⦿ This is perfect for your German shepherd with sensitive stomach and skin allergies because it doesn’t contain typical ingredients that cause bloating and itching. The best thing about this product is that you are not sacrificing the quality of the product at a fair price.
⦿ Some says that this brand is the suitable competitor to Orijen. The price is nearly half when you compare it with other premium brands.
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diet Dry Dog Food
⦿ The Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diet Dry Dog Food is best for all-life stages meaning in both puppies and adult dogs. It has limited ingredients so it won’t cause any allergic reactions to your dogs. This product is also made from USA so it is of high and premium quality. If your dogs have sensitive stomach, skin allergies and other skin issues, you may try this out!
| #1 | #2 | #3 |
|---|---|---|
| Orjen Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food Adult Large Breed | Taste of the WildWetlands Canin FormulaDry Dog Food Large Breed | Natural BalanceAllergy Formula Dry Dog FoodLarge Breed |
Do’s and Donts in Feeding your German Shepherd
When feeding your German shepherd makes sure that you choose the best, high quality ingredients. There are many dog foods that are sold online and in the grocery store. Before buying one, make sure that you know the products ingredients and what are they for.
⦿ Don’t be hesitant to ask experts like dog breeders and veterinarian on their experiences on the specific brand so you can compare the brands. Read online about the specific product features so you would know what to give and what not to give to your dogs.
⦿ Don’t let the price determine your purchasing habit because if you do, you may end up paying a lot later on because your dog may develop allergies and stomach issues. Be a wise buyer, weigh the pros and the cons first before buying a product.
⦿ Be observant. Know if your dog loves the food and if they develop any allergic reactions to the product. In that way, you can monitor their progress if they are growing well or not.
⦿ If you find anything unusual, tell your veterinarian about it, so you can be given appropriate advice. If your dog doesn’t like the food, stop giving it and try other products but do it gradually as this may trigger more allergic reactions and stomach issues.
Dogs are a man's best friend. They will love you and protect you from harm. It is just right to give them the best so they can be at their optimum level. German shepherds are great dogs to take care of. They are great and loving companions at home. Treat them like family and you will see that they will love you more than you can imagine!