When people talk about a very smart, brave, and clever type of working dog, they often think of the German Shepherd. This dog breed, which has its roots in Germany, is the second most loved pet in the United States according to the American Kennel Club and is also very popular in the United Kingdom, ranking seventh.
The German Shepherd was originally known by that name, but in Britain, they were called Alsatians and in the U.S They were referred to as Shepherd dogs until around the late 1970s. After that, the name was changed back to German Shepherd.
These dogs are famous for their loyalty and willingness to protect their owners. This trait is very useful in police and military training. Besides being loyal, German Shepherds are also known for their fast learning skills and their ability to follow commands quickly, with both speed and precision.
German Shepherds are a strong and athletic breed of dogs that need a diet full of energy to stay healthy. If they are only given home-cooked meals without the right nutrients, they might not get all the nutrition they need.
It’s important for anyone who owns a German Shepherd to know what kind of food is best for them and how often they should be fed. Giving them high-quality food not only makes them more energetic but also helps keep their skin and fur in good condition.
Feeding Guide for German Shepherds Based on Age
For New Born (0 to 2 months)
When German Shepherd puppies are born, they usually weigh between 370 to 600 grams. At first, they need their mother’s milk for all their nutrition.
If the mother’s milk isn’t available, it’s important to feed the puppies high-quality powdered milk regularly.
These puppies grow fast, almost doubling their weight in the first week. As they get bigger and start moving around more, they need more milk. That’s why how much they need to eat changes every week.
What Type of Milk Replacement Should I Give My Newborn German Shepherd Puppy?
There are many milk substitutes for puppies available, but one that stands out for its quality and nutrition is Royal Canin Baby Dog Milk, which is similar to a mother’s milk. The advantages of using Royal Canin Baby Dog Milk include:
- It’s rich in energy and protein.
- It contains DHA, which helps with brain development and nerve function in puppies.
- The milk has a special formula that makes it easy for puppies to digest.
After they turn one month old, German Shepherd puppies can start eating starter dog food. This food is a moistened form of dry dog food and is great for shifting from mother’s milk to solid food. Nursing mother dogs can also eat these starter foods, as they need extra minerals like calcium and phosphorus during breastfeeding.
Top Starter Dog Foods for Newborn German Shepherds (1-2 Months Old)
Arden Grange With Chicken Weaning Puppy
This food is very tasty and easy for puppies to digest. It’s especially good for German Shepherd puppies in their weaning stage, providing them with a lot of healthy calories. Benefits include:
- High in protein, which helps in building strong muscles and bones.
- Contains Omega 3 fatty acids for healthy skin and to support eye and brain development.
- Antioxidants in the food help protect against cell damage.
Royal Canin Maxi Starter Food
This food can be softened into a porridge-like consistency, which is great for both the mother and her weaning puppies. Its benefits are:
- Aids in easy digestion for puppies.
- Strengthens their immune system.
- Meets the dietary needs of the nursing mother.
Farmina N&D Low Grain Puppy Chicken and Pomegranate Starter
Free from artificial flavors and GMO grains, this food is made with high-quality chicken and pomegranate. It’s suitable for both the nursing mother and her puppies. Advantages include:
- Its low glycemic index helps maintain a healthy weight for puppies.
- Packed with essential vitamins and minerals for a healthy metabolism.
- Completely gluten-free.
For Puppy (2 to 15 months)
German Shepherd puppies are full of energy and need lots of healthy calories to keep up with their active lives. How often they need to be fed changes as they grow through their puppy stages.
Top Food Choices for German Shepherd Puppies
Royal Canin German Shepherd Junior
This food is specially made for German Shepherd puppies. It’s a complete meal that supports their overall growth. Benefits of Royal Canin German Shepherd Junior include:
- Kibble size and shape are perfect for German Shepherd puppies.
- Contains FOS Prebiotics for healthy digestion and good stool quality.
- A special mix of antioxidants helps strengthen the puppy’s immune system.
Arden Grange Puppy Junior Large Breed
Made with high-quality fresh chicken and rice, this food is ideal for large breed puppies like German Shepherds. Advantages of Arden Grange Puppy Junior Large include:
- High levels of Glucosamine and Chondroitin support strong joints and cartilage.
- Fresh chicken provides high-value protein.
- Natural Prebiotics enhance the digestive process.
Orijen Puppy Large
Orijen Puppy Large is designed to meet the natural dietary needs of large breed puppies, like German Shepherds, for their health and well-being. Benefits of Orijen Puppy Large include:
- Calorie-controlled to help maintain healthy weight and reduce strain on joints.
- Rich in protein to build a strong and healthy body.
- The tasty chicken and turkey liver flavor appeals to even picky eaters.
For Adult (above 15 months)
Feeding and Nutrition for Adult German Shepherds
An adult German Shepherd typically needs about 1700 calories each day. You can feed them twice a day. Their diet should mainly include whole meat proteins like poultry, fish, or beef, and avoid synthetic preservatives.
Nutritional Needs for Adult German Shepherds
- Protein (18%): They need a good amount of protein for their energy.
- Fat (5%): Fats provide energy and help keep their skin healthy.
- Fiber: Natural fibers are important for digestive health and maintaining the right body weight.
- Vitamin C: This is essential for joint health, helping prevent issues like hip dysplasia and arthritis.
H3: Best Foods for Adult German Shepherds
Royal Canin German Shepherd Adult
This food is specially formulated for adult German Shepherds. Benefits include:
- EPA and DHA for healthy bones and joints.
- Strengthens skin to prevent infections and allergies.
- Natural fibers for excellent digestion and nutrient absorption.
Fidele Adult Large Breed
Tailored for large breeds like German Shepherds, Fidele Adult Large Breed offers:
- High protein for strength and endurance.
- Omega fatty acids for skin health and vision.
- FOS and MOS probiotics for a healthy digestive system.
Proactive Health for Adult German Shepherd
This food, made specifically for German Shepherds, includes:
- Real chicken meat for strong muscles.
- A blend of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy skin.
- Natural antioxidants to boost immunity.
- Free from artificial flavors and preservatives.
