Finding the right dry food that is best suited for your canine companion can at best be described as challenging at the best of times.
And it becomes more of a minefield when you look at the ingredient list. Items such as chelated minerals, whole grains, essential nutrients, meat-based protein, and guaranteed live probiotics all jostle for a mention on the list.
Now I don’t know about you, but I’ve had a run-in with food allergies in my large breed dog, Maddison, that ended up in numerous trips to the vet and a hefty bill, only to be told to put her back on her original dry kibble dog formula.
And yes, it worked, and she is now back to being her usual self after moping around.
In this article, we look at some of the best dog food for German Shepherds, weighing up the pros and cons of each.
Product
Details
Best Overall
Dr. Gary’s Best Breed German Dog Diet
- Flavor: Seafood
- item weight: 13 pounds
Runner Up
Iams ProActive Health Large Breed
- Flavor: Chicken
- item weight: 30 pounds
All-rounder
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Salmon Recipe
- Flavor: Salmon
- item weight: 24 pounds
Tailor-made Recipe
Merrick Grain-Free Large Breed Adult
- Flavor: Chicken
- item weight: 22 pounds
Premium Choice
Instinct Raw Boost with Real Duck
- Flavor: Duck
- item weight: 4.5 pounds
For Sensitive Stomachs
Holistic Select Large and Giant Breed Adult
- Flavor: Giant Breed
- item weight: 30 pounds
Superfood Enriched
Diamond Naturals Large Breed Adult Chicken and Rice
- Flavor: Chicken
- item weight: 40 pounds
Propriety Ingredients
Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon
- Flavor: Beef
- item weight: 28 pounds
Affordable Pick
Eagle Pack Power Adult Dog Food
- Flavor: Power
- item weight: 40 pounds
Great Energy Source
Victor Purpose Nutra Pro Dog Food
- Flavor: Chicken
- item weight: 40 pounds
Grains Inclusive Formula
Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy
- Flavor: Food
- item weight: 30 pounds
Great for Puppies
Blue Buffalo Large Breed Puppy Food
- Flavor: Brown Rice
- item weight: 15 pounds
Best Dog Food for German Shepherds
Being large breed dogs, their calorie intake requirement will inevitably be greater than a normal dog’s intake.
To help you make a safe choice, we have selected, reviewed, and evaluated the best dog food for German Shepherds that cater to all your needs while deciding which formula works best for your high-energy dog.
1. Dr. Gary’s Best Breed German Dog Diet
These nutritionally packed and easily digested kibbles are great for your large breed dog, such as a German Shepherd.
The kibbles, formulated by veterinarian Dr. Gary Cooper back in 1994, were in response to German Shepherds that presented at his practice with GI tract and skin issues.
Specially designed to aid sensitive digestive health in large dogs, the kibbles blend healthy whole grains such as oatmeal and whole grain brown rice enriched with taurine, which assists in keeping diseases in check.
Additional ingredients include the New Zealand Green-Lipped Sea Mussel to assist in the natural joint, and tissue care, and the blend of natural EU-approved ingredients for optimal nutrient absorption provides a good fat-to-protein ratio.
Free of corn, wheat, or by-products, this dog food only usesethoxyquin-free (a synthetic antioxidant) fish meal and chicken meal from chickens raised without antibiotics and added hormones and fish.
This formula is among the best dog food for German Shepherds through all life stages, from puppy through to senior.
Pros
- Good quality ingredients
- Best food for dogs with digestive issues and skin problems
Cons
- It can be more expensive than other offerings
- Hard to source as it can be out of stock
Dr. Gary’s Best Breed German Dog Diet
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2. Iams ProActive Health Large Breed
Made from farm-raised chickens, this dog food has smaller-sized kibbles that are the ideal mouth size for your German Shepherd and pack an animal protein punch to promote stronger muscles.
With over 60 years in the industry, the brand has placed the emphasis on advanced pet nutrition, this dog food is the result of extensive research into the dietary requirements and nutritional needs of large dogs.
The dry kibbles, free from artificial flavors and preservatives, have been enhanced with a blend of fibers such as whole grain sorghum and prebiotics to help promote a healthy digestive in your dog, assist in their joint and bone health, and help with dental and breath care.
Recommended by veterinarians, the formula also contains antioxidants to help support your German Shepherd’s immune system and contains no fillers.
This is one of the best dog food for large breeds such as German Shepherds.
Pros
- Best food for food and digestive allergies
- Smaller sized kibbles
Cons
- It can be more pricy than other offerings
Iams ProActive Health Large Breed
The price of “Iams ProActive Health Large Breed ” varies, so check the latest price at
3. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Salmon Recipe
Made from real deboned salmon to help maintain and build your German Shepherd’s lean muscle mass, these dry kibbles are also packed with nutritionally balanced carbohydrates such as peas and sweet potatoes.
Founded in 2003 by the Bishops whose dog Blue was diagnosed with cancer, the family researched and created their own brand using natural ingredients for their dog.
In addition, this dog food also contains cranberries which are a great source of vitamins, and manganese and flaxseed to aid digestion in your dog, help promote a healthy coat and boost its immune system.
The product contains no poultry, by-product meals, artificial flavors, or preservatives and is free from corn, wheat, and soy.
Specially designed with a blend of antioxidant ingredients selected by veterinarians and animal nutritionists.
This is among the best dog food for German Shepherds.
Pros
- Good source of omega-3 fatty acids
- No artificial preservatives or artificial flavors
- Free from corn, wheat, and soy
Cons
- Some dogs may be allergic to fish
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Salmon Recipe
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4. Merrick Grain-Free Large Breed Adult
This dog food is made from real deboned chicken as the first ingredient and sweet potatoes. It contains 60% protein and healthy fat ingredients to help maintain optimal health and weight in your German Shepherd.
Founded by Garth Merrick in 1988, when he began home-cooking food for his dog Gracie to ensure she was receiving the most wholesome and nutritious food possible. These kibbles have been specially formulated to meet the nutritional demands of large breed dogs.
Fiber, vitamins, natural ingredients, and minerals such as Glucosamine and chondroitin have been added to these larger-sized dog kibbles to help maintain your dog’s hips and joints.
While the addition of omega fatty acids helps promote healthy skin and a shiny coat for your dog.
This high-quality dog food is free from soy, gluten, corn, wheat, and artificial preservatives and is one of the best dog foods to provide a complete and balanced diet suited to large-breed dogs.
Pros
- High in protein
- Grain-free and gluten-free
Cons:
- It uses quite a bit of plant protein
Merrick Grain-Free Large Breed Adult
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5. Instinct Raw Boost with Real Duck
Made from a combination of whole food ingredients and freeze-dried raw duck, this dry grain-free dog food provides a complete and nutritionally balanced meal for your large dog.
Produced by Nature’s Variety, the Instinct Raw Boost line started in 2002 and was founded on the desire to create holistic food for pets.
Free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, the kibbles also contain no corn, potato, wheat, soy, or by-product meal.
Notable for including freeze-dried raw duck chunks in the dry food, these German Shepherd kibbles pack natural animal protein with added probiotics and antioxidants to assist healthy digestion and essential fatty acids for your German Shepherd’s coat and skin.
This is one of the best dog food for all life stages, from puppy to senior.
Pros
- High in protein
- No animal by-products or fillers
Cons
- Fairly expensive
- Some dogs can be allergic to the formula
Instinct Raw Boost with Real Duck
The price of “Instinct Raw Boost with Real Duck ” varies, so check the latest price at
6. Holistic Select Large and Giant Breed Adult
Made from chicken meal and oatmeal, this larger kibble dog food has been specially formulated for larger breed dogs.
Created by a family-owned company with a long history of nourishing pets, Holistic Select is committed to providing balanced nutrition to family pets.
The dry kibble formula for large and giant breeds, in addition to fruits and vegetables, contains natural fiber, live yogurt cultures, digestive enzymes, and prebiotics to help digestion, and reduce gas, bloating, and discomfort.
In addition to the antioxidant-rich superfoods in the ingredients, added calcium, phosphorus, Glucosamine, and chondroitin help maintain bone strength, joint health, and the dog’s immune system.
While Omega-3 fatty acids help your German Shepherd maintain healthy skin and coat.
This is one of the best dog foods for adult German Shepherds.
Pros
- Best food for dogs with sensitive stomachs
- Great balance of nutrients for larger adult dogs
Cons
- Kibbles could be larger for bigger dogs
- Can be expensive
Holistic Select Large and Giant Breed Adult
The price of “Holistic Select Large and Giant Breed Adult ” varies, so check the latest price at
7. Diamond Naturals Large Breed Adult Chicken and Rice
This dog food has been specifically formulated for large-breed dogs and is made with real chicken, rice, and premium ingredients.
Family-owned and run in the US since 2006. The emphasis is on providing high-quality, natural pet food with optimal amino acids for strong, lean muscles in dogs.
In addition to the added vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids in the kibbles for skin and coat care, the nutrient-dense formula is rich in highly digestible canine strain probiotics, which have been added to assist the GI tract and digestion.
The dog food is made from trusted and sustainable sources and contains no wheat, corn, filler, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. And is one of the best dog foods for adult dogs.
Pros
- Balanced Omega fatty acids for skin and coat
- Enriched with superfoods
- Affordable
Cons
- Contains plant-based proteins
Diamond Naturals Large Breed Adult Chicken and Rice
The price of “Diamond Naturals Large Breed Adult Chicken and Rice ” varies, so check the latest price at
8. Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon
This grain-free dog food is high in protein and made from wild boar as the first ingredient (29%). It includes nutrient-rich legumes like garbanzo beans and peas to deliver easily digestible energy to your dog, while added blueberries and raspberries pack a potent antioxidant punch.
Made in the US by a family-owned brand that only uses quality ingredients from trusted domestic and global sources, the kibbles contain propriety probiotics along with prebiotics such as dried chicory root.
The natural fruits and superfoods help support the immune system in your German Shepherd and contribute towards its overall health and wellness, while the added vitamins and minerals assist with coat health and skin.
This is one of the best dog foods for all life stages, as it contains omega fatty acids provided by salmon oil which is essential for brain support and vision development in puppies.
Pros
- Grain-free recipe
- Quality vegetable and meat ingredients
Cons
- Contains pea flour
- It may be unsuitable for dogs that suffer from food allergies
Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon
The price of “Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon ” varies, so check the latest price at
9. Eagle Pack Power Adult Dog Food
This dry dog food is made from wholesome grains, ground brown rice, oatmeal, peas, and chicken and pork meal, amongst other ingredients.
And it has been specifically formulated to meet the energy needs of highly active adult dogs.
Initially founded by Joe Cocquyt and acquired by WellPet LLC in 2008, the company has refined the original recipe by adding higher protein and fat levels to help support sustained endurance in working dogs.
The kibbles contain just the right balance of carbohydrates, fats, and protein to help main a healthy weight and muscle tone in your German Shepherd.
While the added Glucosamine assists your dog’s joint support and probiotics support healthy digestion.
The product is free of wheat, corn, by-products, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives and is one of the best dog food for German Shepherds.
Pros
- Rich in animal protein
- It doesn’t contain fillers, artificial additives, or by-products
- Affordable
Cons
- High in carbohydrates
Eagle Pack Power Adult Dog Food
The price of “Eagle Pack Power Adult Dog Food ” varies, so check the latest price at
10. Victor Purpose Nutra Pro Dog Food
Made from a nutrient-dense multi-meat formula of chicken, beef, and fish, this high-protein, gluten-free dry dog food is high in protein and low in carbohydrates.
Owned and operated by a family business in Texas, the kibbles are packed with 92% meat protein and contain a blend of mineral complexes, probiotics, prebiotics, and selenium yeast to promote immune system support in your German Shepherd and promote digestion.
This dog food is ideal for pregnant and lactating dogs and puppies and is a great energy source for active working dogs, and is the best dog food for all life stages of your dog.
Pros
- It contains no fillers
- Best food for all life stages
- Affordable
Cons
- It contains plant-based proteins
- Dogs with allergies can be allergic to some ingredients, such as fish.
Victor Purpose Nutra Pro Dog Food
The price of “Victor Purpose Nutra Pro Dog Food ” varies, so check the latest price at
11. Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy
This specially formulated dry dog food has been developed free of meat by-products, artificial flavors, fillers, and preservatives
Launched in 1997, the Wellness dog food company has made it a priority to prioritize quality over quantity in their natural pet food ranges
The kibbles contain carefully chosen ingredients such as wholesome grains and premium proteins carefully crafted to provide the correct amount of nutritional support for German Shepherd puppies.
While the added omega fatty acids, essential vitamins, antioxidants, glucosamine, and probiotics all encourage healthy brain development, muscle growth, and bone strength.
Additionally, this is among the best dog foods for large-breed puppies.
Pros
- Best food for large-breed German Shepherd puppies
- Grain inclusive
- Free from preservatives, artificial colors, flavors, and fillers
Cons
- Not recommended for puppies with food sensitivities
Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy
The price of “Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy ” varies, so check the latest price at
12. Blue Buffalo Large Breed Puppy Food
Made with a precise blend of real meat, whole grains, garden vegetables, and fruit, this dry dog food has been specifically created for large-breed puppies.
Manufactured by a well-known family concern in the pet food industry, the puppy-sized kibbles for smaller jaws pack LifeSource bits, a Super 7 package of antioxidant-rich ingredients ideal for your growing dog.
Vitamins and minerals have been added to promote strong bones and teeth in your German Shepherd puppy and support a healthy immune system. At the same time, the inclusion of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids assists with brain and eye development and ensures a healthy coat.
In addition, this dog food contains no corn, wheat, soy, or chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and is one of the best German Shepherd puppy foods.
Pros
- Ideal for larger-sized puppies
- The kibble helps to remove tartar from a dog’s teeth
- It doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Cons
- Contains plant-based proteins
- Some dogs may be allergic to fish
Blue Buffalo Large Breed Puppy Food
The price of “Blue Buffalo Large Breed Puppy Food” varies, so check the latest price at
Choosing the Best: What to Look For
Choosing the dog food best suited to your canine pal is very much a case of hit-and-miss, to begin with.
Not only are some dogs picky eaters, just like their feline friends, but nutritional needs also need to be met to maintain healthy bone growth and development.
So where do you start, and what should you be looking at in a dry kibble for your German Shepherd from the overwhelming amount of dry dog food brands on the market?
Nutritional Needs
It goes without saying that nutrition plays a vital role when choosing the best dry dog food for German Shepherds.
First off, what age is your dog? Most dry dog foods are targeted to a specific life stage of a dog, so it’s important you stick to what is advertised on the packet of dog food.
Feeding adult dogs food marketed for puppies will be doing your dog a disfavor. Kibbles just like soft dog food for senior dogs, is nutritionally formulated for each dog’s life stage to ensure they receive the correct balance of nutrients to support their health and longevity.
And speaking of puppy food. If you are looking for dry food for your German Shepherd puppy, for instance, go for one with high-quality protein and fish oil in the mix to help support the development and growth of your pup.
Additionally, if your dog is active, look to dry dog food for German Shepherds that is nutrient dense and designed for working dogs. While similarly, if your German Shepherd is getting on in years, a dog food designed for senior dogs is the way to go.
Another factor to consider when looking at nutritional requirements is the size of your dog. For example, large adult dogs such as White German Shepherds will benefit from dry dog food rich in Omega oils and Glucosamine, which help support healthy joints.
Ingredients
Needless to say, what goes into dry dog food makes all the difference and sets dog food brands apart from each other.
Look at the amount of animal protein at the top of the ingredients list. Quite simply, the more animal protein, the better.
And while on the subject of animal protein, make sure the ingredient is listed, such as beef or chicken. If the ingredient list simply states meat, it may be a low-quality source of protein and best to avoid.
Next up after animal protein is carbohydrates and fiber-rich ingredients such as fruit, vegetables, rice, and oatmeal, which are critical components in dry dog food for German Shepherds and help keep your dog’s digestive tract chugging along.
Look for high-quality ingredients such as pumpkin, apples, carrots, kale, beets, and various berries, amongst others.
Wheat, corn, and soy are lower-quality ingredients that can trigger inflammation in your German Shepherd. At the same time, too much or too little fiber can cause issues such as diarrhea, constipation, and blocked anal glands.
Another ingredient to look out for is the healthy fats included in the ingredient list, such as fish oil and flaxseed oil, among others which are an essential part of your dog’s diet for proper cell function.
Finally, look at what vitamins and minerals have been added. Again, these are important to maintain optimal health in your German Shepherd. Look for vitamins such as A, B, D, E, and K and minerals such as zinc gluconate and manganese sulfate.
And lastly, stay clear of dry dog food for German Shepherds that lists artificial colors, preservatives, and flavors as part of the ingredients.
Shelf Life
Dog food does go bad. But generally, dried dog food should last up to 18 months after the date of manufacture.
And contrary to popular belief, you should not decant dry dog food into plastic containers as, over time, the oils and fats from the food leave a residue that develops invisible mold that can wreak havoc with your animal’s health.
In fact, it is recommended that once opened, you leave the dry dog food in its original packaging and store it somewhere cool and dry with limited exposure to light and heat. And that you use the food within a couple of weeks.
Expired pet food loses its nutritional value and can also make your dog ill. And in severe cases, it can lead to vomiting and an upset stomach.
So, if you’re wondering why your beloved pooch is turning its nose up at its kibbles, it could very well be because they are off.
Cost
Today the average bag of dry German Shepherd dog food can cost you up to $250 a year, while a premium brand can climb as high as $400 and above per year.
So does expensive special dog food equal better nutritional value for your pet, or will it get similar nutritional value from cheaper popular dog food?
It all comes down to ingredients, as nutrient-dense food with all-natural ingredients and vitamins is likely to set you back more.
Get into the habit of checking out the ingredient list first because you may be paying for some marketing ploy claiming the food is enhanced with something or even just fancy packaging.
And if your beloved pooch can’t tolerate grain products very well, switching to a grain-free option would be worth it. Again, grain-free dry dog food for German Shepherds comes at a price, but the upside is that your dog is happy and healthy, and besides, it’s less expensive than vet bills.
Cheaper dog food is not necessarily bad for your dog, but again ingredients matter. So, if you’re on a budget, aim to pick up kibbles that still list meat as the top ingredient.
Try to avoid dog foods that contain rendered fat, wheat, corn, artificial flavors, and colorants.
Simply put, you want your German Shepherd’s food to be high-quality nutrition and not just empty calories to keep them healthy and in top condition.
What Food Should German Shepherds Avoid?
Certain foodstuff is highly toxic to German Shepherds and, in fact, to all other dog breeds.
Despite the temptation to give in to their pleading eyes when you are tucking into your favorite treat, think twice, for it could land up costing you a trip to your local vet and a hefty bill to boot.
Here is a list of common everyday foodstuffs that could poison your dog depending on the quantity consumed.
Chocolate
The problem here is theobromine obtained from cocoa seeds and an ingredient found in both dark and white chocolate.
The most potent types, however, are the dark and unsweetened variety of chocolate used for baking. The darker the chocolate, the more poisonous it is due to the number of cocoa solids it contains.
Caffeine
Never let your German Shepherd drink coffee, tea, or beverages containing caffeine.
Similarly, keep them away from cola and energy drinks. Caffeine poisoning can be fatal in severe cases for your dog.
Grapes and Raisins
Believe it or not, foods or drinks containing grapes, raisins, and sultanas, are hazardous for your dog.
Steer clear of feeding your dog trail bars, raisin bread, baked raisin cookies, and the like. Just a small amount can make your dog sick and can even cause kidney failure.
Onions, Leeks, Chives, and Garlic
Your German Shepherd should never consume these foods, whether cooked, raw, or in dried form.
Poisonous if consumed in large quantities by your dog, excessive eating of garlic or onions can cause your dog’s red blood cells to burst and cause anemia.
Avocados
Steer clear of feeding your pet avocados. It may be a super food for humans, but not so for our canine companions.
For avocados contain a toxin called persin, which is found in the fruit’s skin, leaves, and pit, which is dangerous for your German Shepherd.
Additionally, due to the high-fat content of the fruit, your dog, if sensitive, could end up with pancreatitis.
Other foodstuffs and drinks which are a no-no include wild mushrooms, cherries, raw potatoes, green tomatoes, yeast dough, macadamia nuts, moldy food, xylitol sweetener, and alcohol.
FAQ‘s
What Foods Are German Shepherds Allergic To?
Just like humans, allergies are pretty common in dogs, with some dog breeds being more susceptible to allergies during their lifetime.
And unfortunately, German Shepherds are particularly susceptible to food allergies.
In fact, some of the more common allergies to food are found across all breeds of dogs. They include proteins from chicken, beef, fish, dairy products, chicken eggs, whole grain wheat, and soy.
In addition, over time, some adult dogs also become allergic to additives and other substances that have been added to their dry dog food.
Signs to look out for are problems with their digestive system, such as diarrhea and vomiting after eating or skin health problems, such as itchy skin, ears, and paws, or problems with your dog’s coat.
Additional signs of allergies to food include weight loss, lack of energy, and even aggression.
It is recommended that if you suspect your German Shepherd is suffering from a food allergy, you try to eliminate certain dog foods from their diet and monitor them to see if this makes a difference.
As such, there is no cure for allergies to food in dogs, but most can be treated successfully with a hyper-allogenic diet.
What Is the Best Dog Food for German Shepherd Puppies?
When you first bring your German Shepherd puppy home at eight weeks, try to stick to the German Shepherd dog food, their breeder gave them for at least two weeks.
Despite looking sturdy, your young puppy is vulnerable to tummy upsets, and by keeping to their brand of food, you are helping them to settle into their new home much easier.
As your German Shepherd puppy grows, if you choose to do so, you can slowly introduce your preferred brand of dry puppy kibbles after this time, but make sure your choice of dry dog food for German Shepherds is designed for large puppy breed dogs.
Specifically, look for dog food with high-quality proteins and a good fat-to-protein ratio with not too many fillers padding it out that are nutritionally complete puppy food.
However, if your German Shepherd puppy is doing well on its original food, consider sticking with it, especially if the brand has an adult formulation
Additionally, during this time, you can introduce your German Shepherd puppy to lean, raw fresh meat, homemade meals, or wet food for German Shepherds if you so wish.
What Is the Best Way to Feed a German Shepherd Puppy?
Start off by following the guidelines provided by your dog’s breeder, manufacturer, or veterinarian.
As it is, any breed of puppy will gulp down as much food as possible, so the onus is on you to ensure the right quantities are provided, as overfeeding can lead to serious health consequences.
Ideally, your German Shepherd puppies should be fed four times a day until four months of age, when you can switch them over to two larger meals.
And when your dog reaches 90% of its estimated adult size, generally at one year, change over to an adult dog food.
Also, remember not to give your pup any milk as it contains too much lactose, which they will have a hard time digesting and can result in diarrhea and vomiting.
How Much Food Should a German Shepherd Dog Eat per Day?
Depending on your dog’s age and activity levels, it is generally recommended that adult German Shepherds eat at least 1300 calories a day.
This amount can be higher for more energetic and active dogs who are always on the go.
Additional factors such as your German Shepherd’s current weight and health will also play a key role in determining how much to feed it.
It goes without saying that if your dog is underweight, you will need to feed it more to stave off conditions such as malnutrition, skin infections, and even lack of energy.
While in contrast, if your adult German Shepherd is overweight, it will require less adult dog food if you want to prevent medical conditions such as hip dysplasia and arthritis.
Final Thought
As a dog owner, at the end of the day, your choice of German Shepard food comes down to personal preference, what best suits your dog, and, obviously, your budget.
No two dogs are alike. And while one dry food may be suited to one, it may not necessarily be suited to another.
As a takeaway, take the time to read the ingredient list thoroughly on the dog food, check the manufacturing date, and above all, do your research.
After all, you want to ensure the best nutritional value in your German Shepherd’s diet, so it remains healthy and happy!
