Best Dog Food for German Shepherds: Our Top 5 Picks

Anyone who has loved a German Shepherd knows they are supremely intelligent, protective, and strong. The breed is a favorite working dog for a reason, but their loyal, loving nature makes them wonderful family animals as well.

The best dog food for German Shepherds should support their natural athleticism with quality protein and include nutrients to address their unique health concerns. German Shepherds are known for their risk of hip dysplasia, but they can also struggle with digestive issues and healthy weight management. We’ve done our research to help you find the best dog foods for your faithful companion.

Why Nutrition Matters for German Shepherds

German Shepherds are a famous and noble breed with a long history. Due to their physical agility, obedience, intelligence, and training capabilities, they are often used in law enforcement and military work.

The breed is known for its propensity for hip dysplasia, but there are other common health concerns that German Shepherd owners should know. The breed is prone to seasonal allergies, but sensitivities can extend to their diet as well. The most common food allergies come from beef and chicken, leading to digestive issues, bloating, skin irritation, and infections.

This sensitivity, paired with their muscular build and athletic nature, means high-quality food is a must.

What to Look for in the Best Dog Food for German Shepherds

If you’re looking to give your German Shepherd a wholesome, well-rounded diet, here are some things to keep in mind:

• High-Quality Animal Protein: This should be the primary ingredient in any good dog food. Protein from sources like chicken, beef, fish, and lamb helps build and maintain muscle while supporting essential bodily functions.
• Omega Fatty Acids: These help maintain a healthy coat, reduce inflammation, and support heart health. Omega 3 and Omega 6 are the most common fatty acids you’ll see, and both are beneficial.
• Joint Support: German Shepherds are prone to joint issues like hip and knee dysplasia. In fact, according to this study from Texas A&M, they were more likely to experience hip dysplasia than most other breeds. Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin support healthy cartilage in the joints.
• Digestible Carbohydrates: Some dogs are sensitive to certain carbohydrates like wheat and other cereal grains. Carbs are a good source of energy, so it’s important to find a food that includes carbs your dog tolerates well.
• Specialized Formulas for Sensitivities: Many dogs do well with diets that exclude common allergens, irritants, preservatives, and synthetic additives. For German Shepherds with allergies or food sensitivities, it’s best to find food with simple, straightforward ingredients.
• Size and Shape of Kibble: Smaller kibble pieces make for a less engaging eating experience for your dog. Larger kibble promotes healthy chewing and helps keep teeth healthy.

5 Best Dog Foods for German Shepherds

German Shepherds are intelligent, strong, athletic dogs who need quality nutrition to support a sharp mind and active physique. These are some of the best dog foods to help your loyal companion live their best dog life.

Our Picks

1. Orijen Original Dry Dog Food

Give your outdoorsy dog the fuel it needs with some of the best dry dog food for German Shepherds. 

Highlights

Orijen’s original recipe is mainly animal-based, meeting your dog’s unique predatory needs. The high protein content supports overall health, strength, and muscle tone, and you won’t find any by-product meals in this bag. 

What you will find is glucosamine, omega fatty acids, and probiotics to ensure your dog gets the well-rounded nutrition they need for a wholesome, balanced diet.

Things to Consider

With chicken and egg products listed in the first ten ingredients, we don’t recommend this food for dogs who are sensitive to poultry and eggs.

2. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Premier Blend

This high-quality kibble is full of ingredients for optimal digestion and joint health. Its protein-rich formula supports muscle growth and development. It also includes glucosamine, omega fatty acids, and numerous vitamins and minerals to help your German Shepherd thrive.

Highlights

Chewy’s subscription option saves you money and eliminates the guesswork of restocking your dog’s new favorite food.

Things to Consider

The Blue Buffalo formula contains chicken, so it’s not ideal for dogs who are sensitive to poultry products. 

3. Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Large Breed

With a thoughtful, simplified ingredient list, this can easily be the best food for a German Shepherd with allergies. It contains everything your dog needs for skin, coat, joint, and immune system health without unnecessary bulk.

Highlights

The Natural Balance formula is free of soy, wheat, gluten, and other common allergens, such as chicken, eggs, beef, and dairy. Many customers have reported that it significantly improved their dog’s skin health and reduced itching.

Things to Consider

While it is less common than beef and chicken, some dogs are allergic to lamb. Always transition to new dog food slowly and watch for any adverse reactions, especially if you are unsure of food sensitivities.

4. Team Dog Elite Blend Premium Dog Food

This protein-packed, premium dog food is rich in omega fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and probiotics, giving your dog a luxurious mealtime experience. It’s perfect for active dogs who need top-notch nutrition to support muscle, bone, skin, heart, and digestive health. 

Highlights

The Team Dog salmon and herring recipe is chicken-free, which is good for pets with sensitivities. Team Dog also offers a subscribe-and-save buying option.

Things to Consider

The company uses animal “meals” as its primary protein source. Some pet owners are averse to this, but the makers insist it ensures a consistent, more concentrated protein content.

5. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy

It’s hard to find the best dog food for German Shepherd puppies, but Taste of the Wild may be your answer. This novelty protein option is suitable for puppies and adult dogs alike, so there’s no need to worry about transitioning food once your pup grows up.

Highlights

This Taste of the Wild recipe contains species-specific probiotics, supported by prebiotics and antioxidants, making it our affordable pick for the best grain-free dog food for German Shepherds.

Things to Consider

While they aren’t the main ingredients, the recipe does contain chicken fat and beef. If you suspect your dog may be sensitive to these proteins, this may not be the food for you.

How We Chose the Best Dog Food for German Shepherds

To find the best food for your favorite German Shepherd, we narrowed our search with some crucial criteria:

• Safety. Your dog’s safety is your top concern, and it’s ours as well. We researched the ingredients, brand history, and food quality to ensure we only recommend trustworthy products.
• Nutrition. German Shepherds have specific health concerns that require proper nutritional support. These foods include the necessary nutrients to ensure your dog gets the dietary support they need to live a full and healthy life.
• Special dietary needs. Some dogs need a little more TLC in their diet. We included foods for dogs with allergies and sensitivities so you can find the perfect feed for your pup.
• Breed-specific support. German Shepherds are a unique breed that requires specific knowledge and know-how. We included foods designed to support their athletic lifestyle and cognitive development.

Our Take on Food for German Shepherds

Every dog is different, so finding the best food for your German Shepherd may take a bit of trial and error. Always consult your veterinarian about any health concerns and ask for recommendations regarding diet, exercise, and supplements. 

When introducing a new food, you may be eager to make a quick switch. However, it’s important to adjust your dog’s diet slowly over a period of 7-10 days. Add the new food to the current kibble and gradually increase the percentage. This will help prevent digestive distress and avoid confusion.

Now that you know how to pick the best food for your best friend, we hope you’ll find the perfect diet to keep your German Shepherd healthy, happy, and hungry for their next meal!

Feature Image via  Alexander Naglestad on Unsplash