Kibble can be an economical and convenient food option, while also helping your pup’s dental health. However, artificial flavors and colors should be avoided to avoid long-term health concerns.
Example: Dogs that consume wheat gluten could develop dermatitis or other skin conditions. They could also experience digestive discomfort.
Contents
Protein
German Shepherd puppies need to consume a diet rich in proteins such as chicken, turkey, beef, lamb and fish to provide adequate nourishment.
Iams Pro Plan Puppy Large Breed Chicken & Rice Formula with Probiotics is an excellent option for German Shepherd puppies. This dog food mimics the diet of wild wolves – close relatives of domestic dogs – using real chicken as its primary protein source, along with rice, sweet potatoes, canola oil and flaxseed as additional quality ingredients.
Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed Weight Gainer is specially formulated with premium proteins to encourage muscle growth and weight gain in large breed dogs. In addition, its precise balance of calcium and phosphorous ensures healthy bones, teeth and muscles for these large canines.
Fat
German Shepherds who need to gain weight must find food that provides enough calories. This may require choosing a diet rich in healthy fats such as fish oil and flaxseeds that also support skin and coat health.
Ideal diets should provide high-quality proteins to support muscle development and healthy weight. Foods derived from meat byproducts as primary protein sources tend to provide less nutrition than more comprehensive animal proteins.
Bully Max All-Life-Stages Formula, for instance, is an exceptionally nutritive large breed diet composed of lamb meal and brown rice that’s low in carbohydrates while providing your pet with access to premium animal proteins and superfoods for maximum nutrition.
Carbohydrates
German Shepherds need ample energy, with carbohydrates being their main source. Good carb sources include whole grains and vegetables; to achieve overall wellness it is also essential that their diet includes healthy fats.
Open Farm offers products designed to meet German Shepherds’ dietary needs. Their high-quality raw foods provide a more natural way for dogs to eat protein that supports muscle development and weight gain.
This food features protein from chicken meal as its primary ingredient, encouraging lean muscle development and weight gain. Additionally, organ meat and bone provide essential nutrition. Freeze-drying ensures natural ingredients stay intact without artificial preservatives or flavors added; and its unique fiber system of natural beet pulp and prebiotic FOS promote GI health while aiding your dog in absorption of essential vitamins and minerals.
Vitamins
Vitamins and minerals are integral for optimal growth as well as disease prevention in German Shepherds. You can find these essential nutrients in fresh foods like meat and dairy products, vegetables and fruits – but remember only 10% of your dog’s diet should contain such supplements; otherwise they could lead to imbalanced nutrient profiles that lead to health complications for both dog and owner.
Your German Shepherd should consume a varied diet that includes whole grains, fruits and vegetables for optimal nutrition. Animal sources should provide essential amino acids. Carbohydrates should only be provided as energy source in moderation – too much sugar could contribute to obesity or other health concerns.
Multivitamin supplements can be an excellent way to ensure that your German Shepherd receives all the essential vitamins and minerals they require. Be sure to choose an easy-chew tablet so your German Shepherd is more likely to take it regularly.
Minerals
German Shepherds are versatile herding dogs that also serve law enforcement, search and rescue and therapy roles. To remain healthy and vitalized for these roles, a diet rich in animal proteins, fats and complex carbohydrates must be provided to their owners.
Protein is essential to muscle growth and weight gain. Look for quality sources like beef and organ meats when selecting protein-rich food items, ensuring it contains essential amino acids to build and repair cells.
Blue Buffalo food mimics the diet of wild wolves, close relatives of domestic dogs. This formula features high levels of protein with an ideal ratio of amino acids. Sweet potatoes and peas provide healthy complex carbs to provide sustained energy and DHA assists cognitive development while an array of vitamins and minerals aid immune function.
