25 Best Dog Foods for German Shepherds

The Association of American Feed Control Officials says different quantities and ratios of nutrients and different feeding rates are ideal for different life stages. However, choosing the right dog food for a German Shepherd requires more consideration. These include the dog’s age or life stage, activity level, health, and more. Although some people regard dogs as pure carnivores, dogs eat grass and other plants too. Over the years, domestication and dogs treated as family members and companions have led to dogs thriving on meat and vegetables like sweet potato, carrots, pumpkin, and more. The modern dog has adapted to protein- and starch-rich diets.

While protein makes up most of a dog’s diet – the domesticated dog also obtains nutrients from grains, fruits, and vegetables. These are valuable sources of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Therefore dogs have evolved to become omnivores and have proved that they can thrive on various foods. Aggression and hyperactivity are often associated with the ingredients in a dog’s food, too. Both grain-inclusive and grain-free diets for dogs have many additional benefits like the variety of available products and the range of prices. Depending on the kibble brand used, dry dog food costs can vary between $0.20 – $13 per day.

The best dog foods for German Shepherds are listed below.

Image	Product	Features	Price
Best Overall	VICTOR Super Premium Dog Food – Hi-Pro Plus Dry Dog Food Specially made for your active dogs and maintain their healthy lifestyle Nutritious recipe with added vitamins and minerals for dogs in all life stages Contains a proprietary VPRO blend with essential supplements	10	Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy
Best Grain-Free	Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Roasted Venison Adult Dry Dog Food The first ingredient is real meat with 32% protein Roasted bison and roasted venison make for a delicious meal Antioxidants like blueberries and raspberries help immune system health	9.9	Check Price on Amazon
Best Fish Option	Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Fish & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food High in calcium and phosphorus for strong teeth and bones Essential vitamins and chelated minerals help with immune system health Does not contain corn, wheat or soy	9.7	Check Price
Best for Sensitive Dogs	Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diet Duck & Potato Great tasting farm-raised duck that is rich in amino acids Sunflower oil provides omega fatty acids for a shiny coat Potato is a great source of carbohydrates	9.6	Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy
Best for Digestive Health	Diamond Naturals Dry Food for Adult Dog, Beef and Rice Formula Source of Vitamin E and selenium Pasture-raised beef is the first ingredient Made with a variety of vegetables and fruits that provide essential nutrients	9.4	Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy

Best Overall
1. Victor Classic Hi-Pro Plus Formula Dry Dog Food 

Victor dog food is a Mid-America Pet Food LLC product based in Mount Pleasant, TX.

10/10Our Score

• Specially made for your active dogs and maintain their healthy lifestyle
• Nutritious recipe with added vitamins and minerals for dogs in all life stages
• Contains a proprietary VPRO blend with essential supplements

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Victor had its origins as a brand name sometime in the mid-1940s. However, the product available today has only been in existence since 2007. They claim every Victor formula is rooted in nutrition, and each ingredient used is carefully selected and serves a nutritional purpose.

Victor Classic Hi-Pro Plus Formula Dry Dog Food is a nutrient-dense grain-inclusive formula made with premium-quality beef, chicken, fish, and pork meals. This formula can benefit German Shepherds of all life stages, including growing puppies and pregnant and lactating mama dogs. It also provides sustained energy for high-performance dogs. It is made from gluten-free grains. The Victor Classic Hi-Pro Plus Formula Dry Dog Food benefits include a complete and balanced diet for your German Shepherd companion. It comprises 88% meat protein with premium-quality beef, chicken, and pork meals and nutrient-dense recipes for all life stages. It is fortified with vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, protein, and amino acids.

It isn’t very reassuring to see Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal as an ingredient in this dog food. Alfalfa is considered a premium-grade ingredient for horse feed and not dogs. Victor Classic Hi-Pro Plus Formula Dry Dog Food has several more controversial ingredients that cause concern to some German Shepherd owners. Number six on the ingredient list is blood meal, a by-product of slaughter, which is frowned upon but is considered a quality protein source. Likewise, some believe brewers yeast causes allergies, while others praise it for repelling fleas and supporting the immune system. Dried seaweed meal is another questionable ingredient, and although it contains some healthy nutrients, seaweed meal is primarily used as a source of inexpensive carbohydrates. Overall, the Victor Classic Hi-Pro Plus Formula Dry Dog Food for German Shepherds delivers what the company promised, earning a five-star review.

Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

Best Grain-Free
2. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Dry Dog Food

Taste of the Wild is a relatively new brand of dog food, debuting around 2007 to meet the market demand for premium ancient grains “natural” dog foods with better ingredients.

9.9/10Our Score

• The first ingredient is real meat with 32% protein
• Roasted bison and roasted venison make for a delicious meal
• Antioxidants like blueberries and raspberries help immune system health

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Their dog foods are made in five state-of-the-art facilities in the USA: two in California and one each in Missouri, Arkansas, and South Carolina.

If your German Shepherd is one of many dogs with chicken allergies, Taste of the Wild offers a variety of alternative premium meats as primary protein sources, including wild boar, buffalo, smoked salmon, turkey, roasted bison, lamb, quail, venison, and duck. Every formula is grain-free and provides lasting energy with complex carbs from sweet potatoes and legumes. These highly digestible proteins and fiber-rich carbohydrates will keep your pup feeling full and energized throughout the day. Since 70% of your pet’s immune system is found in the gut, it makes sense to choose a food that’s good for the digestive tract. Taste of the Wild includes prebiotics and species-specific probiotics with bacteria naturally found in a dog’s GI tract. The proprietary K9 Strain Probiotics are added after the kibble is cooked, so your dog gets guaranteed live, active cultures that support healthy digestion. To help your German Shepherd’s body absorb all of the beneficial minerals in her food, Taste of the Wild recipes have chelated minerals, the correct dose of omega fatty acids in every bite, and a potent superfood trio of blueberries, raspberries, and tomatoes. Your German Shepherd will get marine-sourced Omega-3 and Omega-6 from plant sources for healthy skin and coat. Like other four and five-star quality kibble, any controversial and concerning ingredients like sodium selenite pose no harm because they are near the end of the list. Each 8-oz cup of Taste of the Wild High Prairie Dry Dog Food contains 422 calories. Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

Best Fish Protein Option
3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Dry Dog Food

Blue Buffalo Co.Ltd. was established in Wilton, Fairfield County, Connecticut, in 2002.

9.7/10Our Score

• High in calcium and phosphorus for strong teeth and bones
• Essential vitamins and chelated minerals help with immune system health
• Does not contain corn, wheat or soy

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 All Blue Buffalo recipes contain high-quality proteins, including beef, lamb, fish, and chicken, wholesome grains, fruits, and vegetables. With added benefits in LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of nutrients, enhanced with a Super 7 package of antioxidant-rich ingredients. A team of veterinarians, animal nutritionists, and food scientists carefully selects all the ingredients to keep dogs healthy and happy. Recipes include no wheat, corn, soy, and protein by-product meals, which are ingredients that manufacturers of cheap brands often use as fillers. Dog owners might be concerned about the dried tomato pomace, pea protein, pea fiber, garlic, and sodium selenite, which are controversial ingredients listed on some Blue Buffalo Life Protection lines. Although not forbidden, these ingredients are often frowned upon. 

Every German Shepherd has different nutritional requirements depending on the life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about a grain-inclusive diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

Best for Sensitive Dogs
4. Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Dry Dog Food Grain Free

Dick Van Patten’s Natural Balance Pet Foods is an American pet food manufacturer located in Burbank, Los Angeles, California.

9.6/10Our Score

• Great tasting farm-raised duck that is rich in amino acids
• Sunflower oil provides omega fatty acids for a shiny coat
• Potato is a great source of carbohydrates

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Established in 1989 by actor Dick Van Patten, the company markets itself as “Food For a Lifetime” and promotes itself as having “the finest food you can buy for your pet.” Natural Balance was a Big Heart Pet Brands subsidiary, previously owned by The J.M. Smucker Company. Then, in February 2021, Nexus Capital Management L.P. acquired the brand. 

If your German Shepherd has any dietary challenges, the best way to deal with the problem is to experiment with limited ingredient diets to determine which ingredients to avoid. Many dog owners blame grains for any allergic reactions, not realizing that protein allergies are more prevalent. Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets come in 26 varieties, including beef, lamb, venison, chicken, duck, turkey, salmon, and pollock, some with grains and some without, and dog owners can use a process of elimination to identify the cause of their German Shepherd’s allergy. For this purpose, Natural Balance offers 4-lb bags. The formulas for all the L.I.D. recipes provide high-quality nutrition for large breed dogs.

Along with the single protein in each formula, limited numbers of gluten-free carbohydrate sources are added for additional energy and good digestion. Your German Shepherd’s coat and skin will benefit from added Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, and taurine will boost heart health. Ingredients that are left out of the L.I.D. range are peas, pea protein, lentils, legumes, corn, wheat, or soy. Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets contain an average of 320 calories per 8-oz cup. German Shepherd owners concerned about the inclusion of a controversial ingredient like sodium selenite can rest assured that the amount is insignificant because it is almost at the end of the ingredient list. Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

Best for Digestive Health
5. Diamond Naturals Beef Meal & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food 

Diamond Pet Foods is owned by a company called Schell & Kampeter Inc.

9.4/10Our Score

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In 1970, brothers-in-law Gary Schell and Richard Kampeter started Diamond on the premise that premium pet food should be affordable. Over the years, Diamond Pet Foods has diversified its line of products, including Diamond Naturals (which debuted in 2006), Diamond CARE (debuted in 2016), and Diamond Pro89 (debuted in 2019). 

Diamond Naturals dog food provides high-quality holistic formulas at a budget price. These nutritious recipes are enhanced with proprietary probiotics for good digestion and immune system support. Superfoods are added to supply nutrients that keep large dogs like German Shepherds solid and healthy. You’ll find 10-20% superfoods in all the dry Diamond Naturals kibble, including kale, chia seeds, blueberries, pumpkin, coconut, spinach, and quinoa. German Shepherd dogs can further benefit from probiotics that allow more effective absorption of nutrients and better digestion for optimal overall health. All the Diamond Naturals varieties have added patented and powerful K9 Strain probiotics and added chicory root provides prebiotic fiber.

Furthermore, pumpkin, dried kelp, and coconut add soluble and insoluble fiber and extra G.I. support. Diamond Naturals have real beef, chicken, or lamb as the first ingredients. They provide proteins and essential amino acids to ensure your German Shepherd has all the energy it needs while maintaining strong bones and healthy muscles. Further down on the ingredients list are several controversial ingredients. Some dog owners regard beet pulp as an inexpensive filler, while others cite its outstanding intestinal health and blood sugar benefits. Likewise, some believe yeast causes allergies, while others praise it for repelling fleas and supporting the immune system. Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

6. Royal Canin German Shepherd Loaf in Sauce Canned Dog Food

Royal Canin was founded by veterinarian Jean Cathary in France in 1968 and began operating in the US in 1985.

9.3/10Our Score

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Royal Canin established headquarters in St. Charles, Missouri, and manufacturing facilities in Missouri and South Dakota. Royal Canin became a subsidiary of Mars Incorporated in 2001. 

Royal Canin German Shepherd Loaf in Sauce Wet Dog Food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your German Shepherd pure breed. Whether you call him a German Shepherd or an Alsatian, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your large dog, with the specific nutrients to help your large breed thrive. The complete and balanced soft dog food features a smooth paté texture to appeal to your German Shepherd’s appetite. Specific vitamins and amino acids help maintain skin and coat health. Benefits of this German Shepherd dog food include glucosamine and chondroitin to support bone and joint health and cartilage in big dogs.

The first four ingredients are proteins, although mostly meat by-products that invoke unpopular and unsavory mental images. Animal by-products are what is left of a slaughtered animal after the skeletal muscle meat intended for human consumption has been removed. These processing leftovers (known as offal) include heads, blood, brains, spleen, stomachs, and intestines, parts of an animal rejected for human use but good ingredients to process into animal feed. Unfortunately, ingredients from number six to ten include fillers, unspecified oils, anti-caking agents, and Carrageenan, a gum for thickening, all controversial ingredients that could cause harm. Furthermore, with the first four ingredients being protein, it might be too much because dogs store unused protein as fat. 

The calorie count per can of Royal Canin German Shepherd Loaf in Sauce is 343.

Depending on the life stage, health, environment, and activity level, every German Shepherd will have different nutritional requirements. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your German Shepherd’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

7. Merrick Grain-Free Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

Merrick Grain-Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe dry dog food is a product of Merrick Pet Care, founded in 1988 in Garth Merrick’s family kitchen in Hereford, Texas.

9.2/10Our Score

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However, Nestle Purina Petcare bought Merrick in 2015.

Merrick Grain-Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food. This wholesome dry food for dogs contains 60% protein and healthy fat, with deboned salmon as the number one ingredient. The remaining 40% includes fruit, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other natural ingredients to create a complete and balanced diet. This grain- and gluten-free dry dog food is developed with high levels of omega fatty acids to help promote healthy skin and a shiny coat, while glucosamine and chondroitin support hip and joint function. It features high-quality whole foods sourced from trusted farmers and is entirely free from poultry ingredients, corn, wheat, soy, gluten, or artificial preservatives. Every batch is cooked in the USA and crafted in Merrick’s Hereford, Texas kitchen. 

Benefits include high levels of omega fatty acids that support skin and coat health and contain glucosamine and chondroitin to support healthy hips and joints of German Shepherds. The first three ingredients are nutritious protein sources: deboned salmon, salmon meal, and whitefish meal. However, dog owners might be concerned about the number of carbohydrates in the first 10 ingredients, including sweet potatoes, potatoes, peas, potato protein, and pea protein. Combine them, and the total carbs in the recipe might exceed the protein.

Every German Shepherd will have different nutritional requirements depending on the life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your German Shepherd’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

8. Dr. Gary’s Best Breed Holistic German Dog Diet Dry Dog Food

Dr. Gary’s Best Breed Holistic Pet Nutrition is a family-owned holistic pet food company founded in 1994 in Northwest Ohio.

9.1/10Our Score

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Gary and Toni Cotton are both veterinarians with the same philosophy about developing the healthiest dog food possible. That means no animal by-product meals, cheap fillers, gluten meals, and artificial flavors or coloring.

Dr. Gary’s Best Breed Holistic German Dry Dog Food is a nutritionally dense diet that’s holistically formulated for large and giant breeds, including German shepherds, Rottweilers, and Dobermans. The benefits of this recipe include premium protein from chicken, menhaden fish, and eggs to support muscle development and maintenance. New Zealand green-lipped sea mussel, a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin, supports proper joint and connective tissue health. Quality fiber sources and highly digestible ingredients promote maximum nutrient absorption, which helps large breed dogs maintain a healthy weight. However, Dr. Gary’s Best Breed Holistic German Dry Dog Food has several controversial ingredients that concern some German Shepherd owners. Some dog owners regard beet pulp as an inexpensive filler, while others cite its outstanding intestinal health and blood sugar benefits. Likewise, some believe brewers yeast causes allergies, while others praise it for repelling fleas and supporting the immune system. Noteworthy is that brewers yeast contains about 48% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food. However, overall the balance of nutrients makes Dr. Gary’s Best Breed Holistic German Dog Diet Dry Dog Food one of the best for German Shepherds. One 8-oz cup of kibble contains 456 calories. Every German Shepherd will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

9. Holistic Select Large and Giant Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

Holistic Select Dog Food is a brand produced by WellPet, LLC.

9/10Our Score

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The former Wellness Pet Company based in Massachusetts became WellPet, LLC on Jan. 1, 2022. The company name change was fueled by the step-change increase in U.S. pet adoption and pet parents seeking the benefits of premium natural nutrition first-hand. They claim that Holistic Select is “the only natural pet food that offers a complete digestive balance system to help your pet absorb and utilize all nutrients.” The recipe provides guaranteed levels of digestive enzymes and botanicals, prebiotics, probiotics, and natural fiber. Holistic Select Natural Dry Dog Food for Large and Giant Breed Adult dog food has bigger kibble pieces, perfect for the mouths of German Shepherds and other large breeds. The formula’s unique combination of probiotics, healthy fiber, and digestive enzymes will maintain your German Shepherd’s digestive health. Additional benefits include Omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat along with antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine; all contribute to a healthy heart. However, Holistic Select Large and Giant Breed Adult Dry Dog Food has several controversial ingredients that concern some German Shepherd owners. Some dog owners regard beet pulp as an inexpensive filler, while others cite its outstanding intestinal health and blood sugar benefits. Likewise, some believe brewers yeast causes allergies, while others praise it for repelling fleas and supporting the immune system. Noteworthy is that brewers yeast contains about 48% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food. Nevertheless, overall the balance of nutrients makes Dr. Gary’s Best Breed Holistic German Dog Diet Dry Dog Food one of the best for German Shepherds. One 8-oz cup of kibble contains 453 calories. Every German Shepherd will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

10. Eagle Pack Power Adult Dry Dog Food

Eagle Pack, founded in 1970, had an outstanding reputation with consumers for making premium pet foods and treats before WellPet LLC purchased the dog food manufacturer.

8.9/10Our Score

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The former Wellness Pet Company based in Massachusetts became WellPet, LLC on Jan. 1, 2022. Eagle Pack Dog Foods manufactures the kibble at their Mishawaka, IN. facility.

Eagle Pack Power Dog Food is purposely designed for large-breed active dogs like German Shepherds. It provides ultimate nutritional support for their demanding needs and helps maintain weight, muscle tone, and stamina. Eagle Pack Power delivers the right balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates to help maintain a healthy weight, muscle tone, and energy. Included are glucosamine for joint support and probiotics to support healthy digestion. However, Eagle Pack Power dog food has several controversial ingredients that concern some German Shepherd owners. Some dog owners regard beet pulp as an inexpensive filler, while others cite its outstanding intestinal health and blood sugar benefits. Likewise, some believe brewers yeast causes allergies, while others praise it for repelling fleas and supporting the immune system. Sodium selenite is another concerning ingredient because it could be toxic to German Shepherds. However, the quantity in Eagle Pack Power is not enough to cause a German Shepherd harm.

Noteworthy is that brewers yeast contains about 48% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food. Nevertheless, overall the balance of nutrients makes Eagle Pack Power Dog Food one of the best diets for German Shepherds. One 8-oz cup of kibble contains 445 calories. Every German Shepherd will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

11. Victor Purpose Nutra Pro Dry Dog Food 

Victor dog food is a Mid-America Pet Food LLC product based in Mount Pleasant, TX.

8.8/10Our Score

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Victor had its origins as a brand name sometime in the mid-1940s. However, the product available today has only been in existence since 2007. They claim every VICTOR formula is rooted in nutrition, and each ingredient used is carefully selected and serves a nutritional purpose.

Keep your active German Shepherd pup happy and healthy with VICTOR Purpose Nutra Pro Dry Dog Food. The recipe is nutrient-dense, high in protein, and contains low carbs to provide sustained energy for sporting dogs and canine companions with high physical demands. Victor Purpose Nutra Pro Dry Dog Food is ideal for growing puppies and pregnant or lactating female German Shepards. The recipe contains millet and other gluten-free grains. Made with gluten-free grains, including millet, VICTOR Purpose Nutra Pro contains the unique VPRO Blend that promotes superior digestibility and immune system function. However, VICTOR Purpose Nutra Pro Dry Dog Food has several controversial ingredients that concern some German Shepherd owners. The second ingredient on the list is blood meal, a by-product of slaughter, which is frowned upon but is considered a quality protein source. Likewise, some believe brewers yeast causes allergies, while others praise it for repelling fleas and supporting the immune system. Dried seaweed meal is another questionable ingredient, and although it contains some healthy nutrients, seaweed meal is primarily used as a source of inexpensive carbohydrates. Overall, the VICTOR Purpose Nutra Pro formula for German Shepherds delivers what the company promised, earning a five-star review.

Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

12. Wellness Core Dry Dog Food for Large Breed Puppies

With its headquarters in Massachusetts, Wellness Pet Food was founded in 1997.

8.6/10Our Score

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 However, the company’s name changed to WellPet LLC on Jan. 1, 2022. Wellness Complete Health recipes for dogs combine natural, premium proteins to deliver a balanced diet full of the nutrients dogs need for lifelong wellbeing, no matter their breed size, life stage, or unique nutritional needs.

Wellness CORE Large Breed Puppy Food is a natural, grain-free dry food ideal for German Shepherd puppies, formulated using advanced natural nutrition that combines premium protein with nutrient-rich superfoods. It is crafted to support healthy growth and development with DHA from salmon oil. Also, omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine encourage whole-body health in your German Shepherd while bolstering lean body mass, muscle tone, and a shiny coat. The most significant benefits of Wellness CORE Large Breed Puppy Food include taurine and protein levels to help your canine companion develop strong muscles. Each Wellness CORE formula is designed with heart health and longevity in mind to help ensure your German Shepherd can spend as many vital years by your side as possible.

Shiny coats and healthy skin are health indicators you can see, so Wellness includes omega fatty acids to nourish German Shepherd pups from the inside out. A healthy gut is essential to good health, so CORE provides prebiotics and probiotics to help maintain a strong digestive system. Puppies need optimal levels of glucosamine and chondroitin to nurture strong joints and healthy mobility to prevent joint problems in later years. This Wellness Core recipe contains no harmful ingredients in quantities that could harm your precious German Shepherd pup. One 8-oz cup of Wellness CORE Large Breed Puppy Food contains 340 calories.

Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

13. Wellness Complete Health Dry Dog Food

With its headquarters in Massachusetts, Wellness Pet Food was founded in 1997.

8.7/10Our Score

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However, the company’s name changed to WellPet LLC on Jan. 1, 2022. Wellness Complete Health Dog Foods provide whole-body nutritional support for a German Shepherd’s lifetime of wellbeing. The recipe is carefully formulated using natural ingredients and super nutrients, with quality protein for the nourishment your canine companion needs to thrive. Wellness Complete Health dog foods never include meat by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives. Instead, fresh meat is always the first ingredient for a naturally lean source of quality protein and fatty acids. Blueberries provide vitamins A and C, fiber, potassium, and valuable antioxidants, plus fresh fruit’s color and tasty flavor. Wellness Complete Health dry dog food contains spinach, rich in carotenoids, including beta-carotene and lutein, as well as quercetin, a phytochemical with antioxidant properties. Also, carrots are a great source of fiber and minerals and an excellent natural source of beta-carotene, an antioxidant essential for neutralizing free radicals.

Nutritious, balanced blends of high-quality proteins, select fats, and wholesome grains in Wellness Complete Health dry dog food provide the energy your German Shepherd needs for a healthy life. Essential vitamins, minerals, and guaranteed levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids ensure nourished skin and a healthy coat. Another benefit of this Wellness Complete product is an optimum immune system provided by high-quality proteins and vitamins A and E. Healthy fiber, probiotics, and prebiotics combine forces to ensure a healthy digestive system.

Prebiotics, probiotics, and healthy fiber combine to help support a healthy digestive system, and vitamin A and calcium support healthy eyes, teeth, and gums. However, the recipe includes sodium selenite and garlic powder, which could be toxic to your German Shepherd if consumed in large quantities, which is not the case with this recipe. One 8-oz cup of Wellness Complete Health dry dog food contains 405 calories.

Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

14. Eukanuba Senior Large Breed Dry Dog Food 

Eukanuba is owned and manufactured by Mars Incorporated worldwide, which acquired Eukenuba in 2014.

8.6/10Our Score

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Eukanuba was founded in 1969 by Paul F Iams, who designed a new high-protein dog food that put performance and nutritional science first, even if it cost a little more. Eukanuba dog food manufacturing plants are in Bathurst, Australia, South Africa, and the USA. 

German Shepherds are large dogs, and their quality of life as they reach their golden years depends on the quality of food their owners choose to feed them. Eukanuba Senior Large Breed Dry Dog Food is created specifically for older, larger breed dogs. Made with high-quality protein for energy and 50% more glucosamine (vs. Eukanuba Adult Medium Breed dry dog food) and chondroitin sulfate for joint health. Further benefits come from DHA and antioxidants to maintain a strong immune system and healthy brain function. Eukanuba can ensure your German Shepherd’s health is maintained throughout life.

Along with the optimal amount of fats and carbohydrates, this food will support your senior German Shepherd’s mind and energy, and the addition of Eukanuba 3D DentaDefense will reduce tartar buildup to keep your canine companion’s teeth and gums healthy. Give your senior dog the specialized food their larger body deserves, and help keep him active and healthy for years to come. The Chondroitin sulfate and 50% help keep joints limber and muscles lean. Wheat and corn within the first five ingredients might concern dog owners. However, the percentage of protein in the other three ingredients, 

Chicken, Chicken By-Product Meal, Chicken Fat is high enough to earn this Eukanuba recipe for senior dogs a second-tier rating. Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset. Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

15. Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe with Real Duck Dry Dog Food 

Instinct by Nature’s Variety is a pet food company, wholly owned by Barcelona, Spain–based Agrolimen with US headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri, and manufacturing operations in Lincoln, Nebraska, USA.

8.7/10Our Score

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Instinct, by Nature’s Variety, produces premium raw pet foods. In 2020, Instinct Petfood proudly became a member of the Pet Sustainability Coalition with the goal of transforming the lives of pets through raw nutrition.

Instinct offers a variety of natural dry dog food recipes with added vitamins and minerals to suit your furry family member’s needs. And with freeze-dried raw coating on every piece of kibble, adding the nutrition and taste of raw into your pet’s diet is easy.

Instinct’s grain-free, raw-coated kibble recipes are crafted with at least 70% animal ingredients to provide your pup with high-quality protein. Nutritious oils are also included, along with 30% veggies, fruits, and other wholesome ingredients. The first five ingredients of the Real Duck recipe are Duck, Chicken Meal, Peas, Egg Product, Turkey Meal. A little lower down the list you’ll find the freeze-dried ingredients for the coating, including duck, ground duck bone, chicken, chicken liver, and chicken heart. This protein-packed formula provides what’s necessary for a German Shepherd’s strong, lean muscles. Further benefits include Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for coat and skin health, and support for an optimized immune system from antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits. The Instinct Duck recipe has guaranteed levels of live, natural probiotics to support your German Shepherd’s digestive health, and if your canine companion has a grain sensitivity, this formula is free of grain, corn, potato, soy, and wheat. One 8-oz cup of Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe with Real Duck Dry Dog Food contains 479 calories.

German Shepherd owners who are concerned about the inclusion of controversial ingredients like dried tomato pomace and sodium selenite can rest assured that the amounts are insignificant because they are almost at the end of the ingredient list. Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

16. Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken Dry Dog Food 

Instinct by Nature’s Variety is a pet food company wholly owned by Barcelona, Spain–based Agrolimen with US headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri, and manufacturing operations in Lincoln, Nebraska, USA.

8.8/10Our Score

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Instinct, now called Nature’s Variety, produces premium raw pet foods. In 2020, Instinct Petfood proudly became a member of the Pet Sustainability Coalition to transform the lives of pets through raw nutrition.

Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food is real food for real dogs, and it offers raw nutrition that will unlock your German Shepherd’s ability to thrive. Instinct Original recipes are thoughtfully balanced with wholesome foods, like real chicken and vegetables, plus guaranteed levels of probiotics, natural omegas, and antioxidants. The result is a tasty, high animal protein diet that promotes maximum digestibility, a healthy coat and skin, and immune health.

Cage-free chicken is the first ingredient for high animal protein to support strong, lean muscles, with the second and fourth ingredients being chicken meal and chicken fat. Number two is peas, a quality source of carbohydrates and natural fiber, and tapioca at number five, a gluten-free, starchy carbohydrate extract made from the root of the cassava plant. Added benefits include guaranteed levels of live, natural probiotics, natural omegas, and antioxidants to support digestive health, healthy skin and coat, and the immune health of your German Shepherd. One 8-oz cup of Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food contains 518 calories. German Shepherd owners concerned about the inclusion of controversial ingredients like dried tomato pomace and sodium selenite can rest assured that the amounts are insignificant because they are almost at the end of the ingredient list. Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

17. Earthborn Holistic Great Plains Feast Grain-Free Natural Dry Dog Food 

Midwestern Pet Foods, a family-owned and operated business, was founded in 1926 as a small milling company and is now in its 4th generation of family leadership.

8.6/10Our Score

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They specialize in producing nutritional dog food recipes, oven-baked biscuits, and treats by mixing the finest ingredients, years of knowledge, the latest technology, and lots of love to serve up the best meals for dogs. Manufacturing takes place in a company-owned manufacturing facility in Monmouth, Illinois, USA.

Your German Shepherd is sure to develop and sustain energy and lean muscle mass from the high protein levels of Earthborn Holistic Great Plains Feast Grain-Free Natural Dry Dog Food.

The first ingredient is Bison meal, a lean, red meat protein, rich in balanced amino acids, which are essential building blocks for a large dog’s healthy body. Too much protein is stored as fat, but the L-Carnitine in this recipe helps convert fat into energy promoting lean muscle mass and healthy body condition. A proper Omega-6 and Omega-3 Fatty Acids ratio helps support a lipid balance for healthy skin and coat. While guaranteed levels of antioxidant nutrients like Vitamin E and Vitamin C blended with nutrient-rich vegetables and fruits such as peas, apples, blueberries, carrots, spinach, and cranberries help support the immune system and optimal health. The natural fibers help support your German Shepherd’s nutrient absorption and healthy digestive system. Each 8-oz cup of Earthborn Holistic Great Plains Feast Grain-Free Natural Dry Dog Food contains 400 calories. German Shepherd owners concerned about the inclusion of controversial ingredients like dried tomato pomace and sodium selenite can rest assured that the amounts are insignificant because they are almost at the end of the ingredient list. Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

18. Canidae Pure Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food 

Canidae is a family-owned company founded in 1996 on a family farm in Kansas, USA.

8.4/10Our Score

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Canidae also operates a cooking facility and distribution center in Texas, USA.

Canidae recipes contain wholesome, high-quality ingredients, balanced for whole-body health. The recipes are formulated with a vet nutritionist to exceed AAFCO standards.

If your German Shephard experiences food-related allergies, you might want to try one of the Canidae Pure Limited Ingredient dry dog food recipes. Your sensitive canine companion deserves satisfying, easy-to-digest meals that provide proper nourishment. CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE is a limited ingredient diet that uses simple, wholesome recipes. Each recipe contains only 7 to 10 key ingredients that are nutritious and easy to recognize. Fresh meat or fish is first on the ingredients list of each recipe and perfectly paired with whole, quality ingredients, such as sweet potatoes, lentils, and chickpeas. Instead of 24-lb bags, German Shepherd owners who are uncertain about the ingredient that causes the allergic reaction in their canine companions can choose from a wide variety of recipes in 4-lb bags to test by elimination. The hearty and nutritional first component options include Salmon, Duck, Lamb, Bison, and more, enhanced by sweet potatoes, peas and chickpeas. CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE recipes will help your German Shepherd’s gentle digestion and provide all the nutrition essential for a large active dog like a German Shepherd. All this is achievable without adding gluten, grains, antibiotics, hormones, corn, wheat, or soy. Each 8-oz cup of CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Dry Dog Food contains 459 calories. Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

19. Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog Food  

Purina established the first pet nutrition and care center in 1926 at Purina Farms near Gray Summit, Missouri, to confirm the palatability and nutrition of its pet foods.

8.7/10Our Score

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On December 12th, 2001: Nestle acquired Ralston Purina, helping to expand the availability of Purina products to pets and pet owners worldwide. Purina has since evolved into the Pet Care Center in Northwest Missouri.

Nourish your German Shepherd’s sensitive skin and stomach with gentle nutrition to help him thrive. Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach formulas start with real salmon or lamb as the first ingredient, along with guaranteed live probiotics to support your canine companion’s digestive and immune health. Feeding a German Shepherd with sensitivities doesn’t have to be complicated. Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Systems formulas are made without potentially irritating fillers. The recipes include oatmeal that is easily digestible and gentle on the digestive system. The kibble contains Sunflower oil with the necessary Omega-6 fatty acids for coat and skin health support. The recipe contains natural prebiotic fiber for the nourishment of intestinal bacteria essential for digestive health. Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach recipes are free of corn, wheat, or soy. The first eight ingredients in the Salmon and Rice recipe are Salmon, Barley, Rice, Oat Meal, Canola Meal, Fish Meal (Source Of Glucosamine), Beef Fat Preserved With Mixed-tocopherols, Salmon Meal (Source Of Glucosamine). German Shepherd owners might question that the third ingredient is indicated as rice without stating the type of rice and Fish Meal without revealing the kind of fish. Some fish types like tuna, shark, swordfish, and others contain dangerous amounts of mercury. However, the amount of named meat proteins is enough to earn this Purina a second-tier evaluation. One cup of Purina Pro Plan for Sensitive Skin and Sensitive Stomach contains 479 calories. Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

20. Wag Dry Dog Food 

In 1994 by Jeff Bezos, the Seattle-based company started as an online bookstore.

8.5/10Our Score

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And shortly after dominating the book-sales business, but evolved into a supplier of just about anything. Since May 2018, Wag, Amazon’s own brand of dog food, became available for purchase in May 2018.

The recipes of the different Wag Dry Dog Foods are similar, Varying only in the primary proteins of each version. They all meet the AAFCO’s guidelines and feature similar nutritional profiles. The available options include Salmon and Lentil, Beef and Lentil with Wild Boar, Lamb and Lentil, Turkey and Lentil, Chicken & Lentil (for puppies). With Salmon, Beef, Lamb, Turkey, or Chicken as number one on the ingredient list of each formula, with the key protein in meal form at number two. Numbers three through five are Lentils, Pea Protein, and Peas in all the recipes. Wag Dry Dog Food is a suitable option for German Shepherd owners who choose to feed their dogs on grain-free diets. However, like most dog food brands, some ingredients are controversial. 

Some dog owners regard beet pulp as an inexpensive filler, while others cite its outstanding intestinal health and blood sugar benefits. Likewise, some believe brewers yeast causes allergies, while others praise it for repelling fleas and supporting the immune system. Wag formulas contain salt, which might be harmful but only in excessive quantities. Some also question pea protein because its only value is protein, which some dog owners would prefer to see in more nutritious ingredients like whole peas. None of these controversial ingredients are included in harmful quantities. One cup of Wag Dry Dog Food contains 377 calories. For German Shepherd owners looking for healthy, nutritious kibble that is budget-friendly, Wag Dry Dog Food might be a good choice. Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

21. Advance Dog Shepherd German Turkey & Rice Dry Dog Food 

Mars Petcare owns Advance Pet Care, an Australian Managed Dog Food Manufacturer that began pet food production in 1967.

8.3/10Our Score

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 Manufacturing occurs at a company plant in Wodonga, Victoria, AU, with formulas focused on dogs exposed to the harsh conditions in Australia.

Furthermore, this dry dog food is complete and balanced to support the unique nutritional requirements of German Shepherds and other large breed dogs. High-quality turkey is included as a novel protein source and combined with highly digestible ingredients to support optimal digestion and small, firmer stools. Functional ingredients such as Green Lipped Mussels have been clinically proven and added to help manage joint diseases, a condition that large breed dogs are particularly prone to. This recipe also contains enhanced zinc and linoleic acid levels to nourish the skin and coat. At the same time, the unique kibble size and shape reduce the accumulation of tartar and plaque accumulation due to the mechanical abrasion of the tooth surface. The Advance Shepherd Large Breed formulation also contains beneficial nutrients like Vitamin E to help strengthen the immune system. The Advance recipes include fish oil that provides Omega-3 fatty acids for skin and joint health. Flaxseed oil obtained from the seed of the flax plant is another fatty acid source. However, it might be too much for German Shepherds predisposed to pancreatitis. 

Advance German Shepherd Dog Food contains several controversial ingredients, one of which is dry beet pulp. Some dog owners regard beet pulp as an inexpensive filler, while others cite its outstanding intestinal health and blood sugar benefits. Likewise, some believe garlic improves the kibble’s taste, disregarding that garlic is toxic for dogs in large enough quantities. However, smaller dogs are at higher risk because they need smaller amounts to be affected. The inclusion of Carrageenan or other gum products to improve the texture is questioned by many because it has no nutritional value. Still, it could reduce the German Shepherd’s absorption of minerals. Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset. 

22. Acana Heritage Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food 

Champion Petfoods, the parent company of Acana, has been in business since 1979, based in Alberta, Canada. In 1980, Champion created the Acana brand.

8.5/10Our Score

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Champion has several manufacturing facilities in Canada and the US, and Acana is based in Auburn, Kentucky.

ACANA Dry Dog Food for Large Breed puppies is thoughtfully crafted to nurture growing puppies like German Shepherds and other puppies that will mature to be 55 pounds or more. Rich with protein-rich, top-quality animal ingredients like fresh Canadian chicken and raw flounder balanced with fruit, vegetables, and botanicals. This recipe is specially formulated to provide your growing German Shepherd puppy with the protein and nutrition they need to support their rapid development. The Chicken and Flounder recipe is fresh Canadian chicken. The Acana Heritage Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food features a larger kibble size, which is grain-free. Based on the Prey diet, added superfoods include the protein nutrients in their most natural form, including poultry, fish, cartilage and bones, and organs. They infuse the dog food with freeze-dried liver that no German Shepherd can resist.

The first nine ingredients are fresh chicken (22%), chicken meal (21%), whole red lentils, whole green peas, fresh chicken giblets (liver, heart) (6%), herring meal (4%), eggs (4%), raw flounder (4%), fish oil (4%). This product is free of controversial ingredients, and the percentage of fresh meat protein in the formula puts The Acana Heritage Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food at the top of the list of quality dog food. One 8-oz cup of this kibble contains 388 calories. Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.  

23. Nom Nom Fresh Pet Food Wet Dog Food

Nom Nom specializes in preparing home-cooked restaurant quality meals.

8.6/10Our Score

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According to Nate Phillips, CEO and co-founder of Nom Nom, the meals are prepared for each dog’s unique needs and delivered to the doors of dog owners. Nom Nom was established in California in 2014 and expanded to Nashville, Tennessee, in 2018. 

Every Nom Nom meal is made in a Nom Nom kitchen under the guidance of Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionists. They prepare the food to ensure dog owners get exactly what they ordered. Their recipes include no controversial ingredients, and if you own a German Shepherd and a Yorkie, Nom Nom will prepare and deliver their unique, perfectly balanced meals. Nom Nom’s menu offers four meals as listed below.

• Beef Mash, containing Beef, Potatoes, Eggs, Carrots, and Peas. (182 Calories per 8-oz cup)
• Chicken Cuisine, containing Chicken, Sweet Potatoes, Squash, and Spinach (208 Calories per 8-oz cup)
• Pork Potluck, containing Pork, Potatoes, Green Beans, Squash, Kale, and Mushrooms (177 Calories per 8-oz cup)
• Turkey Fare, containing Turkey, Brown Rice, Eggs, Carrots, and Spinach (201 Calories per 8-oz cup)

Other nutrients and supplements to benefit your German Shepherd include dicalcium phosphate, potassium chloride, salt, natural flavor, citric acid, fish oil, vinegar, taurine, choline bitartrate, iron amino acid chelate, zinc gluconate, vitamin E supplement, copper gluconate, niacin (vitamin B3), manganese gluconate, vitamin A supplement, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), riboflavin (vitamin B2), cholecalciferol (source of vitamin D3), potassium iodide, folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement.

Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.  

24. Now Fresh Grain-Free Large Breed Adult Recipe Dry Dog Food 

Petcurean Now Fresh, an independent Canadian-owned family business established in 1999, makes their pet food with the best interest of your pet in mind and with the health and well-being of your dogs and cats their prime responsibilities.

8.9/10Our Score

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They have developed a four-point plan modeled on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals for 2030 to guide their purposeful steps towards creating a positive impact on pets, the environment, and the communities where we live and work.

German Shepherd owners who want to feed their canine companions only fresh, deboned muscle meat, with no by-product or meat meals whatsoever, can buy NOW FRESH Dry Food Recipes for dogs. This allows for careful control of mineral levels to help support healthy bone growth and urinary tract health. Your best friend will love the taste of fresh meat, too. The fresh meat and fish ingredients in NOW FRESH Dry Food Recipes are cooked just once and at the lowest possible temperature. It helps preserve their precious nutrients and a rich natural flavor for a nutritious and delicious meal even the pickiest pets will love. Each NOW FRESH Dry Food Recipe offers a unique kibble shape and size, carefully balanced nutrient levels, and functional ingredients, all tailored to your dog’s specific breed size and life stage needs. Whether your German Shepherd is a tiny puppy, a boisterous adult, or a much-loved senior, NOW FRESH has a food crafted with their unique individual needs in mind. One 8-oz cup of NOW FRESH Dry Food Recipe contains 393 calories. 

The only questionable ingredient in the recipe is peas, and only because it is mentioned three times in different forms on the ingredients list. The third ingredient on the list is peas, a quality source of carbohydrates. Then, at number six, you’ll find pea flour, high in natural fiber and containing as much as 25% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the meat content of this dog food. At number 11 on the list is pea fiber, derived from pea hulls, a mixture of both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber. Aside from the usual benefits of fiber, this agricultural by-product provides no other nutritional value to a dog. While fiber is essential for G.I. health, there are other healthier sources.

Nevertheless, Even when you consider the protein-boosting effect of the pea products along with flaxseed, alfalfa, and lentils, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a significant amount of meat. Every German Shepherd Dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on its life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you doubt changing your dog’s diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

25. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition German Shepherd Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food  

Royal Canin was founded by veterinarian Jean Cathary in France in 1968 and began operating in the US in 1985.

8.6/10Our Score

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 Royal Canin established headquarters in St. Charles, Missouri, and manufacturing facilities in Missouri and South Dakota. Royal Canin became a subsidiary of Mars Incorporated in 2001. 

German Shepherds are large dogs, treasured for their outstanding working abilities, and have proven to be excellent tracking, herding, guard, assistance, and rescue dogs. The nutrition German Shepherd puppies receive plays a crucial role in ensuring they reach adulthood in optimal health. Royal Canin for Large Breed Puppies is made for German Shepherds up to 15 months between 56 & 99 pounds. The benefits include Chondroitin Sulfate and Glucosamine Hydrochloride, which act as a natural anti-inflammatory and block the enzymes that attack the joints in older dogs. However, the first five ingredients are questionable. Corn, which is typically regarded as a cheap filler, is the first ingredient instead of a protein, which one wants to see as the first ingredient. The second ingredient is Chicken By-Product Meal, a dry, rendered product of slaughterhouse waste made from what’s left of a slaughtered chicken after all the choice cuts have been removed. In addition to organs, this item can also include feet, beaks, undeveloped eggs, and almost anything other than prime skeletal muscle. On the brighter side, by-product meals are meat concentrates and contain nearly 300% more protein than fresh chicken. The other protein is chicken fat at number five, a quality ingredient, but it comes after wheat and at number three, a filler similar to corn and wheat gluten at number four, a gum used as a thickener. The calorie count per 8-oz cup of Royal Canin for Large Breed Puppies is 331.

Each dog is unique, and it is always a good idea to ask your veterinarian if you have any doubts about a healthy diet for your German Shepherd puppy. This breed is prone to sensitive stomachs, and they need to gradually transition to new dog food to avoid any digestive upset.

What are the Facts that you should know about Dog Foods for German Shepherds?

All dogs deserve healthy, nutritious, and satisfying food, but generic dog food isn’t suitable for most. Every breed has its own special dietary needs.

Your Dachshund, for example, needs something different from your big, hard-working German Shepherd. Before deciding on a brand of dog food for your German Shepherd’s maximum energy and health, consider the matters listed below.

Size Considerations

German Shepherds can be as tall as 26 inches at the withers, and their average weight can be between 66 and 71 pounds. That’s a pretty big dog, which means it’s going to have a big appetite to match. German Shepherd owners should go for quality rather than just stuffing their canine companions full of the cheapest food on the shelves.

Activity Level

The activity levels of German Shepherds are linked to their life stages. German Shepherds are fast growers with high energy levels, making age-related nutrition imperative. Puppies need more protein and calcium than senior dogs. With such a large body and high energy level, you must provide appropriate nutrition levels at each stage of development. For example, young German Shepherds are active and need sufficient calcium for strong bones.   

Health Considerations

German Shepherds are predisposed to several health issues that could be managed or prevented by providing healthy balanced nutrition from the start. Large dogs’ most prevalent health issue is elbow and hip dysplasia and arthritis. Dog owners can prevent it by ensuring the German Shepherd’s diet include glucosamine and chondroitin that may repair joints and promote healthy cartilage, which should relieve arthritic pain. Likewise, ensuring the correct balance of calcium and phosphorus in the dog’s diet through life can limit inflammation.

Other typical health concerns for German Shepherds include kidney disease caused by diets with too much protein, pancreatitis that can follow excessive fat consumption, and heart disease from too much salt.

What is the Clean Label on Dog Food for German Shepherds packages?

The Institute for Food Technologists defines the clean label on grain-inclusive dog food packages as a holistic way of manufacturing grain-inclusive dog food with limited healthy and wholesome ingredients. The ingredients must be natural and items that consumers can recognize when reading the grain-inclusive dog food package label.

The clean label trend is consumer-driven, which is necessary for German Shepherd and other breed owners who want to feed their dogs with the same care as the rest of their families. Consumers want to read the ingredients label, recognize the items and their health benefits, and feel comfortable that the company behind the brand cares as much as they do about the healthfulness of their dogs.

What is the Nutritional Value of Dog Foods for German Shepherds?

The nutritional value of dry dog food for German Shepherds based on averages is listed below.

• The average calorie amount of grain-inclusive dog food is between 325 and 600 calories per 8-oz cup. 
• The average carb amount of grain-inclusive dog food is between 30 and 60% of the total daily meal, although no more than 14% is necessary for maintaining a dog’s health.
• The average protein amount of grain-inclusive dog food is 15% to 25% of the meal.
• The average fat amount of grain-inclusive dog food is 25% of the diet.

The nutritional value of dry dog food is on the product label, which could be confusing. Knowing which nutrients one would want to see on the labels could ease the process of choosing healthy dry dog food. The best dry dog food ingredients are listed below. 

• Specify meat, poultry, or fish instead of general terms like poultry or beef by-products. The cooking process to produce kibble reduces the nutritional value of the protein. Rendering the protein changes it into a dry meal which is the perfect way to replace the lost nutrients. However, the ingredients list must be specific in calling it a chicken meal, turkey meal, salmon meal, etc.
• Good carbohydrates as opposed to highly over-processed flours and mill runs. Healthy carbs include brown rice, oatmeal, and barley. Any corn and wheat derivatives cause illness and allergy risks and are often added as cheap fillers.
• Whole vegetables and fruits like peas, spinach, carrots, greens, berries, and apples are ingredients dog owners want to see on the best dry dog food labels.
• Fat sources must be specified as lamb fat, chicken fat, salmon oil, or sunflower oil, as opposed to animal fat, which can keep the dog owner guessing about the origin of the fat.
• Natural preservatives are crucial, and the excellent idea is to check for an expiry date. One unpronounceable term to look for is Mixed Tocopherols, the typical natural preservative used in top-quality dry dog food. Dry dog food without expiry dates is packed with synthetic preservatives and harmful chemicals.
• Premium vitamins a dog owner wants to see on the ingredients list include Vitamin E from mixed tocopherols, vitamins A, D3, B12, B6, choline chloride, thiamine mononitrate, biotin, and folic acid.
• Chelated Minerals are minerals that have been chemically attached to proteins for easier absorption by the dog’s body. They include zinc amino acid, iron amino acid, copper amino acid, and manganese amino acid.
• Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids are obtained from the recipe’s flaxseed, specified fish, or canola oil.
• If salt is added, it must be sea salt or iodized salt.

Statements like “No outsourcing,” “Food used in this product is fit for human consumption,” “Organic ingredients,” “Free-range poultry/meat sources,” and “Local and fresh human-grade ingredients” are further indications of top quality dry dog food.

What are the Best Freeze-Dried Dog Foods?

Freeze-dried dog foods are the preferred choice of many German Shepherd owners. Some nutritionists agree because high-quality proteins like chicken, salmon, turkey, and other animal proteins often included in freeze-dried foods deliver excellent nutrition. Protein is essential for the maintenance and growth and maintenance of almost all the tissues in a dog’s body.

The four best freeze-dried dog foods are listed below.

• TruDog Freeze-Dried Raw Superfood: It contains 100% USA-born and raised cage-free turkeys.
• Buckley Liberty Freeze-Dried Dog Food: Used for a dog’s full meals or topper grain dog food.
• Instinct Freeze-Dried Raw Meals: The most affordable freeze-dried dog food despite containing as much as three times the volume of meat in kibbles and other non-GMO produce.
• Heed Foods: A boutique dog food company that produces top-quality, highly digestible prebiotic kibble with the added bonus of several freeze-dried mix-ins to choose from to make a dog’s dinner extra special.

The cheapest freeze-dried dog food is Instinct Raw Boost Mixers Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Dog Food Topper, with a price of $1.99 per ounce.

The freeze-dried puppy food that tastes the best is Stella & Chewy’s Tantalizing Turkey Meal Mixers costing $2.27 per ounce.

The average price for one ounce of freeze-dried kibble is $2.16 per ounce, compared to the traditional kibble cost of $1.97 per pound.

What are the Best Wet Dog Foods for German Shepherds to Mix with Dry dog food?

Mixing grains-inclusive dog foods with wet dog foods can benefit a German Shepherd’s hydration levels. Like humans, dogs’ bodies contain 75% water, and they need to drink lots of fluids to support the hydration of their bodies. 

• Wellness CORE Canned Wet Dog Food: This brand features five different premium meat sources to provide total, natural nutrition for your canine companion if you use it as a topper on grain-inclusive kibble.
• Merrick Canned Wet Dog Food: Grain Inclusive Dry dog food can be mixed with any of Merrick’s recipes for 12.7-oz canned dog food or Merrick’s 16-oz pouches of bone broth. 

The cheapest wet dog food to mix grain-inclusive dry kibble is Wag Chicken and Vegetable Stew at $0.20 per ounce.

The tastiest wet dog food to mix grain-inclusive dog food is Canidae All Life Stages Chicken and Rice at $3.15 per ounce.

The average price for wet dog food to mix grain-inclusive dry dog food is $7.57 per day.

What are the Best Dog Foods for German Shepherd Puppies?

The best grain-inclusive dog foods for puppies meet the unique nutritional needs of puppies. German Shepherd puppies need more calories than adult dogs. Their food must have proper essential nutrient levels like vitamins and minerals to boost the development of healthy immune systems, strong bones, and more. Owners of new German Shepherd puppies often overlook canned, grain-inclusive dog food, yet it can be highly nutritious. Compared to fresh puppy food recipes, canned puppy food recipes often contain fewer vegetables and a more significant amount of moisture. The brands listed below are included in the best grain-inclusive dog food list for puppies. Many puppy and dog owners provide their pups with a mix of dry and canned food to give their canine friends some much-deserved variety.

•  ACANA Puppy Food: ACANA Puppy Food is thoughtfully crafted to nurture growing puppies of all breeds, including German Shepherds. Rich with 70%1quality animal ingredients like fresh Canadian chicken and raw flounder balanced with 30% fruit, vegetables & botanicals, this recipe provides your puppy with the protein and nutrition they need to support their rapid development.
• Wellness Complete Health Puppy Dry Dog Food: This balanced, healthy grain-inclusive dry dog food is designed to encourage healthy brain development, optimize energy levels, ensure healthy skin and coat while promoting whole-body health
• Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula: This Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe for puppies features delicious, protein-rich deboned chicken. And because puppyhood is such a crucial stage, it features ingredients that support healthy growth and development.

The cheapest dog food is Purina Pro Plan Puppy Chicken & Rice Formula Grain-inclusive dry dog food at $1.54 per pound.

The tastiest grain-inclusive dry dog food is VICTOR Purpose Nutra Pro Dry Dog Food. This nutrient-dense recipe is high in protein and contains low carbs to sustain active puppies’ energy. It is also ideal for growing puppies and pregnant or lactating females. Made with gluten-free grains

The average price for one pound of Grain-Inclusive dried dog food is $1.97 per pound.

What are the Brands for the Best Dog Foods for German Shepherds?

Looking to save money on dog food does not mean settling for cheap bulking agents and fillers. 

Good quality grain-inclusive dog foods are available, and knowing which ingredients to look for will help. Dog owners must consider the size, breed, age, and health of the dog. The brands to look for are listed below.

What are the Best Dog Foods for German Shepherds with Allergies?

Allergies to grains exist, but allergies to protein sources are more likely to occur. The most common allergy reported in one study of 278 dogs was beef, which accounted for 95 cases. Next in line was dairy, with 55 cases reported—only 7 of the cases involved corn. In most cases, grain-free diets are not healthier for your dog unless it has a grain allergy. 

One of the following ways might mitigate any allergic reactions in dogs.

• Limited ingredients: Natural Balance L.I.D. Diets Dry Dog Food Grain Free 

Free from grains, potatoes, filler, and chicken ingredients, this True L.I.D. features one animal protein source and two primary carbohydrate sources, helping you avoid ingredients commonly associated with food sensitivities.

• Hypoallergenic recipes: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Moderate Calorie Dry Dog Food. Hydrolyzed proteins are proteins that have been chemically “split” (hydrolyzed) into their basic amino acid building blocks, making the original allergen virtually “invisible” to your dog’s immune system. Therefore your dog is less likely to experience an allergic reaction to the food. Veterinarians and Nutritionists have developed clinical nutrition specially formulated to help dogs with discomfort and various skin conditions due to food sensitivity.

What are the Best Dog Foods for Small-Sized German Shepherds?

The best grain-inclusive dog food for small German Shepherds are those that meet their unique nutritional needs. Understanding those needs can help owners avert inherent health problems and ensure optimum health. Two of the best grain-inclusive dog food options for German Shepherds are listed below.

• Purina Pro Plan Shredded Blend Adult Small Breed Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food: This grain-inclusive Purina Pro Plan formula gets most animal protein from fresh chicken and poultry by-product meal. A nutrient-dense design with a smaller kibble size. A top recipe for small and medium breeds.
• Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Real Beef + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Adult Dry Dog Food: This Merrick formula gets the major part of its animal protein from a combination of fresh beef and pork meal. A classic, grain-inclusive design with no peas, lentils, or other plant-based protein boosters. Ideal for dog owners who prefer a traditional, grain-based recipe.

What are the Best Dog Foods for Medium-Sized German Shepherds?

When choosing the best grain-inclusive dog food for a medium-sized German Shepherd, life stage, and health will determine its nutritional requirements. The six essential nutrients are proteins, water, fats, minerals, carbohydrates, and vitamins. Two of the best grain-inclusive dog foods suitable for most medium-sized dogs are listed below.

• Wellness Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken and Oatmeal: This natural dry food for medium-sized dogs is specially formulated to provide whole-body nutritional support. It is crafted using carefully chosen ingredients that include premium proteins and wholesome grains supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine. This balanced, healthy dry dog food is designed to encourage a strong immune system, optimize energy levels, and ensure healthy skin and coat while promoting whole-body health. It is developed without GMOs, meat by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives.
• Nature’s Logic Canine Chicken Meal Feast All Life Stages Dry Dog Food: Nature’s Logic Chicken Meal Feast is a 100% natural, highly palatable, nutrient rich dry dog food featuring high-quality, high-protein chicken meal from USA-raised chicken as the first ingredient. The diet features concentrate of select fruits and vegetables, and the kibble is specially coated with digestive enzymes and plasma protein containing high levels of natural vitamins, minerals, and albumin and globulin proteins. Plus, it’s made without the use of potatoes, peas, lentils, wheat, corn, rice, soy, potato, or chemically synthesized vitamins, minerals, trace nutrients, carrageenan, guar gum, or xanthan gum.

What are the Best Dog Foods for Large German Shepherds?

The best grain-inclusive dog food for a Large German Shepherd depends on the dog’s life stage, activity levels, and current health.

• Diamond Naturals All Life Stages: Diamond Naturals All Life Stages gets the lion’s share of its animal protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 18% fat, and 45% estimated carb, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%. A healthy, budget-friendly brand for active, high-energy huskies
• Nutro Max Large Breed Natural Chicken Meal & Rice Adult Recipe Dry Dog Food: Nutro MAX Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is formulated for the specific needs of large breed adult dogs like Huskies using only the finest ingredients that can be traced back to their sources like real chicken protein from farm-raised chickens and whole grains. Nutro uses the best ingredients, and you’ll never find any chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein in their dog food.

What are the Best Dog Foods for German Shepherds with Itchy Skin?

Itchy skin problems in a German Shepherd are more likely to improve by changing the dog’s diet to a limited ingredient program that can help identify the cause of the itching. Limited ingredient diets involve food with fewer ingredients, like only one protein, making it easier to identify the allergen that causes the itchy skin. 

Veterinarians say grain allergies cause only 10% of food allergies in dogs. Therefore, a vet might recommend a hypoallergenic diet instead. It contains hydrolyzed proteins, which means they have been broken down into their basic building blocks called amino acids. An example of one of the best grain-inclusive dog food products of each diet is listed below.

• Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP Dry Dog Food: This is a highly palatable diet designed for adult dogs and puppies. It’s formulated with hydrolyzed proteins composed of low molecular weight peptides that can be absorbed in the digestive tract with a reduced risk of triggering an immune reaction. Optimal amounts of B vitamins and amino acids reinforce your dog’s skin barrier. Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA help promote healthy skin and coat. An exclusive blend of fibers helps support healthy digestion in dogs prone to digestive upsets, including diarrhea. And with strict manufacturing procedures to help avoid cross-contamination, you can confidently feed Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP long-term to dogs with food sensitivities.
• Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Salmon & Brown Rice Formula Dry Dog Food: This recipe is crafted to satisfy every type of dog. This simple recipe features a select mix of premium ingredients designed to provide your adult dog with the essential vitamins and minerals he needs to conquer any tiring hike or a stressful trip to the vet. The unique formula is made without gluten ingredients and relies on whole-grain brown rice to fuel your pal’s digestion. Real salmon is packed with amino acids to help build strong muscles.

What are the Best Chicken-Free Dog Foods for German Shepherds?

When choosing the best grain-inclusive dog food for dogs with chicken-related sensitivities, careful consideration is necessary because animal protein is vital in any dog’s diet. Chicken is the most prevalent protein in grain-inclusive dog foods, mainly because it is the cheapest protein on the market. However, many dogs have allergic reactions to poultry, and German Shepherd owners must find alternative diet options for their dogs. Below are two of the best chicken-free grain-inclusive dog food options available.

• Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Formula Salmon & Potato Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food: Blue Buffalo’s Basics Limited Ingredient Formula is a delicious, limited-ingredient, chicken-free diet made with fewer ingredients for canine companions with food sensitivities. This recipe starts with real salmon and includes pumpkin and easily digestible carbohydrates like potatoes and peas. It’s also crafted with BLUE’s exclusive LifeSource Bits—a combination of selected antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins picked by veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support your German Shepherd’s overall health and wellness.
• Acana Singles Limited Ingredient Diet, Dry Dog Food, High Protein, Wholesome Grains: This formula is high in fiber, gluten-free, and chicken-free, 60 percent premium duck ingredients balanced with high-quality grains, butternut squash, and pumpkin to support optimal gut health. Rich in protein from a single animal source, providing the nutrient-rich diet your dog needs to stay happy and healthy. Suitable for dogs of all life stages, enriched with a proprietary heart-healthy vitamin pack that supports the proper function of the nervous and circulatory systems in German SHepherds of all ages. No artificial colors, flavorings, or preservatives.

What are the Best Dog Foods for German Shepherds with Tear Stains?

Choosing the best grain-inclusive dog food is essential, especially if the dog owner wants to avoid tear stains on a puppy’s face. Many people do not realize that those awful tear stains on the faces of their German Shepherds could be caused by the food they eat. Generally, cheap dog food doesn’t ensure long-term good health and is more likely to produce tear stains than high-quality options. Two of the best grain-inclusive dog foods to prevent tear stains are listed below.

• Wellness Complete Health Adult Dry Dog Food, Whitefish & Sweet Potato Recipe: For tear stain prevention and clearance, this product from Wellness has achieved outstanding results since its inception. It uses a single protein, the adult whitefish, in its formula while also integrating sweet potatoes to help ease digestion for sensitive dogs. As the primary source of protein, Whitefish are easily digestible, and the fish flavor will always leave your dog yearning for more. This wellness food is ideal for German Shepherds with poor feeding habits, sensitive tummies, or tear stains.
• Hill’s Science Diet For Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult, Chicken Recipe: This dry food by Hill’s is meant for German Shepherds and other breeds with sensitive stomachs and irritable skin. It comes with a chicken and barley flavor and is ideal for all breeds and all sizes. Moreover, prebiotic fiber’s presence helps support a balanced acidity in the gut microbiome. Its unique 100% organic formula targets smooth ingestion, meaning tear stains will no longer emerge on your best friend.

What are the Best Dog Foods for German Shepherds with Glucosamine?

When choosing the best dog food for German Shepherds, noting that a significant percentage of dogs suffer arthritis due to degeneration of their joints as they age is essential. Fortunately, changing the dog’s diet to a grain-inclusive dog food containing glucosamine could prevent the pup’s suffering. Glucosamine is a natural substance that helps to reduce arthritis pain in dogs as they age. Degeneration of joints can be prevented if the dog’s diet includes glucosamine through adulthood. Two of the best grain-inclusive dog food products containing glucosamine are listed below.

• Blue Buffalo Protection Dog Food: Blue Buffalo 32 Life Protection Dry Dog Food is the best dog food with glucosamine you can get. This formula is all-natural and holistic. It contains healthy levels of protein, carbohydrates, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Your pup will also benefit from the life source bits throughout the kibble that have been cold-formed and concentrated with essential nutrients. This dry dog food is designed to support your pup’s immune system, care for a healthy coat, and keep muscles, bones, teeth, and joints strong. It is high in protein and manufactured in the USA. Overall, this is the best dog food with glucosamine you can get. 

• Diamond Naturals Glucosamine Dog Food: This grain-inclusive dry dog food comes in a chicken, egg, and oatmeal flavor that pups love. Made with cage-free chicken in the USA, this holistic and natural dog food is processed without corn, wheat, fillers, and artificial colors or preservatives. The probiotics make it an easy-to-digest choice, and it is excellent for all sizes and breeds. The formula is packed with glucosamine and chondroitin to relieve arthritis pain and creaky joints. Easy to chew, the Diamond Naturals dog food lists chicken meal as the second ingredient; however, the protein level points toward a higher quality ingredient.

What are the Best Dog Foods with Pumpkin for German Shepherds?

The best grain-inclusive dog food with pumpkin can aid and regulate digestion and relieve German Shepherds with digestive issues. Pumpkin also offers high-quality carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins to benefit a dog’s nutrition further. The bulk of the nutrition in pumpkin is dietary fiber and carbohydrates.

• Earthborn Holistic Venture Duck Meal And Pumpkin Review: In this Venture recipe, pumpkin is the primary carbohydrate ingredient unprecedented in mainstream dry dog food. Traditional ingredients like peas and chickpeas are still present in some formulas but in far smaller proportions than usual.
• Wholesome Grains, Lamb & Pumpkin Recipe, Limited Ingredient Diet: Our ACANA food for dogs always goes beyond the 1st ingredient, thoughtfully crafted from start to finish. ACANA Wholesome Grains Limited Ingredient Diet Lamb & Pumpkin Recipe is packed with 60%* quality lamb ingredients and complemented with whole, delicious pumpkin, and fiber-rich wholesome grains. It provides complete nutrition for picky dogs or healthy dogs with food sensitivities.

What are the Best Dog Foods for German Shepherds with Pancreatitis?

Choosing the best grain-inclusive dog food for a German Shepherd with pancreatitis is crucial. Pancreatitis is a severe and painful condition. One of the dietary tools vets often use to ease the dog’s pancreatic enzyme production is a low-fat, highly digestible diet while allowing the pancreas recovery time.

• Annamaet 25% Medium & Large Breed Dry Dog Food: This grain-inclusive recipe is specially crafted for medium and large dog breeds. It’s packed with high-quality ingredients, including wholesome grains and real chicken for the protein your pup needs to fuel his adventures. Omega-3 fatty acid, DHA, is included to support your German Shepherd’s brain health and promote healthy skin and a lustrous coat. At the same time, chelated minerals help optimize mineral absorption and support his immune system. And just like all Annamaet formulas, this recipe is also completely free from corn, wheat, and soy.
• Nutro Natural Choice Healthy Weight Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food: If your dog needs some extra help to maintain a healthy weight, try Nutro Natural Choice Healthy Weight Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Kibble. This dry dog food is designed to support healthy weight loss with a tailored blend of protein and fiber. This recipe is made with chicken, providing a high-quality source of protein. It’s also formulated with essential antioxidants to support your German Shepherd’s immune system and natural fiber to support healthy digestion. You can feel great about this non-GMO food, made with recognizable ingredients and no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy. In severe cases, pancreatitis can affect the health of the liver and other neighboring organs. Taking your dog to your trusted veterinarian is crucial if you suspect pancreatitis.

What are the Best Dog Foods for German Shepherds with a Sensitive Stomach?

The best grain-inclusive dog food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs would depend on the dog’s age, diet, health, and weight. For example, older dogs (7 years or more) and puppies are more likely to suffer digestive problems. Yorkies, Great Danes, and German Shepherds are more likely to be born with a sensitive stomach or develop it later in life.

Food allergies also cause many digestive conditions. Ingredients low in quality (fillers, wheat, corn, etc.) can also cause chronic digestive issues and flare-ups. It may take you a while to find the perfect food recipe for your pup because of its sensitive stomach.

Following are grain-inclusive dog foods suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs and are highly rated by owners who have already given them to their dogs.

• Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food: This dry dog food formula is specifically designed for adult dogs. It features real chicken first and contains prebiotic fiber to support a balanced microbiome for healthy digestion. This recipe also delivers an abundant source of vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a lustrous coat. You’ll love knowing that it’s backed by decades of cutting-edge research.
• Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal Low Fat Dry Dog Food: This is a palatable, digestible recipe of dog food low-fat formulated for dogs that may have difficulties digesting or tolerating fat. Prebiotics help maintain the balance of good bacteria in the gut. A blend of dietary fibers supports healthy digestion for optimal stool quality. Omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, from fish oil help soothe the GI tract. And a precise blend of antioxidants supports a healthy immune system. Ask your veterinarian about Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Low Fat Wet Dog Food and Gastrointestinal treats as a complement to your dog’s diet.

What are the Best Bog Foods for Picky Eater German Shepherds?

Finding the best dog food to tickle the taste buds of a picky eaterGerman Shepherd could be frustrating. You can try different protein sources. Does your dog prefer beef or chicken? Neither? Then perhaps your pup would fancy a less popular choice, like venison or duck.

• Purina Pro Plan Savor Shredded Beef and Rice Formula: This food is not just tasty; it is also an excellent option for dogs who are prone to digestive difficulties. It accomplishes this, in part, by relying on rice (something dogs tend to digest easily) as the primary carbohydrate source. It also features a probiotic strain to support digestive function further.
• Rachael Ray Nutrish Dish Natural Beef & Brown Rice Recipe with Veggies, Fruit & Chicken Dry Dog Food: With real ingredients, you can see Rachael Ray’s Nutrish Dish Beef & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food serves up simple goodness in a nutritious meal. Farm-raised beef and slow-roasted chicken with a hickory smoke flavor are combined with brown rice, cranberries, and tree-ripened apples to add a healthy dose of fiber. It’s a truly delicious dish that follows a simple recipe full of high-quality protein, essential nutrients, and a mouthwatering taste.