The particular best for the dog – according to this saying, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but above all, of course, food. The foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrients and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so easy to find the right food for your own dog. Comparable to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the multitude of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Different questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and in what quantity? Which food is suitable at which age? Is dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be given? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following best grain free dog food for german shepherds, we present 10 products. We offer information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and clarify how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will see which foods dogs cannot endure and how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best grain free dog food for german shepherds:
- Lily's Kitchen Lamb Shepherd's Pie Natural Grain Free Complete Adult Dry Dog... — £9.50
- Applaws Complete and Grain Free Dry Dog Food Small/Medium breed Adult Chicken... — £14.49
-
Autarky Hypoallergenic Delicious Chicken Dry Dog Food with Added Herbs, 12 kg
—
£27.58
£29.20 -
Alpha Sensitive Complete Dry Dog Food Chicken and Rice, 15 kg
—
£28.99
£35.69 -
Eukanuba Breed Nutrition German Shepherd Dry Mix, 12 kg
—
£31.14
£36.64 - The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Adult Dogs and Large or Giant... — £37.70
- Pippa & Max's 50% Salmon, Trout, Sweet Potato & Asparagus - Prime Grain Free... — £52.99
- Arden Grange Adult Premium Dry Dog Food Rich in Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg — £54.49
- Crave Dry Dog Food Natural for dogs – High Protein & Grain-Free – Turkey &... — £58.99
- ROYAL CANIN German Shepherd Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG — £32.70
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best grain free dog food for german shepherds of 2024. We would recommend using ROYAL CANIN German Shepherd Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG as it is one of the best products currently available in market.
Top 10 Best grain free dog food for german shepherds
Best grain free dog food for german shepherds
ROYAL CANIN German Shepherd Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG
Features
- Complete dog feed for adult and mature German Shepherds – Over 15 months old
- DIGESTIVE PERFORMANCE Contributes to supporting digestive health while taking into account the German Shepherd’s digestive sensitivity, thanks to highly digestible L.I.P. proteins and a selection of specific fibres to limit intestinal fermentation while promoting a balance in the intestinal flora.
- HEALTHY SKIN & COAT This formula helps support the skin’s
- BONE & JOINT HEALTH This specific formula helps support healthy bones and joints and helps maintain ideal weight. Enriched with EPA and DHA.
- EXCLUSIVE KIBBLE The kibble's shape, size, texture and formula are adapted to the German Shepherd. Manufacturer: Royal Canin Size: 3kg
Eukanuba Breed Nutrition German Shepherd Dry Mix, 12 kg
£31.14
Features
- Balance+: Promotes optimal digestion with higher level of prebiotics (vs Eukanuba adult large breed)
- Agility: Formulated to help support healthy joints with added glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate
- Mighty: Helps to naturally burn fat while preserving lean muscle with L-carnitine
- Power: Clinically proven to help support lean muscles with animal proteins
- Dental: Clinically proven to reduce tartar buildup in 28 days; reduces plaque and maintains strong teeth
Pippa & Max's 50% Salmon, Trout, Sweet Potato & Asparagus - Prime Grain Free Dry Dog Food 10kg
Features
- 100% GRAIN FREE YUMMY PREMIUM DOG FOOD - Being GRAIN FREE, this COMPLETE DRY DOG FOOD is easy to digest resulting in FEWER TOILET RUNS and DECREASED FLATULENCE for your dog. Grain Free dog food can also REDUCE THE SYMPTOMS OF ALLERGIES in your dog such as itching, patchy coat, hair loss and upset stomachs.
- VETERINARY APPROVED FRESHLY FORMULATED RECIPES - All our recipes have been approved by TRAINED VETS as we always want to be confident that your puppy, adult or senior dog is getting the VERY BEST AND MOST BALANCED NUTRITIONAL MEAL. We use only the FRESHEST AND PUREST INGREDIENTS in our formulas which deliver BENEFICIAL & NUTRIENT RICH FOOD in every bite.
- NO ARTIFICIAL COLOURS, FLAVOURINGS OR PRESERVATIVES - We produce all our pet food using only the most NATURAL OF INGREDIENTS. This means that our DRIED HEALTHY DOG FOOD uses NATURAL PRESERVATIVES to maintain the FRESHEST AND HEALTHIEST of pet foods SUITABLE FOR ALL TYPES OF DOGS including domestic or working dogs.
- 50% SALMON & TROUT (INCLUDING 36% FRESHLY PREPARED SALMON & TROUT), A HIGH PROTEIN SOURCE - Rich in AMINO ACIDS, VITAMINS & MINERALS this pet food is a natural, traditionally sourced HIGHLY DIGESTIBLE PROTEIN meal.
- ENHANCED WITH OMEGA 3 & VITAMINS - An excellent source of EPA & DHA to SUPPORT COGNITIVE FUNCTION, VISUAL DEVELOPMENT & help REDUCE THE INFLAMMATION RESPONSE.
Lily's Kitchen Lamb Shepherd's Pie Natural Grain Free Complete Adult Dry Dog Food (1kg)
Features
- Made with freshly prepared meat and offal, this dog food features freshly prepared lamb as well as other freshly prepared ingredients, such as fruits and vegetables. Made to a complete grain-free recipe* for adult dogs from 4 months+
- We also add glucosamine and chondroitin to help support joints, along with prebiotics to help encourage healthy digestion. This is our lowest fat dry dog food recipe
- Our offering includes wet, dry and treats for all lifestages, including recipes with one source of animal protein, organic as well as options for dogs with allergic intolerances or sensitive stomachs, for example, when eating chicken
- As a B Corp company, we are committed to our target to be fully recyclable by 2025. To find out more about our sustainable initiatives, and how we use our business as a force for good! Visit our brand store
- Here at Lily’s Kitchen, we make proper dog food and cat food made with natural ingredients and freshly prepared meat and offal. Only the best for your furry family
Applaws Complete and Grain Free Dry Dog Food Small/Medium breed Adult Chicken with Lamb 2 kg
Features
- 75% chicken with lamb, 25% vegetables and natural extracts. High meat content promotes the development of lean muscle tissue.
- Complete, hypoallergenic & balanced recipe with no added sugar and low carbohydrates, promoting a healthy weight and reducing the chance of obseity.
- Natural Omega 3 & 6 for a healthy, shiny coat and brain development.
- Grain free recipe for easier digestion and relief of grain related allergies.
- Contains natural pre-biotic and pro-biotic promoting protective and friendly bacteria in the gut.
Arden Grange Adult Premium Dry Dog Food Rich in Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for adult dogs
- Generous levels of fresh chicken make this a highly palatable and digestible diet which may be particularly beneficial for fussy eaters; The recipe is also maize free to suit dogs with an allergy or intolerance to this ingredient
- Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives
- Containing a unique blend of nutrients and natural supplements to help promote the optimum health, vitality and condition of your dog; Including prebiotics to aid digestion, joint supplements, essential fatty acids to promote a healthy skin and coat, cranberries for urinary tract health, antioxidants and added vitamins and minerals to help support immune system and dental health
- Naturally hypoallergenic so you won't find any wheat gluten, beef soya or dairy products; This may reduce the risk of dietary intolerances and allergies that can cause digestive disorders and skin complaints
Alpha Sensitive Complete Dry Dog Food Chicken and Rice, 15 kg
£28.99
Features
- Gluten free
- Wheat free
- Nutritionally formulated for sensitive stomachs
- Easy soak for sensitive teeth and gums
- 20% protein
Crave Dry Dog Food Natural for dogs – High Protein & Grain-Free – Turkey & Chicken, 3x 2.8kg
Features
- Natural ingredients and a flavour your dog won't be able to say no to. Satisfy their nature with Crave turkey and chicken dry dog food / Premium quality, meaty kibble for adult dogs
- Heavy protein-rich kibble, with real pieces of meat designed to help support strong and healthy muscles / High in turkey and chicken, free from maize, wheat, soya and dairy
- A healthy four legged friend needs a meal created for them, the way nature intended - respect the animal inside with Crave / Grain free, complete dog food for small, large and senior breeds
- Flavoursome ingredients, tasty meat and natural proteins without artificial colours or flavours / Kibble designed for pets with digestive/digestion problems
- Items delivered: 3 x Crave Turkey and Chicken 2.8 kg dry food pouches / Developed and designed for adult cats / Delicious dry pet food with 60 percent animal sources
The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Adult Dogs and Large or Giant Breeds - 14 Kilograms, Formula Good For Joint Health
Features
- Ideal for adult dogs of large and giant breeds – kibble size and formula suitably adapted, contains chondroitin, glucosamine and the ideal ratio of calcium and phosphorus to ensure joints working properly.
- Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids help prevent the development of skin disorders.
- No added gluten, free of soya and chemical dyes. No artificial preservatives. Only natural antioxidants.
- A delicious taste your dog will love - by creating this dog food we remembered about ancestors of dogs - wolves, which are true carnivores, therefore, the main ingredient of our food is always meat.
- The real label - 270 g of chicken meal in 1 kg of food corresponds to 1080 g of fresh meat. In The Hunger of The Wolf dog food we use meal so we do not claim very high content of raw meat only to make the labels look much better to the consumer than they really are. Raw meat may contain 70%-90% water. For example chicken meal is simply fresh chicken that has already been cooked to remove moisture – this makes it a much more highly-concentrated source of protein.
Autarky Hypoallergenic Delicious Chicken Dry Dog Food with Added Herbs, 12 kg
£27.58
Features
- Delicious chicken offers naturally balanced hypoallergenic dog food for adult active dogs; the diet is packed with high levels of essential fatty acids and B vitamins to give dogs a healthy coat and skin and boost scenting ability
- 20 percent protein, 12 percent fat, this diet has been designed to keep a dogs energy at a maintained level
- The diet is wheat gluten and soya free making the diet a good option for dogs with a sensitive stomach; prebiotics are also included to support digestive health
- The diet includes taurine and carnitine which helps to keep hearts healthy while the addition of herbs and natural antioxidants support the immune system
- Formulated by a leading canine nutritionist, delicious chicken is naturally hypoallergenic with no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives
The particular best for the dog – according to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but above all, of course, food. The food is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrition and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so simple to find the right food for your own dog. Comparable to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide variety of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and what quantity? Which usually food is suitable where age? Is dry or wet food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be fed? What causes deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. You can expect information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pups the products are suitable. Inside our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and describe how much food a dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot endure and how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food easily
Merely as every person has their own health needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that moves into the dog’s bowl should be made according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Age also plays a role.
Puppies are growing and need special nutrients. In addition, their digestive tract is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs sugars, fats, oils, healthy proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Old dogs have a slow metabolism and are no much longer as active. Consequently, they want less energy, i. e. calories. However , the dog food should be easy to process and contain a great deal of proteins. In addition, the types of food vary in terms of composition, method of creation and consistency.
Structure – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed contains all the nutrients the dog needs on a daily basis. The percentage of proteins, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals varies with respect to the product. The ingredients should be adapted to age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. An entire food can be dry or cast food. Supplementary meals are not sufficient per to provide the dog with all the important nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner combines into the food or treats. The declaration shows what.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in dog or cat shops and food markets usually comes from business production. This is the most frequent kind of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often completed cans or small aluminium trays. With all the latter, one dish is sufficient for one portion. Nevertheless, some manufacturers of business dog food use genetically revised raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long rack life. With a few exclusions, this dog food can be stored unopened for quite some time with no loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from plant, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or highly processed. The food must not contain any chemically synthesised additives. Nevertheless , certain synthetic vitamins and minerals are permitted. In words of packaging, there is often hardly any difference compared to business food: natural dog food is packaged in cans or as dried out food.
– Organic and natural dog food must comply with stricter guidelines regarding ingredients. For example, the product must not contain numerous substances such as genetically altered ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will discover dissimilarities between the various organic dog foods: “100 per cent organic” means that no undesirable elements have been highly processed. Together with the claim “organic”, the ingredients in the natural food are 95 per cent organic. If it claims “made with organic”, the product involves 70 per penny organic ingredients. Organic and natural food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is also available on the market. This dog food does not contain meat and still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Yet , vegetarian and vegan dog food contains a lot of fruit and vegetables and grains, which can cause problems if the dog is intolerant.
– A unique form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation is short for “biologically species-appropriate natural feeding”. This species-appropriate method of nourishing raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. Once barfing, the dog is fed uncooked fresh meat, often along with raw, pureed fruit or vegetables. Whether this method is actually much healthier is debatable. Since the meals are put together individually, barfing is far more well suited for experienced pet owners who have analyzed this diet of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This is a declaration that needs to be treated with caution. There is no such thing as food-grade pet food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These kinds of are supposed to provide the food a better smell and taste. Some dog fans also avoid pet food/dog food from factory farming.
Difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried hitch
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is made by first drying the natural materials and then grinding and blending them. A painting tool presses this mass through the spaces of a carol wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come away the other part. Throughout the dog food production process, temps of about 90 certifications Celsius are generated, which obviously contradicts the definition of cold pressing. Yet , temperatures are still significantly lower than those employed in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for the dog food are exposed to high temperatures. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These types of must be artificially added to the foodstuff after processing. During processing, the dough-like extruded feed is presented through nozzles at high pressure. Nourish produced in this way swells significantly when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been damaged down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food naturally, slowly and gradually. In addition, the food includes more natural elements. In the event the four-legged good friend has problems with the gastrointestinal tract and a disrupted digestion, extruded dog food can be more tolerable for him. In this dog food, the starch has already been broken down during heating. Nevertheless, the manufacturing process is just a secondary factor in identifying the tolerability and quality of the foodstuff. The most important thing is the quality of the unprocessed trash.
Which is better – moist food or dry out food?
There is moist and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food includes almost no water and therefore has a longer shelf life – often several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew up more and so coach their teeth. Eating dry food is practically like brushing your dog’s teeth. Intended for dogs that drink little, feeding dried out food can be considered a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are given only dry food. Therefore, it is important to provide the dog with enough water. The benefits and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- More affordable than cast food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating system during production
- Even more eco-friendly than canned food
Cons
- Generally less acceptable to your dog
- The dog’s person is deprived of water, so it has to drink significantly more.
- Can lead to overweight quicker if it is not a food items for deiting
- Risk of mould or paziente formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Generally one package of wet food corresponds to one meal. Many dogs like moist food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, wet food for dogs – once opened up – can only be kept for a few days and nights. It should be used up within 2 days of opening. Beneath we have summarised the benefits and disadvantages of wet food:
Pros
- High popularity by most four-legged friends
- Packed in useful helpings
- Because of the high water content in wet food, the dog does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, wet food cannot be stored well
- Large dogs need to know more space for storage
- Even more difficult to hold and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more extreme
- Costs more than dry food
- Generates more waste
It is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is well suited for your dog. Your canine eventually chooses which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your dog likes better and which he tolerates better, you should try out both types.
Some dog owners switch between wet and dry food. The following applies to both types of food: It should just be given as a main meal, never as a treat in between meals. This kind of can lead to overfeeding of your dog.
How much various meats and how many carbs and nutrients fit in in dog food?
The quality of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and proper diet. It is important that the dog food consists of healthy ingredients and nutrients – irrespective of whether it is wet food or dry food. The best composition of your canine food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged good friend.
Simply how much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are originated from wolves – that is why their digestive area is similar to that of predators. So first and foremost, the resource of meat is important. Yet , this is not the only thing that matters. Unlike the wolf, the dog was domesticated by humans, and its needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestion. For example, the dog’s digestive chemical are now able to break down starch, which means that the four-legged friend can also digest herb food in smaller quantities.
Above all, various meats provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for its muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy the teeth and nerves and also to provide energy for its activities. Consequently, senior dogs have a lower proteins requirement because they are no longer as energetic as young or adult animals. In general, experts declare dog food should contain between 50 and 70 per cent meat. But other ingredients are important too. If dog owners feed only meats for their four-legged friends, this could lead to a problem with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Nutritional vitamins, minerals and carbs in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not found in meat – for example , vitamins and mineral deposits found in vegetables and fruit, or fatty acids from healthy natural oils. The four-legged good friend also needs carbohydrates. Wolves, for example, eat the stomach and intestinal contents of prey animals, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from grain, potatoes and cereals into energy and need it for their intestinal flora. However, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from herb waste such as press residues from oil production, sections, husks or hay tend to be added to the feed. Superior quality carbohydrates are located in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal body fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the foodstuff should contain these substances only moderately. Just how much should take the dog food depends on how much the pet moves. Lamb and poultry fats are saturated oily acids. They may be stored in the body as emergency ration and are intended as a reserve for bad times. Meat and vegetable oil contain over loaded omega-6 fatty acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 natural oils, which are seen in fish, are extremely valuable for cell metabolism.
What should be in the dog food? Dog food should contain 50 to 70 pct lean meat or muscle meat or fish with superior quality proteins. In addition, there ought to be about 20 to 50 percent high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary nutritional supplements. The proportion of offal should be a more 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrients such as vitamin h or iron. Very good quality oils such as salmon essential oil or linseed oil based improve nutrient ingestion and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coating and healthy skin.
How do i recognise high-quality dog food?
Puppy food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These types of include:
– Treat and name of the manufacturer
– Date of manufacture or best-before date of the dog food
– Identity of the foodstuff
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various assertions are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient teams. These are, for example , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration lists the individual uncooked materials, but not their percentage. The start declaration gives the structure in percent and the respective resources of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the word feed into individual organizations. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed food, maize flour, maize gluten or grain. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but should not be included in too large quantities.
2. The ingredients in the supply are listed in descending order relating to their volume. The further ahead an ingredient is listed on the label, the higher its proportion. Alternatively, this implies: Only a small proportion of an ingredient that is listed far down the list is included in the feed.
Other aspects by which dog owners recognise the quality of the food are:
– Meat content of 50 to 70 per cent
– Grain and vegetable content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced substances with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– No use of flavor enhancers
These nutrition make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have trouble digesting good dog food. Indications of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrition in a dog food is detailed under the term “analytical ingredients”. We have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and animal by-products indicates the meat content in your canine food. Producers often do not declare just what is included. It can be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, dried meats, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for instance , hair, our bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Seafood and its by-products include fish fillets, our bones and fish mind.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and olive oil fruits. They can be partly health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and gelling agents and acid regulators. Some of these are important. These include, for example , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform uniformity of oil and water. Natural antioxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged friend. They should be included in the right structure, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and trace elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to effect the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal tract flora or digestive : enzymes.
7. Physical additives are used to influence the appearance and taste of your canine food. They will include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight canines suffer! Obesity is a growing problem in dogs with serious health consequences. This can lead to diseases of bodily organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes irritation. Additionally, it may shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Often , too much food is the reason for overweight. Yet age, sex and breed also may play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles often become overweight. Sometimes the use of food items for deiting should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
In the event that the four-legged good friend gets more energy than he consumes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is vital to give puppies the necessary food. How much pet food a dog needs is determined by various factors. In addition to the breed, the following aspects are relevant, for example:
Activity level: How much the four-legged good friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. Your dog that moves a lot burns more calories. If the dog is not so active, it burns fewer calorie consumption and has a slower metabolism. Consequently, he needs less food.
Age: Younger dogs remain growing and are often more curious and energetic. They usually have a higher energy requirement than more mature dogs. It is recommended to reduce the amount of food a little every year. For more mature dogs, there are senior foods that are lower in excess fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs it is time to change at the age of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as early as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Several diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These types of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, osteo-arthritis and diabetes. When ever dogs are recovering from illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormonal levels can climb or fall, changing energy needs. For example , dogs have different energy needs when they are pregnant or change their coat.
To find out just how much food is right for your dog, look at the caloric content of your canine food. A higher calorie content means a lower amount of food is needed. Additionally, dog owners can use the subsequent guidelines as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with an ordinary activity level should be about 2 to 3 % of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 % of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that moves a lot or is coping with an illness should be fed more. His necessary food amount per day is up to 5 pct of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 pct of the daily food requirement.
Anyone who is not sure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and/or a nutritionist.
How can I recognize a food allergic reaction?
The most typical allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible causes of your allergy are, for example , stress, parasites and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can induce allergic reactions. What a dog might be allergic to include, for example , me llaman, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and cause.
What is the between an allergic reaction and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity effect by the dog’s immune system. That reacts strongly against a certain compound. A true food allergy rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Likely indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itchiness, vomiting, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss in fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms might not exactly show up soon after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
However, the symptoms do not really have to indicate an allergic reaction or intolerance. They will can also be caused by another disease. If your dog has these symptoms, you need to have the cause cleared up by a vet. The vet can also determine an allergy or an intolerance, for example , through an allergy test. On the other hand, it is possible to undertake an exclusion diet. However, this involves a lot of effort.
What is an different diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special source of protein and carbs. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged friend hasn’t eaten before. Pet owners should change the dog food bit by little bit. After the food change, the dog is fed the new food for a number of weeks.
When the dog’s condition boosts and the symptoms no more occur, a provocation test is performed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which could be the trigger for the allergies. More than time, a list is made of substances that the dog can put up with or that cause allergic reactions in him. An removal diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. However, it is highly recommended to check with a professional or speak to the vet ahead of time.
Consistent action is essential during an exemption diet. The dog should not be given chews, treats or left over spots during this time.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If this turns out that your four-legged good friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should no more eat the allergy-causing chemicals. The selected pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your dog cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and all dog snacks between meals.
If absolutely nothing changes, patience is called for: sometimes it calls for some time until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy or intolerance no longer happen. Sometimes they only disappear completely a few months following the change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Doggie food often consists of grains. These include whole wheat, barley and rye, for example. Grain have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, an excessive amount of it causes obesity and sometimes to an issue with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of materials, it contains option ingredients such as potatoes and legumes, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and is also also suited to more sensitive dogs. Yet , it is not necessarily essential to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to break down vegetable protein. Several types of grain are also specifically easy to digest. Included in this are maize and rice, for example. In some cases, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without feed. This is especially true if your canine is allergic to food containing cereals.
If you want to give your pet a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not too high and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that dogs can’t tolerate. Some of them are even poisonous for puppies. These include, for example, onions, raw cabbage and raw pork. Onions can be fatal, with respect to the size of the onion and your canine. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. If the dog feeds on raw cabbage, it can get abdomen cramps or flatulence. Raw pork could develop the Aujeszky computer virus, which in turn causes fatal condition. Other foods and drinks that pet dogs must not eat include:
- Chocolate
- Raw taters
- Fruit
- Sultanas
- Fresh fruit pits
- Raw signal
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- Raw eggs
- Some types of avocado
- Birch glucose and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as espresso
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. As a result, caution is recommended in rain messes, for example: Cigarette residues can be found in them. Ashtrays should always be put in such a way that your dog cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for it, you should contact the vet or maybe the veterinary unexpected emergency service directly. In the mean time, keep the dog in a safe environment. However, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch to signs of poisoning. It may be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that can occur with poisoning include:
- Extreme salivation
- Excessive thirst
- Throwing up
- Diarrhoea
- Cramps
- Restlessness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent your canine from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that family members and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. Found in addition, it is necessary to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything off of the side of the trail.
The best choice is the ROYAL CANIN German Shepherd Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG.
ROYAL CANIN German Shepherd Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG
- Complete dog feed for adult and mature German Shepherds – Over 15 months old
- DIGESTIVE PERFORMANCE Contributes to supporting digestive health while taking into account the German Shepherd’s digestive sensitivity, thanks to highly digestible L.I.P. proteins and a selection of specific fibres to limit intestinal fermentation while promoting a balance in the intestinal flora.
Video about best grain free dog food for german shepherds
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and often asked questions about dog food.
What should I actually look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies require a different dog food than adult dogs. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the truth after about 8 weeks. The components and elements of puppy dog food are specially suitable for growing canines. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone tissues, muscles, coat and teeth first have to produce.
With pup dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Previously mentioned all, the puppy food must contain certain essential vitamins and minerals. So that the puppy’s digestive system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than your canine food for adult quadrupeds. In the beginning, young dogs should be provided small portions many times a day, which are then slowly and gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This kind of depends upon the breed of dog: Up-and-coming small to medium breeds are viewed as adults from 9 to 12 months of age. For large breeds, it is recommended to give adult food to dogs from 12 to 15 months of age. For very large breeds, it is advised to give adult food a little later – from 18 to 24 months.
When should my dog be given food for older persons?
For small canines, the change in diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, it is time at 8 to 9 years. Large different breeds are considered senior at 7 to 8 years old. In addition to age, the dog’s state of health is also an important criterion. It is advisable to discuss the change of food with the vet.
What is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be kept in an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers without plasticisers are best. Packaging with a metal layer on the inside is also recommended for storing dried food. The container or packaging should be stored in a dry and not too warm place. Otherwise the food can become “sticky” and lose its taste and nutrients. In the worst case, mould can develop.
Precisely what is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the British and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate natural feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is founded on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed natural food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, compound and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat are available in the shops. Pet owners can add the other necessary components. Yet , you should notify yourself well or consult with experts.
What do I have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food must be done slowly. In the event that the changeover is abrupt, sensitive puppies in particular can quickly suffer from digestive problems, some of that can be considerable. A time of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get used to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as follows: On day 1 and 2, replace about a quarter of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the third and fourth day, replace half with the new food. Around the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be three quarters. On day 7, the changeover is complete.
In the event the dog acts sensitively and, for instance , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the meals change, you should extend the adaptation phase and improve the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food in any way, it is obviously not suitable for him. In cases like this, you should look for an option.
What should I actually do if my dog will not like dry food?
Then it makes sense to soak the dry food. This has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells in the stomach first. This makes it easier for them to become overweight and feel full. In the event the food has already enlarged in water, it fills the dog up faster and is much easier to digest. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with condensed dry food.
How fast do dogs digest dry food?
Dogs usually need up to 14 several hours to digest dry out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and size of the dog and the quality of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an more mature animal. The number of food is important too. Small portions are digested more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibres remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Low-fat food also brings about faster digestion. Additionally , the more liquid the meals is, the shorter the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in mature dogs.
Are pet tests carried out for dog food?
You will find quite a few manufacturers who carry out pet experiments to test the effects and tolerance of their newly developed types of food. PETA’s website publishes a set of manufacturers who do not test on animals.
Which manufacturers and brands produce dog food?
The best-known dog food manufacturers and dog food brands include, for example , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
When can I start nourishing a puppy?
During the first weeks of its life, a puppy is federal reserve breast milk by its mother. Solid food is usually eaten by puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time period, the mother is constantly on the give food to her puppies with breast milk in parallel. To be able to accustom a puppy to dry food, it feels right to moisten or dilute it which includes liquid – for example with puppy dog milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no longer provided with mother’s dairy.
Experts recommend soaking dry puppy food with a solution until the puppy is 5 or 6 months old. To get the puppy used to the harder food, blend more and more non-soaked food pieces over time.
Making dog food yourself – will it seem sensible?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than acquired food. However, it really does incorporate some advantages:
– If you make the dog food yourself, you can decide for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Dog owners can include the special needs of their four-legged good friend in the preparing and adapt the foodstuff to these and the dog’s flavor.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for example , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it could be sensible or required to prepare the food yourself. Before planning the food, you should study different substances. The food should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is often advisable to talk to a vet beforehand. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the Internet, for example.
Some foods are unhealthy or toxic for puppies. For example, onions and garlic should not be consumed by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially ideal for dogs with allergic reactions. It truly is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily digested by your canine. There is hypoallergenic dry food and allergies wet food on the market. That contains few or no substances that cause allergic reactions in dogs. Appropriately, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your canine will not tolerate it and that hypersensitive reactions will occur.
Usually there is just one source of necessary protein in such a product. This is usually an amazing meat, such as kangaroo or drinking water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely causes an intolerance. However, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can lead to allergies. This kind of happens when we have a substance in the foodstuff that the four-legged friend cannot tolerate.
In addition to dogs with allergic reactions, hypoallergenic food is well suited for four-legged friends with a sensitive digestive tract. For these dogs, such a product can provide protection against digestive problems.
