The particular best for the dog – according to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but most importantly, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrition 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 wide variety of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and what quantity? Which in turn food is ideal where age? Is usually dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be given? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best natural dog food for german shepherds, we present 10 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pet dogs the products are suitable. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and make clear how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot endure and how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best natural dog food for german shepherds:
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Royal Canin Dog Food German Shepherd 24 Dry Mix 3kg
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£20.60
£23.05 - Royal Canin Puppy/Junior Complete Dog Food for German Shepherd (3kg) — £25.11
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Alpha Sensitive Complete Dry Dog Food Chicken and Rice, 15 kg
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£30.99
£35.69 -
Crave Dry Dog Food Natural for dogs – High Protein & Grain-Free – Turkey &...
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£39.99
£53.52 - The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Adult, Working Dogs and All Breeds... — £41.90
- Arden Grange Adult Premium Dry Dog Food Rich in Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg — £54.49
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Barking Heads Dry Dog Food for Senior Dogs - Golden Years - 100% Natural...
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£65.79
£79.99 - Royal Canin Dog Food German Shepherd Junior 30 Dry Mix 12kg — £71.63
- Royal Canin Dog Food German Shepherd Junior 30 Dry Mix 3kg — £24.79
- 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 natural 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 our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best natural dog food for german shepherds
Best natural dog food for german shepherds
ROYAL CANIN German Shepherd Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG
Features
| Size | 3kg |
Royal Canin Puppy/Junior Complete Dog Food for German Shepherd (3kg)
Features
- Royal Canin
- German Shepherd
- Complete Dry Mix for Puppies
- Size: 3kg
Royal Canin Dog Food German Shepherd 24 Dry Mix 3kg
£20.60
Features
- For German Shepherds over 15 months
- Targeted digestive performance
- Supports sensitive skin
- Strong natural defences
- Joint support
Royal Canin Dog Food German Shepherd Junior 30 Dry Mix 3kg
Features
- For German Shepherds up to 15 months
- Targeted digestive security
- Osteo-articular support
- Supports sensitive skin
- Promotes strong natural defences
Royal Canin Dog Food German Shepherd Junior 30 Dry Mix 12kg
Features
- For German Shepherds up to 15 months
- Targeted digestive security
- Osteo-articular support
- Supports sensitive skin
- Promotes strong natural defences
Barking Heads Dry Dog Food for Senior Dogs - Golden Years - 100% Natural Free-Run Chicken and Fish with No Artificial Flavours, Optimal Protein and Fat Levels for Senior Dogs, 12 kg
£65.79
Features
- OPTIMAL PROTEIN AND FAT FOR SENIOR DOGS- Our Golden Years dry food for dogs has been specially formulated for old, wiser dogs. This nutritionally balanced recipe contains optimal levels of protein and fat for your senior canine companion
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS - This dry dog food recipe is made using only the best quality, natural ingredients. Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives
- AIDS DIGESTION AND JOINT HEALTH - This pet food is made using a formula that aids healthy digestion and contains added extra joint support too.
- 40% CHICKEN, TROUT AND SALMON- This yummy pet food for older dogs blends chicken, trout, and salmon with vegetables and herbs to ensure your pooch's tail is left wagging
- APPROVED BY VETS - Our natural dog food is approved by vets for senior dogs of all breeds
The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Adult, Working Dogs and All Breeds - 14 Kilograms, High Calorie, High Energy Formula
Features
- High protein (32%) and fat (21%) content - this food has been specially developed to meet the nutritional requirements of active, sporting and working dogs.
- Contains plant extracts: Rosemarinus, Vitis, Curcuma, Citrus, Eugenia - powerful antioxidants which slow down cell damage and the aging process.
- No added gluten, free of soya and chemical dyes. No artificial preservatives. Only natural antioxidants.
- The real label - 300 g of dried chicken in 1 kg of food corresponds to 1140 g of fresh meat. In The Hunger of The Wolf dog food we use a meal or dried meat 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.
- 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.
Crave Dry Dog Food Natural for dogs – High Protein & Grain-Free – Turkey & Chicken, 3x 2.8kg
£39.99
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
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
£30.99
Features
- Gluten free
- Wheat free
- Nutritionally formulated for sensitive stomachs
- Easy soak for sensitive teeth and gums
- 20% protein
Only the best for the dog – regarding to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but above all, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrition and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so easy to find the right food for your own dog. Similar to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide variety of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and in what quantity? Which in turn food is appropriate at which age? Is dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be fed? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following dog food comparison, we present 14 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 a dog needs. In addition, you will see which foods dogs cannot endure and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food easily
Simply as every person has their own nutritional needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that moves into the dog’s bowl should be produced according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Grow older also plays a role.
Puppies are growing and need special nutrients. In addition, their digestive system is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs carbs, fats, oils, proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. More mature dogs have a slow metabolism and are no for a longer time as active. Therefore, they need less energy, i. e. calorie consumption. Nevertheless , the dog food should be easy to break down and include a whole lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food fluctuate in words of composition, method of creation and consistency.
Structure – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed consists of all the nutrition the dog needs on a regular basis. The portion of proteins, fatty acids, nutritional supplements varies with respect to the product. The ingredients should be adapted to age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A whole food can be dry or cast food. Supplementary foods are not sufficient per to provide the dog with all the vital nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner blends into the food or treats. The declaration shows what it is.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in dog or cat shops and food markets usually comes from professional production. This kind of is the most typical kind of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. With the latter, one bowl is sufficient for one portion. However, some manufacturers of industrial dog food use genetically altered raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long shelf life. By conditions, this dog food can be stored unopened for many years without the loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from plant, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or prepared. The food should never contain any chemically synthesised additives. Nevertheless , certain synthetic minerals and vitamins are permitted. In conditions of packaging, there is often extremely little difference compared to industrial food: natural dog food is packaged in cups or as dry out food.
– Organic dog food must comply with harsher guidelines regarding elements. For example, the product should not contain numerous substances such as genetically revised ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will discover variations between the various organic and natural dog foods: “100 per penny organic” means that no undesirable elements have been prepared. With all the claim “organic”, the constituents in the natural food are 95 per penny organic. If it states “made with organic”, the product contains 70 per dollar natural ingredients. Organic food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is available too on the market. This kind of dog food will not contain meat and still provides the dog with the important nutrients. However , vegan and vegan dog food contains a lot of fresh vegetables and grains, which can issues if the dog is intolerant.
– A special form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation is short for “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. This species-appropriate method of feeding raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When barfing, the dog is fed uncooked fresh meat, often combined with raw, pureed fruit or fresh vegetables. Whether this method is actually healthier is debatable. Because the meals are merged individually, barfing is more ideal for experienced dog owners who have studied the diet program 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 should be treated with caution. There is no such thing as food-grade dog or cat food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These types of are supposed to provide the food the smell and flavor. Some dog lovers 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 produced by first drying the raw materials and then grinding and mixing them. A roller presses this mass through the openings of a carol wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come away the other side. Through the dog food production process, temps of about 90 levels Celsius are produced, which obviously contradicts the term cold depressing. However , temperatures are still significantly lower than those employed in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for your dog food are exposed to great heat. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These types of must be artificially added to the foodstuff after processing. During digesting, the dough-like extruded feed is presented through nozzles at high pressure. Feed produced in this way swells considerably when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been busted down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food obviously, slowly and gradually. In addition, the food contains more natural substances. In the event the four-legged 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. On the other hand, the manufacturing process is only a secondary factor in figuring out the tolerability and quality of the meals. The most important thing is the quality of the recycleables.
Which is better – wet food or dried out food?
There is certainly wet and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food contains hardly any water and therefore has a longer shelf life . usually several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to munch more and therefore teach their teeth. Eating dry food is almost like brushing your dog’s teeth. Intended for dogs that drink little, feeding dry food can be a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are provided 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
- Less costly than damp food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating system during production
- Even more environmentally friendly than refined food
Cons
- Frequently less acceptable to your canine
- The dog’s body is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight more quickly if it is not a diet food
- Risk of mould or temperato formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Frequently one package of wet food corresponds to one meal. Many dogs like damp food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, damp food for puppies – once opened up – can only be kept for a few days and nights. It should be used up within 2 times of opening. Beneath we have summarised the benefits and disadvantages of wet food:
Pros
- High acceptance by most four-legged friends
- Packed in useful servings
- Mainly because of the high water content in wet food, your dog does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, moist food cannot be stored perfectly
- Good sized dogs need to know more space for storage
- Even more difficult to transport and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more extreme
- Costs more than dry food
- Produces more waste
This is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is well suited for your dog. The dog finally decides which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your puppy likes better and which this individual tolerates better, you should try out both types.
A few dog owners switch between wet and dry food. The following relates 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 the dog.
How much meat and exactly how many carbs and nutrients belong in dog food?
The caliber of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and healthy diet. It is important that the dog food includes healthy ingredients and nutrients – regardless of whether it is wet food or dry food. The best composition of the dog food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged friend.
Simply how much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are descended from wolves – that is why their digestive tract is similar to those of predators. Thus above all, the supply of meat is important. Nevertheless , 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 enzyme are now able to break down starch, meaning that the four-legged friend can also digest flower food in smaller quantities.
To start with, 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. As a result, senior dogs have a lower proteins requirement because they are no longer as active as young or adult animals. In general, experts declare dog food should contain between 50 and 70 % meat. But other ingredients are also important. If dog owners feed only meats for their four-legged friends, this may lead to a problem with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamin supplements, minerals and carbohydrates in dog food?
A well-balanced dog diet also includes nutrients that are not found in meat – for instance , vitamins and nutrients found in fruits and veggies, or fatty acids from healthy natural oils. The four-legged good friend also needs carbs. Wolves, for example, eat the belly and intestinal contents of prey pets or animals, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from rice, potatoes and cereals into energy and need it for their intestinal flora. On the other hand, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from herb waste such as press residues from oil production, stalks, husks or straw tend to be added to the feed. High-quality carbohydrates are located in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal fats provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the foodstuff should contain these chemicals only moderately. Just how much should be in the dog food will depend on how much the dog moves. Lamb and poultry fat are saturated fatty acids. They are stored in the body as emergency rations and are intended as a reserve for bad times. Meat and veg oil contain saturated omega-6 fatty acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 oils, which are present in fish, are extremely valuable for cell metabolism.
What should maintain the dog food? Dog food should include 50 to 70 per cent lean meat or muscle meat or fish with top quality proteins. In addition, there should be about 20 to 50 % 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 biotin or iron. Great quality oils such as salmon essential oil or linseed oil based improve nutrient consumption and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coating and healthy skin.
How could i recognise high-quality dog food?
Puppy food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These types of include:
– Talk about and name of the manufacturer
– Date of manufacture or best-before time of the dog food
– Identity of the food
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various statements are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient types. These are, for example , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration prospect lists the individual raw materials, although not their percentage. The start declaration provides the formula in per cent 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 grain into individual groups. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed meal, maize flour, maize gluten or feed. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but must not be included in too large volumes.
2. The substances in the give food to are listed in descending order according to their quantity. The further forwards an ingredient is listed on the label, the higher its proportion. Conversely, this implies: Only a small proportion of an ingredient that is listed far throughout the list is within 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 veggie content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced elements with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– Very little use of flavour enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have any trouble digesting good dog food. Signs 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 certainly 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 pet by-products indicates the meat content in the dog food. Manufacturers 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 example , hair, our bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Seafood as well as by-products include fish fillets, bones and fish mind.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and essential oil fruits. They are to some extent health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and gelling agents and acidity regulators. Many of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform regularity 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 within the right composition, 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 flora or digestive enzymes.
7. Physical additives are employed to influence the appearance and taste of your canine food. That they include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight dogs suffer! Obesity is an increasing problem in dogs with serious health consequences. It can lead to diseases of bodily organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes inflammation. Additionally, it may shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Frequently , too much food is the reason for overweight. Nevertheless age, sex and breed also be involved. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles often become overweight. At times the use of diet food should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
If the four-legged friend gets more energy than he uses, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is very important to give dogs the necessary food. How much pet food a dog needs depends upon various factors. In addition to the breed, the subsequent aspects are relevant, for example:
Activity level: How much the four-legged 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 calories from fat and has a slower metabolism. Consequently, he needs less food.
Age: Younger dogs remain growing and tend to be more curious and active. They usually have a higher energy requirement than more mature dogs. It really is a good idea to reduce the number of food a little each year. For older dogs, there are senior foods that are lower in fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs you need to change at the era of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as early as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: A few diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These types of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, joint disease and diabetes. When ever dogs are recovering from illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormonal levels can surge or fall, changing energy needs. For instance , dogs have different energy needs when they are with child or change their coat.
To find out just how much food is right for your dog, look at the calorie content of your canine food. A higher calorie content means a lower amount of food is needed. Additionally, pet owners can use the next rules of thumb as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with a regular activity level should be about 2 to 3 percent of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 percent of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that techniques a lot or is recovering from an illness should be fed more. His necessary food amount per day is up to 5 % of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 % of the daily food requirement.
Any person who is uncertain about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and/or a nutritionist.
How can I recognise a food allergy?
The most frequent allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible sets off of an allergy are, for example , stress, parasitic organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can trigger allergic reactions. Ingredients that a dog might be allergic to include, for instance , mi nombre es, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and cause.
What is the between an allergy or intolerance and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity effect by the dog’s immune system. That reacts strongly against a certain substance. A real food allergy rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Likely symptoms of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itchiness, vomiting, stomach pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, lack of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms may not show up immediately after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
On the other hand, the symptoms do not necessarily have to indicate an allergy or intolerance. They may also be caused by another disease. In the event your dog has these symptoms, you need to have the cause solved with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergy or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. Alternatively, it is possible to undertake an exclusion diet. However, this involves a number of effort.
What is an different diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special way to obtain protein and sugars. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged friend hasn’t eaten before. Dog owners should change the dog food bit by little. After the food change, your canine is fed the new food for a number of weeks.
When the dog’s condition improves 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 eradication diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. However, it is a good idea to consult a professional or talk to the vet beforehand.
Consistent action is crucial during an exclusion diet. The dog should not be given chews, treats or left over spots during this time period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
Whether it turns out that your four-legged good friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should no longer eat the allergy-causing substances. The selected pet food must therefore not contain any substances that the dog cannot tolerate. The same applies to treats and all dog snacks between meals.
If absolutely nothing changes, patience is called for: sometimes it needs a little while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy or intolerance no longer occur. Sometimes they only disappear completely weeks following your change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Doggie food often includes grains. These include whole wheat, barley and rye, for example. Embryon have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, an excessive amount of it leads to 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 dried beans, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and it is also suited to more sensitive dogs. Nevertheless , it is not necessarily necessary to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to digest vegetable protein. A few types of materials are also specifically easy to break down. Included in this are maize and rice, for example. Sometimes, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without grain. This is especially true if your canine is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event that you want to give your puppy a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not way too high and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that puppies can’t tolerate. Some of them are even poisonous for dogs. These include, for example, onions, organic cabbage and organic pork. Onions can be fatal, with respect to the size of the onion and the dog. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. If a dog feeds on raw cabbage, it can get belly cramps or flatulence. Raw pork could retain the Aujeszky disease, which in turn causes fatal illness. Other foods and drinks that pet dogs should not eat include:
- Chocolate
- Raw potatoes
- Vineyard
- Sultanas
- Fruits pits
- Raw pulses
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- Raw ova
- Some types of avocado
- Birch glucose and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as coffee
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Therefore, caution is suggested in rain puddles, for example: Cigarette residues can be found in them. Ashtrays should always be placed in such a way that your dog cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous because of it, you should contact the vet or maybe the veterinary unexpected emergency service directly. In the mean time, keep the dog in a secure environment. On the other hand, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch out for signs of poisoning. It may be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that may occur with poisoning include:
- Extreme salivation
- Excessive thirst
- Throwing up
- Diarrhoea
- Aches
- Uneasyness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent your canine from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that relatives and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. In addition, it is crucial to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything at all off of the side of the road.
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
Video about best natural 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 We 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 case after about 2 months. The components and ingredients of puppy dog food are specially created for growing canines. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone tissues, muscles, coat and teeth first have to build up.
With pup dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Previously mentioned all, the pup food must contain certain essential vitamins and minerals. So that the puppy’s digestive tract is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than your canine food for adult quadrupeds. Found in the beginning, young dogs should be given small portions a couple of times a day, which are then slowly increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This kind of will depend on the breed of dog: Up-and-coming small to medium breeds are considered older people 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 enhancements made on diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, its about time at 8 to 9 years. Large bread of dogs are considered older at 7 to 8 years of age. In addition to age, the dog’s condition of health is also an important criterion. It is highly recommended to discuss the change of food with the vet.
What is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be held in an snug 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 foodstuff can become “sticky” and lose its preference and nutrients. At worst, 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 raw 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 whole food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, herbal oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, chemical substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat can be purchased in the shops. Dog owners can add the other necessary components. Yet , you should advise yourself well or check with with experts.
What do We have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food must be done slowly. In the event the changeover is abrupt, sensitive dogs in particular can quickly suffer from digestive : problems, some of which can be considerable. An interval of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get used to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as employs: On day 1 and 2, replace about an one fourth of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3 rd and fourth day, replace half with the new food. Around the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be 3 quarters. On day 7, the move is complete.
In the event that the dog responds sensitively and, for instance , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the food change, you should extend the variation phase and raise the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food whatsoever, it is obviously not suited to him. In this instance, you should look for an alternative.
What should We do if my dog does not like dry food?
After that it makes sense to soak the dry food. This has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells up in the stomach first. This makes it easier for them to become overweight and feel full. In case the food has already inflamed 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?
Canines usually need up to 14 several hours to digest dry out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and scale the dog and the standard of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an more mature animal. The amount of food is important too. Tiny portions are broken down more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble muscles remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Less fat food also results in faster digestion. In addition , the more liquid the meals is, the shortest the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in adult dogs.
Are animal tests carried out for dog food?
There are quite a few manufacturers who carry out animal experiments to test the effects and tolerance of their newly developed types of food. PETA’s website publishes a list 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
Once may i start feeding a puppy?
During the beginning of its life, a puppy is fed breast milk by its mother. Solid food is usually eaten by pups from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time, the mother is constantly on the give food to her puppies with breast milk in parallel. In order to accustom a puppy to dry food, it makes sense to moisten or dilute it with a liquid – for example with pup milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally will no longer given with mother’s milk.
Experts recommend soaking your dry puppy food with a liquid until the pup 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 – does indeed it make sense?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than acquired food. However, it does incorporate some advantages:
– In case you make the dog food yourself, you can make a decision for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Doggie owners range from the special needs of their four-legged good friend in the preparing and adapt the food to these and the dog’s preference.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for instance , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it may be sensible or necessary to prepare the food yourself. Before preparing the meals, you should study the different substances. The meals should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is often a good idea to talk to a vet ahead of time. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the web, for example.
Certain foods are unhealthy or toxic for canines. For example, onions and garlic should not be consumed by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suited to dogs with allergy symptoms. 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 out food and hypoallergenic wet food on the market. It contains few or no substances that cause allergic reactions in dogs. Appropriately, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your dog will not tolerate it and that allergic reactions will happen.
Usually there is only one source of protein in such a product. This is usually an amazing meat, such as kangaroo or normal water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely causes an intolerance. Nevertheless, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can lead to allergic reactions. This kind of happens when there exists a substance in the meals that the four-legged friend cannot put up with.
In addition to dogs with allergy symptoms, hypoallergenic food is ideal for four-legged friends with a sensitive digestive tract. For these dogs, such a product can offer prevention of digestive problems.
