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 occupation, 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 no problem finding 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. Different questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and in what quantity? Which usually food is appropriate at which age? Is dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be given? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following best raw dog food for german shepherds, we present 10 products. You can expect information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pups the products are suitable. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and explain how much food a dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot tolerate and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best raw dog food for german shepherds:
- Pet Naturals® of Vermont - Daily Multi for Dogs, Everyday Multivitamin... — £13.09
- Natures Menu Puppy Junior Dog Food 8x300g — £15.27
-
Winalot Perfect Portions Dog Food Mixed in Jelly, 80 x 100 g
—
£25.00
£28.92 - The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Adult Dogs and Large or Giant... — £37.70
- Arden Grange Adult Premium Dry Dog Food Rich in Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg — £54.49
- Royal Canin Maxi Adult Dry Dog Food For Large Dogs (26 to 45 kg) Aged From 15... — £71.75
- 4PAWSRAW Raw Dog Food Mixed Meat Variety Box 20 x 560g packs 11.2kg Box RAW...
-
Autarky Hypoallergenic Delicious Chicken Dry Dog Food with Added Herbs, 12 kg
—
£18.65
£23.29 - Natures Variety Dog Adult Freeze Dried Pure Whole Food Turkey 840Gm
- 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 raw 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 raw dog food for german shepherds
Best raw 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
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
Features
- Complete and balanced recipes.
- No grain.
- No cereal.
- No artificial colours, flavours or preservatives.
- Nutritious superfoods.
Winalot Perfect Portions Dog Food Mixed in Jelly, 80 x 100 g
£25.00
Features
- 100% complete and balanced
- No added artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
- With vegetables and essential vitamins and minerals
- Helps support shiny coat & healthy skin
- Developed by Pet Food experts
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.
Pet Naturals® of Vermont - Daily Multi for Dogs, Everyday Multivitamin Formula with 28 Canine Specific Nutrients, 30 Bite-Sized Chews
Features
- Daily Multi is the complete multivitamin formula to keep your furry friend feeling their best! Daily Multi contains 30 carefully selected nutrients to help dogs of all breeds and sizes perform and feel their best
- Daily Multi for Dogs is a veterinarian formulated supplement for use in dogs of all ages. It includes many nutrients that are often left out of or processed out of commercial dog foods.
- Daily Multi helps round out diets of all types. One chew can provide the additional nutrients that are sometimes lacking in home-made diets, specialty diets and raw diets.
- We confirm with our own pets before we package any chews. Daily Multi chews have a delicious vegetable flavor makes them easy to give and will have your pet literally begging for more.
- Pet Naturals Daily Multi is made in the USA and formulated by veterinarians using carefully selected ingredients proven to keep your dog feeling happy and healthy
Autarky Hypoallergenic Delicious Chicken Dry Dog Food with Added Herbs, 12 kg
£18.65
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
Natures Menu Puppy Junior Dog Food 8x300g
Features
- Made with whole cuts of meat.
- Gently cooked to retain nutrients.
- Responsibly sourced, human-grade ingredients
- No meat meals or meat derivatives.
- Vet approved.
4PAWSRAW Raw Dog Food Mixed Meat Variety Box 20 x 560g packs 11.2kg Box RAW Frozen Dog Food
Features
- RAW DOG FOOD --- Raw dog food makes our dogs happier and healthier. Raw foods are easily digested, species appropriate and contain all of the important vitamins and minerals. If you are a dog owner with a busy lifestyle and don’t have much time to prepare varied raw meals for your pet but want them to benefit from a raw diet, then 4PAWSRAW raw dog food is the convenient option.
- MIXED MEAT FOR DOGS --- As pet parents, we looks for things that can make pets healthier. Many of us try to achieve this by providing them with the best diet. This mixed meat for dogs consists of meals that are freshly prepared and contain a variety of fresh uncooked meat. Mixed meat variety box provides the variety that is essential to feeding dogs a balanced, raw meat diet that includes bone & offal.
- ✔ DOG FOOD IN CUBES --- Your pet’s diet is the foundation for his or her health. These convenient meals for your dog are an excellent source of protein, fat vitamins and minerals. This raw frozen dog food can improve digestion, reduction of allergy symptoms, shinier, healthier skin and coat, cleaner teeth and fresh breath. Harder, smaller, less smelly stools. This food is presented in 4 convenient cubes in one packet.
- HEALTHY MEALS FOR DOG--- Variety is essential, this packs contains a variety of mixed meat for dogs. Healthy dog foods suitable for dogs of all ages with no additives. Feeding a raw diet to improve your dogs enthusiasm for eating well.
- PERFECT FOR ALL DOGS --- Add this raw frozen dog food to you dog diet, your dog will love this diet. Your dog's coat will be shinier and stronger. Raw dog food mixed meat can provide superior joint and bone health. Improved skin and softer, shinier coat. Superior dental health. This pet food is perfect for young dogs, adult dogs, and mature dogs and can be adapted to suit all.
Royal Canin Maxi Adult Dry Dog Food For Large Dogs (26 to 45 kg) Aged From 15 Months To 5 Years - 15kg
Features
- Royal Canin
- Maxi Adult Dog Food
Only the best for the dog – relating to this motto, 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 good 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 multitude of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Different questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have in addition to what quantity? Which in turn food is appropriate from which age? Is dry or wet food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be provided? What can 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 pups the products are suitable. In 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 understand which foods dogs cannot tolerate and how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food quickly
Just 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. Age group 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, proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Older dogs have a slow metabolism and are no for a longer time as active. Therefore, they require less energy, i. e. calories from fat. However , the dog food should be easy to break down and include a lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food differ in terms of composition, method of creation and consistency.
Structure – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed contains all the nutrition the dog needs on a daily basis. The portion of proteins, fatty acids, nutritional supplements differs based on 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 wet food. Supplementary foods are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the crucial nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner mixes into the food or treats. The declaration shows what it is.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in family pet shops and food markets usually comes from business production. This is the most common form of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often completed cans or small aluminium trays. Together with the latter, one pan is sufficient for one portion. However, some manufacturers of industrial dog food use genetically modified raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long corner life. By exceptions, this dog food can be stored unopened for many years with no loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from grow, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or processed. The food should not contain any chemically synthesised additives. Yet , certain synthetic vitamins and minerals are permitted. In terms of packaging, there is often hardly any difference compared to commercial food: natural dog food is packaged in cans or as dry out food.
– Organic dog food must comply with tighter guidelines regarding substances. For example, the product should never contain numerous substances such as genetically modified ingredients, hormones and pesticides. There are differences between the various organic and natural dog foods: “100 per dollar organic” means that no undesirable elements have been processed. With all the claim “organic”, the constituents in the natural food are 95 per cent organic. Whether it states “made with organic”, the product contains 70 per cent organic and natural ingredients. Organic food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is also available on the market. This kind of dog food does not contain meat and still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Nevertheless , vegetarian and vegan dog food contains a lot of fresh vegetables and grains, which can issues if the dog is intolerant.
– An exclusive form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation stands for “biologically species-appropriate organic feeding”. This species-appropriate method of nourishing raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. Once barfing, the dog is fed natural fresh meat, often coupled with raw, pureed fruit or vegetables. Whether this method is actually healthier is debatable. Since the meals are merged individually, barfing is far more suitable for experienced dog owners who have learned the diet program of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This kind of is an assertion that should 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 are supposed to supply the food an improved smell and preference. Some dog fans also avoid dog or cat food/dog food from factory farming.
Big 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 blending them. A painting tool presses this mass through the opportunities of a carol wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other side. Through the dog food production process, temperatures of around 90 levels Celsius are generated, which obviously contradicts the word cold depressing. However , temperatures are still significantly lower than those utilized in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for your dog food are exposed to high temperatures. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These must be artificially added to the food after processing. During processing, the dough-like extruded feed is communicated through nozzles at high pressure. Give food to 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 normally, little by little. In addition, the food contains more natural substances. In case the four-legged good friend has problems with the gastrointestinal area and an annoyed digestion, extruded dog food can be more tolerable for him. In this dog food, the starch has already been broken down during heating. However, the manufacturing process is just a supplementary factor in identifying the tolerability and quality of the food. The most important thing is the quality of the unprocessed trash.
Which is better – moist food or dry 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 hardly any water and therefore has a longer shelf life . usually several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew more and therefore coach their teeth. Ingesting dry food is practically like brushing your dog’s teeth. For dogs that drink little, feeding dried out 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
- More affordable 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 processed food
Cons
- Generally less acceptable to your canine
- The dog’s body is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight quicker 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. Generally one package of wet food corresponds to one meal. Various dogs like moist food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, damp food for canines – once exposed – can only be kept for a few days. It must be used up within 2 times of opening. Beneath we have summarised the advantages and drawbacks of wet food:
Pros
- High approval by most four-legged friends
- Packed in handy servings
- 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, moist food cannot be stored perfectly
- Good sized dogs need to know more space for storage
- Even more difficult to hold and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more intense
- Costs more than dry food
- Generates more waste
That is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suitable for your dog. Your canine in the end decides which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your pet likes better and which he tolerates better, you should try away both types.
Several dog owners swap between wet and dry food. The following applies to both types of food: It should be given as a main meal, never as a treat in between meals. This can lead to overfeeding of your canine.
How much meats and just how many sugars and nutrients are supposed to be in dog food?
The standard of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and proper diet. It is important that the dog food contains healthy ingredients and nutrients – no matter of whether it is wet food or dry food. The best composition of your dog 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 system is similar to those of predators. Therefore first and foremost, the resource of meat is important. However , this is not the only thing that matters. Unlike the wolf, the dog was domesticated by humans, as well as its needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestive function. For example, the dog’s digestive chemical are now able to break down starch, meaning that the four-legged friend can also digest flower food in smaller quantities.
Above all, meats provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for its muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy tooth and nerves also to provide energy for its activities. Consequently, senior dogs have a lower proteins requirement because they are no longer as active as young or adult animals. In general, experts admit dog food should contain between 50 and 70 percent meat. But other ingredients are also important. If dog owners feed only various meats with their four-legged friends, this could lead to digestive problems, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Nutritional vitamins, minerals and sugars in dog food?
A well-balanced dog diet also includes nutrients that are not present in meat – for instance , vitamins and nutrients found in fruits and veggies, or fatty acids from healthy natural oils. The four-legged friend also needs carbs. Wolves, for example, eat the abdomen and intestinal items of prey animals, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from grain, potatoes and cereals into energy and want 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 in many cases are added to the feed. Top quality carbohydrates are normally found in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the foodstuff should contain these chemicals only less often. How much should be in the dog food depends upon how much the animal moves. Lamb and poultry body fat are saturated oily acids. They may be stored in the body as emergency portion and are designed as a reserve for bad times. Meat and veg oil contain saturated omega-6 fatty stomach acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 natural oils, which are seen in fish, are extremely valuable for cellular metabolism.
What should take the dog food? Dog food should consist of 50 to 70 pct lean meat or muscle meat or fish with top quality proteins. In addition, there should be about 20 to 50 percent high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary vitamins and minerals. 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 oil or linseed oil improve nutrient ingestion and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coat and healthy pores and skin.
How could i recognise top quality dog food?
Puppy food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These include:
– Address 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 lists the individual raw materials, but not their percentage. The open declaration provides formula in per cent and the respective sources of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the word materials into individual organizations. 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 source. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but really should not be included in too large amounts.
2. The ingredients in the supply are listed in descending order according to their volume. The further forward an ingredient is listed on the label, the better its proportion. Conversely, this implies: Only a tiny proportion of an ingredient that is listed far down 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 vegetable content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced ingredients with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– Zero use of flavor enhancers
These nutrition make a good dog food
The dog’s organism has no 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 outlined under the definition of “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 precisely what is engaged. It may 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 its by-products include fish fillets, bone fragments and fish mind.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and olive oil fruits. They are partly health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and solidifying agents and acid regulators. Many of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform regularity of oil and water. Natural vitamin 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 search for elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to impact the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the digestive tract flora or digestive : enzymes.
7. Sensory additives are utilized to influence the appearance and taste of your dog food. That they include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight puppies suffer! Obesity is an expanding 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 irritation. It may also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Often , too much food is the reason for overweight. Yet age, sex and breed also be involved. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles often become overweight. Sometimes the use of diet food should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
In the event that the four-legged good friend gets more energy than he uses, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is crucial to give dogs the necessary food. How much pet food a dog needs depends on 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 calorie consumption and has a slower metabolism. Consequently, he needs less food.
Age: Young dogs are still growing and tend to be more curious and lively. They usually have a higher energy requirement than more mature dogs. It truly is a good idea to reduce the number of food a little annually. For old dogs, there are senior foods that are reduced 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: Several diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These types of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, joint disease and diabetes. When 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 with child or change their coat.
To find out just how much food is right for your dog, look at the food content of your canine food. A higher calorie content means a reduced 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 a regular 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 pct of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that techniques 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 per cent of the daily food requirement.
Anyone who is unsure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and a nutritionist.
Just how can I recognise a food allergic reaction?
The most common allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible triggers of an allergy are, for example , stress, parasitic organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can induce allergic reactions. Ingredients that a dog might be allergic to include, for example , me llaman, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grains.
What is the between an allergy and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction by the dog’s immune system. That reacts strongly against a certain compound. A genuine food allergy rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Possible indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itching, vomiting, abs pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss in fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms might 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. That they may also be caused by another disease. If your dog has these symptoms, you ought to have the cause clarified by a vet. The vet can also determine an allergy or intolerance or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. Additionally, it is possible to undertake an different diet. However, this involves a lot of effort.
What is an exclusion 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 good friend has not eaten before. Dog owners should change the dog food bit by little. Following your food change, your dog is fed the new food for several weeks.
When the dog’s condition improves and the symptoms no longer occur, a provocation test is carried out. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which may be the trigger for the allergy symptoms. Above time, a list is made of substances that the dog can put up with or that cause allergic reactions in him. An elimination diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. Nevertheless, it is a good idea to check with a professional or talk to the vet ahead of time.
Consistent action is essential during an exemption diet. The dog must not be given chews, treats or outstanding during this time period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If this turns out that your four-legged friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should will no longer eat the allergy-causing substances. The selected family pet food must therefore not contain any substances that the dog cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and all dog snacks between meals.
If absolutely nothing changes, patience is necesary: sometimes it takes some time until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy no longer occur. Sometimes they only disappear completely months following the change in food.
Precisely what is grain-free dog food?
Dog food often contains grains. Such as whole wheat, barley and rye, for example. Grains have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, an excessive amount of it causes obesity and sometimes to a problem with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of feed, it contains alternate ingredients such as potatoes and legumes, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and is also well suited for more sensitive dogs. However , it is not necessarily essential to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to break down vegetable protein. Some types of grain are also particularly easy to break down. These include maize and rice, for example. In some cases, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without materials. This is especially true if your canine is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event 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 dogs. These include, for example, onions, organic cabbage and natural 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 retain the Aujeszky computer virus, which in turn causes fatal illness. Other foods and drinks that pet dogs should not eat include:
- Delicious chocolate
- Raw carrots
- Grapes
- Sultanas
- Fresh fruit starts
- Raw signal
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter walnuts
- Raw ovum
- Some types of avocado
- Birch glucose and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as caffeine
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. As a result, caution is suggested in rain puddles, for example: Cigarette residues can be found in them. Ashtrays should be located in such a way that the dog cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous because of it, you should contact the vet or the veterinary emergency service directly. Meanwhile, keep the dog in a secure environment. Nevertheless, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch to signs of poisoning. It could be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that could occur with poisoning include:
- Excessive salivation
- Excessive being thirsty
- Nausea
- 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. In addition, it is crucial to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything off 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 raw dog food for german shepherds
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and frequently asked questions about dog food.
What should I actually look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies need a different dog food than adult dogs. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the situation after about 2 months. The components and substances of puppy dog food are specially suitable for growing dogs. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bones, muscles, coat and teeth first have to produce.
With pup dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Over all, the puppy food must contain certain essential nutritional supplements. So that the puppy’s digestive tract is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than the dog food for adult quadrupeds. In the beginning, young dogs should be given small portions many times a day, which are then slowly increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This kind of is determined by the breed of dog: Promising small to medium breeds are believed grown ups 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 dogs, the change in diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, its about time at 8 to 9 years. Large breeds 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 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 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 foodstuff 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 English and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate natural feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is based 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, herbal oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat are available in the shops. Dog owners can add the other necessary components. However , you should advise yourself well or consult with experts.
What do I actually 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 canines in particular can easily suffer from digestive : problems, a number of which is often considerable. An interval of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get accustomed to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as follows: On day 1 and 2, replace about a 1 / 4 of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3 rd and fourth day, replace half with the new food. On 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 the dog reacts sensitively and, for example , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the food 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 suited to him. In this instance, you should look for an alternative.
What should I do if my dog does 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 so they can become overweight and feel full. In the event the food has already enlarged in water, it fills the dog up faster and is simpler to break down. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with condensed dry food.
How quickly do dogs digest dry food?
Dogs usually need up to 14 several hours to digest dried 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 older animal. The quantity of food is also important. Tiny 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 results in faster digestion. Additionally , the more liquefied the foodstuff is, the short the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in mature dogs.
Are creature tests carried out for dog food?
There are quite a few manufacturers who carry out creature 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
When can I start feeding a puppy?
During the first weeks of its life, a puppy is fed breast milk by its mother. Solid food is usually eaten by young puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this 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 makes sense to moisten or dilute it with some liquid – for example with pup milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no longer fed with mother’s dairy.
Experts recommend soaking your 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 – does indeed it sound right?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than purchased food. However, it really does have some advantages:
– In the event you make the dog food yourself, you can determine 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 meals 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 can be sensible or essential to prepare the food yourself. Before organizing the foodstuff, you should study the various elements. The food should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is highly recommended to talk to a vet ahead of time. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the web, for example.
Some foods are unhealthy or toxic for dogs. For example, onions and garlic should not be consumed by dogs.
Precisely what is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially well suited for dogs with allergy symptoms. It really is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily digested by your dog. Right now there is hypoallergenic dry food and allergies 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 the dog will not tolerate it and that allergic reactions will occur.
Usually there is merely one way to obtain proteins in such a product. This is usually an unique meat, such as kangaroo or drinking water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely triggers an intolerance. However, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can business lead to allergies. This kind of happens when we have a substance in the foodstuff that the four-legged friend cannot endure.
In addition to dogs with allergic reactions, hypoallergenic food is ideal for four-legged friends with a sensitive gastrointestinal system. For these dogs, such a product can offer prevention of digestive problems.
