Food for German Shepherds: list of the best dry and wet food according to breeders + reviews

Rating of the 10 best dry food for the German Shepherd

PlaceNameRatingPrice, rub.
1Belcando Junior Maxi for large and giant breed puppies from 3 to 18 months (15 kg)10 / 105 214
2Acana Puppy Large Breed, 11.4 kg10 / 105 050
3Royal Canin Maxi Adult, 15 kg9 / 104785
4Almo Nature Holistic beef 12 kg9 / 104279
5Purina Pro Plan Optiderma for healthy skin and coat, salmon with rice, 14 kg8 / 104113
6Brit Care lamb with rice 12 kg9 / 103999
7OUR DIET WITH BEEF, 15 kg7 / 101670
8Pedigree for healthy skin and coat, beef, 13 kg7 / 101399
9CHAPPI MEAT ABUNDANCE WITH VEGETABLES AND HERBS, adults, 15kg7 / 101381
10ALL DOGS (13 kg) Dry complete6 / 101153

Dry dog ​​food is a complete nutritious diet for a pet, developed taking into account the physiology and characteristics of the animal. It contains carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and amino acids in a balanced state. When choosing, pay attention to the composition. The product must contain fats of animal and plant origin and natural ingredients. This is what dogs should receive to be healthy and cheerful.

Natural nutrition

Advantages and disadvantages

Any type of nutrition, even the most natural and organic, has both advantages and disadvantages.

Pros:

  • confidence in the quality and quantity of products;
  • the ability to use both raw, unprocessed and boiled products;
  • you can exclude one component if it causes an allergy, without losing the nutritional value of the dish;
  • Meat and raw vegetables are natural foods for dogs.

Minuses:

  • cooking takes a lot of time;
  • it is difficult to balance BPJU relative to the weight and physical activity of the animal;
  • cooked dishes cannot be stored for a long time;
  • When traveling, the dog has to cook separately.

What is possible?

The following products are the main components of a healthy and balanced menu:

  • meat - lean beef and beef by-products, chicken, turkey, rabbit, lean lamb;
  • fish . Only marine species - capelin, pollock, herring, chum salmon, pink salmon. The carcass must be cleaned of bones, scales and fins;
  • cereals - oatmeal, buckwheat, rice, millet;
  • vegetables - carrots, pumpkin, cucumbers, bell peppers, cauliflower, white cabbage;
  • dairy products - milk (only in puppyhood), yogurt without additives, kefir, yogurt;
  • eggs - chicken, quail, goose, ostrich. They are used raw as an independent dish or boiled as an addition to the main dish.

What products are not allowed?

A dog, and especially a puppy, should never be given:

  • confectionery, chocolate, sweets;
  • any drinks or food containing alcohol;
  • spices and sauces;
  • carbonated drinks;
  • mushrooms;
  • bones;
  • bakery products;
  • sausages - sausages, sausages, small sausages and others;
  • smoked meat and fish;
  • salty snacks - chips, crackers, dried and spicy meat;
  • citrus fruits and grapes (cause kidney failure).

Weekly menu for a puppy

If you are still at a loss when planning a diet, then the following menu, designed for feeding a two-month-old puppy four times a day, will help you navigate the choice of products and make preparations for some time ahead. You can vary the dishes at your discretion.

MondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturdaySunday
Cottage cheese with grated appleGrain curd filled with yogurtBuckwheat porridge drenched in milkCottage cheese diluted with yogurtRice porridge with milk and appleCottage cheese with grated apple or berriesOatmeal with butter, herbs and egg
Buckwheat porridge with chicken fillet and vegetablesOatmeal with small pieces of lean beefEgg, mashed with chicken filletOatmeal with vegetables and turkeyTurkey fillet pieces + vegetable pureeSoup with meat balls and riceChicken fillet mashed with egg
Chowder with meat balls, rice and vegetablesVegetable puree with turkey filletCottage cheese with berries and appleVegetable meat broth soup + beef piecesBuckwheat with vegetable oil and boiled rabbit filletOatmeal with herbs and grated eggBuckwheat porridge with pieces of lean beef
Oatmeal with herbs and boiled eggsChowder with rice, meat balls and vegetablesRice porridge with vegetable oil and pieces of rabbit meatBuckwheat porridge with fresh vegetables and boiled chicken filletRice porridge with beefBuckwheat porridge with milkRice porridge with milk

Feeding

Eating incomplete food leads to a decrease in muscle tone and the development of diseases of the joints and skeletal system.
When choosing a diet, you need to consult a veterinarian. Take the Attention Test! Find 10 differences! (click right here!)

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The main part of the feed should be proteins (45%). It could be poultry or beef. Fish as an ingredient is allowed, but sea fish, in a small proportion. Its excess in the diet leads to a deficiency of B vitamins, which has a bad effect on digestion and growth.

It is better to choose holistic food. They do not contain by-products, unlike the super premium line. Both do not contain synthetic dyes, flavors, taste or smell enhancers.

The source of carbohydrates will be rice, buckwheat; fats - vegetable oils (sunflower, flaxseed, olive). Attention is paid to vitamins and microelements. Deficiency or excess (of vitamin A or D) can lead to volvulus and abnormal development of the skeletal system.

Animals fed the correct diet will not need additional supplements.

What type of food to choose for nutrition

Currently, the main types of food for domestic dogs are:

  • canned food and offal;
  • dry food;
  • natural food.

Since canned food is considered the result of processing bones and offal with the addition of various kinds of preservatives, fats and thickeners, such food will not bring much benefit to dogs, but it can have a negative impact on health and general condition. In addition, it is impossible to provide adequate nutrition with these feeds, and the diet will have to be supplemented with natural products, which will increase the time and money spent on care.

Natural food, when properly prepared and selected, cannot harm the animal, but is not capable of providing complete and balanced nutrition . This process is especially costly for dog breeders who care for a large number of animals, because then they will have to spend most of their time on preparing food and pay less attention to entertainment and games with their pets.

Already at the production stage, dry food is balanced in terms of the content of the necessary components, scientifically calculated amounts of nutrients, vitamin supplements, and other useful and vital micro- and macroelements for the animal.

Dry food brings many benefits to dog owners:

  • convenient storage and use: you don’t need a large amount of dishes and containers to store ingredients, as when feeding natural food, its subsequent processing, cleaning, etc.;
  • good shelf life even when stored in open packaging, unlike a canned product;
  • little time required for its acquisition and further use;
  • Less time, effort and other costs are spent on treating animals, purchasing additional vitamin supplements and multiple consultations with specialists.

German Shepherds can be fed dry food by:

  • good health at any age and at any stage of development;
  • activity, strength for play and learning;
  • physiological and mental maturity in growing up;
  • correctly laid foundations for all characteristics, starting from childhood.

The dog itself will choose the most suitable type of food. The owner simply needs to monitor the development of his pet and his state of health, consuming this or that type of product and draw appropriate conclusions, adjust the diet, seeking advice from nutritionists if necessary.

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Belcando Junior Maxi for large and giant breed puppies from 3 to 18 months (15 kg)

Many experts recommend Belcando Junior, made in Germany, for large dogs. Its composition is rich in a high content of poultry meat, in addition to easily digestible rice, which helps good digestion and absorption of useful components. The recipe contains carob fruits, which contain tannins and substances important for life that have an effect on proper digestion. Belongs to the super premium class.

pros

  • A complete, balanced complex of nutrients.
  • Healthy pet.
  • Convenient, economical packaging.
  • A wide range of.
  • Availability.
  • German quality.

Minuses

  • Causes an allergic reaction.
  • Not all dogs like it.
  • Not sold in all Russian cities.
  • Composition with sodium chloride.
  • Large granules of strange color.
  • Poor combination with vitamins and other products.
  • There is a minimum of meat, but a maximum of cereals.

Vitamins and microelements

The puppy is constantly growing and its immunity needs reinforcement. No matter how high-quality the food is, vitamin supplements will be a useful addition.

The following brands of vitamins are in greatest demand in Russian veterinary pharmacies and pet stores:

  • "Top 10" . Tablet vitamins with a high content of macro and microelements, including vitamins of groups A, B, D, E, calcium, phosphorus, iodine and sodium. Suitable for maintaining immunity and recovery after illness. For German Shepherd puppies, half a tablet will be enough;
  • "Tetravit" . Available in the form of an oil solution for oral use and liquid for injection. Contains a complex of vitamins A, D, E and F. The product is used for pets with obvious signs of exhaustion, as well as to maintain well-being before and after illness. Most often, it is the injection option that is used, since puppies often spit out vitamins;
  • "8 in 1 Excel Deter" . The drug is high in important acids and B vitamins, the deficiency of which dogs unconsciously try to compensate for by eating their own excrement. For puppies, 1 tablet per 3.5 kg of weight will be enough. For adult pets: 1 tablet per 7 kg;
  • "Laveta Super" . Fortified oral solution, high in B vitamins and carotene. For puppies, one drop per 1.5 kg of weight is enough. For adults and large dogs – 1 drop per 1 kg. To make it easier to swallow, mix the product with water;
  • "SA-37" . Contains almost all the additives, microelements, and mineral supplements necessary for a growing body. German shepherd puppies are given from 1 to 4 grams per kilogram of weight, adult and mature dogs - 102 grams per kg of weight;
  • "Farmavit Neo" . This is a whole group of vitamin and mineral supplements. The range includes products for puppies, pregnant bitches, adults and older dogs. The dosage for puppies is calculated according to the scheme: 1 tablet per 2 kg of weight.

NOTE!

To make it easier to take vitamin tablets, crush them and mix them with food.

Acana Puppy Large Breed, 11.4 kg

Acana Puppy appeals to every furry friend and turns into a favorite bowl. Transforms the animal's fur into smooth and silky, bones will be stronger, and more energy will appear. Thanks to these crackers, your beloved friend is provided with a balanced diet. Many breeders of our smaller four-legged brothers recommend them to everyone else. This is a holistic class.

pros

  • Natural.
  • Without smell.
  • Large packaging.

Minuses

  • High price.
  • There is a fishy smell.

Royal Canin Maxi Adult dry for large breed dogs, 15 kg

The animal receives a complete diet thanks to Royal Canin. It is designed for individuals weighing from 26 to 44 kilograms, aged from 15 months to 5 years. Its dry granules contain a unique complex of nutrients that helps the digestive system function optimally. They contain a lot of protein, creating a balance with dietary fiber. Royal has natural taste properties with an aroma that evokes excellent appetite in our smaller four-legged brothers. Category: premium.

pros

  • Balanced composition.
  • High quality.
  • Promotes good digestion.
  • Maintaining optimal shape and weight.
  • Healthy coat, skin, teeth.
  • Convenient, practical packaging.
  • The pet likes it.
  • Gives activity.
  • The crackers smell nice.

Minuses

  • The packaging is made of paper and does not close after opening.
  • Unattractive looking bag of granules.
  • Possible only from 15 months to 5 years.

Almo Nature Holistic beef 12 kg (for large breeds)

Italian crackers of excellent quality with meat additives do not violate European standards. They have the aroma of real meat, causing an excellent appetite in your beloved pet. They contain protein, but in minimal quantities. The animal receives adequate nutrition by consuming it regularly. Almo Nature belongs to the super premium category.

pros

  • Dogs love its taste.
  • Hypoallergenic.
  • Wide range of tastes.
  • Fresh natural ingredients.
  • There are no artificial additives, dyes, preservatives, or flavors.

Minuses

  • Sometimes causes hair loss.
  • The pet may refuse to eat it.

Purina Pro Plan Optiderma for Healthy Skin and Coat, Salmon with Rice, 14 kg (Large Breeds)

A healthy body and the well-being of an animal are the result of its optimal nutrition. Purina Pro Plan was developed by Russian veterinarians and nutritionists. The composition includes specially selected nutritional components for four-legged pets of different sizes, weights and ages. It suits even special preferences and keeps the animal in excellent condition. Belongs to the premium class.

pros

  • Decent composition.
  • Wide range for any age, size.
  • Nutritious with all the vitamin complex.

Minuses

  • Flavoring additive.
  • Doesn't cause much appetite.
  • Not available everywhere.
  • Creates increased gas formation.

2 Grandorf Natural & Healthy

Grandorf Natural & Healthy

On one of the highest places is Grandorf Natural & Healthy, containing several types of meat: poultry, rabbit, veal, fish. There is no chicken, so dry food is suitable for pets with allergies. Rice serves as complex carbohydrates. Vitamin complexes are completely natural. The manufacturer added Antarctic krill - small crustaceans that are superior to corn in terms of usefulness. No dyes, preservatives or cheap fillers. The company relied on feedback from veterinarians and breeders to create a product to keep your pet active and cheerful.

Buyers note that the food is satiating and provides essential microelements and nutrients. It fights the main problem of German Shepherds - weak digestion, and also prevents the development of urolithiasis. Buyers note the high-quality meat in the composition, as much as 70% of it. Satiety occurs faster than when eating less nutritious foods. Many people note the convenient packaging with a lock that protects the food from weathering. The only drawback is that it is not available for free sale; the product is only available in online stores.

Brit Care lamb with rice 12 kg (for large breeds)

The food is produced in the Czech Republic. It is rich in protein due to the significant amount of natural meat and fish in the recipe. Rice is used, enriching the body with carbohydrates, including fish and chicken oil, which produce fatty acids. Brit Care is most useful for large breeds, because its components prevent joint diseases - a problem for many large four-legged pets. Premium and super - premium class.

pros

  • Vitamins and minerals in balance.
  • Hypoallergenic.
  • Nice smell.
  • Causes a huge appetite.
  • Optimal size granules.
  • High quality.
  • For a healthy pet's body.

Minuses

  • It smells strong.
  • Unpleasant color.
  • Too dry.
  • Not suitable for all breeds.
  • Insufficient bag volume - up to 12 kilograms.

OUR DIET WITH BEEF, 15 kg

OUR DIET, produced in Russia, provides the body of four-legged pets with the entire complex of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that are so necessary for health. The composition contains natural ingredients, probiotics that support the immune system. The dog is healthy and active all day long thanks to fatty acids, chicken and salmon fat. The listed components are present in the specified diet. Considered economy class.

pros

  • Qualitative.
  • The dog eats with pleasure.
  • Gives activity to the animal.
  • The fur shines and shines.
  • Well absorbed.
  • Choice of flavors.

Minuses

  • Large granules.
  • Cats eat.
  • Only for large representatives of the breed.

Economy dog ​​food

Economy feed dry granules contain a mixture of ground bones, cartilage, vegetables and grains. They do not contain meat; instead they use food additives and flavor enhancers. This food does not have any nutritional value for German Shepherds. Moreover, veterinarians warn owners against choosing economy-class food, as it can harm the delicate and sensitive digestive system of dogs.

Economical and cheap food is manufactured by Happy Dog, Chappy, Purina One and Pedigree.

Pedigree for healthy skin and coat, beef, 13 kg (for large breeds)

PEDIGREE helps reduce the risk of tartar and plaque formation on your pet’s teeth. Provides him with normal digestion. It is preferable to feed your pet dry food in a container separate from wet food, and ensure the availability of fresh drinking water. This is quite healthy, tasty dog ​​food. It is produced taking into account the physiological needs of a large four-legged pet. The food is produced by a Russian company and is designed for the economy category.

pros

  • Convenient packaging.
  • Pleasant aromatic and taste properties.
  • The pet eats with pleasure.
  • No artificial flavors.
  • High quality crackers.
  • Comfortable in using.
  • Lots of vitamins.
  • The coat takes on a healthy, beautiful appearance.

Minuses

  • Negative reputation.
  • Missing useful components.
  • Worse than normal nutrition.
  • Doesn't do any good.
  • Harmful to the health of the animal.
  • The pet quickly gets used to this food and does not eat anything else.
  • Increases salivation.

What foods should you not feed?

As mentioned earlier, the list of prohibited foods is short, but it exists, and the fewer foods on the list your dog gets, the better it will be for him. You should not give your dog bones, contrary to popular belief . She does not receive much benefit from them, and the sharp parts of the bone can injure the internal organs of the animal and lead to bad consequences.

Also, potatoes in any form are contraindicated due to their high content of harmful starch. Exclude grapes and citrus fruits from the fruit diet - the dog’s body cannot tolerate them. Rutabaga, beans, canned corn, peas, olives - all this should also not be given to a shepherd dog. You definitely need to forget about smoked, salted and pickled foods, because no matter how tasty they are for humans, they only cause harm to the dog’s body.

So, now you know what dry or natural food you can choose for your German Shepherd. Now you can choose the right diet for your pet and make its life as long as possible and its health strong. Write in the comments which brand of dry food you trust the most, and which, in your opinion, should not be taken. What kind of food did you give your puppies from an early age? Thank you for your attention, many years to come to you and your pets!

CHAPPI MEAT ABUNDANCE WITH VEGETABLES AND HERBS, adults

https://dog-care.ru/zdorove/pitanie/luchshih-suhih-kormov-dlya-nemetskoy-ovcharki.html

CHAPPI is produced in Russia for economy class. It contains cereals, which are considered the best sources of carbohydrates. Proteins are present in the form of meat and offal. Use vegetables, for example, carrots, vegetable oils. CHAPPI is convenient because there is no need to add vitamins to it; they are already contained in sufficient quantities.

pros

  • Wide availability.
  • Nutritious food.
  • Does not cause constipation in the animal.
  • Decent quality.
  • Promotes healthy appearance of coat and teeth.
  • Doggies like it.
  • There are no artificial flavors or flavor enhancers.

Minuses

  • Treatment of the animal after eating these dry granules.
  • Bad composition.
  • Allergic reactions.
  • Hair falls out.
  • Bloating.
  • Not suitable for all individuals.
  • Unattractive packaging.

Holistic feed

This is the best ready-made food for German Shepherds. Dry crispy granules contain fresh meat, plant components, fruits and vegetables. These foods do not contain grains, so they can be given even to sick and elderly dogs who are undesirable to feed carbohydrate foods.

Holistic food brands include Grandorf, NOW Fresh, Acana, SAVARRA, Orijen, Pronature Holistic and Genesis Pure.


Holistic feed

ALL DOGS (13 kg) Dry complete

ALL DOGS, according to many dog ​​breeders, is considered a complete diet for our smaller four-legged brothers of any breed, size, age and activity level. Each owner adjusts its portions according to the needs of their pet. Together with it, the pet receives a complex of essential nutrients for life. The food is produced in Denmark, based on the latest research on pet nutrition and international standards, which indicate recommended levels of nutritional content. It belongs to the economy class.

pros

  • Suitable for almost all breeds.
  • Quite popular due to its excellent composition.
  • Induces pleasure while eating.
  • Excellent oral hygiene and plaque removal.
  • Does not contain GMOs, excess or artificial additives.

Minuses

  • Not suitable for everyone.
  • Insufficient amount of protein.
  • You need to add vitamins and natural meat.
  • Poor assortment from the manufacturer.

Most of the listed types of dry food, we recommend paying attention to Belcando Junior Maxi and Royal Canin Maxi Adult in the ranking of the best.

This food is based on natural ingredients. Proper nutrition is the key to a healthy body and excellent physical condition of any animal.

The price of these feeds is high, but it is worth it. Moreover, they contain all the useful components, including vitamins, and your beloved pet receives adequate nutrition.

Reviews of Pedigree food from owners and veterinarians

To choose the right diet for German Shepherd puppies, consult with veterinarians and breeders of this breed. We, in turn, have collected the most complete reviews of Pedigree food from various sites and recommend that you read them.

Reviews from veterinarians about Pedigree food

Yulia, veterinary nutritionist

In our team, we separately analyzed the composition of Pedigree food. We can confidently say that Pedigree food contains all the substances for complete nutrition. German Shepherd puppies need a lot of meat - it is in the food in the form of ground meat and offal. Carbohydrates are represented by vegetables, fiber in the form of beet pulp. The dog gets vegetable fats from vegetable oil.

Pedigree contains no dyes or artificial additives. The food granules are covered with natural meat broth, which gives the food a smell and the dog will always eat it with appetite.

Nikolay, veterinarian

People periodically come to our clinic who unknowingly feed their puppies homemade food. I tell such people right away that feeding a growing dog’s body with regular food is simply dangerous! It is very difficult to balance a dog’s diet at home. A lack of vitamins, macro and microelements can have a bad effect on the development of the musculoskeletal system, the position of the limbs, ears, the change of teeth, and the puppy’s coat.

I recommend that such owners start with at least Pedigree dry food. This will help the puppy get stronger and get all the necessary daily vitamins that are in the food. Plus, the owner himself, after changing the diet, understands why proper nutrition for puppies is very important. They see how the dog changes after switching from homemade food to Pedigree food and continue to feed the dog the right way.

Reviews from puppy owners about Pedigree food

Anna, owner of two German shepherds

I have two shepherd dogs in my yard; I have been feeding them Pedigree food without complementary foods since childhood, with additional vitamins. Now the dogs are three years old, they have grown up to be excellent watchdogs, they actively play with each other, and there have been no health problems. The color is rich red, as it should be. A year ago, we took them to the veterinary clinic to get vaccinated, and at the same time they did a full examination with tests. The dogs are absolutely healthy.

Kirill, German Shepherd breeder

I feed my dogs only PEDIGREE: small dogs - puppy food, adults - classic food. I believe that Pedigri dry food helps eliminate any problems that may arise due to food: this is confirmed by my many years of experience in breeding “Germans”.

Previously, at the beginning of breeding, I fed the dogs natural food: steamed vegetables, boiled and raw meat, but it’s a lot of hassle and the result is not worth it. Elsa's fur became dull, and Tommy had a putrid smell from his mouth. I contacted the veterinarian, who advised me to change my diet and see what happens. We switched the dogs to Pedigri dry food and the problems went away on their own. I don’t conduct any more experiments, I don’t feed him regular food—there’s enough food.

Feeding recommendations for large breed dogs

Large dogs have no less appetite. Individuals with large dimensions have a slower metabolism, they need fewer calories and fat, and they require a higher protein content to maintain shape.

Dry food for large pets varies in granule sizes. For large animals, they are produced about one and a half centimeters in diameter. A smaller granule size will not provide the jaws with full function, which is important for the dog’s health.

Adult pets are fed twice a day, after morning and evening walks. Breakfast and dinner take no more than a quarter of an hour. The bowl is removed even if the food is not eaten. The animal should always have access to clean, fresh water.

The daily amount of food for animals is not the same for equal sizes. It depends on the load experienced by the pet since the last meal. If your pet actively trains or spends a lot of time walking outside, the serving size is increased by a third. If the load is reduced, the pet does not walk much, rests or sleeps more time, the portion is reduced by about 15 percent.

The main indicator of a proper diet is a healthy, well-fed, strong dog whose weight is within the normal range for its age.

Large active animals, service animals, workers, need high-quality nutrition. Suitable feeds marked “energy” or “active”, varieties of “super-premium” or “premium” classes. They contain enough calories, are nutritious, and help improve the digestive system. This diet includes vitamins, dietary supplements, proteins, and amino acids.

It is impossible to give the animal food before training, an active walk or immediately after. Large dogs are at much higher risk of developing volvulus or intestinal blockage than their smaller dogs. These situations are dangerous and require urgent veterinary intervention. After a significant load, you can give the animal to eat after about one hour.

General recommendations

Starting from the age of 1.5 months, the diet of a shepherd puppy should consist of porridge, raw beef, kefir, cottage cheese and eggs. As you grow older, the serving size increases, but the proportions remain the same.

You should adhere to the rule: lighter meals in the morning, hearty and rich ones in the evening. If the puppy eats commercial food, it is necessary to combine different types. For example, dry foods with canned jelly.

German Shepherd puppies are not fussy eaters. However, in order for a dog to grow strong and fully developed, it is necessary to take care of the balance of its diet.

What vitamins are needed when feeding large breed dogs?

Vitamin complexes are an essential element of the diet of dogs fed boiled meat, offal and vegetables. But when feeding dry food, you may need to take additional vitamins. So that the supplement contains:

  • Vitamin C is needed for the functioning of the immune system and ensures the full development of the muscular system, bones, joints, and teeth.
  • Vitamin D - used for the formation of the skeleton, especially needed by puppies during the first year of their life.
  • Calcium is absorbed along with vitamin D, used to form teeth, skeletal bones, and makes the coat beautiful and shiny.

For large dogs, vitamin complexes are suitable - Beaphar Top 10 Chondro Treat, Unitabs Immuno Complex and others.

Raw food diet

In the past, dogs' diets consisted of raw food, so dogs' digestion and teeth are adapted to this diet. Most breeders adhere to this statement.

This diet is called BARF (“Biologically Appropriate Raw Food”), it includes exclusively raw foods:

  • Meat and bones;
  • Bird carcasses;
  • Fish;
  • Entrails of both birds and cattle;
  • Vegetables, fruits and grass.

Owners of shepherd dogs claim that after switching to the BARF diet, their pets feel better, their digestive system functions better, and their bones and teeth become stronger.

We must not forget that eating raw food can contribute to the development of parasites.

How to Feed a Large Breed Dog Puppy as opposed to an Adult Dog

A young animal cannot be fed in the same way as an adult pet. If the size of the puppy exceeds the height of a medium-sized dog, its bones, teeth, and gastrointestinal tract are in the development stage.

This imposes restrictions on the diet:

  • Overfeeding and underfeeding a puppy will be equally harmful. But feeds usually contain tables that can be used to calculate the required volume of feed depending on the weight and age of the pet.
  • The number of feedings depends on age. At 2 months, puppies are fed up to seven times a day, distributing food evenly throughout the day. By the age of one year, the number of feedings is gradually reduced, bringing it to 2 or 3 times a day. Sudden changes in the amount of food should not be allowed.
  • Regardless of whether the pet eats dry food or natural products, it must have access to clean water or milk around the clock. This is especially important for puppies; when eating dry food, there is a high risk of dehydration.

When purchasing a puppy, it is important to discuss with the breeder what the animal ate before the move. It is impossible to abruptly change the diet from natural food to dry food or vice versa. This leads to problems with the stomach, which is sensitive in the young individual.

In case of food intolerance, puppies experience diarrhea or constipation, and allergic reactions are possible. Small dogs are prone to them; large breed puppies do not yet have strong enough immunity. The transition from one type of food to another or changing the brand of food is carried out smoothly and accurately.

General rules

It is important not only to choose high-quality food for the puppy, but also to organize the process correctly:

  • follow a feeding schedule that should occur at the same time;
  • do not accustom the puppy to night meals;
  • if the dog has not eaten the portion completely, remove it in time;
  • There should always be clean drinking water in the bowl. The fluid should be changed once a day.

Developing good eating habits will help improve your dog’s digestive system.

How to feed pregnant large breed dogs

A lack of nutrients in a pregnant bitch's diet will harm her and her puppies, as will an excess of them. Before mating, the dog is given high-quality dry food for adult animals. Once pregnancy is established, there is no sudden change in diet. Portions remain the same while the dog is in the early stages of pregnancy. Excessive nutrition at this stage leads to obesity, which increases the risk of complications during childbirth and endangers the lives of the dog and puppies.

In the third week, the animal may refuse food for up to a week. Active development of the offspring begins in the fifth or sixth week, at which time the daily portion is increased. The serving size is increased by about one third.

As for the brand and class of food, there are groups of food for lactating and pregnant females. Some breeders replace them with puppy food. They contain many useful substances that the expectant mother needs: calcium, phosphorus, vitamins A, E, C and D. It is acceptable to use food of the “holistic” and “super-premium” classes.

Supplements for pregnant bitches improve the well-being of the female and ensure the health of the offspring. Products such as “Quantum ICD Dog-Mama” relieve toxicosis, “Farmina Vit-Active for pregnant and lactating dogs” compensates for the lack of vitamins and minerals, “Unitabs MamaCare” is easily absorbed by animals thanks to its natural flavoring.

FAQ

What is the difference between holistic food and premium food?

The main difference between the feeds is the absence of by-products of plant and animal origin in holistic foods. Only natural meat, fish, vegetables, etc. All ingredients must be environmentally friendly. This food is more efficiently absorbed by the body, i.e. it is healthier for the pet. The cost of elite holistic specialists, due to the above reasons, is quite high.

Can I feed an adult dog puppy food?

The answer is negative. Even if the breed of an adult dog and a puppy are the same, the qualitative and quantitative composition of food for puppies is significantly different. The smaller size of kibble or kibble is also inconvenient for feeding an adult dog. It should be noted the negative consequences of the reverse process - feeding puppies with “adult” food.

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