Common German Shepherd Diet Mistakes To Avoid

If you’re a proud German Shepherd owner, you know how important it is to keep your pup happy and healthy. Did you know that up to 45% of dogs in the U.S. are overweight? A big part of keeping your dog in shape starts with what’s in their bowl.

But feeding a German Shepherd isn’t always as simple as it seems. It’s easy to make diet mistakes that can lead to obesity, digestive issues, or even more serious health problems.

The number of dog bite claims nationwide increased to 19,062 in 2023, up from 17,597 in 2022, marking an 8.3% increase.

Let’s take a closer look at the most common diet mistakes you should avoid to ensure your German Shepherd stays fit, active, and healthy.

Are You Feeding Your German Shepherd the Wrong Type of Food?

Not all dog food is created equal. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to figure out what’s best for your German Shepherd. The wrong food can lead to weight gain, allergies, or a lack of energy.

What Should a German Shepherd’s Diet Include?

German Shepherds are large, active dogs with high energy needs. They require high-quality protein to fuel their muscles and maintain strong bones. Look for foods that list real meat (chicken, beef, lamb, or fish) as the first ingredient.

Avoid foods that rely on fillers like corn, soy, and wheat. These are often hard for dogs to digest and provide little nutritional value.

Make sure their diet also includes healthy fats for coat and skin health, and fiber to aid digestion. Carbs like sweet potatoes or brown rice can be great for energy but should not make up the majority of their meal. It’s crucial to avoid dog food that’s heavy on low-quality grains and artificial additives.

Are You Overfeeding Your German Shepherd?

German Shepherds are prone to obesity, especially if they’re not as active as they should be. Overfeeding them, even with the best food, can lead to weight gain and long-term health issues.

The dog population in the U.S. has reached a new peak of 89.7 million in 2024, after a slight dip to 80.1 million in 2023.

How Much Should You Feed Your German Shepherd?

The amount you feed your dog depends on their age, size, and activity level. Generally, an adult German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day.

However, if your dog is very active, you may need to adjust their portion size to fuel their energy needs. Puppies and seniors will need different portions based on their stage of life.

Here’s a quick guide to how much to feed:

• Puppies (up to 1 year): Feed them 3-4 times a day with 1.5 to 2 cups per meal.
• Adults (1-7 years): Feed them twice a day, 2-3 cups per meal.
• Seniors (7+ years): They might need smaller meals, 2 cups or less, depending on their health and activity levels.

Always check the packaging for feeding recommendations based on your dog’s weight, but keep in mind that your dog’s individual needs may vary. If you’re unsure, consult your vet for personalized advice.

Are You Giving Your German Shepherd the Right Treats?

Treats are an important part of training and bonding with your German Shepherd. But giving too many can lead to an unbalanced diet, especially if the treats are full of sugar or low-quality ingredients.

How Can You Use Treats Wisely?

When choosing treats for your German Shepherd, always look for high-quality, protein-based options. Avoid treats that are full of artificial colors, sugars, or preservatives. Opt for treats like freeze-dried meat, carrot sticks, or small portions of cooked chicken.

The key is moderation. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Overdoing it can lead to weight gain and upset stomachs.

Despite the increase in pet ownership, spending on pets declined by about 4% from the previous year, with veterinary care making up one-third of total pet-related expenses .

Are You Ignoring Special Dietary Needs?

German Shepherds are susceptible to certain health conditions, like hip dysplasia and gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat). Both of these issues can be linked to diet, so it’s important to consider special dietary needs as part of your dog’s routine.

What Are the Special Dietary Needs of German Shepherds?

If your German Shepherd is dealing with joint issues, consider adding joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin to their diet. These can support their joints and keep them moving freely, especially as they age. Foods with omega-3 fatty acids, like fish oil, are also beneficial for reducing inflammation.

For dogs prone to bloat (a life-threatening condition where the stomach twists), it’s best to feed them smaller, more frequent meals rather than one large serving. Also, consider elevated food bowls to reduce the chances of air intake while eating.

Are You Using Human Food as Dog Food?

It’s easy to share your meals with your German Shepherd, but not all human food is safe or healthy for dogs. Many foods we love can be toxic to dogs, and others are just too rich for their stomachs.

What Human Foods Are Dangerous for German Shepherds?

Here are a few common foods to avoid:

• Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs.
• Onions and garlic: These can cause digestive issues and even damage red blood cells.
• Avocados: Contain persin, which can lead to vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.
• Grapes and raisins: Can cause kidney failure in dogs.

If you want to treat your dog to a special snack, stick to dog-safe options like carrots, apple slices (without seeds), or plain cooked chicken. Always consult your vet before adding any new foods to your dog’s diet, especially if they’re prone to allergies.

Are You Forgetting to Provide Fresh Water?

While food is crucial, water is just as important for your German Shepherd’s health. Many owners forget to keep their dog’s water bowl filled, which can lead to dehydration, especially in active dogs.

How Much Water Should Your German Shepherd Drink?

A German Shepherd needs about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight each day. For a 70-pound dog, this means they should be drinking at least 70 ounces (about 8.5 cups) of water daily. Make sure their water bowl is always fresh, clean, and easily accessible.

If your dog is very active, you might need to increase their water intake. Also, be mindful that weather conditions, activity levels, and the type of food (wet vs. dry) can all affect their hydration needs.

Are You Relying Too Much on Dry Kibble?

Dry kibble is convenient, but it may not always be the best option for your German Shepherd. Some kibble brands use low-quality fillers and lack the necessary nutrients for optimal health.

Should You Add Wet Food or Homemade Meals?

Mixing wet food or even preparing homemade meals can boost your dog’s nutrition. Wet food is easier to digest and provides more moisture, which helps prevent dehydration. It’s also packed with higher-quality ingredients compared to some dry kibble options.

For homemade meals, consider using lean meats, vegetables, and whole grains. Always ensure the meals are balanced and avoid using ingredients that are toxic to dogs, like onions or spices.

Are You Switching Your German Shepherd’s Diet Too Often?

Changing your dog’s diet too frequently can upset their stomach and lead to digestive problems. German Shepherds, in particular, have sensitive stomachs and can be prone to gas or diarrhea when switching foods abruptly.

How Can You Transition Your German Shepherd to a New Diet?

If you need to change your dog’s food, do so gradually over 7 to 10 days. Mix the new food with the old food, slowly increasing the amount of new food each day. This will allow your dog’s digestive system to adjust without causing discomfort.

Are You Forgetting Regular Vet Check-ups?

Finally, regular vet visits are essential for your dog’s overall health. Your vet can help you adjust their diet based on their age, weight, and any health issues that arise.

How Can You Work with Your Vet to Improve Your German Shepherd’s Diet?

During vet check-ups, ask about your dog’s weight, activity level, and any dietary changes they might need. Your vet can also recommend high-quality dog food brands and supplements tailored to your dog’s specific needs.

Regular blood tests or weight checks will help you stay on top of your dog’s health and prevent long-term diet mistakes.

Keep Your German Shepherd Healthy and Happy

Feeding your German Shepherd the right diet doesn’t have to be complicated. Avoiding these common diet mistakes will help keep your dog healthy, active, and ready for anything. Pay attention to the quality of food, watch portion sizes, and make sure your pup stays hydrated.

By taking the time to feed them properly, you’re ensuring they lead a long, happy life by your side.

Now that you know what to avoid, it’s time to implement these tips. Whether you’re adjusting your dog’s food or simply switching to healthier treats, your German Shepherd will thank you for it. Keep an eye on their health, and you’ll have a happy, well-fed companion for years to come!

References

Worst Dog Food for German Shepherds (Food to Avoid) – GSD Colony

10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Caring for Your German Shepherd – Collie Ball

What Are The Common Mistakes That German Shepherd Owners Should Avoid? – Timberwolf Pet

10 Common Mistakes People Make When Picking Dog Food – FitBark

5 Classic Feeding Mistakes Dog Owners Make – Gundog Journal

Disclaimer

This content on Bagrica is for informational purposes only. Consult a professional for pet care or farming advice. Bagrica is not liable for any actions taken based on this information.

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