German Shepherds are large breed dogs. According to a research, German Shepherds need to consume a decent amount of food.
If you are already a Germen Shepherd owner, you should know how much should you feed a German Shepherd for the better health and growth.
There are various kinds of food recommended for German Shepherds and there are some foods which are prohibited for them.
You will discover the food suitable for German Shepherds and the amount they should consume.
German Shepherd feeding amount
The food quantity depends on the age and the weight of the German Shepherd. For example, an adult German Shepherd would need more food compared to a puppy.
And if your dog is overweight or underweight, you need to make the diet according to that, decrease the food intake if they are overweight and increase the food if they are underweight.
Ideally, you should feed your adult German Shepherd twice a day except the treats you are going to give them.
Never overfeed German Shepherds. Excess weight develops stress in German Shepherds.
The best way to keep a healthy weight is to measure the food when you are feeding your dog. Try to stick to the appropriate amount.
Often, dogs do get overfed not because of their regular diet but treats. The calories and fat on the treat makes them fat. Make sure to remove any fat from the treats you are providing them.
A puppy is supposed to have a different diet compared to adult dogs but when is the right time to change the food?
The professionals suggest puppy food for puppies. It contains more nutrition and supplements required for them without any extra calories or fat.
Once they become adult, you should change their puppy food to adult food. If they continue to eat puppy food, they will suffer from malnutrition and become underweight.
How much should you feed a German Shepherd (Food chart according to age)
| Age | Weight | Food amount | Feedings |
| 0 – 3 months | 44 – 55 lbs | 7 – 8.5 oz | 3 times a day |
| 3 – 5 months | 57 – 66 lbs | 9 – 10 oz | 3 times a day |
| 5 – 7 months | 66 – 88 lbs | 10 – 13 oz | 2 times a day |
| 7 – 12 months | 88 – 97 lbs | 13 – 19 oz | 2 times a day |
| 1 – 12 years | 88 – 110 lbs | 18 – 21 oz | 2 times a day |
Whenever you are feeding your dog, always remember to keep a bowl of water with the food.
Treats are not included in the chart. The treats intake depends on the owner but it is recommended that you should limit the treats as it is not healthy for dogs as long as you are using good supplements as treat.
Kibbles for German Shepherd
Dry kibbles are ideal for German Shepherds. It contains the right amount of fat and nutrition required for German Shepherds and is recommended for them. There is a specific proportion suggested for German Shepherds.
- 1 – 1.5 cups of kibbles for around 2 months old German Shepherd;
- For 3 months old German Shepherd, 1.5 – 2 cups;
- 6 months old 2 to 3 cups and;
- Those who are around 12 months 3 – 3.5 cups kibbles.
Dogs ideally take 10- 15 minutes to finish their meal. Remove the meal if they do not finish within that time period.
They might not feel good or have some healthy issues or stomach problem if they refuse to eat.
Food recommendations for German Shepherd
Choose food that is full of nutrition and supplement. Try to maintain a balanced diet appropriate for every stage and age.
German Shepherds are mostly used in military and police. They go through hard training, so a quality food is very important for them.
Read: Which is the best dog food for your German Shepherd
Try to feed them animal protein but if your dog is suffering from any health issues, you can switch to plant based protein as well.
A minimum of 22% of protein is recommended for German Shepherds.
- Dry food like kibble is mostly used for dogs. It’s cheap and convenient and contains a full and balanced diet for dogs.
- Wet food like meat or gravy is also a good option for dogs. Dogs like wet food more than dry food.
Conclusion
Not only German Shepherds but all dogs require a particular amount of food on daily bases for their proper growth and development as well as to avoid any health issues.
Follow the food chart for better understanding and feed them according to the chart. They should be fed according to their age, weight and height for smooth growth and development.
They should eat up their food within 10-15 minutes but if they refuse to eat, it could be a sign that they are facing any health issues or have some other medical issues.
During the time of teething, it is normal to avoid food. Other than that, if they refuse to eat, make sure you go for a check up.