The Orijen brand is known for producing biologically appropriate diets for dogs that are inspired by the natural diet of wild wolves. It is grain-free. It is more commonly found in large breed dogs like German Shepherds, however, it can occur in Huskies, ... You can also opt for the best dog foods that contain chondroitin and glucosamine, which are natural substances found in healthy cartilage. In many cases, the dogs that develop these problem in adulthood grew too quickly as puppies – excessive growth can put a lot of stress on your puppy’s developing bones and joints. If he loses weight or appears to be low in energy, you may need to increase his daily ration or switch to an active breed formula. Also an avid dog lover and adoring owner of three cats, Kate’s love for animals has led her to a successful career as a freelance writer specializing in pet care and nutrition. Named sources like chicken fat and salmon oil are preferable to unnamed sources like poultry fat or fish oil because it is difficult to judge the quality of unnamed sources. Founded in 1884, the AKC is the recognized and trusted expert in breed, health, and training information for dogs. Your email address will not be published. With Glyde Mobility Chews, protecting your dog’s joints is as easy as giving them a daily chew that tastes like a treat. The German Shepherd bred is also prone to food allergies, especially to grains and dairy products. Can Glucosamine Help Treat Arthritis And Joint Pain in Dogs? The Best Calming CBD Dog Treats for Anxiety, Blue Buffalo Basics Large Breed Adult Grain-Free Lamb & Potato Recipe, 8 Best Foods To Feed an Adult and Puppy French Bulldog in 2021 and our In-Depth Nutrition Guide, 9 Best Pomeranian Dog Foods for Adult and Puppy Pomeranians + Exclusive Nutrition and Diet Info, Top Recommended 5-Star Dog Food Brands 2021, German Shepherd Dog Food Comparison Table, Good for dogs with alleriges/sensitivities. Sweet potatoes and chickpeas are included to give your pet energy to sustain an active lifestyle. When large and deep-chested breeds eat too quickly they can swallow air along with their food which can cause the stomach to fill with gas and to expand and rotate, cutting off the flow of blood to the stomach and to other vital organs. Essential minerals are chelated with amino acids to optimize their absorption and ensure maximum benefit. Holistic Select Large and Giant Breed Puppy Health Lamb Meal & Oatmeal Recipe Dog Food is made with highly digestible carbohydrates and DHA for brain and eye development. This painful condition, which occurs in dogs and people, results when cartilage, the cushioning between the bones, begins to thin and wear away. Natural defenses: During the growth period, German Shepherd puppies' natural defenses are not yet fully developed. Dietary supplements are evaluated for safety after they are on the market, mostly through “adverse event monitoring.” Glucosamine has been used in veterinary practices in Europe and the U.S. for about 20 years. Glucosamine is often used in conjunction with another natural substance, chondroitin sulfate, which is also aimed at stimulating cartilage repair. You can rest-assured, when feeding your dog Ollie, that you are choosing a premium food. These supplements are available in pet-supply stores, veterinarian’s offices, and via online sources. Varieties available without peas, lentils, legumes, potatoes: There are several varieties in this line, including those for puppies, seniors, weight management, and canned food. You should also look for a recipe that is supplemented with glucosamine and chondroitin to provide extra bone and joint support for your dog. He was then referred to OSU for treatment of the second bullet, which was lodged near his spine. It is limited ingredient and contains the proprietary LifeSource Bits blend of vitamins. Smaller dogs usually require more fat than larger dogs to support their faster metabolisms. Healthy Ingredients : Deboned Lamb, Potatoes, Peas, Pea Starch, Pea Protein Key Features : Blue Buffalo Basics Large Breed Adult Grain-Free Dog Food. Many dogs suffer from arthritis as they age. As you can see, there are many options for food for your adult and puppy German Shepherd. Glucosamine is a popular over-the-counter supplement used in treatment of arthritis and joint pain in both humans and dogs. https://www.akc.org/subscription/thank-you. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) regulates these products as dietary supplements, not drugs, and as such, they are not subjected to the same stringent FDA review and approval process as pharmaceuticals. A dog that weighs 90 pounds or more at maturity will take somewhere between 18 and 24 months to reach its adult size and, during that time, growth needs to be controlled because if the puppy grows too fast it will put excess strain on the bones and joints, predisposing the dog to musculoskeletal issues as an adult. (I thought maybe she was maturing, but turns out she was just healing). The meal contains high quantities of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids that provide the dog with the best anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Overall, this formula is designed to promote a healthy bodyweight in your large-breed puppy while also reducing stress on his developing bones and joints. Green-lipped mussel (GLM) is another proven joint supplement ingredient for both humans and dogs that contains beneficial nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, glycosaminoglycans, and antioxidants. This formula features lamb meal as the primary source of protein and is supplemented with digestible carbohydrates like brown rice, white, rice and oatmeal. This breed can also benefit from joint-supporting supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin as well as probiotics to support health digestion. What is the Best Dog Food for a German Shepherd? Ollie Healthy Turkey Feast Fresh Dog Food is a fresh, human-grade dog food option that is made in small batches and slow cooked to preserve its nutritional integrity. If you are looking for a high quality food for your pet, you should consider a fresh food option, such as Ollie. It also contains glucosamine that helps with the joints and bones. Unfortunately, there’s little in the way of veterinary research thus far. The German Shepherd is a gorgeous and intelligent dog breed with hardcore fans around the world! It is delivered right to your doorstep based on your subscription. Fromm Heartland Gold Large-Breed Adult Dry Food is designed with large breed dogs in mind. Any German Shepherd can also benefit from a dog food that includes chelated mineral or probiotic supplements. Starting in the 1980s, scientists began investigating glucosamine and chondroitin to try to prove whether they work, but so far, there is still not a common consensus, and studies in humans have been inconclusive. This formula is naturally grain-free and rich in protein, featuring premium ingredients like beef, pork meal, and dried whole eggs. “So the bones of the joint may rub against each other, causing pain and inflammation.”. In dogs, glucosamine is also often used to: Glucosamine supplements are said to alleviate the symptoms of joint damage by boosting the repair of damaged cartilage, specifically articular cartilage, or the moist, spongy material that forms a cushion between joints. Glyde Mobility Chews are the only joint supplement with proven levels of these key ingredients to help maintain youthful mobility throughout your dog’s life. Keep reading to learn more about the nutritional requirements for German Shepherds and to receive recommendations for quality dog food brands for this beautiful breed. Large-breed dogs need plenty of protein in their diets with moderate fat content, unless your dog is particularly active or trained for work. Readers like you put their trust in Pawster every day, here’s why: Pawster.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Large-breed formulas contain high levels of protein to support your dog’s lean muscle mass but have moderate fat content to avoid overgrowth. Parnell’s Glyde Mobility Chews are a joint supplement with strong scientific backing, containing the unique combination of green-lipped mussel, glucosamine, and chondroitin to promote healthy joints. Learn more about how it works. One of the most important things you need to remember for German Shepherd puppies is that they need to be protected from growing too fast. It is also rich in omega fatty acids like DHA to promote healthy brain and eye development in your puppy as well as other essential fatty acids for skin and coat health. This exclusive formula also helps maintain an ideal weight. Best 7 Dog Foods to Feed your Adult and Puppy Poodle in 2021. GLM is a powerful anti-inflammatory that combined with glucosamine and chondroitin can help decrease pain and preserve joint function. Required fields are marked *. Made with deboned lamb as the single source of protein, this recipe is designed to support your large-breed dog’s lean muscle mass, helping to prevent him from gaining too much weight. This e-book is a great resource for anyone who's considering dog ownership or already owns a dog. All formulas start with real meat, whole grains, garden veggies and fruit, plus added LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of nutrients that have been enhanced with a Super 7 package of antioxidant-rich ingredients. This recipe also contains glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support and a unique blend of calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth. Originally developed as a herding dog, the German Shepherd has very strong protective instincts but they are still very gentle and loving which makes them a wonderful family pet. The formulation is especially suitable for a sick or ailing Yorkie. In 2007, scientists at the College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, conducted a review of 16 clinical trials of treatments for osteoarthritis in dogs. Answer a few simple questions and find the right dog for you, Compare up to 5 different breeds side by side, Browse the AKC Marketplace to find the right puppy for you, Browse our extensive library of dog names for inspiration, Find out the best and worst foods for your dog and which to avoid. Below you will find reviews for several high-quality dog food formulas that could be a good choice to consider for your German Shepherd puppy: Healthy Ingredients : Deboned Chicken, Deboned Turkey, Yellowtail Flounder, Whole Eggs, Whole Atlantic Mackerel Key Features : Orijen Puppy Large Breed Dry Food is made for large breeds like your German Shepherd. Like all of Blue Buffalo’s products, this formula also contains LifeSource Bits which consist of a special blend of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to ensure nutritional completeness and healthy oxidative balance. Because the German Shepherd is a large-breed dog, he needs plenty of calories (especially from protein) to maintain his well-muscled and athletic stature. Joint supplements like Glyde Mobility Chews are often used as an early intervention and throughout the progression of arthritis, as they are safe for long-term use in most patients. “Although glucosamine and chondroitin have benign adverse effect profiles, the clinical benefit of using these agents remains questionable. Trauma, disease, or normal wear and tear that comes with use over years all may cause arthritis. Healthy Ingredients : Deboned Salmon, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Peas, Sweet Potatoes Key Features : American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food uses real salmon as the protein source and provides fiber, phytonutrients, and antioxidants. On the other hand, if your dog is particularly active or if you are training him for a dog sport, you might need to find a product that offers higher fat content to support his higher needs for energy. This formula also contains plenty of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat, as well as essential antioxidants for a strong immune system. The German Shepherd bred is also prone to food allergies, especially to grains and dairy products. Healthy Ingredients : Beef, Pork Meat Meal, Peas,Lentils, Chickpeas Key Features : Fromm Heartland Gold Large-Breed Adult Dry Food. This can also happen if your dog engages in strenuous exercise or drinks a large amount of water within an hour of eating. The particular recipe shown in the table above includes carrots (which are full of phytonutrients for eye health), blueberries (which are high in antioxidants), and chia seeds which are a source of copper, zinc, and manganese. This large-breed puppy formula offers a whopping 38% protein and 16% fat which is very hard to beat – furthermore, a full 2/3 of the meats included in this recipe are fresh or raw with no preservatives added! The Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food formula uses real, deboned salmon  and amino acids your dog needs for leaner muscles. Ollie is human-grade dog food that is delivered fresh to your doorstep based on a delivery schedule you can customize. In addition to being incredibly smart and trainable, the German Shepherd is also a very large dog. When it comes to determining how much to feed your German Shepherd, there are a number of factors to consider. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula was created for the holistic health and well-being of adult dogs. Large and giant-breed dogs like the German Shepherd have a higher risk for developing musculoskeletal issues than smaller dogs. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If you’re looking for the right food for your German Shepherd, you’re in the right place. With 24% protein and 12% fat, this recipe offers a healthy balance of nutrients for your large-breed dog without going overboard on calories. American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Earthborn Holistic Grain-Free Large Breed Dry Food, Blue Buffalo Basics Large Breed Adult Lamb & Potato Recipe, Holistic Select Large and Giant Breed Puppy Health Lamb Meal & Oatmeal Recipe. They reported their results in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association and found that preparations containing glucosamine provided a “moderate level” of comfort, and were on a par with some prescription drugs. It has essential minerals and amino acids to optimize absorption. Your email address will not be published. They have a few different recipes to choose from. Dried fermentation products act as probiotics to support your dog’s digestion. This food is also low-glycemic. He has perennial hernia problem and he has to undergo surgery next week. Essential info about dog health, training, sports and more. The average litter size of German Shepherd litters is from 3 to 11 puppies, with a median number of 7 puppies. While your dog does require plenty of protein in his diet, you should select a dog food with moderate fat content to avoid giving your dog too many calories – this is particularly true if your German Shepherd tends to be a little lazy. This formula also contains Holistic Select’s unique Digestive Health Support System which includes active probiotics, digestive enzymes, and healthy fibers. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry is highly-digestible and provides adequate energy for your dog through complex carbs. Dr. Georg Ledderhose first identified glucosamine in 1876. Healthy Ingredients : Lamb Meal, Ground Brown Rice, Ground White Rice, Chicken Meal, Dried Beet Pulp Key Features : Holistic Select Large and Giant Breed Puppy Dog Food. © The American Kennel Club, Inc. 2021. Made with 85% animal ingredients and 15% fruits, vegetables, and botanicals, this recipe is naturally grain-free and made without any artificial additives. Additionally, Pawster.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links. Most available formulations of glucosamine for dogs are oral, such as flavored tablets, pills, powders, or liquids. However, it may take weeks to see improvement, so veterinarians recommend evaluating the effects of the treatment only after your dog has been taking glucosamine for about three months. It is rich in animal proteins and is designed to help your dog maintain a healthy weight. Although it is pricier compared to regular dog food, it has a lot of great benefits that keep your dog healthy and active. Look for a balance of omega fatty acids as well to promote your dog’s healthy skin and coat. So what’s the bottom line? Also, because of the glucosamine and chondroitin levels it would be good for dogs who have joint issues. General Nutritional Recommendations for German Shepherds. The simplest way to prevent this from happening is to start your German Shepherd with a large-breed puppy formula. Copyright © Pawster 2021. Kate holds a certificate in fitness nutrition and enjoys writing about health and wellness trends — she also enjoys crafting original recipes. This formula is a limited ingredient diet which means that there is a smaller number of ingredients that have the potential to trigger food allergies. Description. If you want your dog to be as healthy as possible, however, you should choose a diet that provides more than the minimum for these nutrients. To prevent this from happening to your dog, you may want to consider buying a special dog bowl that will keep your dog from eating too fast – you should also restrict his water intake immediately after eating and divide his daily portion into at least two separate meals. Sassafras lives and writes in Brooklyn with her partner, a senior Chihuahua mix, a rescued Shepherd mix and a Newfoundland puppy, along with two bossy cats and a semi-feral kitten. Blue Buffalo Basics Large Breed Adult Grain-Free Lamb & Potato Recipe Dog Food is great for German Shepherds who are prone to food allergies or sensitivities. If your veterinarian agrees, a glucosamine supplement may be worth a try to relieve your dog’s arthritis pain and help boost their energy and mobility. To make sure that your German Shepherd’s basic nutritional needs are met, start with a large-breed specific formula and see how your dog does on it for a few weeks. Because German Shepherds are prone to food allergies and sensitivities, the Blue Buffalo Basics Large Breed Adult Grain-Free Lamb & Potato Recipe is a good option to consider. Animal-based ingredients are more biologically valuable for dogs than plant-based ingredients because dogs are primarily carnivorous animals – their digestive systems simply aren’t adapted to digest plant products as efficiently as animal products. Some examples of digestible carbohydrates include whole grains like brown rice and oatmeal. Another thing you should be aware of when feeding your German Shepherd is that large-breed dogs have a high risk for bloat, also known as gastric torsion. Glucosamine is supplied in one of three forms: glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride, or N-acetylglucosamine. {"popup_ID":5946,"when_popup_appear":"exit","delay":"","x_second":"","x_scroll":"","disappear":"","exptime":"","hideclsbtn":"","clsonesc":"1"}. As an added bonus, this formula is also rich in natural flavor that your German Shepherd is sure to love. We are confident that if you choose one of the recommendations that we have provided here, you will be happy and your German Shepherd will be healthy and active. Once there, the three-year-old German shepherd received surgery from Brandy Fay, DVM, for a through-and-through bullet wound to his leg. This breed typically stands between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 50 and 90 pounds at maturity. Additionally, some vets hesitate to prescribe cortisone for pregnant or lactating dogs, or puppies less than 6 months of age. It is grain-free and rich in protein. Below you will find reviews for several high-quality dog food formulas that could be a good choice for your German Shepherd: Healthy Ingredients : Turkey breast, turkey liver, kale, carrots Key Features : Ollie Healthy Turkey Feast Fresh Dog Food. It is rich in omega fatty acids and protein-packed. No matter what kind of dog you have, the first ingredient in his food should be some kind of whole animal protein like poultry, meat or fish. What is the Best Dog Food for my German Shepherd? We’ve researched and reviewed a variety of the best dog food options for this large breed’s unique needs, with special features like grain-free ingredients, probiotics, and more. Do not choose a product that contains more than 5% crude fiber and make sure that any product you choose includes digestible carbohydrates – avoid products made with corn, wheat, and soy ingredients. Glucosamine, a naturally occurring compound, is one of the more popular over-the-counter arthritis remedies. Made with ❤️ in Kansas. American Journey is chock full of nutritious ingredients to fuel your pet each day.