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What’s the best dog food for German Shepherds?
When looking for the best dog food for a German shepherd… it’s important to choose a food that’s safe for your pet’s age.
That’s because German shepherds are considered large breed dogs.
Which is not a problem… for adult shepherds.
However…
German shepherd puppies have a higher risk of developing a crippling form of canine hip dysplasia… if they’re fed a dog food that contains too much calcium for their larger breed type.1
To help you make a safe choice…
The Dog Food Advisor has selected the following foods below because they meet safe calcium levels and other nutritional needs of adult German shepherds… and where noted… shepherd puppies, too.2
Keep in mind, German shepherd puppies don’t stop growing and aren’t ready to eat adult dog food… until they reach 12 to 24 months of age.3
We have also included grain and grain-free options as well as foods formulated to help with specific health conditions or issues a German sherpherd is prone to suffer from, such as a sensitive stomach and skin allergies.
Best Dog Food for German Shepherds December 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for German Shepherds for December 2024.
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1. Best Overall Food for German Shepherds: Nom Nom Beef Mash
Beef Mash is one of four fresh human-grade recipes included in our review of the Nom Nom dog food product line.
This particular recipe gets the majority of its meat protein from beef, a rich source of high-quality protein, which is essential for the muscle development and maintenance of large, active breeds like German Shepherds. Dry matter label analysis reveals the formula contains 35% protein, 17% fat and 40% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
All four recipes are designed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists (DACVN4) From an online questionnaire, Nom Nom creates a custom feeding plan based on your dog’s age, weight, breed type, and activity level. The company then recommends an exact portion size, according to the number of calories needed to maintain your dog at ideal weight. Once it arrives at your door, you’ll want to store the food in your freezer.. Then, thaw each meal in your refrigerator… as it’s needed.
Nom Nom Fresh is ideal for pet parents who want to feed a fully-balanced, human-grade diet that’s as close to homemade as you can get… without all the fuss.
Not cheap. Enthusiastically recommended.
For more choices: See our Best Fresh Dog Food page.
Read our review of the full Nom Nom Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Vet-designed recipes
- Human-grade ingredients
- High in protein
Main Ingredients Ground beef, russet potatoes, eggs, carrots, peas Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 35% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For German Shepherd adults and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at NomNomNow.com"Mya has suffered from colitis & IBS for many years, and she's also the pickiest with food. Since being on Nom Nom she is eating much better & has perfect poop!!!"
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2. Best Puppy Food for German Shepherds: Orijen Puppy Large
Orijen Puppy Large is one of nine dry recipes covered in our review of the Orijen product line.
This particular recipe derives most of its animal protein from fresh chicken, a lean, high-quality protein that helps build and maintain muscle mass in German Shepherds. Since they are active, muscular dogs, this is especially important for their growth as puppies and to maintain strength as adults. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 18% fat and 31% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 42%.
Ever since its founding, Champion Petfoods, the well-respected maker of Orijen, has always advocated for a meat-based, “biologically appropriate” diet. This is a proven, balanced design which makes this particular recipe a top option for growing German shepherd puppies.
Highly recommended.
For More Choices: Visit our Best Large Breed Puppy Food page
Read our review of the full Orijen Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Biologically appropriate
- Lean protein source
- Complete & balanced
Main Ingredients Chicken, turkey, flounder, whole mackerel, chicken liver Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 43% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adult and puppy German shepherds Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"After exhaustive research my husband and I decided on this food for our German Shepherd puppy. Our pup is almost 5 months old and has been eating this food since we brought him home at 8 weeks. He loves the taste of the food and we love the results we've seen. Our breeder regularly posts update pictures of her litters and the physical difference between our boy and his litter mates who are all being fed different commercial diets has made us believers in Orijen. His coat is unbelievably glossy and his musculature is much more well defined. Even his veterinarian was blown away by his growth, development, and overall health at his last visit. We are customers for life!"
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3. Best Dog Food for German Shepherds Adults: Dr. Gary's Best Breed
German Dog Diet is one of 13 dry recipes covered in our review of the Dr. Gary’s Best Breed product line.
This particular recipe derives most of its animal protein from chicken meal. Since chicken meal is denser in protein and nutrients than fresh chicken, it provides more of the essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that German Shepherds need. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 22% fat and 34% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
We like the fact the formula also includes zinc proteinate and other chelated minerals… which provides superior absorption and nutrition. Highly recommended.
For more choices: See our Best Large Breed Dog Food page.
Read our review of the full Dr. Gary’s Best Breed Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Chelated minerals
- Rich in amino acids
- High protein
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, oatmeal, brown rice, dried beet pulp, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For German Shepherd puppies and adults Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Our German shepherd has had a lot of itching problems since she was about 1 year old. We have tried different foods, supplements, sprays and shampoos. Nothing has seems to work as well as when we switched to this food. Scabs that were on her for months due to her itching them open all the time have finally healed over. She is still a little itchy, but significantly better than before. And she loves the food too! We used to leave her food bowl full all day because she would only pick throughout the day. With this food we are only doing 2-3 cups morning and night because she scarfs it all down in minutes! Glad we finally found something that she loves and works so well!"
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4. Best Dog Food for Senior German Shepherds: Blue Buffalo Wilderness Chicken Recipe High-Protein Senior
Senior Chicken is one of 15 dry recipes analyzed in our review of the Blue Buffalo Wilderness product line.
This particular recipe derives the bulk of its animal protein from deboned chicken, chicken meal and dried chicken. The formula includes glucosamine and chondroitin, which are essential for joint health. Senior German Shepherds are often prone to joint issues like hip dysplasia and arthritis, so these nutrients help promote mobility and ease joint discomfort. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 13% fat and 45% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 40%.
A grain-inclusive, protein-rich food available in more than a dozen flavors and recipes ideal for those who appreciate the benefits of diet rotation. Fairly priced and highly recommended.
For more choices: See our Best Senior Dog Food page.
Things we like
- Includes glucosamine and chondroitin
- Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids
- Low calories
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, dried chicken, oatmeal, barley, Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 38% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult shepherds only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Grateful for this brand and flavor. Our dog is old and getting pickier but he will eat this. Definitely worth a try. He also seems more energetic and in less pain."
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5. Best Dry Dog Food for German Shepherds: Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon
Southwest Canyon is one of nine dry recipes included in our review of the Taste of the Wild product line.
This particular recipe derives the majority of its animal protein from fresh beef, lamb meal and wild boar. German Shepherds are known for sometimes being selective about their food, so the flavor variety in Southwest Canyon can help maintain their interest in mealtime.
Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 17% fat and 43% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
It’s nice to find a recipe containing natural source preservatives… which means Southwest Canyon contains no BHA, BHT or other toxic additives. A super-popular, grain-free brand and a healthy, all life stages option for any German shepherd. Easily recommended.
For more choices: See our Best Dry Dog Food page.
Read our review of the full Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Natural preservatives
- Protein variety
- No BHA or other additives
Main Ingredients Beef, peas, garbanzo beans, lamb meal, canola oil Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 32% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For German shepherd puppies and adults Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog loves this food! He eats it enthusiastically and it has really helped him thrive! He is energetic, has a gorgeous coat, and devours his meals!"
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6. Best Wet Food for German Shepherds: Ollie Lamb Dish with Cranberries
Ollie Lamb Dish with Cranberries is one of five recipes in our review of the Ollie fresh food product line.
This particular recipe derives the bulk of its protein from lamb, a high-quality protein source that is also relatively lean and can help maintain a healthy weight, which is important for joint health in German shepherds.
Our dry matter analysis reveals this recipe contains 38.5% protein, 27% fat, with an estimated carbohydrate content of 27%…resulting in a fat to protein ratio of 70%.
Ollie Lamb Recipe provides a fresh, nutrient-dense option for German Shepherds, offering lean protein for muscle maintenance, healthy fats for skin and coat health, and fiber for digestive support. Its human-grade ingredients and customizable portions ensure your dog gets a balanced, clean, and digestible meal tailored to their specific needs.
For more choices: See our Best Wet Dog Food page.
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Human-grade ingredients
- Rich in Omega 3 and 6
- High in fiber
Main Ingredients Lamb, butternut squash, lamb liver, chickpeas, kale Texture Wet Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 38.5% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For German shepherd adult dogs and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews"Grady was having terrible gut issues. We tested for everything — all negative. After many vet visits and thousands of dollars spent, there were still no answers. He had a poor appetite, diarrhea, and intermittent vomiting. We tried many foods — dry, canned, and prescription diets. We thought we were going to lose him. From the first Ollie meal, there was an immediate change. He started scarfing down every meal, putting on weight, and looking better than ever. The vomiting stopped, and the diarrhea improved almost overnight."
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7. Best Dog Food for German Shepherds with Skin Allergies: Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh Joint & Skin Support
Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh Joint & Skin Support is one of nine recipes in our review of this product line.
It derives the bulk of its protein from pork and dry matter label analysis reveals a protein content of 32.5%, fat of 5% and an estimated carbohydrate level of 54.5% which means the fat to protein ratio is 15%.
Pantry Fresh Joint & Skin Support is a well-rounded option for German Shepherds, offering specific benefits for joint health and skin condition. With high-quality proteins, essential fatty acids, and joint-supporting nutrients, it helps maintain overall health, which is especially important for this breed’s common health concerns.
For more choices: See our Best Dog Food for Allergies page.
Read our review of the full JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Pork, quinoa, kale, carrots, apples Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 32.5% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult and senior German shepherds only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews"My old pup is doing very well on the new food. She seems more energetic and wants to play again. She is 9 and acting like she did years ago. More pep, more pup!"
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8. Best Dog Food for German Shepherds with a Sensitive Stomach: Diamond Naturals Large Breed Adult Chicken and Rice
Large Breed Chicken and Rice is one of 13 dry recipes analyzed in our review of the Diamond Naturals product line.
Diamond Naturals Large Breed Adult Chicken and Rice derives most of its animal protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 26% protein, 14% fat and 52% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.
The recipe contains multiple probiotics for better digestion… and chelated minerals for improved absorption and healthy nutrition. The combination of chicken and rice is known for being easy on the digestive system. Chicken is a lean protein source that is generally well-tolerated, and rice is a bland carbohydrate that can help soothe and support a sensitive stomach. Affordably priced and easy to recommend.
For more choices: See our Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs page.
Read our review of the full Diamond Naturals Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Chelated minerals
- Pro-biotics
- High protein
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, ground white rice Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 26% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult shepherds only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"We have had our dogs on this food for some time and the vet is constantly saying how healthy they are (weight, energy, coat, etc.). We searched for some time to find a quality food at an affordable price as we have 4 dogs (including a Siberian Husky and a Great Dane). Have never had any issues with them or their digestive systems while on Diamond!"
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9. Best Grain-Free Dog Food for German Shepherds: Merrick Grain-Free Large Breed Adult
Real Chicken and Sweet Potato is one of 11 dry recipes included in our review of Merrick Large Grain-Free Dog Food product line.
Merrick Grain-Free Large Breed Real Chicken and Sweet Potato gets the majority of its meat-based protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 34% protein, 17% fat and 41% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
We also note the use of multiple probiotics for improved digestion… and salmon oil for healthy skin and coat. Highly recommended.
For more choices: See our Best Grain-Free Dog Foods page.
Read our review of the full Merrick Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Salmon oil
- High protein content
- Probiotics
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, sweet potatoes, potatoes Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 34% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult German Shepherds Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I've been using Merrick for years. I like that the ingredients are all natural and that the company is USA based. The protein sources are whole and there isn't any "filler" ingredients. My german shepherd has a sensitive stomach and this grain-free recipe doesn't bother him at all. He loves this food and is always excited for mealtime."
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10. Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Food for German Shepherds: Holistic Select Large and Giant Breed Adult
Large and Giant Breed Adult Health is one of five dry kibbles included in our review of the Holistic Select product line.
Holistic Select Large and Giant Breed Adult Health derives the bulk of of its animal protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 16% fat and 50% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
This grain-inclusive, large breed formula boasts above-average protein content… yet still free of any plant-based protein “boosters”. Reasonably priced. Highly recommended.
For more choices: See our Best Dog Foods with Grains page.
Read our review of the full Holistic Select Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Above average protein content
- Free from plant proteins
- Affordable
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, rice, oatmeal, oats, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 27% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult shepherds only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Our regular food was not available so we tried this brand. Summit absolutely loves it and has had no digestive issues from switching foods. We are very pleased with the quality ingredients found in this formula."
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to switch to a new food without making your Shepherd sick
In this video…
Dr. Gary Richter shares a simple feeding tip that can help lower your dog’s risk of getting sick when you switch to a new food.
Do German shepherds need special dog food?
That depends on the age of your dog. Adult German shepherds can eat just about ANY brand of quality dog food. But to help lower the risk of crippling hip disease, shepherd puppies should eat a diet that’s safe for large breed puppies. View our best large breed puppy foods here.
How can I lower my German shepherd's risk of hip disease?
There are 2 things you CAN do to help lower your dog’s risk of hip disease. First, don’t overfeed your puppy. Too many calories in the diet can be a contributing factor in canine hip disease. Next, choose dog foods that contain a safe amount of calcium for large breed puppies. View our best large breed puppy foods here.
When can I safely switch my German shepherd puppy to adult food?
German shepherd puppies don’t stop growing and aren’t ready to eat adult food until they reach 12 to 24 months of age.8 Switching your puppy to adult food too soon may increase your dog’s risk of permanent hip and joint damage.
Final word
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