A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : A large-breed growth diet helps support progressive bone development without excess energy and without gaining weight too quickly.
Adult : The ration must be adjusted to actual activity to maintain an athletic silhouette, good muscle mass and comfortable digestion.
Senior : A more digestible formula, often enriched with joint support, can help preserve comfort and mobility with age.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Premium kibble for large dogs, highly digestible and adapted to the size of the jaw, generally suits the breed very well. It helps support chewing, limit gulping, and better cover the needs of an active dog. A home-prepared ration can also be suitable if it is formulated with a professional. In sensitive individuals, a digestible and well-tolerated formula should be preferred rather than a food that is only very rich.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount depends on adult weight, activity, sterilization, season and the caloric density of the chosen food. For an adult, we often find rations around 3 to 4 cups per day or about 450 g of dry food depending on the product and the dog's profile, but these guidelines must always be adjusted to body condition. In the German Shepherd, it is prudent to split the ration for better digestive comfort.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 22 - 25 kg | 240 - 300 g | 2 |
| 25 - 30 kg | 280 - 360 g | 2 |
| 30 - 35 kg | 330 - 410 g | 2 |
| 35 - 40 kg | 380 - 470 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary transition must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets, to which the breed may be sensitive. The proportion of the new food is increased little by little while monitoring stools, appetite and overall comfort. In case of diarrhea, flatulence or marked discomfort, a slower transition or veterinary advice are preferable.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, especially after exercise, in hot weather or if the diet is dry. Hydration contributes to overall comfort, recovery and proper digestive function. After sustained effort, it is better to let the dog recover calmly before drinking large quantities or having its meal.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats are useful for training and motivation, provided they remain simple, digestible and well counted in the total ration. In this breed, it is better to avoid extras that are too fatty or given in large quantities, especially in individuals sensitive on the digestive level. Small rewards that are quickly consumed better limit excess calories.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Split the daily ration into two meals.
- Choose a highly digestible food suited to the size of a large dog.
- Avoid intense exercise just before and just after meals.
- Regularly weigh the ration rather than estimating it by eye.
- Quickly adjust the energy intake during growth and after sterilization.
Never give
Chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, xylitol, alcohol, cooked bones and very fatty foods should be avoided because they can cause poisoning, severe digestive disorders or potentially serious complications. As with other dogs, salty or seasoned table scraps are not suitable. In case of suspected ingestion, you should quickly contact a veterinarian.
