Feeding your German Shepherd well isn’t just about filling their bowl; it’s about fuelling their body, supporting their health, and giving them the best chance to thrive. You more than likely already know this, which is why you’re here. With so many choices, from canned dog food and kibble to grain-free formulas and the increasingly popular raw diet, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. When it comes to nutrition, most dogs, regardless of breed, have surprisingly universal needs. While size, age, activity levels and health conditions can influence how much they eat or how they respond to certain nutrients, the foundations of a healthy canine diet don’t really change. Dogs are classified as facultative carnivores. That means meat is their biological staple, but they can survive by scavenging and eating other food types, including some plant matter. Think about it like this: a human can technically live on fast food: burgers, chips, fizzy drinks. But will they feel heir best? It’s the same story with dogs. There’s a big difference between surviving and thriving. Modern dogs may appear different from their wild ancestors, but biologically, they remain remarkably close to wolves. That’s not a criticism; most dog owners simply want to do their best.
Dogs have little requirement for carbohydrates, especially refined ones. However, most commercial dry dog foods are loaded with them, often making up more than 50% of the recipe. Why? Because carbs like grains, legumes and starchy fillers are cheap to bulk out food, not because they benefit your dog. That’s why more and more dog owners are turning to grain-free dog food or making the transition to feeding their dogs a fresh diet. Better digestion. More vitality. Shinier coats. Healthier teeth. Because when your dog eats better, they live better. Raw dog food is whole food served in their most natural state with no heat processing. It’s the most biologically aligned option for dogs. It delivers nutrients in their most digestible and usable forms, with no need for synthetic additives, preservatives or mystery fillers.
Let’s be honest: you don’t see wolves in the wild rummaging in wheat fields or sniffing out dried biscuits. A raw, species-appropriate diet, also referred to as BARF diet for dogs (biologically appropriate raw food diet), includes muscle meat, organ meat, bone, raw fats, and a small amount of vegetables or berries. Contrast that with ultra-processed commercial dog food. While convenient, it’s the exact opposite of raw. The high-heat manufacturing process depletes nutrients, denatures proteins, and creates inflammatory compounds [1]. Worse still, the added carbs, synthetic vitamins, and often rancid heated fats can contribute to a long list of chronic health issues that are now on the rise - not just in dogs [2], but in humans too. The great news? As more dog owners become aware of the benefits of fresh, natural feeding [4,5], the industry is evolving. But as with any dog food, quality matters. That’s why choosing a trusted supplier like ProDog matters. It’s not about being perfect or doing everything at once. Even introducing just a few raw meals a week, or adding a fresh food topper like raw meat, a cracked egg, or a spoonful of bone broth, can deliver meaningful nutritional benefits for your dog. So, wherever you are on your journey, whether you’re just starting to explore raw food for a German Shepherd or already making small changes, know that it all counts.
When it comes to portion sizes, there’s no universal answer. Just like people, every dog is different with their own metabolism, energy levels, and health goals. The advice below is specifically for dogs eating a complete, balanced raw diet made from natural, whole food ingredients, such as ProDog’s FEDIAF-compliant Complete Raw Dog Food meals. As puppy parents who may be used to commercial dog food or dry dog food, switching to a fresh feeding approach can feel like a significant change. Raw feeding offers significant advantages in terms of nutrient absorption and overall health. For safe growth, it’s important to feed a raw puppy-specific formula. ProDog’s raw puppy food meals are formulated to FEDIAF nutritional standards and expertly portioned for convenience.
Strong, sharp, and utterly devoted, German Shepherds are one of the most versatile working breeds. Originally bred for herding, they’ve become elite service dogs, loyal protectors, and cherished companions. But their brilliance comes with demands. These dogs need purpose, structure, and meaningful engagement. Without it, frustration builds fast. They’re also highly sensitive to stress, poor nutrition, and under-stimulation. Increasingly, holistic vets, including ProDog’s own consultants, Dr Nick Thompson and Dr Katie Woodley, are advocating for an integrative approach to dog health. Minimally processed, species-appropriate diets are key to this method, along with functional supplements, gut health support, and environmental enrichment.
- Around 19-20% of German Shepherds are affected by hip or elbow dysplasia. Consider targeted supplements like ProDog’s Flexx, joint support supplement for dogs, formulated with glucosamine, green-lipped mussel, and turmeric to promote mobility and ease inflammation.
- Maintain a healthy, stable weight to reduce spinal pressure. Select lean raw dog food bundles and adjust the portions according to your dog’s ideal weight.
- German Shepherds account for around two-thirds of canine EPI cases.
- As a large, deep-chested breed, German Shepherds are at increased risk of GDV (bloat) - a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists. Prevention is key, and a well-balanced diet can play a significant role in reducing the risk.
Raw food arrives frozen, so ensure you have sufficient freezer space. Want to personalise the bowl? You can safely use most real foods in moderation, but there are a few ingredients to avoid. If you’re feeding ProDog’s complete meals (such as our Smart Chubs or Complete Recipe) no additional ingredients are needed. They’re expertly balanced and nutritionally complete. Got a picky eater? It might not be the food. At the end of the day, feeding real food isn’t just healthy; it’s easy. Switching your German Shepherd from processed food to a raw, biologically aligned diet is one of the most impactful health decisions you can make. The good news? It doesn’t have to be. Thinking about making the switch but not sure where to start? 1. 2. During the transition, keep an eye on your dog’s poo (yes, really), energy levels, and appetite. Digest, our dog gut health supplement, can help soothe the gut, reduce gas, and ease the shift to fresh food. Need help? Our team of canine nutritionists is here to support you every step of the way.
The beauty of raw feeding is that it’s not just one meal, one way. With ProDog, you have options when it comes to what to feed your German Shepherd. All our meals are expertly formulated to support your dog’s nutritional needs. Choose from our Complete Puppy and Smart Chub ranges for complete, balanced, ready-to-serve meals.
Ako kŕmiť psa surovým krmivom pre začiatočníkov (kompletný návod pre domácich majstrov)
Imagine eating the same three meals every single day, for years on end. You’d get bored. You’d probably feel sluggish. And over time, you’d likely miss out on key nutrients. Food isn’t just fuel, it’s nourishment. It affects everything from digestion to behaviour, immunity to energy. What goes in their bowl has a ripple effect on every part of their health. So don’t let it be an afterthought. Trust your gut. Trust your dog’s biology. Raw feeding isn’t an all-or-nothing approach. Still unsure about what to feed your German Shepherd? HomeAnimals & TopicsPetsDogsFeeding dogs properlyWhat you should bear in mind when feeding
Feeding dogs properly involves choosing high-quality food and portioning appropriately. Owners are not doing their dogs any favors or even endangering them if they allow them to partake of the leftovers from the family meal. The vets will draw up a ration plan tailored to the dog's needs, review it regularly and adjust the plan accordingly. This contains a balanced diet, for example, of milk and egg products, vegetables, rice and pasta. In theory, it is even possible to feed dogs a vegan diet as well as a vegetarian one, however both apply to adult and completely healthy animals. When feeding a raw diet, there is a risk that the animals receive too much or too little of certain nutrients if owners feed their pets without professional advice from books. Raw diet products on the market often advertise that they are balanced. However, this is often not the case. If you want to know exactly what your pet is eating, you should cook the rations yourself. This diet increases the risk of infection with pathogens such as bacteria, viruses and parasites. Some diseases can even be fatal or spread to humans. This can also apply to multi-resistant germs. The dog does not have to be obviously ill for this to happen. You should never feed your dog this if there are children, pregnant women, elderly people or people with weakened immune systems in your household or if the animal has frequent contact with them. Owners can avoid this risk if they store and prepare the meat hygienically and cook or heat it sufficiently before putting it in the bowl.
- Bones are a hazard; avoid feeding them as they can injure dogs or cause constipation.
- Chocolate is poisonous for dogs; all sweets are generally unsuitable.
- Raw pork can transmit diseases such as Aujeszky’s disease; exercise caution.
- Food from the fridge can upset stomachs; ensure proper handling.
The German Shepherd is undoubtedly one of the most admired and versatile breeds in the world. They are intelligent, loyal, protective dogs with boundless energy. However, their imposing physique and vitality depend directly on one fundamental pillar: high-quality nutrition. Due to their anatomy and rapid growth, this breed is prone to certain health problems, especially those affecting the joints and digestive system. Therefore, not just any dog food will do. One of the German Shepherd's Achilles' heels is its skeletal and joint system. Hip and elbow dysplasia are common hereditary conditions that can be seriously aggravated by excessively rapid growth or being overweight. During puppyhood (which in large breeds extends to 12-15 months), the German Shepherd experiences accelerated physical development. Despite their strong and rugged appearance, German Shepherds have a proportionally shorter digestive tract than other breeds, resulting in a lower capacity for nutrient absorption and a clear tendency to suffer from indigestion, gas, or loose stools. They are also prone to the dreaded gastric torsion (bloat).
At Dibaq Petcare, we understand that every dog is unique and that large, active breeds like the German Shepherd require precisely formulated recipes. 1. For Puppies: Dibaq Sense Puppy: During their first months of life, puppies need a holistic, grain-free recipe that protects their delicate stomach and supports their growth. 2. For the Active Adult German Shepherd: Dibaq Sense Large Breeds: Specifically designed for large breed dogs. 3. For Sensitive Stomachs: Dibaq Sense Salmon (Grain Free): If you notice your dog has sensitive skin, a dull coat, or tends to have loose stools, fresh salmon is their best ally.
1. Divide their feedings: Don’t give them their entire daily ration in one meal. 2. Post-meal rest: Avoid intense exercise, running, or drinking large amounts of water right before or immediately after eating. 3. Control portions and weight: The German Shepherd should be kept lean. Regularly feel its ribs; you should be able to feel them without pressing, but they shouldn’t be visible. 4. Properly feeding a German Shepherd is an act of love that translates directly into fewer vet visits and a much more dignified, agile, and happy senior life. Choosing natural ingredients, fresh meats, and recipes formulated by canine nutrition experts is the true secret to keeping your companion running alongside you with the same energy as always. We invite you to visit our online store at Dibaq Petcare and discover the complete range that best suits your loyal friend.