10 Best Dog Food for German Shepherds in 2024

Selecting the best dog food for German Shepherds can seem complex. High protein and carbohydrate content supports their muscle development and caters to their energy needs – but these can be difficult to find.

I have selected the top dog foods tailored for your German Shepherd. Each recommendation follows AAFCO guidelines and provides a balanced mix of essential nutrients. All of my picks today will meet the specific dietary requirements of your canine companion.

My top pick for German Shepherds is The Farmer's Dog. Its use of USDA-certified proteins and whole-food ingredients addresses the breed's nutritional demands. I trust this brand to deliver quality and wholesome meals that align with the special needs of your German Shepherd.

The Best Dog Food for German Shepherds Reviewed

1. The Farmer’s Dog – Best Overall Ingredient Quality

The Farmer's Dog offers 4 fresh food meals with protein levels ideal for German Shepherds. The meals you choose for your dog feature at least 9 to 11% crude protein. This supports your dog's muscle development and maintains their energy levels effectively. The food is GMO- and gluten-free, with human-grade ingredients that are healthier for your pet.

What’s on Offer?

You’ll find options for turkey, beef, chicken, and pork recipes. Each option presents a well-balanced macronutrient profile, perfect for German Shepherds. These meals contribute to their active lifestyle, providing the stamina needed for their daily activities. Learn more about its recipes in my colleague’s tested The Farmer’s Dog review.

Nutrition is further enriched by a variety of superfoods. For instance, whole ingredients like chickpeas, carrots, sweet potatoes, lentils, and green beans all make appearances. Such wholesome, unprocessed ingredients can go a long way for German Shepherds, which are known for their sensitive stomachs.

Personalization is part of the service, as it crafts meal plans to match the specific needs of your dog. It prioritizes macronutrient balance to promote the overall well-being of your German Shepherd, considering their need for higher energy and nutrient-dense diets.

What Makes It Special?

Understanding your dog's unique requirements is simplified with a questionnaire. It factors in the age, weight, activity level, and health conditions of your German Shepherd. This step is crucial in providing them with a diet that supports their health and vitality.

Sustainable sourcing is at the heart of its operations, with ingredients procured ethically from local farmers and suppliers. This approach is in line with caring for the environment while providing your German Shepherd with the highest quality meals.

Is It Good Value?

It ships food every 3 weeks and supports environmental sustainability through its practices. The brand offers a 2-week trial and a full refund if the meals don't meet your satisfaction. In such a case, you can donate any unused food to a local animal shelter.

Pricing starts at $2/day for smaller breeds but can increase if you have a larger pup. As an example, German Shepherds are a fairly large breed, so expect pricing to be higher than for a Chihuahua.

2. Ollie – Best Selection of Fresh Food

Ollie offers a diverse menu tailored for German Shepherds. With fresh meal choices like beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, and pork, your dog gets a variety of proteins. The fresh meals have a minimum of 8 to 10% crude protein, while the baked kibble options feature 22 to 23%. This range supports muscle development and energy needs specific to this active breed.

What’s on Offer?

Ollie presents various meal plan options. Full Fresh, Half Fresh, and Mixed Bowl plans allow you to align your German Shepherd's diet with your budget. I appreciate the flexibility to mix and match according to your dog’s preferences and your financial comfort.

The company cooks meals using the sous vide technique. This method locks in the natural flavors and nutrients essential for your German Shepherd's health. It's rare to find dog food prepared with a technique usually reserved for gourmet restaurant meals, but Ollie makes it happen. Learn more about sous vide in my colleague’s Ollie review.

All its offerings are free from artificial additives. Knowing that Ollie's meals and treats don't contain preservatives, fillers, or by-products can give you peace of mind.

What Makes It Special?

Meals also come packed with superfoods. Ingredients like sweet potatoes and blueberries provide antioxidants, while peas and carrots offer vital micronutrients. This composition supports a robust immune system for your German Shepherd, vital for their long-term health.

Your German Shepherd will benefit from Ollie’s personalized meal plans. When signing up, I found the process intuitive, asking for details like breed, age, and activity level. This level of customization can cater to your dog's specific nutritional requirements, whether they’re an energetic puppy or a more sedate senior.

Is It Good Value?

It consults veterinary nutrition experts for meal plans. This ensures each recipe meets the dietary needs of German Shepherds. Knowing professionals are involved in the meal design adds a layer of trust in the nutritional value of what you’re feeding your dog.

It offers a 2-week trial for newcomers. Pricing starts at $4-$8 per day for small breeds, but can increase the larger your pup.

3. We Feed Raw – Best Raw Dog Food Options

We Feed Raw might be the right choice for German Shepherds with food sensitivities. The meals are fully meat-based, high in protein, and free from grains or certain veggies that can cause reactions. My colleague wrote an in-depth We Feed Raw review if you’re curious to learn more about its raw meals.

What’s on Offer?

A variety of meat recipes keeps mealtime interesting. It provides venison, beef, turkey, chicken, duck, and lamb options. These come in convenient 5-lb patty bags or assorted boxes, offering a range of flavors that cater to the diverse tastes of German Shepherds like yours.

Its meals are backed by nutrition experts and have veterinarian approval. Even without veggies, the meals are balanced. From my experience, this gives peace of mind knowing your German Shepherd's diet is formulated to meet their nutritional requirements without any guesswork on your part.

Human-grade ingredients are used in the meals, with no fillers or synthetic flavors. This means your German Shepherd gets a meal made from components you’d choose for your own meals. Without preservatives, you’re offering a fresh, wholesome meal that aligns with a natural diet.

What Makes It Special?

Custom meal plans add a tailored touch to your German Shepherd’s diet. Based on a dog's profile, it crafts meal plans, although you can buy any product without completing its questionnaire. This flexibility allows you to adjust as needed for your German Shepherd's changing dietary requirements.

Compliance with AAFCO guidelines shows its commitment to nutrition. It meets the established standards, ensuring your German Shepherd's diet supports their health. I find this crucial when selecting a food that will contribute to a dog’s overall well-being.

Is It Good Value?

Trials and delivery schedules are conveniently structured. Your first order is a 2-week trial, with deliveries every 3 weeks thereafter. This system works well for monitoring how your German Shepherd adapts to the new diet and scheduling deliveries to suit your routine.

Pricing starts at $6.59/lb for small breeds but can increase the larger your pup.

4. Nom Nom – Best Meals Including Superfood Ingredients

Nom Nom provides fresh dog food, including superfood ingredients, tailored to meet the dietary needs of German Shepherds. These include eggs, potatoes, carrots, peas, sweet potatoes, squash, kale, mushrooms, and much more.

What’s on Offer?

Recipes include Turkey Fare, Pork Potluck, Chicken Cuisine, and Beef Mash, which cover a range of flavors and nutrients. All recipes have a minimum of 9% crude protein, which supports a German Shepherd’s muscle health and energy levels.

You can get a customized meal plan for your German Shepherd. After you fill out a questionnaire with your dog's details, it crafts a unique diet. Whether your pup is a fussy eater, has allergies, or needs a shiny coat, Nom Nom caters to these specific health conditions.

Nom Nom offers 2 probiotic blends. One targets full-spectrum gut support, and the other focuses specifically on gastrointestinal health. Probiotics can be especially beneficial for German Shepherds, as they’re a breed that can experience sensitive stomachs or digestive issues. You can find out more about the blends in our in-depth Nom Nom review.

What Makes It Special?

Nom Nom's meals contain no artificial additives. Prepared by certified veterinary nutritionists, the meals ensure your German Shepherd is eating food that's as wholesome as it is tasty. Plus, the expertise behind each meal means your dog gets the balance of nutrients it needs.

It offers both full meal plans and half portions. This is ideal if you want your German Shepherd to try the meals before switching to a full plan. It’s a flexible option that allows for a taste test, which is perfect if your dog is picky.

Is It Good Value?

There's a 2-week trial to start with Nom Nom. This period lets you and your German Shepherd fully experience the meals before committing to a monthly delivery schedule. Pricing starts at $2.40 for small breeds but can increase for larger pups.

5. Spot & Tango – Best High-Protein German Shepherd Meals

Spot & Tango caters to all breeds with its 2 food types. If you have a German Shepherd, you'll appreciate the choice between Fresh and UnKibble varieties. The former comes pre-portioned which makes meal prep quick and easy. The UnKibble comes with a personalized food scoop. It helps you feed your pup the exact amount every time.

What’s on Offer?

With 7 recipes, your German Shepherd will never get bored. The protein-rich Fresh meals come in varieties like Turkey + Red Quinoa and Beef + Millet, crucial for your dog’s muscle health. The UnKibble range offers flavors such as Chicken + Brown Rice, all ensuring a minimum of 10% crude protein to support your active German Shepherd’s lifestyle.

Customization begins with a detailed questionnaire. It evaluates key factors such as your German Shepherd's age and activity level. This step is crucial to tailor the meal plan to your dog’s individual needs, promoting optimal health and vitality.

All of Spot & Tango’s offerings are vet-designed and meet strict guidelines. The absence of preservatives, additives, and fillers means you’re providing your German Shepherd with wholesome nutrition. Each recipe aligns with AAFCO standards and is suitable for your dog through all stages of life.

What Makes It Special?

Try the topper-only plan if you want to test the food first before committing. This option allows you to enhance your German Shepherd's current diet with Spot & Tango's nutritious food. It's an economical way to introduce your dog to Spot & Tango’s meals without committing to a full plan.

Treats also add variety to your dog's diet. Options like Chicken Bites and Bison Bites are crafted from premium ingredients. These treats are not only delicious but also reinforce a protein-rich diet for your German Shepherd's well-being. Learn about the variety of offerings in our full Spot & Tango review.

Is It Good Value?

Spot & Tango ensures satisfaction with a robust refund policy. Options for your first order include a 2-week UnKibble trial or a fresh meal plan. If your German Shepherd doesn't love the food, you can get a full refund for the trial period, making the initial experience risk-free.

Pricing starts at $7 per week for small dogs. Costs will vary based on the size of your German Shepherd.

6. The Pet’s Table – Great Healthy Pet Food for German Shepherds

The Pets Table has rapidly become a standout option for pet owners since its 2023 launch by HelloFresh. Its human-grade fresh and air-dried options offer meals suited for dogs of all ages, sizes, and dietary needs, including active, muscular German Shepherds.

What's on Offer?  

The Pets Table offers a range of nutritionally rich dog food featuring high-quality ingredients like sweet potato, beef liver, and spinach. There are 3 fresh and 2 air-dried options. All The Pets Table meals are made with whole, human-grade natural ingredients with no fillers or artificial preservatives.

The Fresh options are: 

• Chicken Casserole with Green Beans

• Beef Stew with Carrots

• Turkey Casserole with Broccoli 

These meals are packed with the protein German Shepherds need to stay active, as well as the fiber they need for good digestion. Learn more about The Pets Table ingredients in our expert review.

Air-Dried meals come in Chicken & Sweet Potato and Beef & Berries. Commercial kibble is baked at high temperatures that cause nutrients to break down. Air-Dried meals use low-temperature drying that preserves those nutrients while providing you with shelf-stable dog food.

These meals are high in omega-3 acids that are important for a German Shepherd’s skin, coat, and heart health. They also have supplemental nutrients for bone and joint health. These are very important for German Shepherds who are susceptible to arthritis and joint issues as they get older.

What Makes It Special?

HelloFresh, The Pets Table’s parent company, is world famous for its meal kits. The Pets Table brings its high-quality ingredients to dog food. Meals are gently cooked to preserve nutrients. The Pets Table then adds extra nutrients like salmon oil for omega-3 acids and chelated minerals for bone health. 

Flexibility in subscription plans allows pet owners to choose between fresh, air-dried, mixed, and half-fresh options, accommodating various budgets and dietary preferences. This adaptability is complemented by thoughtful packaging and clear feeding instructions.

Is It Good Value?

Prices start at $1.59 per meal, which is very reasonable for premium dog food delivered to your door. While your German Shepherd is going to eat more than a poodle, The Pets Table is still a good choice for dog owners who need to watch their budget. 

The Pets Table offers 4 different meal plans – Air-Dried, Fresh, Mixed, and Half of Fresh – to suit every preference and budget.

7. JustFoodForDogs – Best for DIY Meal Kits

JustFoodForDogs offers an array of food options. Whether you have a finicky German Shepherd or 1 with specific dietary needs, this versatility is a game-changer. It provides a range of recipes, including fresh frozen meals, pantry staples, DIY, and even custom diet plans, alongside a selection of treats and supplements.

What’s on Offer?

DIY kits from it are a great choice for hands-on owners. If you prefer to cook for your German Shepherd, these kits are invaluable. They enrich your homemade meals with vital nutrients to ensure your dog's diet is well-rounded. Find out more about JustFoodForDogs’ homemade meal kits in my colleague's review.

You can also shop by specific health goals. This feature allows you to select food tailored to your German Shepherd’s digestion, skin and coat, joint health, or weight control needs. Plus, you can pick age-appropriate options, from puppyhood to the senior stages.

It’s nice to see that the company is committed to using human-grade ingredients. It steers clear of preservatives and fillers, focusing on high-quality proteins and fresh vegetables. All meals meet National Research Council standards, assuring your pup gets only the best.

It provides tailored meal plans for your dog. By evaluating factors like age and activity level, it crafts a diet plan unique to your German Shepherd’s needs through a detailed questionnaire, yet it's not a requirement to use this feature.

What Makes It Special?

JustFoodForDogs also employs veterinary professionals. They’re available to help you create the most beneficial meal plan for your German Shepherd, ensuring your furry friend's dietary needs are expertly met.

Prescription diets for health conditions are also available. If your German Shepherd suffers from health issues like kidney or liver disease, it has specific diets to aid in managing these conditions.

Is It Good Value?

Autoshipments can be set up for convenience. You can schedule deliveries from 1 to 8-week intervals, and if you're not happy with your first purchase, it offers a refund minus shipping and handling.

Pricing starts at $6.45 for small dogs. Costs will rise with the size of your dog, but this investment might save you money over time with the autoship option.

8. Pawfoods – Organic Meals for German Shepherds

PawFoods impresses with its commitment to quality, organic ingredients, and ease of use, making it a top choice for German Shepherd owners seeking nutritious, organic dog food.

What’s on Offer?

The brand boasts human-grade proteins, organic fruits, and vegetables, ensuring your German Shepherd receives a diet as wholesome as it is delicious. Three distinct recipes—Steak Sensation, Chicken Feast, and Under the Sea—cater to diverse doggie palates and nutritional needs. All meals are gluten-free and developed in collaboration with veterinarians. Each meal is high in protein, fiber, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. 

PawFoods packaging is especially convenient. Each meal includes a free dental treat so your German Shepherd can keep their gums clean. You also get a small packet of extra fruits full of nutrients and fiber, a nutritional booster, and another pouch of superfoods. 

All PawFoods meals are slow steam-cooked to preserve nutritional value. This ensures meals maintain all their natural vitamins and minerals, so your German Shepherd gets optimal nourishment. PawFoods uses human-grade locally sourced proteins to provide your dog with a high quality diet. Learn more in our expert PawFoods review.

What Makes It Special?

PawFoods distinguishes itself with USDA-certified organic ingredients. When you feed your dog organic food, they receive less exposure to pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. This is much healthier for your dog, especially for German Shepherds, who are prone to allergies and food sensitivities. 

Meals are gluten-free and contain no artificial additives or preservatives. They are also nutritionally appropriate for German Shepherds at all life stages. You can feed your puppy or your elderly old Shepherd secure in the knowledge that they’re getting all the nutrition they need.

Is It Good Value?

With prices starting at $2.86 per meal, PawFoods is definitely in the premium tier of dog food brands. But the organic ingredients and convenient packaging make PawFoods a good value for the price. 

You can place 1-time orders, but you save 15% with a subscription. Half topper plans are available. 

9. Maev – Frozen Raw Meals for German Shepherds

Maev sets the standard for frozen raw dog food. Founded in 2018 by Katie Spies, Maev emerged from a desire to offer busy professionals an uncomplicated way to provide their dogs with a diet closer to nature. Utilizing human-grade kitchens across the US, Maev crafts raw meals designed by veterinary nutritionists, focusing on the health benefits and natural ingredients that might mitigate common health issues linked to conventional kibble diets​​.

What’s on Offer?

Maev only offers 2 recipes, Beef and Chicken. All meals are supplemented by nutritious ingredients like liver, sweetbread, kale, peas, and more. The meals are served frozen, which is much more convenient than measuring out thawed raw meals. 

Ingredients are USDA-certified and, whenever possible, locally sourced. All recipes are supplemented with coconut oil and fish oil to provide omega fatty acids that German Shepherds need. 

You can also choose between a selection of supplements like Bone Broth and Vitamin Bars, offering a comprehensive approach to your dog's nutrition. Each product line targets specific areas of health such as skin, coat, anxiety, calming, and hip & joint support. And Maev Bundles, targeted at issues like joint discomfort and digestive issues, can be part of a holistic approach to your German Shepherd’s health. 

What Makes It Special?

Maev’s frozen raw food is not only more convenient. It’s also good for your German Shepherd’s health. Your dog takes longer to chew and swallow frozen Maev meals. This can help avoid bloating, a common and sometimes fatal problem in larger dogs like GSDs. 

With Maev’s online tool, you can determine proper food portions based on your pet’s age and weight. You always know precisely how much food your German Shepherd needs. You can find out more about the service in our expert Maev review. 

Is It Good Value?

Maev is definitely on the pricier side, with prices starting at $143 per bag. For a larger dog like a German Shepherd, Maev is a big investment. But given its blend of quality and convenience, you might find that it’s a good investment in your dog’s health. 

Each frozen bag has a 6-month shelf life, so you can stock up and save money with bulk purchases. Shipping is $9.98, and orders over $250 ship free.

10. Raised Right – Best Adult and Puppy German Shepherd Food

Raised Right tailors its menu for German Shepherds at any life stage. Whether you have an energetic puppy or a mature companion, it offers specific menus to fit their unique needs. Every dish is made with human-grade ingredients. Learn more in my colleague’s Raised Right review.

What’s on the Menu?

It offers 3 distinct choices for puppies and 8 for adult dogs. Older German Shepherds might prefer the 4 paté options designed for ease of eating. With proteins like turkey and beef, the dishes average 18 to 20% minimum crude protein, fueling your pet's muscle growth and energy.

Treats are abundant from this brand and come in exciting flavors. These include Meat Bites and Shake A Flakes made from beef liver, providing a tasty variety your German Shepherd will love. I also like that they’re made using the same quality standards as the regular meals.

It works closely with veterinarians and nutritionists to formulate all of the meals. Raised Right ensures the food and treats are not only tasty but also nutritionally balanced. They’re also low in carbs, and avoid fillers that could harm your pet’s health. For German Shepherds, this could be beneficial.

What Makes It Special? 

German Shepherds with food sensitivities can also benefit from Raised Right’s offerings. For example, whole foods and individual sources of animal protein are easier on the stomachs of some dog breeds. You can feed them without worrying about adverse reactions.

One of the company's core values is transparency. Ingredients are sourced solely from US farms, and food is processed in facilities fit for human consumption, complete with thorough pathogen testing to ensure safety. However, for dogs with specific health issues like liver disease or pancreatitis, high-protein and low-carb recipes might not be ideal.

Is It Good Value?

Pricing starts at $9.99/bag for smaller breeds but will increase for larger pups. By choosing the autoship option, you can guarantee your German Shepherd will always have access to a healthy supply of food while also potentially saving money.

Quick Comparison Table

Tips for Choosing the Best Dog Food for German Shepherds

Choosing the right dog food for your German Shepherd is paramount to their health and happiness. Here are 4 key tips to help you select the best food for your furry friend:

• Menu options: German Shepherds require a diet tailored to their energetic nature and physical needs. Kibble is economical and practical, while wet food can be more palatable and hydrating. Fresh and raw options often provide a richer nutrient profile, reflecting a more natural diet, and dehydrated food offers convenience with a minimal processing approach. Consider a mix to balance the benefits of each type. Have a look at The Farmer’s Dog for a good selection of fresh food.

• Ingredient quality: High-quality ingredients are crucial for the well-being of German Shepherds. Choose foods that comply with AAFCO guidelines, ensuring complete and balanced nutrition. Whether grain-free or grain-inclusive, the focus should be on whole, recognizable ingredients. Veterinary-approved labels can guide you toward safer and more nutritious choices, suited to your dog's specific health needs. I personally love Ollie for this reason.

• Affordability and subscriptions: Budget considerations are important. Single purchase options, like those from PawFoods, allow you to test foods without a subscription commitment. Conversely, services like Nom Nom offer subscription plans that can be more economical over time. Compare costs per serving and look for companies that provide discounts for regular orders.

• Specialized health formulas: It's essential to consider the specific health requirements of German Shepherds. Look for foods that cater to their common health issues, such as joint support for their susceptibility to hip dysplasia. Foods with supplements like glucosamine can be beneficial, as well as those designed to support a healthy coat and digestion. Personalized food plans, like those offered by many of my top services, can also be advantageous, targeting the unique health profile of your dog.

FAQ

What is the best food to feed German shepherds?

The best food for German Shepherds is a balanced diet tailored to their specific health needs. This means a diet typically rich in protein and carbs and moderate in fat. The Farmer's Dog offers fresh food with human-grade ingredients that can meet these needs while also avoiding GMOs, which is good for owners seeking more natural food options for their pets.

Do German shepherds need grain-free food?

German Shepherds don’t necessarily need grain-free food unless they have a specific allergy or intolerance to grains. Ollie provides customized meal plans that can include or exclude grains based on your dog's health requirements, ensuring a balanced diet without ingredients that could cause issues for your dog.

Is Purina Pro Plan good for German shepherds?

For this reason, I highly recommend checking out Nom Nom instead, as it provides vet-approved, human-grade food that meets or exceeds AAFCO standards.

Is raw meat good for German shepherds?

Raw meat can sometimes be part of a German Shepherd's diet, but it should be part of a balanced raw diet formulated to meet all nutritional needs. We Feed Raw provides meal plans that are designed to give German Shepherds the right balance of nutrients from raw meats, which can be a good option for owners interested in raw feeding.

Best Dog Food for German Shepherds 2024 — Final Score