Skip navigation

Feeding

The “average” adult GSD eats 3-4 cups of food per day. Your dog may eat more or less. It is very important not to let your GSD get overweight. One way to tell if your dog is overweight is by physically examining them. You should not be able to see the ribs, but can feel them with slight finger tip pressure. GSD should also have a “waist” (going in a bit right behind the rib cage) and not form a solid line from their ribs to hips. A good habit to get in to is to weigh your dog each month so you will know if they are gaining or losing weight.

We highly recommend feeding two – three meals per day. Divide the fully recommended daily amount in to the number of meals you plan to feed your dog. Avoid grocery store brand foods and buy the highest quality of food you can afford. The cost of food in relation to price is a reality. You pay for what you get and it can really make a difference in the overall health of your dog.

Never feed a large amount of food as it may lead to intestinal blockage when the food swells in the intestine and can cause the stomach to twist (Bloat.) Divide the fully recommended daily amount in to two or three feedings per day. You may mix water with the food if you choose. Avoid cheap grocery store food. Buy the highest quality of food you can afford. The higher the quality of the food, the healthier your dog will be (and less stools to pick up!) The cost of food in relation to price is a reality. You pay for what you get and it can really make a difference in the overall health of your dog.

Transitioning Your Dog to a New Food

Changing your dog’s food drastically can cause them to have an upset stomach. If you have to change your dog's food, begin by mixing 1/2 per day, per feeding of the new food. Most vets will recommend feeding the lower amount of suggested servings that is provided on the feed instructions on the bag.

If you are interested in feeding your dog a raw or cooked diet, there are several good resources online that can provide you with information. There is a world of information out there on this subject, with opinions going from the extreme “raw meat and bones only, no veggies, no supplements” to “raw with supplements and various veggies” to about 400 different dog kibbles. There are web sites all over that help you find info on what makes one high quality. The Dog Food Project has updates on dog food recalls and dog food companies.

Resources for Information on Bloat

This information is not intended to replace advice or guidance from veterinarians or other pet care professionals. It is simply being shared as an aid to assist you with your own research on this very serious problem.