15 Best Homemade German Shepherd Dog Food Recipes

Table of Contents

Introduction

This guide explores the 15 best german shepherd dog food recipes you can make at home with ease. As a dog expert, I cannot stress enough the importance of proper nutrition for your German Shepherd. Not only does it keep them healthy and happy, but it can also help prevent a variety of health issues down the road. One of the best ways to ensure your German Shepherd is getting the proper nutrition is by preparing their food at home. In this article, we’ll be focusing on homemade dog food recipes specifically for German Shepherds and the benefits of preparing food at home for this breed.

German Shepherds, like all dogs, have unique nutritional requirements that must be met in order to keep them healthy and strong. By preparing food at home, you have complete control over the ingredients that go into your dog’s food, ensuring that they are getting the right balance of nutrients they need. Additionally, preparing food at home allows you to make adjustments to your dog’s diet as needed, such as accommodating their diet if they have any health issues.

Another benefit of preparing food at home is that it can save you money in the long run. Commercial dog food can be expensive, especially if you have a large breed like a German Shepherd. By preparing food at home, you can save money by purchasing ingredients in bulk and making your own dog food.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of a homemade diet for German Shepherds and provide you with a variety of homemade dog food recipes that are specifically tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of this breed. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dog owner, this guide will give you all the information you need to prepare healthy, delicious meals for your furry friend.

Nutritional Requirements for German Shepherds

German Shepherds are a large breed of dog that have specific nutritional needs to support their active and energetic lifestyle. One of the most important nutrients for German Shepherds is protein. This breed requires a high-protein diet to support muscle development and maintenance, as well as to promote overall health and well-being. Animal protein sources such as chicken, turkey, fish, and beef are all great options for German Shepherds.

Another important nutrient for German Shepherds is essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These fatty acids are important for maintaining a healthy coat and skin, as well as supporting brain function and overall health. Foods such as fish oil, flaxseed oil, and chia seeds are all great sources of essential fatty acids.

German Shepherds also have a higher risk of developing hip dysplasia and joint problems, so it is important to ensure that their diet contains adequate levels of glucosamine and chondroitin. These nutrients are important for promoting joint health and can be found in foods such as chicken cartilage and shellfish.

Vitamin E is also an important nutrient for German Shepherds as it is an antioxidant that can help to protect against cell damage and support the immune system. Foods such as almonds, sweet potatoes, and spinach are all great sources of vitamin E.

Additionally, German Shepherds also require a diet that provides them with a balance of carbohydrates, fibers, and vitamins. Whole foods such as sweet potatoes, brown rice, and leafy greens are excellent choices for providing your dog with the essential nutrients they need.

German Shepherd Food Preparation General Guidelines

When preparing homemade dog food for your German Shepherd, it is important to keep in mind the nutritional requirements of the breed as established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials. One of the best ways to ensure your dog is getting the proper nutrition is by incorporating a variety of different protein sources, such as ground turkey, fish, and chicken. It is also important to include a good balance of carbohydrates and healthy fats in their diet.

One great way to ensure your dog is getting all the essential nutrients they need is by adding wet food to its diet. Wet food provides a good source of moisture, which is important for maintaining a healthy urinary tract and overall hydration. It is also a great way to increase the number of calories in your dog’s diet, which is especially important for active dogs.

When it comes to preparing homemade dog food, it is important to use high-quality ingredients and to avoid using commercial diets. Whole foods such as sweet potatoes, brown rice, and leafy greens are excellent choices for providing your dog with the essential nutrients they need. Additionally, incorporating ground turkey, fish oil, and chicken meal can provide important sources of protein and healthy fats.

It is also important to consider any medical conditions or food allergies your dog may have. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, it is best to stick to basic recipes that use simple, easy-to-digest ingredients. Avoiding processed foods and sticking to a diet of whole foods can also help to prevent skin allergies and other health problems.

When preparing homemade food for your furry friend, it is essential to use a food processor to chop ingredients into small pieces that are easy for your dog to eat. Additionally, incorporating organ meat and muscle meat can provide important sources of protein, while adding fish oil and leafy greens can help to provide important sources of omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients.

The most important thing to keep in mind when preparing homemade food for your German Shepherd is to ensure that the diet is balanced and provides all the essential nutrients needed for a healthy life. By incorporating a variety of protein sources, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, you can provide your dog with the best homemade food for a long and healthy life.

15 Best Homemade Dog Food Recipes for German Shepherds

Homemade German Shepherd Dog Food Recipe Ingredients:

2 lbs of lean ground beef or turkey
2 cups of brown rice
2 cups of chopped vegetables (such as carrots, green beans, and spinach)
1 cup of cottage cheese or yogurt
2 tablespoons of olive oil
2 cups of water

Instructions:

In a large pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the brown rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes or until it’s cooked through.
In a separate pan, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
Once the rice is cooked, add the cooked meat, chopped vegetables, cottage cheese or yogurt, and olive oil to the pot. Mix everything together until well combined.
Allow the food to cool down before serving it to your dog. This recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months.

Nutritional value: This recipe provides your dog with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Ground meat provides a good source of protein, while brown rice and vegetables provide carbohydrates and fiber. Cottage cheese or yogurt adds an additional source of protein and healthy fats.

German Shepherd Puppy Food Recipe Ingredients:

1 lb of ground turkey
1 cup of sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup of green beans
1 cup of brown rice
1 cup of water
1 tablespoon of fish oil

Instructions:

In a pot, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the brown rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes or until it’s cooked through.
In a separate pan, brown the ground turkey over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
Add the diced sweet potatoes and green beans to the pan with the turkey and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Once the rice is cooked, mix the turkey mixture with the rice, and add fish oil. Allow the food to cool down before serving it to your puppy.

Nutritional value: This recipe provides your puppy with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Ground turkey provides a good source of protein, while sweet potatoes and green beans provide carbohydrates and fiber. Fish oil provides essential fatty acids that are important for a puppy’s development.

German Shepherd Adult Dog Food Recipe Ingredients:

2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breast
2 cups of brown rice
2 cups of chopped vegetables (such as carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower)
1 cup of cottage cheese
2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed
2 cups of water

Instructions:

In a large pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the brown rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes or until it’s cooked through.
In a separate pan, cook the chicken breast over medium heat until fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and let it cool down before shredding it.
In the same pan, sauté the vegetables until they are tender.
Once the rice is cooked, add the shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, cottage cheese, and ground flaxseed to the pot. Mix everything together until well combined.
Allow the food to cool down before serving it to your dog. This recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months.

Nutritional value: This recipe provides your adult German Shepherd with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. The chicken breast is a lean protein source, while the brown rice and vegetables provide carbohydrates and fiber. The cottage cheese and ground flaxseed add additional sources of protein and healthy fats. This recipe is also a great option for dogs that may have sensitive stomachs as it is easy to digest.

German Shepherd Raw Food Recipe Ingredients:

2 lbs of lean beef or turkey, cut into small pieces
2 cups of chopped vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and spinach)
1 cup of cottage cheese or yogurt
1 tablespoon of fish oil
2 cups of water

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the raw meat, chopped vegetables, cottage cheese or yogurt, and fish oil. Mix everything together until well combined.
Divide the mixture into portions and store them in an airtight container in the freezer.
Before serving, thaw the food in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave on low heat.

Nutritional value: This recipe provides your dog with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Raw meat provides a good source of protein, while vegetables provide carbohydrates and fiber. Cottage cheese or yogurt adds an additional source of protein and healthy fats. Fish oil provides essential fatty acids that are important for a dog’s overall health.

German Shepherd Homemade Canned Food Recipe Ingredients:

2 lbs of beef or turkey, cut into small pieces
2 cups of chopped vegetables (such as carrots, green beans, and peas)
1 cup of cooked brown rice
2 cups of water
1 tablespoon of fish oil

Instructions:

In a large pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the beef or turkey and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes or until it’s cooked through.
Add the chopped vegetables and cooked brown rice to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Remove the pot from heat and add the fish oil, stirring well.
Once the food has cooled, transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and puree until smooth.
Pour the mixture into sterilized glass jars, leaving 1/2-inch headspace.
Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 20 minutes.
Allow the jars to cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.

Nutritional value: This recipe provides your dog with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Beef or turkey provides a good source of protein, while vegetables and brown rice provide carbohydrates and fiber. Fish oil provides essential fatty acids that are important for a dog’s overall health.

German Shepherd Homemade Dry Food

Ingredients:

4 cups of whole wheat flour
2 cups of rolled oats
2 cups of dried meat meal (such as chicken or fish)
1 cup of dried vegetables (such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach)
1 cup of bran
2 eggs
1 cup of water

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, dried meat meal, dried vegetables, and bran.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and add the water. Mix well.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix everything together until well combined.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Cut the dough into small bite-sized pieces and place them on a baking sheet.
Bake the pieces in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow the pieces to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.

Nutritional value: This recipe provides your dog with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. The dried meat meal provides a good source of protein, while the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, and dried vegetables provide carbohydrates and fiber. The eggs provide additional protein and healthy fats. This recipe is also a great option for dogs that may have a sensitive stomach as it is easy to digest and provides a balanced diet.

German Shepherd Homemade Wet Food Recipe Ingredients:

2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breast
2 cups of chopped vegetables (such as carrots, green beans, and peas)
1 cup of brown rice
2 cups of chicken broth
2 tablespoons of olive oil

Instructions:

In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the brown rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes or until it’s cooked through.
In a separate pan, cook the chicken breast over medium heat until fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and let it cool down before shredding it.
In the same pan, sauté the vegetables until they are tender.
Once the rice is cooked, add the shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and olive oil to the pot. Mix everything together until well combined.
Allow the food to cool down before serving it to your dog. This recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months.

Nutritional value: This recipe provides your dog with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. The chicken breast is a lean protein source, while the brown rice and vegetables provide carbohydrates and fiber. Olive oil provides healthy fats that are important for a dog’s overall health. This recipe is also a great option for dogs that may have sensitive stomachs as it is easy to digest.

German Shepherd Homemade Freeze-Dried Food Recipe Ingredients:

2 lbs of lean ground beef or turkey
2 cups of chopped vegetables (such as carrots, green beans, and spinach)
1 cup of dried fruit (such as apples or blueberries)
2 tablespoons of fish oil

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, chopped vegetables, dried fruit, and fish oil. Mix everything together until well combined.
Divide the mixture into portions and place them on a baking sheet.
Place the baking sheet in the freezer and let the mixture freeze for at least 4 hours.
Once the mixture is frozen, remove it from the baking sheet and place it into a freeze-drying machine.
Allow the freeze-drying process to complete, which can take anywhere from 24-48 hours depending on the machine.
Once the food is completely dry, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Nutritional value: This recipe provides your dog with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Ground beef or turkey provides a good source of protein, while vegetables provide carbohydrates and fiber. The dried fruit adds an additional source of carbohydrates and essential vitamins and minerals. Fish oil provides essential fatty acids that are important for a dog’s overall health.

German Shepherd Homemade Dehydrated Food Recipe Ingredients:

2 lbs of lean ground beef or turkey
2 cups of chopped vegetables (such as carrots, green beans, and spinach)
1 cup of brown rice
2 tablespoons of fish oil

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 150°F (66°C).
In a large pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the brown rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes or until it’s cooked through.
In a separate pan, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and let it cool down.
Spread the cooked beef or turkey and chopped vegetables on a baking sheet and place it in the preheated oven.
Dehydrate the food in the oven for 6-8 hours or until it’s completely dry.
Once the food is completely dry, crumble it and mix it in the fish oil. Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Nutritional value: This recipe provides your dog with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Ground beef or turkey provides a good source of protein, while vegetables and brown rice provide carbohydrates and fiber. Fish oil provides essential fatty acids that are important for a dog’s overall health.

German Shepherd Homemade Vegetarian Food Recipe Ingredients:

2 cups of quinoa
2 cups of chopped vegetables (such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach)
1 cup of cooked lentils
2 tablespoons of flaxseed oil

Instructions:

In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the quinoa and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the quinoa simmer for 18-20 minutes or until it’s cooked through.
In a separate pan, sauté the vegetables until they are tender.
Once the quinoa is cooked, add the sautéed vegetables and cooked lentils to the pot. Mix everything together until well combined.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the flaxseed oil.
Allow the food to cool down before serving it to your dog. This recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months.

Nutritional value: This recipe provides your dog with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. The quinoa and lentils provide a good source of protein, while the vegetables provide carbohydrates and fiber. Flaxseed oil provides healthy fats that are important for a dog’s overall health. This recipe is also a great option for dogs that may have sensitive stomachs or food allergies as it is easy to digest and provides a balanced diet.

German Shepherd Homemade Fish Food Recipe Ingredients:

2 lbs of white fish (such as cod or tilapia)
2 cups of chopped vegetables (such as carrots, green beans, and peas)
1 cup of cooked brown rice
2 tablespoons of fish oil

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°°F (175°C).
In a baking dish, place the white fish and chopped vegetables. Drizzle the fish oil over the top.

Bake the fish and vegetables in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the fish is fully cooked and flaky.
Once the fish and vegetables are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool down.
Mix the cooked fish, vegetables, and brown rice together in a large mixing bowl.
Allow the food to cool down before serving it to your dog. This recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months.

Nutritional value: This recipe provides your dog with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. White fish provides a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while vegetables and brown rice provide carbohydrates and fiber. Fish oil provides additional omega-3 fatty acids that are important for a dog’s overall health.

German Shepherd Homemade Meatball Food Recipe Ingredients:

2 lbs of lean ground beef or turkey
1 cup of rolled oats
1 cup of grated vegetables (such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach)
2 eggs
2 tablespoons of olive oil

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, rolled oats, grated vegetables, eggs, and olive oil. Mix everything together until well combined.
Form the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are fully cooked.
Allow the meatballs to cool down before serving them to your dog. This recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months.

Nutritional value: This recipe provides your dog with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Ground beef or turkey provides a good source of protein, while rolled oats and grated vegetables provide carbohydrates and fiber. The eggs provide additional protein and healthy fats. Olive oil provides healthy fats that are important for a dog’s overall health.

German Shepherd Homemade Chicken and Rice Food Recipe Ingredients:

2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breast

2 cups of chopped vegetables (such as carrots, green beans, and peas)
1 cup of brown rice
2 tablespoons of olive oil

Instructions:

In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the brown rice and reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes or until it’s cooked through.
In a separate pan, cook the chicken breast over medium heat until fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and let it cool down before shredding it.
In the same pan, sauté the vegetables until they are tender.
Once the rice is cooked, add the shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and olive oil to the pot. Mix everything together until well combined.
Allow the food to cool down before serving it to your dog. This recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months.

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Special Considerations for German Shepherds with Health Issues

When it comes to feeding your German Shepherd, providing a balanced diet that includes a variety of protein sources, healthy fats, and essential nutrients is crucial for maintaining a healthy energy level and preventing health issues such as hip dysplasia and joint pain. One of the best ways to ensure your dog is getting all the essential nutrients they need is by preparing homemade dog food recipes using natural ingredients such as sweet potatoes, brown rice, and cottage cheese.

It is also important to include a good balance of healthy fats in your dog’s diet, such as olive oil, which is rich in fatty acids that are important for maintaining a healthy coat and skin. Additionally, incorporating raw food into your dog’s diet can provide important enzymes and nutrients that are lost during the cooking process.

When preparing homemade meals for your German Shepherd, it is important to consult with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure that the diet is balanced and meets all of your dog’s nutritional requirements. This is especially important for large breed dogs, as they have different nutritional needs than smaller breeds.

Avoiding commercial dog food and kibble, which often contain fillers and artificial ingredients, and choosing instead to prepare your own dog food using fresh, whole foods can also help to prevent food allergies and other medical conditions. It is also a great way to provide your dog with food that is tailored to their specific dietary needs and preferences.

Overall, preparing homemade dog food is one of the best ways to ensure that your German Shepherd puppy or adult dog is getting the essential nutrients they need for a long and healthy life. With the right balance of protein sources, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, you can provide your dog with the best food for a balanced diet that promotes optimal health and well-being.

Be sure to read our previous guide on 25 Best Low Sugar Breakfast Ideas to Brighten Your Morning

Recap

In conclusion, proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of German Shepherds. As a large breed of dog, they have specific nutritional needs that must be met in order to support their active and energetic lifestyle. Preparing homemade dog food using natural ingredients is one of the best ways to ensure that your German Shepherd is getting the essential nutrients they need.

It is important to keep in mind that German Shepherds are unique breeds that require special attention to their diet, it is important to consult a veterinarian and a veterinary nutritionist to ensure that your dog’s diet is tailored to his/her individual needs.

In summary, by providing a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods, you can help to promote optimal health and well-being for your German Shepherd. Preparing homemade food for your furry friend is a great way to ensure that they are getting the best food for their diet and promoting a healthy life.