German Shepherd Nutrition Guide
Updated 2026-05-08 · Vet-reviewed breed-specific guidance
Daily calories (avg)
1498 kcal
Protein target
28%
Fat target
15%
Activity level
high
Quick facts
- Size: large
- Adult weight: 50–90 lbs
- Lifespan: 9–13 years
- Activity: high
Best foods for German Shepherds
- Lean beef
- Eggs
- Pumpkin (digestion)
- Brown rice
- Sardines
Foods to avoid for German Shepherds
- Wheat (often sensitive)
- High-fat scraps
- Raw bones
Diet considerations & watch-outs
- Sensitive stomachs — slow transitions
- Hip & elbow dysplasia common
- Bloat risk — feed 2 smaller meals
Common health concerns
- Hip dysplasia
- Bloat
- Degenerative myelopathy
How we calculate calories
We use the standard veterinary RER (Resting Energy Requirement) formula: 70 × (weight in kg)^0.75, multiplied by an activity factor. For a 70-lb German Shepherd at high activity, that's approximately 1498 kcal per day. Puppies need 2x maintenance; seniors typically 0.8x.