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German Dog Recipe
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Veterinarian-formulated, holistic dry dog food developed specifically for German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Dobermans, and other large and giant breed dogs – with EU-approved chicken and holistic digestive support for all life stages.
- For German Shepherds & Large Breeds: Developed by Dr. Gary Cotton, DVM after repeatedly seeing German Shepherds arrive at his clinic with chronic digestive and skin issues – specially formulated to address the unique nutritional needs of large and giant breeds including German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Dobermans, Great Danes, Malinois, and more.
- Gastrointestinal Health: A synergistic blend of soluble and insoluble fiber – including beet pulp – keeps the large breed digestive system active and healthy. No legumes, cheap fillers, corn, wheat, soy, or by-product meals.
- EU-Approved Protein: Superior-quality protein from chicken meal, menhaden fish, and egg supports lean muscle development and maintenance.
- Skin & Coat Health: A balanced ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from menhaden fish oils and flaxseed to support a lustrous coat, healthy skin, and cognitive function.
- Immune Support: Essential vitamins including vitamin C and vitamin E, alongside kelp as a natural source of iodine, vitamin K, and trace minerals, help maintain a sound immune system.
- Joint, Heart & Vision Health: Natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin support joint and mobility health, enriched with taurine for heart, vision, and reproductive health.
- Recommended Breeds: German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Dobermans, Great Danes, Mastiffs, Malinois, and other large and giant breeds.
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Guaranteed Analysis
| Crude Protein (Minimum) | 25.0% |
| Crude Fat (Minimum) | 12.0% |
| Crude Fiber (Maximum) | 4.5% |
| Moisture (Maximum) | 10.0% |
Typical Nutritional Analysis
This data is composed of calculated values using ingredient nutritional analysis and actual lab analysis of our foods. It is not intended to represent absolute values and therefore not guaranteed as in the above table. The information should be used as a helpful guide when determining if a specific formula is suitable for a known dietary requirement. Should you need any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact us.
| Calcium | 1.3% |
| Phosphorus | .9% |
| Ash | 6.7% |
| Potassium | 0.7% |
| Sodium | 0.3% |
| Magnesium | 0.1% |
| Zinc | 226 mg/kg |
| Manganese | 71 mg/kg |
| Iron | 320 mg/kg |
It is important to remember that your dog’s nutritional needs are unique and will vary with his environment, age and activity level. We recommend feeding to condition, this means using the following guide as a starting point, monitoring his weight and adjusting amounts accordingly. Feeding at least twice a day is optimal. Make sure fresh, clean water is available always.
| Body Weight (lbs.) | Cups Per Day** |
|---|---|
| Up to 10 | 1/4 to 3/4 |
| 11-23 | 3/4 to 1-1/4 |
| 24-36 | 1-1/4 to 1-3/4 |
| 37-49 | 1-3/4 to 2-1/4 |
| 50-62 | 2-1/4 to 3 |
| 63-75 | 3 to 3-1/2 |
| 76-89 | 3-1/2 to 4 |
| 90 or More | 4 Cups Plus 1/2 Cup For Every 10 lbs. over 90 |
** 1 cup equals approximately 114 grams of food.
Best Breed German Dog Diet is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages, including growth of large size dogs (70lbs. or more as an adult).
Puppies: May feed up to 33% more than suggested adult levels to maintain optimum body weight.
Pregnant Females: Minimal increase needed during first 6 weeks. Weeks 7 through 9 increase up to 25%.
Lactating Females: Immediately after whelping nutritional demand increases by 50% when compared to maintenance levels. During peak lactation increase feeding up to 300% of regular intake.
Contains 448 Kcal per cup ME (metabolizable energy) and 4.1 oz. of food per standard 8 oz. measuring cup.
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THE BEST BREED DIFFERENCE
Purpose-built nutrition backed by decades of veterinary expertise and crafted with uncompromising ingredient standards.
- Veterinarian Developed
- Small Batch Made in Ohio, USA
- Purpose-Built Formulas
- Never On a Recall List
- Low & Slow Cooked
- EU-Approved Ingredients
Better Ingredients. Better Nutrition.
Every ingredient fulfills a purpose – from premium proteins and functional fibers to healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Chicken Meal
New Zealand Green Mussel
Brown Rice
Dried Egg
German Dog Recipe FAQs
What breeds is the German Dog Diet formulated for?
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Why do German Shepherds and large breeds have more sensitive digestive systems?
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Why is fiber so important for large and giant breed dogs?
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Is this formula suitable for German Shepherd puppies?
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What is beet pulp and why is it beneficial for large breed dogs?
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What is chicken meal, and why does Best Breed use it?
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What are New Zealand Green Mussels, and why are they in Best Breed recipes?
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What does EU-approved ingredients mean and why does it matter?
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Why does low and slow cooked kibble matter?
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Premium dog food with high-quality ingredients that dogs love. Customers said it helps with digestive issues, firmer stools, and encourages picky eaters. "This was exactly what I was looking for." Some noted more stool output. Many have used it for years, particularly for German Shepherds, with excellent results for weight maintenance and overall health.
Easy 5 stars. Great ingredients and vitamins. Great for dogs with digestive issues
After months of bouncing around.. from Pro Plan, Diamond Naturals, Taste of the Wild, etc… my picky Doberman puppy was actually losing weight. Had to deep dive into google to find this brand but my dog loves it (and her Great Dane step brother). It’s my go-to now and I love that I could set up the Prime subscription.
My German Shepherd really liked this brand at first but doesn't seem to be as enthusiastic about it 2 weeks later
Our dogs love it! When we got our German shepherd puppy the breeder we got her from user this specific dog food and we’ve used it now going on about 5 years. Very pleased with the quality of the product as well as the shipping process. Keep up the great work
Our German Shepherd loves this food, especially the new formulation
Great Dog Food. Stool is much more firm. Seems to enjoy it more than her previous foods. Ingredient list says it all.
I’ve been using it for years and so far my dog is quite healthy.
Dr. Gary�s food works very well for our Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy. Her coat is beautiful with less shedding, and her growth rate is on track. We briefly had to switch her to another brand when this food was unavailable. It did not go well.
My GSD likes this food. I do mix it with another brand for a little variety, My only negative is that the kibble is very small.
I love this brand! So far he's doing great on this brand. I love that the bag is resealable. His coat is so soft now and he's gaining healthy weight off of it. It doesn't bother his stomach either so that's def a plus. As a GSD he has a sensitive tummy but this is working well for him. I really like this is specific to GSD nutrients too so that's a plus!
I have been feeding this for years. It is the best that works for my shepherds. Plus with the no peas, lentils, or carrots. It's what works best besides fixing them a home cooked meal every night (which they would probably prefer). I would never feed anything else and I always start my puppies on it. Thank you so much!!!!
I switched to this food based on ingredients and reviews. I thought had my dog on good food before. Since she has been on this she has a new found energy and just has a spark that has not been there in awhile. I am so happy to have found this food!
Daisy and Duke love the German Blend and we love knowing our pups get high quality nutrition each meal!
This is a good food, I like grains, I don't like peas and beans! My other GSD hated peas, I would give him some peas in his food and he licked the bowl clean but left behind ever single pea. Smart dog. And I really try not to buy food with peas in it for this GSD either. Thank you Dr. Gary!
My 4 month old GSD was experiencing digestion/ diarrhea issues. A dog handler suggested I try this food. I started by mixing with her other wood, and no more issues. Wonderful ingredients & great quality food.
My German shepherd stop throwing up. He is happy I�m happy.
Beautiful coat and no more digestive problems!
My GSD switched from Blue Buffalo grain free to Garys, no more watery stool and my puppy is full of energy and her coat is looking fabulous!! so happy with my purchase.
I have 2 German Shepherds, male and female, both over 100 lbs. We've used several brands over the years and have had issues with all of them - I'm convinced my male's nose issue was caused by the grain-free food. We almost done with the 1st bag of Dr. Gary's and his nose look 150% better. They both gobble this food up too!
Dr. Gary's Best Breed was recommended in a group I'm a part of for my Belgian Malinois. Breeders to vets to pet parents like me - literally everyone - was raving about it so I had to give it a try for my girl! She's 5 years old now and in absolutely perfect health and, she LOVES the flavor! I love the fact that it's holistic and invented by a vet: a pet doctor who knows exactly what nutrition our furbabies need. Our vet always says, "Whatever you're doing, keep it up!" I've been so impressed that I even switched to Dr. Gary's Best Breed for my three cats and now, one of my sons has started feeding Dr. Gary's Best Breed German blend to his Dachshund who is also thriving. I guess we're a Dr. Gary's Best Breed family of believers!
I had to buy this food and combine with the Royal Canin so he would eat the larger kibble. He is 15 months old and was used to his puppy kibble that was smaller. So when I changed him to adult at 15 months he did not want his new kibble. So this product helped me to get him to eat. I just now have to buy two types since I love the other brand too.
My picky female GSD loves this food and I do too. It's cooked at low temperature, is non-GMO and EU approved human ingredients.
Incorporated into my dogs other dry food and he can�t get enough of it! Loves it so far.
I got this food for my pup wanting to give him great ingredients from the start. I will continue to give him the brand because he LOVES it! He will take seconds and thirds if they�re offered and he even enjoys single pieces for training or small scoops in his Kong toy (mixed with peanut butter, of course)! Also, he�s growing like a weed!
Love this dog food. My german shepherd loves it too. I go thru a bag every 2 months. He eats less than when you feed him the cheap stuff. It's good healthy food for my Sgt .
My German Shepherds do well on this food and love it. I do alternate the different varieties. I recommend this food
My GSD has a picky stomach and this is the only dog food that hasn't made her sick, she inhales it. The rescue I got her from uses it on all the GSD and they average 15 yrs old with this brand.
Searched for a dog food for our German Shepherd dog named Sarge that was well balanced and had plenty of calories for his active lifestyle and this for the bill. The food seems to give him plenty energy and he likes it.
My German shepherd was not gaining weight, he did got to an optimal weight within a month of starting to use the dog food.
Only been using this new food for 2 weeks. For my GSDs, we went from grain-free, to grain-inclusive, and finally to Dr Gary's Best Breed. Previously had an apparent food allergy, likely grains, which were causing skin irritations and itchiness. After 2 weeks with this food, itching and skin conditions seem to have subsided. Both of my GSDs like this food - surprisingly, they like plain! We'll need more time for a longer-term assessment.
My usual German Shepherd food was out of stock, so I tried this as a substitute. Sniper dog seems to like it. I was surprised to see how small the kibble is! Thank goodness for a ziplock type bag lol
after using this food for a few months my dog's health is good now!.
