Best Dog Food for Australian Shepherds 2024 | Top Brands Guide
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Is your Aussie a picky eater? Or maybe too energetic? Choosing the right diet is key for this active, smart breed. Aussies need food that fuels their energy and supports their health.
Australian Shepherds are a medium-sized herding breed. They were first bred to work on ranches and farms. Today, many Aussies are still working dogs or compete in dog sports.
To stay in top shape, Aussies need a high-quality diet. Puppies, adults, and seniors all have different nutritional needs. This guide will help you pick the best food for your Aussie's life stage.
Table of Contents
How to Feed Your Aussie at Every Stage
Cute dogs Australian shepherd Aussie sit on the road
Puppies (birth to 12 months):
Feed a puppy formula with DHA for brain development
Look for calcium and phosphorus for healthy bones
Puppies need 3-4 meals a day
Adults (1-7 years):
Choose a food with at least 18% protein and 5% fat
Aussies need more calories than less active breeds
Feed 2 meals a day
Seniors (7+ years):
Look for a senior formula with glucosamine and chondroitin
Less active seniors need fewer calories to avoid weight gain
Seniors may prefer a wet food that's easy to chew
Top 5 Dog Foods for Australian Shepherds
Here are our top picks for the best dog food for Aussies:
Instinct Raw Boost mixes high-protein kibble with freeze-dried raw pieces. We like the grain-free duck recipe for Aussies.
If your Aussies have lived a long and active life in your service, you owe it to them to provide the most nutritious food possible to care for any of their service-related health issues in their senior years. Wellness CORE’s senior recipe was explicitly made to help our active dogs with their hip and joint health.
When shopping for dog food, look at the first five ingredients. Avoid foods with unnamed meat meals or byproducts. Whole meats like chicken, beef, and lamb should be first.
Your Aussie's food should contain:
High-quality animal protein sources
Moderate levels of animal fat
Low to moderate carbohydrates
Essential vitamins and minerals
Some Aussies may have food sensitivities or allergies. Symptoms can include itching, ear infections, and digestive upset. If you notice issues, talk to your vet. You may need to switch to a limited-ingredient or novel protein food.
Your Australian Shepherd's diet plays a big role in their health and happiness. Choose a food that matches their age, size, and activity level. Don't hesitate to ask your vet for personalized recommendations.
With the right nutrition, your Aussie will have the energy for anything! Whether they herd sheep or play fetch, they'll be fueled and ready. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect food for your best friend!
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