Best dog food for Dobermans (2024)
The best dog food for Dobermans (2024) is The Farmer’s Dog.
But check our below top picks to find the best food for your Doberman specifically.
Because when buying dog food for your Doberman, you need to consider:
- The age of your Doberman
- Are there any food allergies or health problems?
- Your budget
But worry not.
Our top picks will quickly help you find the right dog food for your dear doggy.
This article will also tell you everything you need to know when buying dog food for a Doberman.
These picks have been prepared by our team of dog nutrition experts.
Your Doberman will soon be happily wagging its tail during and after all meals!
Best dog food for Dobermans – QUICK PEEK
Here is a quick peek at our top 10 picks for the best dog food for Dobermans.
The Farmer’s Dog
Fresh, human-grade ingredients for the most optimal nutrition for your Doberman. No cheap fillers, additives, or harmful chemicals.
Open Farm
All the nutrients your Doberman puppy needs for optimal growth and development. Non-GMO veggies and superfoods. Human-grade ingredients.
Orijen
Complete and balanced nutrition for the specific nutrition needs of senior Dobermans. Crafted specifically to help maintain healthy weight & joints in senior dogs.
Spot & Tango
Dry dog food but with the taste and benefits of fresh food and the convenience of kibble. No artificial colors, flavors, or additives. Real meats only.
JustFoodForDogs
Fresh, tasty, and nutritionally balanced wet dog food that is shelf-stable for up to 2 years. Whole food ingredients. 100% human-grade ingredients.
Hill’s
Added prebiotics for a balanced microbiome and healthy digestion for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Contains Vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and coat.
Royal Canin
Hydrolyzed proteins for adult dogs with skin allergies and food sensitivities. Enhanced with EPA and DHA fatty acids for healthy skin and digestion.
Open Farm
Formulated specifically for dogs with allergies and sensitivity to grain. Non-GMO fruits and vegetables for a diet packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
Instinct
For dog owners who want to feed their Dobermans with quality raw food that is nutritious and tasty. No fillers like grain, wheat, corn, soy and no artificial colors or preservatives.
Blue Buffalo
For dog owners looking for budget-friendly but quality dog food. Rich in nutrients and vitamins. Added omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids promote healthy skin and great coat.
Best dog food for Dobermans – FULL REVIEWS
Here are full reviews of our top 10 picks for the best dog food for Dobermans.
- Best overall: The Farmers’s Dog
- Best for puppies: Open Farm
- Best for seniors: Orijen
- Best dry food: Spot & Tango
- Best wet food: JustFoodForDogs
- Best for sensitive stomach: Hill’s
- Best for allergies: Royal Canin
- Best grain-free: Open Farm
- Best raw food: Instinct
- Best value: Blue Buffalo
Best overall food for Dobermans
The Farmer’s Dog
- Life stage: All ages
- Food type: Fresh
- Ingredients: Human-grade
- Flavors: Turkey, chicken, beef, pork
- Nutrition standard: AAFCO
- Manufactured: USA
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Made from fresh, human-grade meat and vegetables
- Food cooked gently and from scratch to ensure retention of key nutrients
- Cooked in human-grade kitchens
- No cheap fillers, additives, and no harmful chemicals
- No preservatives added to keep foods shelf-stable for years
- Food options for dogs with sensitive stomachs, food allergies, and other dietary issues
- Two-week trial plan
- You can edit your subscription at any time
- Vet-designed to comply with AAFCO standards
- Unmatched level of customization (vet-designed)
- Pre-packaged meals as daily portions
- Free shipping
CONS
- Slightly more expensive than some competitors
Best dog food for Doberman puppies
Open Farm
- Life stage: Puppies
- Food type: Fresh
- Ingredients: Human-grade
- Flavors: Blend of chicken, pork, and salmon
- Nutrition standard: AAFCO
- Manufactured: USA
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Created for puppies to provide key nutrients for optimal growth and development
- Special cooking process that removes bacteria while retaining more flavor and nutrient
- Human-grade ingredients
- 100% animal welfare certified chicken and pork
- Wild-caught salmon
- 100% traceable ingredients from certified family farms
- Non-GMO vegetables and superfoods
- Free of antibiotics, hormones, and steroids
- Chicken broth for healthy joint development
- Prebiotic fiber for healthy digestion
- Complies with AAFCO standards
- Pre-portioned
- Free shipping over $50
CONS
- More expensive than some meals for puppies
Best dog food for senior Dobermans
Orijen
- Life stage: Senior
- Food type: Dry
- Ingredients: Fresh
- Flavors: Chicken, turkey, and fish
- Nutrition standard: AAFCO
- Manufactured: USA
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Crafted specifically to help maintain healthy weight and joints in senior dogs
- Enhanced with Chondroitin and Glucosamine to aid with cartilage wear and tear as your dog ages
- Fresh chicken, turkey, and fish provide your pup with a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals
- Uses the most succulent meat parts to ensure nutrient-rich diet
- Freeze-dried coated to ensure optimal flavor
- Contains up to 85% animal ingredients
- No added soy, wheat, corn, or tapioca
CONS
- Slightly more expensive than some competitors
Best dry dog food for Dobermans
Spot & Tango
- Life stage: Adult
- Food type: Dry
- Ingredients: Premium
- Flavors: Beef, chicken, and salmon
- Nutrition standard: AAFCO
- Manufactured: USA
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Dried gently at a low temperature
- 100% human grade and real meats only
- No artificial colors, flavors, or additives
- Enhanced with super herbs for digestive support
- Customized meals for your dog’s breed, weight, and activity level
- Vet-developed to exceed industry standards
- Sold directly (no retail markup) to ensure the best price
- Comes in personalized plans & scoops to avoid serving guesswork
- Cheaper than fresh dog food
- Free shipping
CONS
- Slightly more expensive than traditional kibble
Best wet food for Dobermans
JustFoodForDogs
- Life stage: All ages
- Food type: Wet
- Ingredients: Human-grade
- Flavors: Turkey, lamb, beef, chicken, and more
- Nutrition standard: AAFCO
- Manufactured: USA
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- 100% human-grade ingredients
- Cooked at low heat to protect taste and nutrients
- Nutritionally balanced
- Whole food ingredients
- No preservatives
- Tetra Pak® packaging for convenient storage and travel
- Shelf-stable for up to 2 years
CONS
- Slightly more expensive than traditional wet dog food
Best food for Dobermans with sensitive stomach
Hill’s
- Life stage: Adult
- Food type: Dry
- Ingredients: Natural
- Flavors: Chicken & barley
- Nutrition standard: AAFCO
- Manufactured: USA
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Created specifically for sensitive stomachs and skins
- Easily digestible ingredients, including brown rice, beet pulp, and barley
- No artificially flavored, preserved, or colored
- Contains no wheat or soy that could upset your dog’s stomach
- Prepared with natural ingredients and real chicken
- Prebiotic fiber to support a balanced microbiome for healthy digestion
- Contains Vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and coat
CONS
- Not recommended for puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs
- Up to 15% of dogs may still be sensitive to this food
Best food for Dobermans with allergies
Royal Canin
- Life stage: All ages
- Food type: Dry
- Ingredients: Hypoallergenic
- Flavors: Natural
- Nutrition standard: AAFCO
- Manufactured: USA
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Made especially for adult dogs with food sensitivities
- Contains highly digestible hydrolyzed soy protein for optimal gastrointestinal and dermatological health
- Provides your Doberman’s skin with natural protective barrier
- Enhanced with EPA and DHA fatty acids for healthy skin and digestion
- Helps regulate the intestinal passage
- Supports a balanced digestive flora
CONS
- Slightly more expensive than some competitors
- Requires vet authorization
Best grain-free dry food for Dobermans
Open Farm
- Life stage: All ages
- Food type: Dry
- Ingredients: Premium
- Flavors: Beef, chicken, turkey, salmon, lamb, venison, and more
- Nutrition standard: AAFCO
- Manufactured: USA
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- No grain, corn, soy, or wheat
- Uses superfoods, including non-GMO pumpkin, leafy greens, coconut oil, and carrot
- Non-GMO fruits and vegetables provide a diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals
- No added hormones, antibiotics, or artificial preservatives
- Sourced locally with 100% traceable ingredients
- Only uses ethnically sourced and humanely raised meats
CONS
- Slightly more expensive than some competitors
Best raw food for Dobermans
Instinct
- Life stage: All ages
- Food type: Raw
- Ingredients: Raw
- Flavors: Chicken, lamb, and beef
- Nutrition standard: AAFCO
- Manufactured: USA
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- The ingredients are frozen (never cooked) in their prime to maintain the highest level of nutrients
- Cold-pressured to create raw meal full of taste and flavor
- Minimally processed and never cooked to ensure real nutrition quality
- 85% meat and organs
- 15% of non-GMO vegetables, fruits, vitamins, and wholesome ingredients
- No fillers like grain, wheat, corn, soy and no artificial colors or preservatives
CONS
- Needs to be kept frozen until it’s used
- Less convenient than feeding your dog dry dog food
Best cheapest food for Dobermans
Blue Buffalo
- Life stage: Adult
- Food type: Dry
- Ingredients: Natural
- Flavors: Beef, chicken, lamb, and fish
- Nutrition standard: AAFCO
- Manufactured: USA
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Great value for money
- All formulas start with real meat, whole grains, garden veggies, and fruits
- Includes phosphorus, calcium, and essential vitamins for strong bones and teeth
- Added glucosamine for joint health and mobility support
- Supports the immune system with added vitamins, chelated minerals, and antioxidants
- No added wheat, corn, soy, or chicken byproducts
- L-carnitine that burns fat while preserving lean muscles
- Added omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and perfect coat
CONS
- It may not be suitable for dogs with serious food sensitivities or allergies
- The added brown rice and sweet potatoes are not ideal for overweight or diabetic dogs
Best treats for Dobermans
Yes, your Doberman needs some treats.
Treats can serve a number of functions:
- As training tools for learning new tricks and following commands
- As stress reliever
- As dental hygiene
- As entertainment
Here are our top 2 picks for the best treats for your Doberman:
Waggin’ Train
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Suitable even for Dobermans with sensitive stomachs
- Suitable for Dobermans of all sizes
- No artificial colors or flavors added
- No grains, corn, or fillers
- 100% digestible
Best Bully Sticks
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- All-natural and 100% digestible
- No additives, no chemicals, and no preservatives
- Perfect size for breeds like Doberman
- Hypoallergenic
- Long-lasting
But avoid giving your dog too many treats, as this can reduce your dog’s appetite for regular food. If your dog prefers treats to regular food, you can check here to see why your dog is not eating regular food but will eat treats.
Treats to avoid
Some treats may negatively affect dental health of your Doberman.
So avoid these treats:
- Beef marrow treats: These treats are too hard for Doberman teeth and can chip or crack your dog’s tooth.
- Rawhides: These often contain preservatives and other chemicals that are dangerous to dogs. Rawhides can also cause choking and obstructions in your Doberman’s digestive tract.
- Antlers and horns: Like beef marrow treats, antlers and horns are too hard for Doberman teeth.
How I use treats for my Doberman
I use treats to teach my Doberman new commands and discourage no-no behaviors.
I found that my Doberman can learn new tricks and commands within just three days when I’m using treats such as Best Bully Sticks and Waggin’ Train.
Just make sure to keep these treats in an airtight container to ensure they don’t dry out and lose taste.
Why you should trust us
Choosing the right dog food is essential for your pet’s health and happiness. But with so many options available on the market, it can be challenging to know which dog food is the best for your pet. This is where we come in. To help you find the best dog food for your pet, we follow a strict set of criteria for ranking the best dog food products. These criteria are based on scientific research, expert opinions, and extensive personal experience.
Specifically, we examine all the following when reviewing dog food:
- Nutritional balance
- Ingredients quality
- Absence of fillers and artificial additives
- Meat meal vs fresh meat
- Digestibility
- Allergens consideration
- Life stage suitability
- Transparency and sourcing
- Health benefits and special considerations
- Customer feedback and reviews
- Price and value
- Recall history and safety
Please refer to our Editorial Process for details on how we research and review dog products and topics.
And don’t forget to visit our About page for more details about our editorial team.
VIDEO: Everything you need to know about Dobermans
What to consider when buying dog food for Doberman
Here are the most important factors you should consider when buying dog food for your Doberman:
- Age
- Activity level
- Weight
- Health
AGE
Dobermans need different food at different stages of their lives.
Puppy
Give your Doberman puppy food higher in protein and calories. This will support your puppy’s growth and development.
By the way, puppies are prone to tear stains. Check here to see what dog food won’t cause tear stains in your puppy.
Doberman puppies also need food containing balanced quantities of calcium and phosphorus to ensure healthy bone growth.
For best results, feed your puppy with large breed puppy food. This will ensure that your dog receives the right quantity and quality of the necessary nutrients.
And make sure your puppy is not trying to hide food for later. Hoarding food may greatly reduce your pup’s daily nutritional intake. You can check here to see why your doggy may be trying to hide or bury food for later.
Adult
An adult Doberman is a large breed adult dog. Still, it needs a diet that is lower in protein and calories. This will help your adult dog maintain a healthy weight. In general, your adult Doberman needs a balanced diet of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
Senior
Senior Dobermans need even lower levels of proteins and calories. They also need more fiber in their food to support their digestive health.
Also, make sure that senior dog food includes some joint supplements to help your senior Doberman maintain good mobility and joint health.
Fortunately, there are dog food companies that make first-class food specifically designed for senior dogs (see our above review of the best dog food for senior Dobermans).
But dog food brands also focus on senior dogs from other dog breeds. For example, we recently rated Orijen as the best dog food for senior Poodles.
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Dobermans need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Daily walks and play should take care of this nicely.
Like with other dogs, the type of food need to be adjusted to the activity level of your Doberman. Active Dobermans need more calories to support their daily activities, while the less active ones require fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight.
In other words, give a less active Doberman too much food, and it may quickly become overweight. On the other hand, underfeeding a highly active Doberman may result in low energy levels, poor muscle development, and a weakened immune system.
WEIGHT
Dobermans usually weigh over 70 pounds as adults. So make sure to feed your Doberman with large breed specific formulas to ensure your dog gets enough nutrients. This is especially critical for Doberman puppies.
How often to feed your Doberman
The younger the Doberman, the more frequent meals per day.
Here is a typical feeding frequency progression as your Doberman puppy grows into an adult.
Age | Meals Per Day |
Puppy Doberman (6-12 weeks old) | 4 meals per day |
Young Doberman (12 weeks to 12 months old) | 3 meals per day |
Adult Doberman (1 year and older) | 2 meals per day |
Make sure to spread out your dog’s meals evenly throughout the day.
For example, if you’re feeding your Doberman puppy 3 meals per day:
- First meal in the morning (breakfast)
- Second meal halfway through the day (lunch)
- Third meal in the evening (dinner)
If your Doberman is getting 2 meals a day, feed it once in the morning and once in the evening.
IMPORTANT
Don’t feed your Doberman only once a day. Some dogs may be able to get by on only one meal per – but not Dobermans.
This is because Dobermans are exceptionally muscular and have a low body fat.
Furthermore, Dobermans are known to suffer from bloat. And bloat can become a bigger risk if you give food to your Doberman only once per day.
HEALTH
Dobermans are healthy dogs in general.
Still, Dobermans are prone to certain health issues.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
DCM is a heart condition. DCM weakens and enlarges Doberman’s heart muscles. This in turn reduces the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently. Heart failure and other serious complications are usually the next step.
If your Doberman suffers from DCM, pick a dog food that contains taurine. This amino acid will help support your dog’s heart health.
Von Willebrand disease
Von Willebrand disease is caused by a deficiency in a blood clotting factor called Von Willebrand factor. Dobermans with this disease often suffer from excessive bleeding and bruising.
Note that diet alone won’t treat Von Willebrand disease. Still, if your Doberman suffers from this disease, avoid dog food consisting of ingredients that interfere with blood clotting, such as excessive garlic or onions.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that can negatively affect your Doberman’s joint health. Hip dysplasia happens when a dog’s hip socket and femur is not fitting together properly. This can cause pain, inflammation, and eventually arthritis.
If your Doberman suffers from hip dysplasia, feed the dog with a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil. This should reduce inflammation and support joint health. Just look for dog food that contains fish or flaxseed.
Cervical vertebral instability (Wobbler Syndrome)
Dobermans are prone to getting the Wobbler’s Syndrome. In fact, around 50% of all Wobbler Syndrome cases occur in Dobermans.
A Doberman affected by the Wobbler Syndrome will walk with uneven, wobbly steps. Note that symptoms of the Wobbler Syndrome in Doberman usually start in the dog’s middle age.
Food allergies
Certain ingredients in your Doberman’s diet can trigger allergies.
A dog with food allergies or sensitivities usually suffers from dry and itchy ears, skin, and paws.
To help your Doberman avoid allergies, avoid common allergens in your dog’s food, such as corn, wheat, chicken, and beef.
You can check if your Doberman has food allergies by using a food allergy test like the 5Strands kit. This allergy test kit can test for up to 255 ingredients. This will tell you which ingredients can cause food intolerance in your dog.
Fortunately, there are dog food brands that make quality food specifically designed for dogs with allergies (see our above review of the best food for Dobermans with allergies).
But dog food manufacturers also focus on dogs with allergies from other dog breeds. For example, we recently rated Royal Canin as the best food for German Shorthaired Pointers with allergies.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is manifested by an underactive thyroid gland. A Doberman with this condition can suffer from excessive weight gain and lethargy. And there may be some skin and coat problems as well.
If your Doberman suffers from hypothyroidism, make sure the poor thing gets food that includes omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and other nutrients that can support healthy thyroid function.
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat)
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) is a serious condition in dogs, including Dobermans. GDV can be fatal if left untreated.
GDV is commonly referred to as “bloat”.
GDV occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid and subsequently twists. GDV is always an emergency.
Unfortunately, Dobermans are among the dog breeds at higher risk of developing GDV.
Specific food qualities for Dobermans
Look for the following dog food qualities that are specific to Dobermans:
Low in sodium
Avoid foods that are high in sodium. Too much sodium in your Doberman’s diet may cause heart problems, such as Dilated Cardiomyopathy.
Low in copper
Avoid foods that are high in copper. Too much copper in your dog’s food may cause Chronic Active Hepatitis.
Low in carbohydrates
Avoid too much carbohydrates in your Doberman’s diet. To much carbohydrates can trigger Wobbler Syndrome in Dobermans.
High in Vitamin K
Dobermans with Von Willebrand Disease have difficulty clotting blood. If your Doberman suffers from this disease, feed your dog with food rich in Vitamin K. This will improve blood clotting.
Avoid common allergens
Certain ingredients in your Doberman’s diet can trigger allergies.
So ensure your Doberman’s food is free of common allergens, such as corn, wheat, chicken, and beef.
Minimally processed
Doberman breed is prone to developing digestive issues.
So look for food that is minimally processed to help your Doberman pinscher digest its food. For example, avoid artificial preservatives. Also avoid lower-quality kibble, as this often includes fillers.
Speaking of digestive issues, we recommend that you check here to see why your dog may be throwing up undigested food hours after eating.
Probiotics
There is still little scientific evidence showing significant healing and preventive properties of probiotics. Still, many agree that a healthy microbiome can improve a dog’s gut health.
So if your Doberman has a sensitive digestive system, consider food that includes probiotics. This may promote a healthier gut and support your Doberman’s immune system.
There is also some evidence showing that probiotics can reduce your dog’s inflammatory responses to allergens.
So yes, talk to your vet to see if probiotic supplements can improve your pup’s digestive health. You can check here to see how long it takes for probiotics to work in dogs.
Joint supplements
Dobermans are large breed dogs. This makes them prone to joint issues, including hip dysplasia and arthritis.
So make sure your Doberman’s diet includes glucosamine and chondroitin.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids will keep your Doberman’s coat and skin healthy and looking great. These fatty acids will also help ward off joint inflammation.
Omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for a Doberman puppy’s eye and brain development.
Wet, dry, or fresh dog food?
Wet, dry, and fresh foods are all suitable for Dobermans.
Wet food is easier to digest than dry kibble.
Dry food doesn’t spoil as quickly as wet food and is easier to portion out.
Fresh food usually contains more nutrients per calorie compared to wet and dry dog food and is the easiest to digest.
How to identify quality dog food
Look for dog food that’s meeting the following conditions:
Meat name
A dog food label should specify which specific animal or animals the meat is coming from (e.g. lamb, buffalo, chicken).
So avoid dog food with labels listing “meat meal” or other nonspecific meats.
Vitamin C and E
Natural preservatives, such as Vitamin C and E are the better forms of preservatives.
Human-grade
Human-grade dog food is not necessary for your Doberman’s health – but is great if you can find it and afford it.
22% to 32% protein
Too much protein in Doberman dog food can agitate the kidney’s of your Doberman. That’s right, more is not always better when it comes to proteins.
Note that older dogs usually need a bit more proteins than younger dogs.
15% to 18% healthy fats
This is the recommended amount of healthy fats in your Doberman’s diet. This includes fats such as Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.
So consider dog food that includes flaxseed oil, salmon oil, and chicken fat.
Around 25% carbohydrates
Consider dog food that includes complex carbohydrates sources, such as legumes, sweet potatoes, and peas. Rice, oats, and barleys are also great.
Fruits and veggies
Vitamins and minerals that come with fruits and vegetables are essential to your Doberman’s health.
Food for Doberman puppies
Doberman puppies love to eat! They need tons of calories to support their healthy development.
And yes, your little furry cutie will grow into a large muscular dog rather quickly.
As your puppy grows, its brain will get bigger and bigger to learn more and more about the world. From new sights and scents to new tricks and behaviors, your Doberman puppy will constantly learn new things.
But your Doberman puppy won’t grow into a healthy and happy adult without your help.
Here are quick guidelines on feeding your Doberman puppy.
Choose food formulated specifically for Doberman puppies
Puppies grow faster than adult dogs. This is why your Doberman puppy needs nutrient-rich food to support fast growth.
Remember that feeding your Doberman puppy with adult dog food will deprive your puppy of the necessary amounts of protein, fat, calcium, and long-chain fatty acids (DHA) that are needed for healthy brain development.
But avoid getting your Doberman puppy too much of the good thing. This is because certain nutrients, such as calcium, can cause problems when given in excess.
In short, make sure your top choices of dog food recipes are formulated with Doberman puppies in mind. This will ensure your puppy is getting the correct amount of nutrients.
Provide your puppy Doberman with puppy quality ingredients
Your Doberman puppy needs plenty of quality food that is packed with nutrition.
So avoid fillers and choose dog food with the first ingredient listed as real meat.
For optimal results, look for puppy dog food made with human-grade ingredients.
And avoid foods containing ethoxyquin, propyl gallate, colors, corn, wheat, soy, corn syrup, BHA, and BHT.
Luckily, there are dog food brands that make high-quality food specifically designed for puppies (see our above review of the best dog food for Doberman puppies).
But dog food companies also focus on puppies from other dog breeds. For example, we recently rated Open Farm as the best dog food for Dalmatian puppies.
Provide your puppy Doberman with the right amount of nutrients
Larger breeds like the Doberman grow a lot. But they must not grow too fast.
Meaning, feeding your Doberman puppy with foods containing too much fat or calories can make your pup grow faster than its bones. This can cause skeletal abnormalities.
Yes, protein and calcium are essential for your puppy’s growth and development, but your dog needs to receive just the right amount of each.
In short, too much protein often results in a puppy gaining too much weight. This can negatively impact your dog’s joint development. And too much calcium in your puppy’s diet can cause skeletal malformations.
Also, make sure your puppy is not guarding food rather than eating it. This can also cause nutritional deficiency. Check here to see why your puppy may be guarding its food but not eating.
Feeding timeline for your Doberman puppy
Puppy Age | Meals Per Day | Notes |
6-12 weeks | 4 meals per day | As per The American Kennel Club, larger breeds should be fed unmoistened dry food by the time they reach 9 to 10 weeks. |
3-6 moths | 3 meals per day | Your Doberman puppy will start losing its puppy pudginess when the dog is reaching 3 months of age. Note that if your puppy is still a little on the heavy side at this age, continue feeding it puppy sized portions until its body matures a bit more. |
6-12 months | 2 meals a day | If you get your Doberman puppy spayed or neutered, the dog will have lower energy needs. In this case, you can switch your puppy into adult food. Still, vets generally agree that it’s better to keep your puppy on puppy food than to switch it to adult food too early. Ask your vet for advice if in doubt. |
Switching from Doberman puppy to Doberman adult food
You should start switching your Doberman puppy into food for adults from the age of 18 months.
The switching should be done gradually to avoid upsetting your puppy’s stomach. Gradual switching over the course of 10 days is usually recommended.
Follow these rules to ensure trouble-free food transition:
- Day 1: 10% new food and 90% old food
- By day 5: 50% new food and 50% old food
- By day 10: 100% new food
By the way, I have extensive personal experience with a hungry Doberman. My neighbor has a handsome male Doberman, Buddy.
I often join my neighbor and his Doberman on their walks. We talk for hours about the right food for Dobermans. My neighbor then practices what we talk (and research). As a result, my neighbor’s Doberman is energetic, happy, and healthy!
Consequently, this article in not only based on scientific research and expert opinions but also on my extensive personal experience with a real Doberman.
Look for dog food with AAFCO standards
Look for dog food that meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards.
By the way, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that dog food that meets AAFCO standards provides all the nutrients dogs need for a complete diet.
Also note that AAFCO recognizes the following life stages for dogs, including Dobermans:
- Growth (puppy stage)
- Maintenance
- Gestation-lactation
- All life stages
Just check the labels on dog foods and you’ll see that all quality dog food manufacturers ensure their food is designed to meet the AAFCO four distinct life stages.
You’ll also see that dog food producers label ingredients in order of declining weight. This is to ensure FDA compliance.
The first ingredient on dog food labels always contributes the most to the dry weight of the food. The remaining ingredients are listed in order of their contribution to the dry weight of the food.
For best results, look for food that lists meat (lamb, beef, fish, etc.) as the first ingredient.
The next ingredient should be a source of fat.
After that, you’ll see all the vegetables and other proteins.
What ingredients to avoid
Here are some of the ingredients you should avoid in your Doberman’s diet:
Meat byproducts
Meat byproducts are often used in low-end dog food. Meat byproducts usually come from slaughterhouse leftovers, which may include brains, blood, and chicken feet.
As you can imagine, such meat byproducts are a poor source of protein. They may even contain diseases.
If the protein on a dog food label has no animal name associated with it, that protein is most likely a meat byproduct.
Still, meat byproducts don’t always mean chicken feet and beaks. Many meat byproducts are quality offal, which is rich in protein and vitamins. But note that a dog’s diet shouldn’t contain more than 10% of offal. This is because offal such as heart and liver are very rich and should be only served in small quantities.
Wheat, corn, and soy
Wheat, corn, and soy are cheap fillers. They provide very little nutritional value to your Doberman. And your dog may struggle processing such fillers, which may lead to gastrointestinal upset and bloat.
Still, wheat, corn, and soy in small amounts are fine. In fact, they can help preventing diet-induced Dilated Cardiomyopathy.
Artificial preservatives and food colorings
Artificial preservatives, such as butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), ethoxyquin, and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) can trigger major allergic reactions among dogs, including Dobermans.
And food colorings, such as food dyes Red 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6 can cause cancer in animals, including dogs. Also, Blue 1, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6 can trigger hypersensitivity reactions in animals.
Also avoid dog food with added BHA and BHT. These are preservatives often used in cheap dog food. BHA and BHT can cause cancer. Note that these preservatives have already been banned in many countries.
But also note that many dog food brands suggest that adding additives to dog food is generally safe. Still, consider replacing chemical additives with natural ingredients whenever you can.
Rendered fat
Dog food manufactures add rendered fat to their formulas to add flavor to food. But note that rendered fat is a source of potentially harmful microorganisms and heavy metal toxins.
Rendered fat can also worsen other conditions. For example, Dobermans are especially susceptible to a dangerous copper buildup in the dog’s liver. Rendered fat can only make matters worse.
Rendered fat can also contribute to the growth of mold and bacteria in dog food. This can make your Doberman really sick.
And if you (or your friend) also have a German Shepherd, you can check here to see what’s the worst food for German Shepherds.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I feed my Doberman puppy?
- Between 6 and 12 weeks of age, 4 meals per day
- Between 3 and 6 months of age, 3 meals per day
- Between 6 and 12 months of age, 2 meals per day
What should I feed my Doberman for weight gain?
Dobermans have a lean structure. This makes it quite a challenge for Doberman owners to ensure their dogs maintain ideal weight.
For optimal results, dog owners should feed their Dobermans real meat, veggies, rice, and fruits.
And make sure your dog is not spitting out food. You can check here to see why your dog may be spitting out food and what you can do about it.
What should I feed my Doberman to gain and maintain lean muscles?
Your Doberman requires a balanced diet to gain and maintain lean muscles.
Foods right for your dog should contain the appropriate amount of protein, fat, carbs, antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins.
Here is a quick list of dog food characteristics for gaining lean muscles:
- Real meat (e.g. beef, chicken, buffalo)
- Natural preservatives, such as Vitamin C and E
- Human-grade (if possible)
- 22% to 32% protein
- 15% to 18% healthy fats
- 25% carbohydrates
- Fruits and veggies
How much fat does my Doberman need?
Larger dogs like Dobermans usually need a bit more fat than smaller dogs. This fat is needed to keep your Doberman energetic.
But make sure this fat primarily comes from animal-based sources.
How much protein does my Doberman need?
Your Doberman requires between 22% to 32% protein in its diet. Note that Doberman puppies need a bit more proteins than older Dobermans.
The right amount of proteins will support your Doberman’s healthy growth and muscle development. It’ll also help with maintaining a healthy weight.
Can Doberman adults eat Doberman puppy food?
No, Doberman adults shouldn’t eat puppy food formulated for puppies specifically.
This is because dog food for puppies is formulated to accommodate puppy’s fast growth. Your older Doberman may quickly become obese if you give it food meant for puppies.
You can check here to find out how to keep older dogs from eating puppy food.
Do Dobermans need fiber?
Yes, Dobermans need fiber in their food to help with digestion.
But since Dobermans get plenty of fiber from fruits, grains, and veggies, don’t give your dog too many fiber supplements or fiber snacks. Note that seafood dog treats also contain some fiber.
Speaking of digestion, you can check here to find out how long does it take a dog to digest food. Knowing how long it should take your pooch to digest food will allow you to assess your pup’s digestive health.
Can I feed my Doberman a vegetarian diet?
Well, Dobermans need meat-based protein in their food. This means they won’t really thrive on a vegetarian diet.
To bure sure, there are some vegetarian and even vegan recipes for dogs out there. But think of your Doberman’s need for real meat before you decide to switch your dog to a vegetarian diet.
Is wet dog food better than dry dog food for my Doberman?
On the one hand, wet food is easier to digest than dry food. And wet dog food helps to keep meals tasty.
On the other hand, dry dog food helps keep your Doberman’s teeth healthy – it keeps the dog’s teeth and gums clean, which is important for preventing tooth decay and gum disease.
By the way, don’t forget to brush your Doberman’s teeth several times a week.
Is dry dog food safe for Doberman puppies?
Yes, dry dog food is safe for Doberman puppies.
But make sure to adjust the kibble’s size and texture based on your puppy’s age. Your puppy may struggle to chew and digest large and hard kibble.
If your Doberman puppy struggles to chew dry food, just add some chicken or beef broth to moisten the kibble for easier eating.
Are grains safe for my Doberman?
Grains are considered a common allergen for dogs, including Dobermans.
Furthermore, grains are not recommended if your Doberman suffers from digestive issues. Highly processed grains should be especially avoided.
Still, dog’s with health issues, such as Dilated Cardiomyopathy, can benefit from small amounts of grain in their diet.
If you’re serving your Doberman grains, make sure grains are listed as third or fourth or later on the dog food label.
Fortunately, there are dog food brands that make great food specifically designed for dogs with sensitivity to grain (as discussed earlier).
Note that dog food producers also focus on dogs from other dog breeds who suffer from sensitivity to grain. For example, we recently rated Open Farm as the best food for Cocker Spaniels with sensitivity to grain.
Should I avoid dog foods that contain byproducts?
Byproducts are viewed negatively by many dog owners.
But note that some byproducts can provide nutrients that are important for Dobermans. For example, chicken liver is great for dogs, including Dobermans. And if your dog likes chicken, consider quality chicken meals. You can check here to see what exactly chicken meal is in dog food.
What should I do if my Doberman struggles to chew?
If your Doberman struggles with chewing, it’s time to visit a vet. Your Doberman may be suffering from cavities or gum disease. You can check here to see exactly why your dog doesn’t chew food but just swallows.
What can I do if my Doberman is a fussy eater?
First you need to identify why your Doberman is a fussy eater.
There may be a number of reasons for your Doberman’s fussiness:
- Your Doberman doesn’t really like the food you’re serving
- Your dog is already full
- You gave your Doberman too many dog food treats already
If you’re not sure about the reason for your Doberman’s fussy eating, try to spice up its food with tasty toppers. Mixing the food with other dog food may also help.
And if your dog is not motivated by food during training session, check here what you can do about this.
Also, check if your Doberman is not eating cat food, if you have a cat of course.
Is it OK to feed my Doberman leftovers?
Quality dog food is already providing your Doberman with complete nutrition.
This means that adding leftovers to your dog’s diet may result in overfeeding, bloating, and gas.
Still, if you really want to give your Doberman leftovers, at least make sure you serve them as an occasional replacement for regular dog food rather than as an addition to it.
Can dog food cause diarrhea in my Doberman?
Yes, dog food can cause diarrhea. This usually happens if you switch your Doberman to a new diet too quickly.
You can check here to see how to reduce the duration of diarrhea by feeding your dog green bananas.
My Doberman eats grass and other plants in my yard
This could be a problem, as many plants are poisonous to dogs.
So it’s generally not safe for your Doberman to eat plants, including landscape plants.
Also, leaves may be home to snails. And snails can carry parasites. Also, plants urinated on by other animals can spread leptospirosis.
But note that some dogs eat plants to get more fiber. So double check if your Doberman gets enough fiber in its diet.
But eating grass and plants is not as dramatic as eating poop. Yes, poop. In case your doggy consumes feces, check here how to stop a dog from eating poop, including what to put in dog food to stop your dog eating feces.
Are there any foods that are toxic to Dobermans?
Yes, the following foods are toxic to all dogs, including Dobermans:
- Chocolate
- Grapes
- Raisins
- Onions
- Garlic
- Macadamia nuts and other tropical fruits and nuts, such as cashews, papayas, and mangoes
- The artificial sweetener xylitol (used in sugar-free candy and gum)
My Doberman gets quite gassy. Why?
A little gas is normal for dogs.
But excessive gas during meals is not normal and may mean that:
- Your dog switched to a new food too quickly
- Your dog eats too quickly and swallows air
- The food doesn’t agree with your Doberman’s digestive system
If the gas is due to a change in diet, give your Doberman time to adjust.
If it’s your dog’s food that is making your Doberman gassy, find a better diet and consider a kibble size that reduces gas.
How much exercise does my Doberman need?
Dobermans are truly athletic and energetic dogs. This is why they need more exercise than most dogs.
To keep your Doberman happy and healthy, ensure the dog gets daily walks that last between 1 to 2 hours.
For younger Dobermans, start slow and gradually build up their walk and play time.
Best dog food for Dobermans (2024) – CONCLUSION
As shown in this article, the best dog food for Dobermans (2024) is The Farmer’s Dog.
But check our below top picks to find the best food for your Doberman specifically:
- Best overall: The Farmer’s Dog
- Best for puppies: Open Farm
- Best for seniors: Orijen
- Best dry food: Spot & Tango
- Best wet food: JustFoodForDogs
- Best for sensitive stomach: Hill’s
- Best for allergies: Royal Canin
- Best grain-free: Open Farm
- Best raw food: Instinct
- Best value: Blue Buffalo
Our team wishes your Doberman good appetite!