Best Dog Food for German Shorthaired Pointer (2024)
The best dog food for German Shorthaired Pointer in 2024 is The Farmer’s Dog.
But check our below top picks to find the best food for your German Shorthaired Pointer specifically.
Because when buying dog food for your German Shorthaired Pointer, you need to consider your dog’s:
- Age
- Weight (size)
- Activity level
- Health
But worry not.
Our top picks will quickly help you find the right dog food for your GSP.
This article will also tell you everything you need to know when buying dog food for a German Shorthaired Pointer.
As you know, a German Shorthaired Pointer is a very active dog! This breed is full of energy and enthusiasm for running – and hunting if given the opportunity.
This means that finding the right dog food for your German Shorthaired Pointer is critical to your pups health and happiness.
Our below dog food picks have been prepared by our team of dog nutrition experts.
Your German Shorthaired Pointer will soon be enjoying the best meals of its life!
Best dog food for German Shorthaired Pointers – QUICK PEEK
Here is a quick peek at our top 10 picks for the best dog food for German Shorthaired Pointers.
The Farmer’s Dog
Fresh, human-grade ingredients for the most optimal nutrition for your German Shorthaired Pointer.
Open Farm
All the nutrients your German Shorthaired Pointer puppy needs to grow and develop happy and healthy.
Orijen
Complete and balanced nutrition for the specific nutrition needs of senior German Shorthaired Pointers.
Spot & Tango
Dry dog food but with the taste and benefits of fresh food and the convenience of kibble.
JustFoodForDogs
Fresh, tasty, and nutritionally balanced wet dog food that is shelf-stable for up to 2 years.
Hill’s
Added prebiotics for a balanced microbiome and healthy digestion for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Royal Canin
Hydrolyzed proteins for adult dogs with skin allergies and food sensitivities.
Open Farm
Formulated specifically for dogs with allergies and sensitivity to grain. Added non-GMO superfoods.
Instinct
For dog owners who want to feed their German Shorthaired Pointers with quality raw food that is nutritious and tasty.
Blue Buffalo
For dog owners looking for budget-friendly but quality dog food. Rich in nutrients and vitamins.
Best dog food for German Shorthaired Pointers – FULL REVIEWS
Here are full reviews of our top 10 picks for the best dog food for German Shorthaired Pointers.
- 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 German Shorthaired Pointers
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 & vegetables
- Food cooked gently and from scratch to ensure retention of key nutrients
- Cooked in human-grade kitchens
- No cheap fillers, additives, or harmful chemicals
- No preservatives to keep foods shelf-stable for years
- Food options for dogs with sensitive stomachs, food allergies, and other dietary issues
- Two-week trial plan
- Edit your subscription at any time
- Vet-designed to comply with AAFCO standards
- Unmatched level of customization (vet-formulated)
- Pre-packaged meals as daily portions
- Free shipping
CONS
- Slightly more expensive than some competitors
Best dog food for German Shorthaired Pointer 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
- This food is designed 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 veggies 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 German Shorthaired Pointers
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 & 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 dog with a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals
- Uses the most succulent parts of the prey for rich nutrients
- Freeze-dried coated for 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 German Shorthaired Pointers
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
- Real meats only
- No artificial colors, flavors, or additives
- Enhanced with super herbs for digestive support and more
- Customized meals for your dog’s breed, weight, and activity level
- Sold directly (no retail markup) to lower the price
- Comes in personalized plans & scoops to avoid serving guesswork
- Complies with or exceeds AAFCO standards
- Cheaper than fresh dog food
- Free shipping
CONS
- Slightly more expensive than traditional kibble
Best wet food for German Shorthaired Pointers
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 makes it easy to store and travel
- Shelf-stable for up to 2 years
CONS
- Slightly more expensive than traditional wet dog food
Best food for German Shorthaired Pointers 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, such as 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
- 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 German Shorthaired Pointers 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 good gastrointestinal and dermatological health
- Provides your German Shorthaired Pointer’s skin 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 German Shorthaired Pointers
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, such as non-GMO pumpkin, leafy greens, coconut oil, and carrot
- Non-GMO fruits and veggies 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 German Shorthaired Pointers
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 a delicious raw meal
- Minimally processed and never cooked for that real nutrition quality
- 85% meat and organs
- 15% of non-GMO vegetables, fruits, vitamins, and wholesome ingredients
- No fillers like grain, wheat, corn, soy, 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 German Shorthaired Pointers
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 wheat, corn, soy, or chicken byproducts
- L-carnitine helps burn fat while preserving lean muscles
- Added omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids promote healthy skin and great 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
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: Top 10 facts about German Shorthaired Pointers
What to consider when buying dog food for German Shorthaired Pointer
Here are the most important factors you should consider when buying dog food for your German Shorthaired Pointer:
- Age
- Weight
- Activity level
- Health
AGE
A German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) has specific nutritional needs at different stages of life.
So it’s critical that you provide your pup with the right food based on the dog’s age.
Puppy
Give your GSP puppy food that is higher in protein and calories. This will support your puppy’s growth and development.
Just make sure your puppy is not hiding food for later. Hoarding food may greatly reduce your dog’s daily nutritional intake. You can check here to see why your puppy may be trying to hide or bury food for later.
Dry food for a puppy should contain between 26% and 27% protein, compared to 20% to 21% protein for adult German Shorthaired Pointers. But note that premium dog food brands usually contain higher levels of protein for both puppies and adult dogs (up to 30% protein for some puppy foods).
Also look for food containing balanced quantities of calcium and phosphorus to ensure healthy bone growth in your pet.
And don’t forget that giving your puppy food formulated explicitly for a GSP puppy will ensure that it receives the right quantity and quality of the necessary nutrients.
Fortunately, there are dog food companies that make high-quality food specifically designed for puppies (see our above review of the best dog food for German Shorthaired Pointer 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 Doberman puppies.
Pro Tip
A puppy has a smaller stomach and higher metabolic rates, compared to an older dog. This means that a puppy needs to eat several times a day in order to ingest an adequate amount of nutrients. Puppies older than 6 months old should be fed at least 3 times a day. Puppies older than 6 months should only get 2 meals a day.
Adult
An adult German Shorthaired Pointer needs a diet that is lower in protein and calories, compared to food for puppies. This will help your adult doggy maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity.
Overall, an adult GSP needs a balanced diet of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
Senior
A senior German Shorthaired Pointer requires even lower levels of protein and calories.
An older GSP also needs more fiber to support digestive health.
And don’t forget to include some joint supplements to help your senior GSP maintain good mobility and joint health.
And yes, there are dog food manufacturers that make first-class food specifically designed for senior dogs (see our above review of the best dog food for senior German Shorthaired Pointers).
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.
WEIGHT
Maintaining the appropriate weight is critical to your dog’s health, regardless of breed.
So make sure to feed your GSP a balanced ratio of quality protein, healthy fats, ground bone, offal, and veggies.
Note that how much food you give to your dog will depend on a number of factors, including:
- The quality of food
- Your dog’s metabolism
- Your dog’s weight
- How much daily exercise your doggy gets
- Your dog’s age
- Whether your pup needs to shed excess pounds or gain weight
Obesity
It’s not common for a healthy German Shorthaired Pointer to get obese.
But because obesity in dogs increases the risk of serious health problems, it’s essential to know at least the basics.
To start with, obesity in dogs can cause diabetes, liver disease, and pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Obesity can also exacerbate any pre-existing joint problems, such as dysplasia.
Also, as an obese dog can’t exercise properly, the poor thing can get even more overweight.
It’s also worth noting that dogs often gain weight as they get older. This is usually related to a slowing down metabolism and lower levels of activity in older dogs. So it’s important to adjust a senior dog’s diet to compensate for these changes. This is why most foods for older dogs come with less fat and fewer calories. Some foods for seniors also add fiber that adds bulk to meals without adding extra calories.
But note that not all senior dogs gain extra weight. Especially active dogs like German Pointers can maintain near-optimal weight well into their senior years.
But gaining weight is not the only game in town. Some dogs can actually lose weight as they get older. This can be caused by decreased food intake, which often comes with chronic health problems, such as diabetes, dental issues, cancer, or heart and kidney diseases.
Some older dogs can also lose weight by refusing to eat due to decreased sense of smell and taste that often affects aging dogs.
The inability of older dogs to digest food or absorb nutrients efficiently can also contribute to shedding pounds.
Underweight older dogs will benefit from foods containing extra amounts of high-quality fat, which can significantly increase the foods’ palatability. Extra fat can also provide a senior dog with extra energy.
Interesting fact: Older dogs can’t metabolize protein as efficiently as younger pups. So make sure to provide your senior German Shorthaired Pointer with up to 50% more protein. Not enough protein in your senior doggy can lead to increased weakness, muscle wasting, and problems with immune system.
How to treat your dog’s obesity?
Weight problems are easier to prevent than treat. So make sure to always follow the food brand’s recommendations – and adjust the amount of food based on your pup’s response to a current diet.
Also, limit the amount of treats and human food, as these can reduce your dog’s appetite for regular dog 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.
And remember that vegetables are a great low-calories choice. Furthermore, make sure your GSP gets plenty of vigorous exercise.
And if you think your GSP is a bit overweight, reduce the amount of food and treats and increase daily exercise. This may do the trick.
If your doggy becomes obese, contact your vet. The veterinarian will be able to suggest an effective weight-loss plan.
Pro Tip
You can test your German Shorthaired Pointer for potential weight problems by examining the dog’s rib area. If you can see your pup’s ribs with your eyes, your GSP is very likely underweight. If you can only find your dog’s ribs by probing a layer of fat, or you can’t feel its ribs through their fat layer at all, your doggy may be overweight.
ACTIVITY LEVEL
A German Shorthaired Pointer is a highly athletic and intelligent dog.
To power all those muscles and busy brain, your GSP needs a well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet.
The more active your GSP is the more calories it needs. But not just any calories. Your GSP needs the right balance of calories delivered with high-quality protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.
Adjusting your dog’s food intake according to its level of activity is also essential. If your dog’s activity decreases, make sure to reduce its caloric intake. And if you increase the activity level of your pup, ensure the dog gets more calories.
An average, a German Shorthaired Pointer needs between 1,500 and 3,000 calories per day, based on its level of activity. But note that German Shorthaired Pointers engaged in especially strenuous activities such as hunting may need more than 3,000 calories.
In addition to the right type of food, you also need to provide your four-legged athlete with plenty of fresh water. A GSP needs at least 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight each day, even in cold weather. This requirement will double and even triple in hot weather and during vigorous exercise. Note that dehydration can negatively affect your dog’s health and performance.
HEALTH
German Shorthaired Pointers are healthy dogs, but like any breed, they’re susceptible to a number of health issues.
Every dog owner should be aware of the symptoms each potential health issue may bring. This is because early diagnosis and treatment are critical to your dog’s health.
It’s also important to note that certain health problems that German Shorthaired Pointers may experience are beyond your control. But some health issues can be avoided or minimized with the right diet.
Here are some of the most common health problems that can affect a GSP.
Food allergies
Certain ingredients in your German Shorthaired Pointer’s food can trigger allergies.
Food allergies in German Shorthaired Pointers can manifest as dry and itchy skin, ears, and paws.
We recommend that you check if your pup has food allergies. You can do this by using a food allergy test like the 5Strands kit. This allergy test kit can test for up to 255 ingredients to see which ones can cause food intolerance in your doggy.
Luckily, there are dog food brands that make quality food specifically designed for dogs with allergies (see our above review of the best food for German Shorthaired Pointers with allergies).
But dog food companies also focus on dogs with allergies from other dog breeds. For example, we recently rated Royal Canin as the best food for Dalmatians with allergies.
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat)
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) is commonly referred to as “bloat”.
GDV is a serious condition in dogs, including German Shorthaired Pointers. Note that GDV can be fatal if left untreated.
GDV occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid and subsequently twists. GDV is always an emergency.
Unfortunately, as a deep-chested breed, German Shorthaired Pointers are among the breeds at higher risk of developing GDV.
Von Willebrand disease
Von Willebrand disease is a blood disorder that affects the clotting process. Unfortunately, German Shorthaired Pointers are susceptible to this disease. Dogs affected by Von Willebrand disease suffer from excessive bleeding and bruising.
It’s important to note that diet alone can’t treat Von Willebrand disease. Still, if your GSP is affected by it, avoid foods consisting of ingredients that interfere with blood clotting, such as excessive garlic or onions.
Hip and elbow dysplasia
Hip and elbow dysplasia are genetic conditions that can negatively affect your German Shorthaired Pointer’s joint health.
Hip and elbow dysplasia happens when a dog’s joints don’t develop properly, causing pain, inflammation, lameness, and eventually arthritis. Unfortunately, German Shorthaired Pointers are quite prone to both hip and elbow dysplasia.
If your GSP is affected by hip or elbow dysplasia, feed the poor doggy 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.
You can also try food that contains glucosamine and chondroitin. This will support your pup’s joint function and will reduce inflammation.
A German Shorthaired Pointer affected by dysplasia may require surgery.
Entropion
German Shorthaired Pointers are also susceptible to entropion. This is an eye condition that makes the eyelids to roll inward. Entropion can irritate the dog’s eye and lead to infections.
Pannus
Pannus is another eye disease that German Shorthaired Pointers are susceptible to. Pannus causes red and inflamed eyes. Pannus can lead to blindness if left untreated. Pannus can be treated with medication.
Cancer
German Shorthaired Pointers are also susceptible to various types of cancer, such as osteosarcoma, fibrosarcoma, lymphosarcoma, and melanoma.
Lymphedema
German Shorthaired Pointers can also contract Lymphedema, which is a rare genetic disorder that causes swelling in the limbs due to an impaired lymphatic system. Lymphedema can lead to discomfort and restricted movement in dogs.
Epilepsy
German Shorthaired Pointers are also susceptible to epilepsy, which is a neurological condition that can trigger seizures.
Recommended dietary changes based on health of your GSP
Coat color changes | Increase the amount of amino acids which can be found in protein |
Chronic itching and dermatitis | Add B Vitamins, Vitamin E, Zinc, omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids which can be found in fish oil. Also consider adding probiotics |
Dull coat and scaling | Adjust the levels of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) which can be found in fish oil. Also try food with added zinc |
Dandruff and crustiness | Add zinc and Vitamin A |
Specific food qualities for German Shorthaired Pointers
Every breed and every individual dog has specific nutritional requirements. Your German Shorthaired Pointer is no different.
Here are the essential dog food ingredients and qualities for a German Shorthaired Pointer.
Protein
Your German Shorthaired Pointer needs plenty of animal protein.
But don’t buy just any protein. And avoid mysterious meal additives that promise a high protein percentage.
Your dog needs protein from a quality source, such as lamb, chicken, turkey, duck, and beef. In case your doggy has food sensitivities to some of those meats, you can always consider salmon or even buffalo.
Also, if your dog loves chicken, consider quality chicken meals. You can check here to see what exactly chicken meal is in dog food.
Note that you can buy these days plant-based protein foods. But also note that your GSP really needs meat-based protein food for optimal health and performance.
Here is what high-protein foods will do for your pup:
- Provide high and consistent energy
- Build and repair muscles
- Form new skin, nails, hair, and other tissue
- Produce enzymes, hormones, and antibodies
- Support healthy immune system
Just make sure your dog is not eating too fast, as this may negatively affect nutrient absorption. In case you doggy eats too fast, check here to see exactly why your dog doesn’t chew food but just swallows.
Essential fatty acids and omegas
Fat is the second most important nutrient in a German Shorthaired Pointer’s diet.
Your GSP needs properly balanced saturated and unsaturated fats in its food.
Saturated fats come from animal sources. These fats help your dog absorb the fat-soluble vitamins, such as A, D, E, and K. Saturated fats also improve the taste and texture of your pup’s food.
Unsaturated fats are essential fatty acids that include omega-3 and omega-6+9. Unsaturated fats are critical to the proper development and function of your dog’s body cells. These fats promote healthy skin, coat, eyes, and nervous system. They also fuel brain and learning, control hormones, and reduce inflammation when required.
Carbohydrates from vegetables, herbs, and berries (small amounts)
Although your German Shorthaired Pointer is a carnivore, it can still benefit from veggies and other plant-based ingredients.
A small amount of carbohydrates from plant-based sources will provide your doggy fibre, prebiotics (food for beneficial bacteria), and antioxidants which are absent in meat.
Antioxidants
Look for dog food that contains antioxidant-rich ingredients, such as cranberries, blueberries, and spinach.
Antioxidants will help support your dog’s immune system and reduce the risk of cancer.
Vitamins and minerals
A proper balance of vitamins and minerals in your German Shorthaired Pointer’s diet will support joint health and proper digestion. Vitamins will also ensure that your dog can properly absorb all that daily intake of protein.
So look for dog food that contains Vitamins A, C, and E. And ensure your dog’s diet includes calcium and phosphorus.
Many dog owners and pet experts recommend adding to a German Shorthaired Pointer’s diet natural vitamins and minerals from bone and plant sources.
For example, you can consider adding ground bone to your dog’s meals. Recreational bones are also a great option. Bone sources add nutrients that support skin and bone health as well as proper digestion and mobility.
You can also try raw dog food. This will replicate what dogs evolved to eat in the wild. Your dog will also benefit from ingredients such as offal which is packed with natural macronutrients (protein, fat, and carbs) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals).
Joint support
Also look for dog food that contains glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids.
These ingredients will support your dog’s joint health and will minimize the risk of hip and elbow dysplasia.
But note that dog food with these ingredients can be a bit more expensive.
Lymphatic support
Choose a dog food rich in vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin E and selenium.
These ingredients will support your dog’s lymphatic system and will reduce the risk of lymphedema.
Eye-supporting nutrients
As mentioned earlier in this article, German Shorthaired Pointers are susceptible to eye conditions, such as pannus and entropion.
So look for dog foods that contain nutrients that support eye health, such as vitamin A, zeaxanthin, and lutein.
Blood-clotting factors
We also mentioned in this article that German Shorthaired Pointers are prone to contracting Von Willebrand’s Disease.
So look for foods that contain blood-clotting factors, such as vitamin K.
Vitamin K will also help make various proteins needed for blood clotting.
Low in sodium
Also look for foods that are low in sodium. This is because excess of sodium in your dog’s diet can strain the heart and worsen subaortic stenosis.
And choose dog food that contains taurine and L-carnitine. These essential amino acids will support heart health and help maintain proper cardiac function.
Probiotics
Like many other breeds, German Shorthaired Pointers can have sensitive digestive systems.
So consider adding probiotics to your pup’s food.
Probiotics will promote a healthier gut and support your dog’s immune system. Probiotics can also reduce your pup’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.
Digestibility
Because your GSP is prone to digestive issues, look for high-quality food that is minimally processed.
This is because essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals are best absorbed and digested by dogs when consumed in their natural state, such as minimally-processed meat and veggies.
In other words, it’s the amount of digestible protein that significantly contributes to the quality of dog food. This means that if you give your dog a minimally-processed food, your pup will be able to digest it easily and absorb all the essential nutrients.
The level of digestibility is especially relevant to dogs with sensitive stomachs or other digestive issues. For example, if you give your dog lower-quality kibble that contains fillers, artificial preservatives, and other ingredients that are harder to digest, your dog may experience a digestive upset.
Speaking of digestive issues, you can check here to see why your dog may be throwing up undigested food hours after eating.
Organic foods
If you’re concerned about pesticide and chemical contamination of food, you may consider feeding your German Shorthaired Pointer organic dog food.
But note that the definition of “organic” is often unclear, at least in pet foods.
For example, it’s usually impossible to determine whether a specific dog food meets the strict “organic” requirements that govern the labelling of human organic food.
No fillers
As you may already know, many dog foods contain fillers.
To be sure, fillers can offer some small amounts of vitamins and minerals. But note that dogs can’t process these fillers for energy as efficiently as they can process meat.
So no, fillers won’t provide much nutritional value to your GSP.
Furthermore, fillers may contain potential allergens, such as wheat, soy, and corn.
By the way, I have extensive personal experience with a hungry German Shorthaired Pointer. My sister has a gorgeous male German Shorthaired Pointer, Rocky.
We talk for hours about the right food for German Shorthaired Pointers. I help my sister practice what we talk (and research). As a result, Rocky is one happy and healthy German Shorthaired Pointer!
Consequently, this article in not only based on scientific research and expert opinions but also on my extensive personal experience with a real German Shorthaired Pointer.
What ingredients to avoid?
Wheat, corn, and soy
Avoid cheap fillers, such as wheat, corn, and soy.
They provide very little nutritional value to your German Shorthaired Pointer.
Also, your pup may struggle processing fillers, which may lead to gastrointestinal upset and bloat.
Still, wheat, corn, and soy can be fine in small amounts. And they can help prevent diet-induced Dilated Cardiomyopathy.
Cheap fillers can also cause tear stains in dogs. You can check here to see what dog food won’t cause tear stains in your doggy.
Artificial flavorings, preservatives, and additives
Artificial preservatives, such as ethoxyquin, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) can trigger major allergic reactions in dogs.
Avoid also food colorings, such as food dyes Red 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6. These can cause cancer in animals. Also, food colorings like Blue 1, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6 can cause hypersensitivity in dogs.
Note that many dog food brands suggest that additives are generally safe. Still, consider replacing additives with natural ingredients whenever possible.
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.
Meat byproducts
Too many byproducts in your German Shorthaired Pointer’s diet can make your dog sick. Especially avoid byproducts that are sourced from euthanized animals. Meat byproducts can also come from slaughterhouse leftovers, which may include brains, blood, and chicken feet.
As you can imagine, meat byproducts are a poor source of protein. Some may even contain diseases.
It’s worth mentioning that meat byproducts are often used in low-end dog food.
Still, meat byproducts don’t have to be always low quality. For example, some meat byproducts are quality offal, which is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. But ensure your dog’s diet doesn’t contain more than 10% offal. This is because offal such as heart and liver are very rich and should only be served in small quantities.
Interesting
If a protein on a dog label has no specific animal name, that protein is most likely a meat byproduct.
Rendered fat
Dog food brands add rendered fat to their products to add flavor to food.
But it’s important to remember that rendered fat is a source of potentially harmful microorganisms and heavy metal toxins.
Highly-processed grains
Highly processed grains lack sufficient quantities of essential nutrients, such as fibers, minerals, and vitamins.
But also make sure your dog is not eating poop. Yes, poop. In case your pup does consume feces, check here how to stop a dog from eating poop, including what to put in dog food to stop your dog eating feces.
Frequently asked questions
How many calories do adult German Shorthaired Pointers need in a day?
A healthy and active adult GSP weighing about 55 to 60 pounds needs around 1,500 calories per day.
But a very active German Shorthaired Pointer engaged in activities such as hunting or sports will need around 3,340 calories per day.
By the way, you can feed your dog green bananas, rather than yellow bananas, to reduce your pup’s daily calorie intake. Check here to see if your dog can eat green bananas.
How many calories do puppy German Shorthaired Pointers need in a day?
A German Shorthaired Pointer puppy needs around 1,250 calories a day. Just make sure your puppy is not guarding food rather than eating it, as this can cause nutritional deficiency. Check here to see why your puppy may be guarding its food but not eating.
How much protein should I give to my German Shorthaired Pointer puppy?
Dry dog food for a puppy GSP should contain between 26% and 27% protein. But note that premium dog foods for puppies can contain as much as 30% protein.
Also look for dog food containing balanced quantities of calcium and phosphorus to ensure healthy bone growth of your puppy.
When can my German Shorthaired Pointers start with adult dog food?
You can start your GSP on adult food when the dog reaches 12 months or achieves its adult weight of 45 to 70 pounds for males and 45 to 60 pounds for females.
How much should my German Shorthaired Pointers weigh?
An adult, healthy German Shorthaired Pointer male should weigh between 55 and 70 pounds. An adult, healthy female should weigh between 45 and 60 pounds. Just 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.
Can a German Shorthaired Pointer get fat?
It’s unusual for a healthy German Shorthaired Pointer to get fat. This is because German Shorthaired Pointers are incredibly active and athletic breed. Just ensure your doggy gets plenty of exercise.
But also ensure your adult GPS doesn’t eat puppy food? Why? You can check here to find out why and to see how to keep older dogs from eating puppy food.
Are German Shorthaired Pointers medium or large breed dogs?
Due to their weight and height, German Shorthaired Pointers are usually categorized as medium-large breed. But note that because of their muscular build, the dietary needs of German Shorthaired Pointers are similar to those of larger breeds.
Should my German Shorthaired Pointer eat large breed dog food?
Yes, German Shorthaired Pointers can eat large-breed and even giant-breed dog food.
German Shorthaired Pointers are exceptionally active and athletic breed and need more nutrients and calories than other dog breeds with similar weights and heights.
Which exercises do German Shorthaired Pointers enjoy most?
German Shorthaired Pointers are born to run! And hunt, when possible. So ensure your GSP gets at least 1 to 2 hours of vigorous exercise per day.
An energetic training session can also prove beneficial. By the way, if your dog is not motivated by food during training session, check here to see what you can do about this.
Is grain-free dry dog food good for a German Shorthaired Pointer?
Yes, grain-free dry dog food is great for a German Shorthaired Pointer. This is because German Shorthaired Pointers have sensitive stomachs.
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.
Are German Shorthaired Pointers prone to digestive issues?
Yes, German Shorthaired Pointers are susceptible to digestive issues, including gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat). In fact, as a deep-chested breed, German Shorthaired Pointers are among the breeds at higher risk of developing GDV.
Speaking of digestive issues, 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.
Best dog food for German Shorthaired Pointer (2024) – CONCLUSION
As shown in this article, the best dog food for German Shorthaired Pointer in 2024 is The Farmer’s Dog.
But check our below top picks to find the best food for your German Shorthaired Pointer specifically:
- 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
Our team wishes your German Shorthaired Pointer good appetite!