Worst dog food for German Shepherd (2024)
The worst dog food for German Shepherd is food that contains:
- Artificial additives
- Common allergens
- And toxic ingredients
But there is more you need to know!
This is why this article will also tell you everything about:
- Which foods exactly are the worst for your German Shepherd?
- What should you do if your German Shepherd eats something harmful?
- What are the worst treats for your German Shepherd?
- Which foods can your German Shepherd actually eat?
Let’s do this.
Let’s ensure your German Shepherd can become the best it can be – always happy & healthy!
Worst ingredients in dog food for German Shepherd
Certain dog food ingredients can be very dangerous to your German Shepherd.
Some of them can cause serious health issues and even death.
Here are some of the most dangerous ingredients in dog food.
Artificial preservatives (BHA, BHT, Ethoxyquin)
Dog food manufacturers use artificial preservatives to extend the shelf life of dog food.
The most common artificial preservatives are BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole), BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), and Ethoxyquin.
Unfortunately, these artificial preservatives can cause serious health issues in German Shepherds (and other dog breeds).
When looking for dog food for my German Shepherd (Max), I always ensure the food doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives!
DID YOU KNOW?
If your dog hasn’t been properly socialized, the poor thing may suffer from behavior problems.
These behavior problems may include:
- Eating disorders
- Excessive barking
- Anxiety
- Hyperactivity
- Aggression
This is why we created this FREE Puppy Socialization Checklist
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Cancer
Long-term consumption of artificial preservatives can increase the risk of cancer in German Shepherds (GSDs).
Organ Damage
Artificial preservatives can also negatively affect your dog’s liver and kidneys.
Digestive disorders
German Shepherds are susceptible to digestive issues. Artificial preservatives can make it worse.
For example, artificial preservatives can disrupt the natural balance of beneficial bacteria in the dog’s gut. This in turn can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal discomfort.
Allergies and skin issues
German Shepherds have sensitive skin. Ingesting artificial preservatives can further increase the risk of allergic reactions and skin problems.
For example, artificial preservatives can cause itching, dermatitis, and inflammation. Any of this will negatively affect the quality of life of your GSD.
Artificial colors and dyes
Dog food brands add artificial colors and dyes to dog food to make it more visually attractive.
But note that these additives offer zero nutritional value.
What makes it worse, artificial colors and dyes can in fact cause serious health issues in German Shepherds and other dogs.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Cancer
Long-term consumption of artificial colors can increase the risk of cancer in German Shepherds.
Interesting
Dog food brands add more color to dog food with artificial colors and dyes to attract dog owners, not dogs. In fact, dogs have limited color perception!
Digestive issues
Artificial colors and dyes can cause digestive problems in German Shepherds, including diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach upset. This can be especially a problem in dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Luckily, there are already dog food brands that make high-quality food for dogs with sensitive stomachs. One such brand is Hill’s, whose food we recently rated as the best dog food for Poodles with sensitive stomachs. And yes, this specific food is also suitable for a German Shepherd!
Allergies
German Shepherds are prone to allergies.
Artificial colors and dyes can further increase the risk of allergic reactions. Itching, hives, and skin rashes are some of the most common allergic reactions.
Hyperactivity and behavioral changes
Artificial colors and dyes can also contribute to hyperactivity and behavioral changes in German Shepherds. This may manifest as restlessness, agitation, or problems with focusing.
Artificial flavors and enhancers
Dog food manufacturers add artificial flavors and enhancers to dog food to make it more appealing to dogs. In fact, around 80% of commercial foods for dogs contain artificial flavors and enhancers.
Unfortunately, artificial flavors and enhancers increase the risk of serious health problems in dogs, including German Shepherds.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Gastrointestinal upset
Artificial flavors and enhancers can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and reduced appetite in German Shepherds.
Allergies
German Shepherds are vulnerable to allergies.
Artificial flavors and enhancers can trigger allergic reactions in German Shepherds. This can include itching, skin irritations, gastrointestinal issues, and even respiratory problems.
Adverse behavioral effects
Artificial flavors and enhancers can also trigger adverse behavioral issues. This may include hyperactivity, restlessness, and difficulty with focusing.
Wheat gluten
Wheat gluten is sometimes used in dog food to help retain moisture.
Unfortunately, German Shepherds can respond negatively to wheat gluten in their food.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Skin issues
Wheat gluten can trigger skin allergies in German Shepherds. This can include skin rashes, dermatitis, redness, and other skin irritations.
Gluten sensitivity
German Shepherds often struggle to digest wheat gluten.
Wheat gluten can also trigger the dog’s immune system, which can cause gas, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort.
Gastrointestinal issues
Some German Shepherds may experience inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract after ingesting wheat gluten. Such inflammation can lead to chronic digestive issues, such as inflammatory bowel disease.
Nutrient absorption problems
Wheat gluten can also impair nutrient absorption in German Shepherds. This may lead to nutrient deficiencies and related health problems.
Soy
Soy in dog food can cause serious health issues in German Shepherds.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Hormonal imbalance
Soy in dog food can lead to reproductive hormone imbalance in German Shepherds.
Digestive upset and bloating
A German Shepherd can struggle to digest soy. This can cause digestive issues, including gas, bloating, and discomfort.
Thyroid function interference
Soy can also interfere with thyroid function in German Shepherds. This can lead to imbalances in thyroid function and related health issues.
Allergies and digestive problems
Soy can trigger allergic reactions in German Shepherds. This can include skin irritation, itching, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal upset.
Corn syrup and high-fructose corn syrup
Corn and high-fructose corn syrup are used as sweeteners in some dog foods.
It’s worth noting that these additives offer very little nutritional value and can cause health issues.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Diabetes and insulin resistance
Regular consumption of corn syrup and high-fructose corn syrup can lead to diabetes or insulin resistance in German Shepherds.
Obesity
As corn syrup and high-fructose corn syrup are high in calories, they can contribute to weight gain and even obesity in GSDs.
Dental issues
Like most dogs, German Shepherds are prone to developing dental issues, such as gum disease and tooth decay.
Corn syrup and high-fructose corn syrup can further increase the risk of dental problems. For example, corn syrup and high-fructose corn syrup can contribute to the growth of harmful bacteria in a dog’s mouth, which can lead to various dental problems.
Nutritional imbalance
Corn syrup and high-fructose corn syrup provide empty calories and very little nutritional value. This can deprive your German Shepherd of the vital nutrients your pup needs for optimal health and well-being.
Propylene glycol
Propylene glycol is sometimes used as a preservative in dog food.
While propylene glycol is safe for human consumption in small amounts, it can cause serious health issues in German Shepherds (and other breed dogs).
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Central nervous system depression
Ingesting considerable amounts of propylene glycol can lead to weakness, lethargy, unsteady gait, and seizures in German Shepherds.
Anemia
Consuming significant amounts of propylene glycol can also lead to Heinz body anemia in German Shepherds. This can cause pale gums, weakness, and significantly reduced energy levels.
Digestive Issues
Propylene glycol can also cause gastrointestinal problems in German Shepherds. This may include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort.
Sodium tripolyphosphate
Sodium tripolyphosphate is sometimes used as a sequestrant and preservative in some dog foods.
Sodium tripolyphosphate is considered safe for dog consumption in small amounts, but excessive use can pose serious risks to German Shepherds (and other dog breeds).
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Mineral imbalances
Sodium tripolyphosphate can lead to imbalances of essential minerals, including magnesium, calcium, and iron.
Prolonged mineral imbalances can contribute to various health issues in German Shepherds.
Kidney problems
Sodium tripolyphosphate can also contribute to kidney issues in German Shepherds.
For example, excessive consumption of sodium tripolyphosphate may lead to the formation of kidney stones or urinary tract issues.
Gastrointestinal Distress
Adding sodium tripolyphosphate to dog food can also cause gastrointestinal upset in German Shepherds. This in turn can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.
Water balance
Sodium tripolyphosphate can also negatively impact the water balance in German Shepherds. This can lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances.
Propyl Gallate
Propyl gallate is sometimes used as a preservative in dog foods.
While it’s generally considered safe for dog consumption, excessive or prolonged ingestion of propyl gallate can cause health issues in German Shepherds (and other dog breeds).
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Liver toxicity
Prolonged or excessive ingestion of propyl gallate can lead to liver damage or impaired liver function in German Shepherds.
Cancer
Long-term consumption of propyl gallate can increase the risk of cancer in German Shepherds.
Gastrointestinal upset
A German Shepherd may experience gastrointestinal upset after eating food containing propyl gallate. The symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, and reduced appetite.
Allergic reactions
Propyl gallate may trigger allergic reactions in German Shepherds. This may include itching, skin irritations, gastrointestinal upset, and even respiratory issues.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar substitute. It’s safe for human consumption but highly toxic to German Shepherds and other dog breeds.
To be sure, xylitol is not typically used in dog food.
Still, every dog owner should be aware of how xylitol can affect your dog.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Liver damage and failure
Xylitol can significantly damage the liver of your German Shepherd.
If ingested, xylitol can trigger insulin release, which can lead to an overload of the liver’s metabolic pathways. This in turn can result in necrosis, liver inflammation, and potentially fatal liver failure.
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
As mentioned above, xylitol can cause a rapid insulin release, which can lead to a sudden drop in blood sugar levels. This can result in hypoglycemia in German Shepherds. The symptoms may include disorientation, weakness, seizures, collapse, and even coma or death.
Blood clotting abnormalities
Xylitol can also cause blood clotting abnormalities in German Shepherds.
The symptoms may include bleeding disorders, manifesting as prolonged bleeding or easy bruising.
Rendered fat and meat byproducts
Rendered fat and meat byproducts are common ingredients in dog food.
Unfortunately, rendered fat and meat byproducts can cause health problems in German Shepherds and other dog breeds.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Nutritional imbalance
Relying too much on rendered fat and meat byproducts as primary protein sources in the diet of your German Shepherd can result in an inadequate nutrient profile.
For example, a diet rich in rendered fat and meat byproducts will provide an insufficient amount of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.
Poor quality and digestibility
Rendered fat and meat byproducts may contain excessive fat, indigestible parts, and potentially harmful additives.
Furthermore, the poor digestibility of rendered fat and meat byproducts can lead to gastrointestinal issues, including vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased nutrient absorption.
Weight gain and obesity
Too much rendered fat and meat byproducts in the diet of your German Shepherd can lead to weight gain and obesity. This is because rendered fat and meat byproducts are often high in fat and calories.
Allergies and sensitivities
Rendered fat and meat byproducts in your dog’s food increase the likelihood of exposure to potential allergens, which can trigger allergic reactions, such as itching, skin irritations, and gastrointestinal distress.
Interesting
There are already dog food companies that make excellent food specifically designed for dogs with allergies. For example, we recently rated Royal Canin as the best dog food for German Shorthaired Pointers with allergies. And yes, this specific food is also suitable for German Shepherds!
Increased risk of disease
Prolonged or excessive consumption of rendered fat and meat byproducts can increase the risk of kidney disease, pancreatitis, and other organ-related issues in German Shepherds.
Fillers
Absolutely avoid cheap fillers, such as soy, wheat, and corn.
Not only do fillers provide very little nutritional value, but your German Shepherd can struggle to process fillers, which may lead to gastrointestinal upset and bloat.
Here is a quick list of the most common fillers that are best to avoid:
- Cottonseed hulls
- Peanut hulls
- Screening
- Citrus pulp
- Straw
- Weeds
- Cereal byproducts
- Corncobs
- Feathers
4D meats
4D meat refers to meat from dead, dying, diseased, or disabled animals.
Note that 4D meat is not safe for human consumption. This is because 4D meat may contain traces of antibiotics, steroids, medications, and euthanasia drugs.
It’s also worth noting that the “disabled” part in 4D refers to animals who lose their ability to walk properly. Difficulties with walking can be a symptom of dangerous diseases, including mad cow disease.
Synthetic ingredients
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards require that dog food brands add vitamins and minerals to dog food.
To meet those AAFCO standards, many dog food brands create vitamins and minerals… in the lab.
As you can imagine, vitamins and minerals are best absorbed and digested by dogs when consumed in their natural state. So make sure to feed your German Shepherd fresh fruits and veggies as much as possible.
DOG TOYS CAN HELP YOUR DOG
Dog toys are not a luxury, but a necessity.
Dog toys:
- Teach your dog proper chewing
- Promote healthy teeth & fresh breath
- Prevent boredom (can keep your dog busy for hours)
- Provide comfort during sleep
- Help relieve anxiety
- Reduce barking, whining, and nervousness
- Provide company when left home alone
- Provide comfort during stressful times
- Provide mental & physical stimulation
Check here for the best dog toys for your dog.
Worst dog food for German Shepherd
Considering that some foods can seriously harm your German Shepherd, it’s critical that you know which are the worst – and most dangerous – dog foods for your doggy.
Chocolate
Chocolate is one of the most dangerous foods for a German Shepherd (and other dog breeds).
Chocolate contains two primary toxic components: caffeine and theobromine.
Theobromine is particularly dangerous for dogs. This is because dogs can’t metabolize theobromine as fast as humans, which leads to a quick buildup of toxic levels in a dog’s system.
Note that dark chocolate, baking chocolate, and cocoa powder, contain higher concentrations of theobromine than milk chocolate.
As I mentioned in the introduction to this article, my German Shepherd (Max) ate chocolate and paid the price. It was all very dramatic, to both Max and me.
Fortunately, I acted quickly and correctly, which gave Max a chance to survive the ordeal. In short, I stayed calm, assessed the situation, and called my vet.
And yes, Max survived!
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Increased heart rate
Chocolate can cause an elevated heart rate in your German Shepherd.
As a result, the poor dog may experience increased pulse rate, rapid breathing, and irregular heartbeat. All this can quickly lead to cardiovascular complications.
Central nervous system stimulation
Chocolate can also trigger central nervous system stimulation, which can lead to hyperactivity, restlessness, trembling, and even seizures.
Organ damage
Chocolate can also damage your dog’s liver, heart, and kidneys.
Gastrointestinal issues
Ingesting chocolate can cause gastrointestinal distress in German Shepherds, including vomiting and diarrhea.
A German Shepherd may also experience excessive drooling, restlessness, and abdominal discomfort after eating chocolate.
Severity
The severity of the symptoms and health issues following ingestion of chocolate depends on various factors, including:
- The type of chocolate a dog has ingested
- The amount ingested
- The size of the dog
Grapes and raisins
Grapes and raisins can cause severe health problems for a German Shepherd. In fact, these fruits can cause big problems even when ingested in small quantities.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Kidney failure
Grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney failure in your German Shepherd.
An affected dog can experience a sudden decline in kidney function. This may seriously impair the kidneys’ ability to filter toxins and regulate fluid balance.
Gastrointestinal issues
Grapes and raisins can also cause gastrointestinal upset in German Shepherds. This can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, reduced appetite, and abdominal pain.
Note that these symptoms can persist for several hours and even days.
Lethargy and weakness
A German Shepherd who ingested grapes or raisins may quickly become weak and lethargic. The dog may also show signs of discomfort and pain.
Increased thirst and urination
Ingesting grapes or raisins can also increase thirst and urination in a German Shepherd. This is because the affected dog’s body is trying to eliminate toxins.
Severity
The severity of symptoms following grape or raisin ingestion will vary among dogs.
Some dogs may experience serious effects after consuming only a few grapes or raisins, while other dogs may tolerate larger amounts without immediate symptoms.
Still, it’s critical to note that any ingestion of grapes or raisins can pose a life-threatening risk.
Onions and garlic
Onions and garlic contain compounds that can be toxic to your German Shepherd.
It’s worth noting that every part of onion is toxic to your dog, and it doesn’t matter whether that part is cooked, uncooked, powdered, or dehydrated.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Weakness and fatigue
A German Shepherd that consumes onion or garlic may start showing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and exercise intolerance.
Hemolytic anemia
Ingesting onion or garlic can also lead to hemolytic anemia in German Shepherds.
Pale or yellowish gums
Eating onion or garlic can also lead to pale or yellowish gums in dogs.
Gastrointestinal issues
Onions or garlic can cause gastrointestinal upset in German Shepherds. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
Severity
The severity of symptoms following ingestion of onion or garlic will vary depending on the amount consumed and the individual dog’s sensitivity.
But note that even small quantities of onions or garlic can be dangerous to your German Shepherd.
Avocado
Avocados contain a compound called persin that can be toxic to German Shepherds and other dog breeds.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Organ damage
Ingesting avocados can lead to heart rhythm abnormalities, cardiovascular issues, or organ damage in German Shepherds.
Respiratory issues
Consuming avocados can also lead to respiratory difficulties in German Shepherds.
Symptoms can include coughing, wheezing, problems with breathing, and other respiratory issues.
Gastrointestinal problems
Eating avocados can also lead to gastrointestinal upset in German Shepherds. This may manifest as diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite.
Severity
The severity of symptoms following ingestion of avocados will vary depending on the amount consumed, the size of the dog, and the individual dog’s sensitivity.
Some German Shepherds may show minimal or no symptoms after ingesting avocados, while others may experience serious health issues.
It’s worth noting that not all parts of avocado are toxic to the same extent. For example, the avocado’s flesh is less toxic than the leaves, skin, and pit.
Macadamia nuts
Ingesting macadamia nuts can cause severe health issues in German Shepherds.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Muscle tremors and stiffness
Consuming macadamia nuts can cause muscle tremors and stiffness in German Shepherds. This can affect their mobility and coordination.
Weakness and lethargy
Ingesting macadamia nuts can also cause weakness and lethargy in German Shepherds.
Elevated body temperature
Macadamia nuts can also elevate body temperature in German Shepherds. This can cause fever-like symptoms as well as excessive panting and increased thirst.
Digestive upset
A German Shepherd that ingested macadamia nuts can also suffer from diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort.
Severity
The severity of symptoms following ingestion of macadamia nuts will vary among dogs. Some German Shepherds will show mild symptoms, while others will experience severe health issues.
It’s worth noting that both raw and roasted macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs and that even small amounts of macadamia nuts can harm your German Shepherd.
Alcohol
Unlike humans, dogs can’t metabolize alcohol.
Even a sip of alcohol can send your German Shepherd into a coma!
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Vomiting and diarrhea
Ingesting alcohol can irritate the stomach and intestines in German Shepherds. This can lead to vomiting and diarrhea. This in turn can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Central nervous system depression
Consuming alcohol can lead to nervous system depression in German Shepherds.
This can manifest as disorientation, unsteady gait, lethargy, and difficulty controlling movements.
Difficulty breathing
Consuming alcohol can also negatively affect respiratory function in German Shepherds. This in turn can lead to rapid or shallow breathing, difficulty breathing, and even respiratory failure.
Cardiovascular issues
Ingesting alcohol can also cause cardiovascular problems in German Shepherds. This can lead to significant changes in heart rate and even cardiac arrest.
Severity
The severity of symptoms following consumption of alcohol will depend on various factors, such as the amount of alcohol ingested, the dog’s size, and the dog’s overall health.
Still, it’s important to know that even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous and even life-threatening to your German Shepherd.
Caffeine
Consuming caffeine is very dangerous to German Shepherds (and other dog breeds).
Caffeine can be found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, and certain medications.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Cardiac problems
Caffeine can put additional strain on the heart of your German Shepherd. A dog consuming caffeine may experience increased blood pressure, elevated heart rate, irregular heart rhythm, and cardiac complications.
Central nervous system stimulation
Consuming caffeine can act as a stimulant on the central nervous system in German Shepherds. This can lead to hyperactivity, restlessness, trembling, increased heart rate, and seizures.
Hyperactivity and agitation
A German Shepherd affected by caffeine may experience agitation, hyperactivity, and an inability to relax. This may in turn lead to increased stress and anxiety.
Gastrointestinal issues
Consuming caffeine can also cause gastrointestinal upset in German Shepherds. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
Severity
The severity of symptoms following consumption of caffeine will depend on various factors, such as the amount of caffeine ingested, the dog’s size, and the dog’s individual sensitivity to caffeine.
It’s important to remember that even small amounts of caffeine can be dangerous and even life-threatening to your German Shepherd.
Dairy products (lactose)
Dairy foods like milk, cheese, and yogurt can be dangerous to your German Shepherd. This is because dogs struggle to digest lactose (a type of sugar present in milk and other dairy products).
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Vomiting
Your German Shepherd may start vomiting after ingesting lactose.
Gastrointestinal issues
Consuming lactose can also cause gastrointestinal upset in German Shepherds. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and digestive discomfort.
Nutritional imbalances
Consuming lactose can also lead to imbalances in your dog’s diet.
Severity
The severity of symptoms following consumption of lactose will vary among individual dogs. Some dogs may exhibit a higher tolerance for lactose and thus milder symptoms, while others may experience severe gastrointestinal reactions.
Note that lactose intolerance is not life-threatening. Still, it can significantly impact your dog’s comfort and well-being.
High-fat foods
Excessive consumption of high-fat foods, such as fatty meats and fried foods, can be quite dangerous to German Shepherds.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Gastrointestinal issues
Consuming high-fat foods can cause gastrointestinal upset in German Shepherds. Symptoms may include diarrhea, gas, vomiting, bloating, and digestive discomfort.
Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
Consuming excessive amounts of high-fat foods can also trigger an inflammatory response in the pancreas. This can lead to severe pain and potential long-term damage.
Weight gain and obesity
Ingesting excessive amounts of high-fat foods can also contribute to weight gain and obesity in German Shepherds.
Too much weight will strain the joints and organs of your German Shepherd. This may increase the risk of diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease.
Nutritional imbalance
Excessive amounts of high-fat foods can lead to nutritional imbalances in German Shepherds. This is because dogs need a balanced diet with appropriate fats, protein, and carbohydrate proportions. Too much fat in your dog’s diet can result in deficiencies in other essential nutrients.
Severity
The severity of symptoms following consumption of excessive amounts of high-fat foods will depend on the specific food consumed, the dog’s size, overall health, and the frequency and duration of exposure to high-fat foods.
Note that pancreatitis, a potential consequence of excessive high-fat food consumption, can be severe and even life-threatening to your German Shepherd.
Bones (cooked and small)
Bones – whether cooked or small – can be quite dangerous to your German Shepherd.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Dental issues
Chewing on hard bones can cause dental damage in German Shepherds and other dog breeds. For example, bones can fracture teeth, which may cause pain, discomfort, and potential infections.
Choking and obstruction
Bones can also splinter or break into small pieces when chewed or eaten by your German Shepherd. This can cause choking.
Bone fragments can also get stuck in your dog’s throat, esophagus, or gastrointestinal tract, which may cause life-threatening obstructions.
Gastrointestinal injuries
Bone fragments can also cause lacerations and punctures in the digestive tract of your German Shepherd. This can cause internal injuries, bleeding, and serious infections.
Severity
The severity of symptoms following consumption of bones will depend on the size and type of a bone and the dog’s chewing habits.
High-salt foods
Excessive consumption of high-salt foods can be dangerous to German Shepherds.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Electrolyte imbalance
Excessive intake of high-salt foods can disrupt the balance of electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, in your dog’s body. Such imbalance can affect cellular functions and lead to serious health issues.
Dehydration
Excessive ingestion of high-salt foods can also lead to dehydration if your German Shepherd has no access to water.
Kidney and urinary issues
Excessive ingestion of high-salt foods can also stress the kidneys and urinary system in German Shepherds. Over time, this can contribute to the development of urinary tract infections, kidney disease, or bladder stones.
Increased blood pressure
German Shepherds consuming excessive amounts of high-salt foods are also at risk of elevated blood pressure. This can strain the cardiovascular system of a dog and contribute to heart disease or other related conditions.
Severity
The severity of symptoms following excessive consumption of high-salt foods will depend on
the amount of salt consumed, the dog’s size, overall health, and individual sensitivity to salt.
Artificial sweeteners (sorbitol, mannitol, sucralose, and xylitol)
Artificial sweeteners are used as sugar substitutes in some dog foods.
Unfortunately, artificial sweeteners can be quite dangerous to German Shepherds.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
Some artificial sweeteners, such as xylitol, can lead to a rapid and significant drop in blood sugar levels in German Shepherds. This can cause lethargy, disorientation, weakness, seizures, and even liver failure.
Gastrointestinal issues
Artificial sweeteners can also disrupt the functioning of a German Shepherd’s digestive system. This may cause symptoms such as vomiting, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and discomfort.
Liver damage
Consuming certain artificial sweeteners, particularly xylitol, can even cause liver damage in German Shepherds.
Severity
The severity of symptoms following the consumption of artificial sweeteners will depend on
the specific sweetener ingested, the amount consumed, the dog’s size, and individual sensitivity to artificial sweeteners.
Note that even small amounts of certain artificial sweeteners, such as xylitol, can lead to serious – and even life-threatening – health issues.
Moldy or spoiled food
Feeding your German Shepherds moldy or spoiled food can negatively affect your dog’s health.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Bacterial contamination
Spoiled food may contain harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella or E. coli, which can lead to serious gastrointestinal infections in German Shepherds. These infections can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and dehydration.
Mycotoxins
Moldy food can also contain mycotoxins. These toxic compounds can damage the kidneys, liver, and other organs in German Shepherds.
Food poisoning
Ingestion of spoiled food can result in food poisoning. This can cause nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and discomfort.
Severity
The severity of symptoms following the consumption of moldy or spoiled food will depend on
the type of mold or bacteria present in the ingested food as well as the quantity of moldy or spoiled food consumed.
Note that consuming moldy or spoiled food often has mild effects, such as temporary gastrointestinal upset. Still, moldy or spoiled food can also lead to serious organ damage and infections.
Any food with xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar substitute often used in sugar-free chewing gum, baked goods, candies, and some household products.
While safe for human consumption, xylitol is very dangerous to German Shepherds and other dog breeds.
POTENTIAL HEALTH ISSUES
Liver damage
Ingesting xylitol can damage your dog’s liver. Increased levels of insulin caused by xylitol consumption can trigger events that damage liver cells and impair liver function.
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
Xylitol can lead to a rapid and significant drop in blood sugar levels in German Shepherds. This can cause lethargy, disorientation, weakness, seizures, and even liver failure. The symptoms can occur as quickly as 30 minutes after your dog ingests xylitol.
Coagulopathies
Ingesting xylitol can also cause coagulopathies and abnormalities in blood clotting in German Shepherds. This can cause bleeding, both internal and external.
Severity
The severity of symptoms following consumption of xylitol will depend on the dog’s overall health, the dog’s size, and individual sensitivity.
Note that even small amounts of xylitol can have serious and potentially life-threatening consequences for your German Shepherd.
Cherries
The pits, stems, and leaves of the cherries contain small amounts of cyanide.
Excessive consumption of cherries may cause poisoning in German Shepherds and other dog breeds.
Also, cherry pits can cause intestinal obstruction in dogs.
Hops (used in home beer brewing)
German Shepherds should avoid eating hops, which are the flowers of the hop plant used in brewing beer. This is because hops are toxic to dogs.
Ingestion of hops by your dog may manifest as increased breathing, hyperthermia, a racing heart rate, and vomiting. In serious cases, your dog may die within 6 hours of ingesting hops.
Horse chestnuts (conkers)
Also, avoid feeding your German Shepherd horse chestnuts. This is because horse chestnuts contain a poison called aesculin. Note that aesculin can be found in all horse chestnut tree parts, including the leaves.
Symptoms following ingestion of horse chestnuts may include severe diarrhea and vomiting, drooling, increased thirst, restlessness, and tremors.
Note that these symptoms can occur as soon as one hour after ingesting horse chestnut by your German Shepherd but may also be delayed for up to two days.
Also, note that your German Shepherd would have to ingest several horse chestnuts to suffer from any serious poisoning.
For your reference, horse chestnut trees grow in the UK and temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. Ripened conkers will fall to the ground in late summer and autumn.
Wild mushrooms
German Shepherds should also avoid eating wild mushrooms. This is because some wild mushrooms can poison your dog.
Symptoms of mushroom poisoning will depend on the (poisonous) mushroom species eaten.
The symptoms may include diarrhea, vomiting, tremors, seizures, and changes in thirst or urination.
Note that some mushroom toxins will affect your German Shepherd as quickly as within 15-30 minutes after ingestion, while others will not affect your dog for up to 24 hours.
Nutmeg
German Shepherds should also avoid eating nutmeg.
Ingesting a substantial amount of nutmeg by your dog can cause disorientation, hallucinations, increased heart rate, stomach pain, dry mouth, and seizure.
Onions, shallots, leeks, and chives
German Shepherds should also avoid consuming onions, shallots, leeks, and chives. These are poisonous foods to most pets if consumed in large amounts.
For example, excessive ingestion of onions can cause your dog’s red blood cells to burst, causing anemia.
Raw and green potatoes
Raw and green potatoes are another food to avoid. This is because these potatoes contain a toxic compound called solanine.
Ingesting solanine can negatively affect your dog’s nervous system. The symptoms may include blurred vision, diarrhea, vomiting, low temperature, and slow heart rate.
Note that it’s usually fine to feed your German Shepherd a small amount of cooked potatoes, as the cooking process significantly reduces the levels of solanine.
Rhubarb leaves
Another food that German Shepherds should not eat is rhubarb leaves. This is because rhubarb leaves contain oxalic acid, which is toxic to dogs.
Symptoms following ingestion of rhubarb leaves may include diarrhea, lethargy, tremors, drooling, vomiting, and changes to the levels of thirst and urination.
Note that your German Shepherd would have to ingest a considerable amount of rhubarb leaves to experience poisoning.
It’s also worth mentioning that the stalks of the rhubarb plant are safe for German Shepherds in small quantities and can in fact be beneficial if your dog has constipation.
Star fruit
German Shepherds should also avoid consuming star fruits. This is because star fruits are highly toxic to dogs due to oxalic acid.
Symptoms following ingestion of star fruits may include diarrhea, vomiting, blood in the urine, and increased thirst and urination.
Note that your German Shepherd may become sick after eating only a tiny amount of star fruits.
Salt
German Shepherds should definitely avoid consuming too much salt.
Ingesting too much salt can make your doggy seriously thirsty and can lead to sodium poisoning or dehydration.
Too much salt can also cause excessive thirst and urination and can cause damage to the kidneys.
Symptoms following ingestion of too much salt in your dog’s diet may include diarrhea, depression, vomiting, tremors, high temperature, and seizure.
Green tomatoes
German Shepherds should also not consume green tomatoes as they contain a toxic substance called solanine, which can cause difficulty breathing, heart problems, and severe stomach upset.
Note that your dog would need to ingest a large number of green tomatoes to get seriously ill. A small amount of green tomatoes may cause GI upset at worst.
Also, note that the ripened red fruit of the tomato is considered safe for German Shepherds. Still, all the green parts of the plant (stems and vines) and unripened tomatoes need to be avoided by your German Shepherd.
Yeast dough
Another food that German Shepherds should avoid eating is yeast dough. This is because yeast dough can produce gas in your dog’s digestive system.
The expanding gas in your dog’s body can cause a bowel obstruction or a bloated stomach which can twist. This is usually a life-threatening emergency requiring surgery.
Black walnuts
German Shepherds should also avoid eating black walnuts. This is because black walnuts contain an unknown toxin that can cause seizures and tremors in dogs.
Your dog should also avoid ingesting black walnuts that have been lying on the ground for a while and turned moldy. Mold is simply an additional toxin.
The only nuts that are usually safe to eat by German Shepherds are cashews, peanuts, and almonds. Still, even these should be given in moderation due to their high fat content.
DOG TRAINING COLLARS CAN HELP
Dog training collars can be very useful.
So you should know:
- What are the key benefits of dog training collars?
- Are there any risks?
- What are the best dog training collars on the market?
Check here for the answers.
Worst treats for German Shepherd
That’s right, not all treats are good for your German Shepherd.
If your doggy is getting a little thick around the middle, you should start paying extra attention to the treats you feed your pup.
And don’t forget that just like people, overweight dogs are susceptible to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis, arthritis, respiratory problems, high blood pressure, and cancer.
Also, while the caloric needs of dogs vary depending on their size, weight, and activity level, some treats are worse than others.
Here are the worst treats for a German Shepherd.
High-fat treats
Treats that are high in fat can significantly contribute to weight gain, digestive upset, and pancreatitis in German Shepherds and other dog breeds.
High-fat treats include fried snacks, fatty meats, and greasy treats.
High-sugar treats
Treats that are high in sugar can significantly contribute to your dog’s dental problems and weight gain and can disrupt blood sugar levels.
Treats with allergenic ingredients
Treats that contain common allergens, such as soy, wheat, corn, or dairy products can cause food allergies or sensitivities in German Shepherds.
Rawhide treats
Rawhide treats pose a choking hazard to your dog and can cause digestive blockages if swallowed in large pieces.
To avoid problems, always choose safer alternatives, such as dental chews or toys for dogs.
Treats with excessive salt
Also avoid treats containing too much salt as these can contribute to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances in German Shepherds.
Treats with artificial additives
You should also avoid treats containing artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. This is because these additives can cause digestive issues, allergies, and other adverse reactions.
Treats with high sodium content
Just like treats containing excessive salt, treats with high sodium content can also cause serious health issues for your German Shepherd. Dogs with heart or kidney issues are especially vulnerable.
Best treats for German Shepherds
Yes, your German Shepherd needs some treats.
Treats can serve important functions:
- Training tools for learning new tricks
- Stress reliever
- Entertainment
In fact, we recently reviewed the best treats for dogs when reviewing the best dog food for Dobermans. Yes, these treats are also suitable for German Shepherds!
What to do if my German Shepherd has eaten toxic food?
If you think your German Shepherd has eaten toxic food, it’s critical that you act quickly and correctly to minimize potential harm to your poor pup.
Follow these steps if you think your dog has eaten toxic food:
Stay Calm
Staying calm will help you assess and handle the situation more effectively.
Assess the situation
Start by determining which toxic food exactly your dog has eaten.
If possible, assess the quantity consumed.
All this information will be very helpful when talking to your veterinarian.
Don’t induce vomiting without your vet’s guidance
Inducing vomiting should only be done under the guidance of a veterinarian.
This is because certain toxic substances can cause further harm if vomited back up.
Contact your veterinarian
Call your veterinarian immediately right after assessing the situation.
You can also contact an emergency veterinary clinic if it’s after-hours.
When talking to your veterinarian, explain the situation and follow the vet’s instructions.
The vet will provide specific instructions based on the type of toxic food ingested, the amount consumed, and your dog’s size and overall health.
Provide information to your vet
When talking to your veterinarian, provide details about the type of toxic food ingested, the time of ingestion, and any visible symptoms your poor doggy is experiencing.
This information will help the veterinarian to decide on the appropriate course of action.
Monitor your dog
While waiting for your vet’s instructions, watch your poor doggy closely.
Look for any unusual behavior or symptoms. Especially note any changes in breathing, heart rate, or consciousness.
Follow your vet’s instructions
Follow your vet’s instructions carefully. The vet may recommend bringing your dog to the clinic. The vet may also ask you to take specific actions at home.
Prevent future incidents
- Prevent your dog from accessing toxic food
- Store all human food, medications, and household chemicals out of your dog’s reach
- Be cautious when disposing of potentially toxic substances
- Ensure trash cans are secure and inaccessible to your dog
QUICK DOS AND DON’TS
Dos
- Examine your dog closely. Look for reduced coordination, drooling, abnormal heart rate, tremors, nausea, and seizures
- Keep calm and keep your dog calm too.
- Try to limit your pup’s movement around the house, unless your poor doggy has diarrhea
- Call your vet – prepare for next steps
- You can also call the Animal Poison Control in your area or the Pet Poison Helpline, which should be available 24 hours a day
- If your dog is getting worse by the minute, rush the poor thing to the emergency
Don’ts
- Don’t try to induce vomiting without getting a green light from your veterinarian
- Don’t try to medicate your dog without getting a green light from your veterinarian
- Don’t ignore symptoms of poisoning – don’t try to wait it out
What foods can a German Shepherd eat?
So far, you learned what’s the worst dog food for your German Shepherd.
Now let’s quickly see what’s the best dog food for your dear doggy.
Lean meats
Your German Shepherd can eat lean meats (lean cuts of cooked meat) as long as all the visible fat is removed.
By the way, I feed my German Shepherd (Max) chicken, turkey, pork, beef, and lamb. My pup loves lean meats!
But always make sure there are no bones in the meat before you serve it to your pup. As you learned in this article, cooked bones can be dangerous to your German Shepherd. Bones can splinter into shards that can choke your dog or cause serious damage to your dog’s mouth, throat, or digestive tract.
Also avoid processed meats, such as ham, bacon, and sausages. These foods have high salt and seasoning content.
Vegetables
Yes, a healthy snack of cucumber, carrot, green beans, or sweet potato is good for your German Shepherd. Some other vegetables are also great in moderation.
However, as you learned in this article, there are some veggies you should definitely avoid. This includes garlic, onions, leeks, chives, and wild mushrooms.
Fresh fruits
I feed my German Shepherd slices of watermelons, apples, and bananas. They are really great as occasional treats.
But remember to take out any seeds or pits from fresh fruits like nectarines, apricots, peaches, and plums. This is because these pits contain cyanide, which is toxic to your pup if ingested in large quantities.
Also, the pits are a choking hazard for your doggy. They can cause blockages in your dog’s intestine.
Dairy products
Dairy products, such as cheese, milk, ice cream, and plain yogurt are generally safe for a German Shepherd if served in very small quantities.
But ingesting too much dairy can cause vomiting and diarrhea in German Shepherds (and other dog breeds).
Also, dogs with lactose intolerance should not eat dairy products at all!
My German Shepherd tolerates (and loves) an occasional portion of a small amount of milk or ice cream.
Cooked rice and pasta
It’s generally safe to feed German Shepherds cooked plain rice and cooked pasta.
In fact, cooked plain white rice is great if your pup suffers from an upset stomach.
As you may already know, rice is often found in commercial dog food.
Fish
Fish is a healthy source of protein and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. This is why fish is great for your dog’s skin, coat, and immune system.
But remember that fish needs to be fully cooked without any added oils or seasonings. Cooking will kill harmful bacteria.
Also make sure the fish you’re feeding your dog doesn’t contain any bones.
My German Shepherd loves salmon! And it loves tuna and mackerel. But considering that longer-living species like tuna, mackerel, and swordfish contain higher levels of mercury, I only feed my doggy tiny amounts of tuna and mackerel and only occasionally.
Eggs
My German Shepherd also loves eggs. Luckily, eggs are safe for German Shepherds and can be a healthy and nutritious addition to your dog’s diet.
Specifically, eggs are a great source of high-quality protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.
First 5 ingredients
When buying dog food, look for high-quality dog foods where the first 5 ingredients make up 80-85% of the bag.
And ensure those first 5 ingredients comprise animal meat and organs (not byproducts), healthy fats, complex carbs, vitamins, and minerals.
Yes, stay away from dog foods that contain meat byproducts as well as corn and soy, especially if they are listed as the first 5 ingredients.
VIDEO: Pros & cons of owning German Shepherd
Frequently asked questions
Do German Shepherds need special dog food?
German Shepherds can eat dog food from most quality dog food brands.
But make sure to feed your German Shepherd puppy dog food that’s safe for large breed puppies. This will help reduce the risk of your German Shepherd contracting hip disease.
Luckily, there are dog food brands that make excellent food specifically designed for puppies. For example, we recently rated Open Farm as the best dog food for Dalmatian puppies, which is also suitable for German Shepherd puppies!
What causes hip disease in German Shepherds?
Hip disease (hip dysplasia) in German Shepherds can be caused by some of the following:
- Genetics
- Overfeeding
- Too much calcium in your dog’s diet
When can I safely switch my German Shepherd puppy to adult food?
You can safely switch your German Shepherd puppy to adult food at 12 to 24 months of age.
It’s important to note that switching your German Shepherd puppy to adult food to soon may increase the risk of serious hip and joint damage.
Can changing my German Shepherd’s diet help with allergies or sensitivities?
Yes, changing the diet of your German Shepherd to a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet can help alleviate some allergies or sensitivities.
But make sure to contact your vet before making any significant dietary changes.
Can I give my German Shepherd ice cream?
Avoid giving your German Shepherd ice cream. This is because ice cream is high in sugar. Also, many dogs can’t tolerate the lactose that is present in ice cream.
Still, an occasional lick of ice cream should be fine for your dog as long as the ice cream doesn’t contain xylitol, nuts, chocolate, or raisins, which are all toxic to dogs.
Can I give my German Shepherd pizza?
Avoid giving your German Shepherd pizza. This is because pizzas are high in sugar, salt, and calories.
And remember that although a small piece of plain pizza dough may be fine for your dog, many pizza toppings contain onions and garlic, which are toxic to dogs.
Pizzas also come with highly processed meats, high-fat cheeses, and spices, which are also unsuitable for both adult dogs and puppies.
By the way, I have extensive experience in helping my dog survive ingesting worst dog food for German Shepherd.
My male German Shepherd (Max) ate chocolate!
Yes, chocolate is toxic to dogs. Make sure to read this article for more details on this.
After ingesting chocolate, my German Shepherd became hyperactive.
Soon, the poor thing started to breath rapidly. Its body was trembling. Its heart was beating like crazy.
Suddenly, Max vomited.
I called my vet.
Long story short: Max survived the chocolate incident. Phew!
So yes, this article in not only based on scientific research and expert opinions, but also on my extensive personal experience in dealing with a compulsive chocolate eater.
Final word
As you learned in this article, the worst dog food for German Shepherd is food that contains:
- Artificial additives
- Common allergens
- And toxic ingredients
But there is more you need to know!
This is why this article also told you:
- Which foods exactly are the worst for your German Shepherd?
- What should you do if your German Shepherd eats something harmful?
- What are the worst treats for your German Shepherd?
- Which foods can your German Shepherd actually eat?
Out team wishes your German Shepherd a good appetite!
WALKS WITH YOUR DOG – SAFE & FUN?
Walks with a dog are favorite moments for every dog owner.
But for these walks to be safe & fun, your dog needs to know how to walk on a leash.
And you need a leash that is suitable for your dog.
Check here to see what you should do.
Getting the right advice is essential for your pet’s health and happiness. But with so many pet guides available on the internet, it can be challenging to know which advice is the best for your pet. This is where we come in. To help you find the best advice for your pet, we follow a strict set of criteria. These criteria are based on scientific research, expert opinions of professional zoologists and pet experts, and extensive personal experience.
Check out our Editorial Process for details on how we research and review pet products and topics.
And don’t forget to visit our About page for more details about our editorial team.
This article is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge. It is not meant to substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from a veterinary medical professional. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of illness, pain, or distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.