WHAT'S THE BEST DOG FOOD FOR AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERDS?

Australian Shepherd: Specific Dietary Needs

Australian Shepherds are large dogs that typically expend a lot of energy throughout the day. Very active, playful, and curious, they need to exert themselves sufficiently both physically and intellectually to be well-balanced. These are some of the specific characteristics that you should consider when choosing the right dog food for your Australian Shepherd:

• Australian Shepherds have a very high energy expenditure rate: when not sleeping, these doggies are almost always on the go. As such, their dog food needs to meet their energy requirement and provide your pooch with enough energy throughout the day.

• This dog breed is predisposed to joint problems: hip and elbow dysplasia are frequently observed in Australian Shepherds. Their dog food will therefore need to have a composition which supports their bones.

• Australian Shepherds are also prone to skin diseases. While their beautiful, thick coat protects them from bad weather, your Australian Shepherd's skin is a little fragile.

In addition to the specific features related to the breed, it's important to take into account other factors, such as age, weight, physical activity, and any potential or reported diseases. An inadequate diet can cause many problems, such as deficiencies. Your vet or an animal nutrition expert can always help you determine the ideal diet for your dog.

What Type of Dog Food Should I Give My Australian Shepherd?

First and foremost, you need to make sure that your dog's typical dietary needs are met, in terms of protein, mineral and vitamin requirements, etc. Then, opt for kibble adapted to your Australian Shepherd, which will effectively meet the requirements of the breed.  When choosing the ideal dog food for your Australian Shepherd, look for:

• Dog food that respects your dog's build and metabolism, providing them with an appropriate energy supply: A high level of protein and fat helps to maintain muscle mass while offering a sufficient supply of energy. Enough to allow your pooch to fully enjoy their day and exercise at will.

• Dog food that protects their joints and cartilage: Glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate are good for maintaining your dog's joints and cartilage. Vitamin C also promotes the production of collagen, which helps build healthy cartilage. This is essential for this large dog breed, whose well-developed musculature can put a lot of stress on the joints.

• Dog food that promotes healthy skin and coat: Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, from quality fish oil, help to protect your Australian Shepherd from any risk of dermatitis. It can also help improve the health of your dog's skin and give them a beautiful, shiny coat.

• Dog food that improves digestion: Because of their high energy expenditure, Australian Shepherds tend to eat very quickly and want to exercise right after a meal. Prebiotics work miracles, helping to avoid the risks of digestive disorders!

How Often Should I Feed My Australian Shepherd?

Once you’ve chosen the ideal food for your Australian Shepherd, you'll also need to learn how often to feed them.  We recommend that you give them their meals at the same, fixed time each day to avoid possible digestive disorders. The amount of kibble provided should be adapted according to your dog's weight and daily activity level.

Here are some recommendations for how best to feed your Australian Shepherd:

• Split their daily food ration into two or three small meals: The idea is to distribute their food throughout the day, so as not to overload their digestive capacities. It also stops them from feeling hungry. Give them their meals in a quiet place, away from possible sources of distraction: It's important to create a pleasant environment for mealtimes, as this facilitates digestion and promotes a balanced diet.

• Give them the correct amount of dog food: This will depend on different factors, such as your dog's age, weight, activity level (normal or sustained), and reported illnesses. Your vet or an animal nutritionist specialist can help you determine the appropriate amount of food for your dog.

• Forbid certain foods: Of course, some foods are toxic to dogs. Sugar, cold meats, and chocolate are dangerous foods for dogs. Chicken and rabbit bones are also not recommended as part of a healthy and balanced diet.

• Treats: In addition to their regular food, you can certainly offer your furry friend a healthy treat from time to time. Little pieces of fruit or cooked vegetables are a great, natural option! However, be careful with this if your dog is overweight.

• Finally, make sure that your Australian Shepherd has constant access to a water source: Hydration is an integral part of a healthy diet and is essential to the good health of your pooch. Make sure you change their water bowl every day so that the water is always fresh. If you want to encourage your pooch to drink more water, try placing ice cubes in their water bowl. You can also rehydrate your Australian Shepherd's kibble by adding a little lukewarm water to it.