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When it comes to feeding a dog, there are quite a few variables to consider. The breed is one of them. The best dog food for Dobermans should cater to their unique nutritional needs.
Different breeds of dogs will have different requirements, and the same is true for Doberman Pinschers. These medium-sized dogs have some unique requirements thanks to their high energy and muscular body. The food will also differ based on your dog's age (puppy, adult, senior) and his current health conditions, as well as his activity level. Ideally, you should consult with a vet or a canine nutritionist for the perfect diet adjustment.
If you need to know exactly what you should be feeding your Dobermans and how you should be giving them meals, use this as a guide to get you started. Don't forget about any serious health concerns of your pet as well, such as food allergies and digestion issues, since not all of these foods will be ideal in those cases. Here are the top five best Doberman dog food choices that we'll discuss below:
| Doberman Dog Food Brand | Price | Quality | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merrick Grain-Free Recipe Dry Dog Food | $$ | A+ |  |
| Newman's Own Organics Beef Grain-Free | $$ | A |  |
| AvoDerm Natural Adult Dog Food | $ | B |  |
| Organix Large Breed Recipe Dry Dog Food | $ | B | |
| Wellness Complete Health Large Breed | $ | B | |
* Click on the dog food brand for more information, prices, and nutrition.
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Best Dog Food for Dobermans
How & What To Feed Doberman Pinschers
Weight & Nutrition
The amount of food you'll feed your Doberman varies depending on their weight. An adult Doberman typically weighs somewhere between 70 to 100 pounds when fully grown. This will vary slightly depending on their height and muscle mass.
Dogs of this size will require somewhere between 1800 and 2200 calories to maintain their healthy weight. If you feed your pup a quality kibble, which is typically the veterinarian's recommended diet, you'll likely be feeding him 3 to 4 ½ cups of kibble per day to reach his calorie needs.
Remember that your dog's weight is not the be-all, end-all. Some dogs can be underweight, and some may be obese. If your dog's weight does not fall into a healthy range, as suggested by your vet, you'll need to adjust his caloric intake so he can either gain or lose weight.
Talk to your vet to learn more about determining your dog's healthy weight and the best diet for him. Your vet will take your dog's age, activity level, past medical history, and diet into consideration. They will be able to give you their opinion on the best dog food for Dobermans.
There are several commercial brands that would be considered the best dog food for Dobermans, and many dog food review websites and veterinarians agree with this. We've consulted with some of our veterinarians here on Top Dog Tips and then analyzed, researched, and picked the five best dog foods for Doberman Pinscher, discussed below.
Keep in mind that you don’t have to buy the most expensive dog food brand. If you're looking for specific dog food brand recommendations that are tried and true, the list above includes the brands that the majority of Doberman owners and their vets choose as the best options. For more information, I would recommend reading this thorough review of the top dog food brands from a pet food industry expert.
Activity Level
Doberman Pinschers are active dogs, and this is one of the reasons they are often chosen for working jobs such as Search & Rescue, K9 units, and other services. Because of their activity level, most Dobermans will need high-quality food with enough calories to keep them going.
Monitor your dog's activity level to know where he stands. If you have a working dog, he'll definitely need the best dog food for Dobermans that replaces his spent energy. The same is true if you take your pooch out for tough walks and runs daily or if he is very active in the home and yard.
Even though Dobermans are known for their high energy, it's always possible you will get one who is low-key. If your dog prefers to lie around the house and leisurely explore his territory, that's absolutely fine. Just be aware that your pup will not burn as much energy as most Dobermans and, as such, will need less food.
FURTHER READING: Top 11 Best Organic Dog Food Brands
Health Concerns
Most dog breeds have some type of specific health concern, and the Doberman is no exception. One issue Dobermans face is heart problems, such as dilated cardiomyopathy or heart failure.
Because of these possible issues, you should strive to keep your Doberman at a healthy weight throughout his life. As we all know, being overweight or obese can cause heart problems on its own, so it can exacerbate conditions in Dobermans.
Monitor your dog's weight regularly with your vet, and make sure he is getting the right amount of food and enough exercise.
Because Dobermans are big dogs, they can also be prone to bone and joint issues like hip dysplasia. While this is not completely preventable, especially in older dogs, you can help your pup by making sure he maintains a healthy weight.
It's also important to ensure he gets high-quality, nutritious food with the vitamins and nutrients he needs to keep his bones strong and healthy for as long as possible. Look for nutrients like ascorbic acid, vitamin E, vitamin B, and glutamine in your dog's food or supplements.
Remember to ask your vet before giving your dog any additional vitamins or medications for the dog's joint pain.
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Complete Nutrition
If you have a large dog like a Doberman, it can be tempting to get that cheap bag of dog food to save money. Just remember that your pup needs the best dog food for Dobermans, as it will provide a meal with complete nutritional value.
When buying dog food, look carefully at the ingredients and nutrition labels. A fully grown adult dog should be getting at least 18% quality protein in their kibble. They should also be getting at least 5% healthy fats.
To ensure your dog's food is nutritious enough, look at the ingredient list. The first ingredient should be a high-quality animal protein, either whole or meal. Look for chicken, beef, fish, or lamb. Meats listed as digests or by-products are not as high-quality, but they will still provide your dog with a source of protein and fat.
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Best Commercial Dog Foods for Dobermans
Here are some additional choices for the top dog food choices for Dobermans. Make sure to have a conversation with your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist before selecting the right diet for your canine companion.
Taste of the Wild Dog Food for Dobermans
Taste of the Wild is a grain-free dog food with tons of healthy meat proteins. It is a more expensive brand, but definitely not the most pricey available. The protein ratio in adult kibble is 25-32%, while the good fats range from 15-18%.
This makes the food an excellent choice for active Dobermans. Some of the Taste of the Wild foods contain pre and probiotics to help with digestion, which is also a great addition for large dogs.
Newman's Own Dog Food for Dobermans
Newman's Own dog food is not grain-free, but they do avoid fillers such as corn and wheat and focus on higher-quality carbohydrates for your dog. The first ingredient in their adult dog food is chicken, and the kibble also includes a nice amount of vegetables, giving your pup a healthy amount of fiber for firm stools and easy digestion.
This brand makes all of its dog food products in the United States. It's also made with organic grains and vegetables. Newman's Own does not include artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, and it also has no wheat or corn.
Purina Pro Plan Dog Food for Dobermans
Purina Pro Plan offers a more affordable choice for dog owners, and they have plenty of options for Dobermans. Their ‘sport' and ‘performance' kibbles are the best choices, with 30% protein and 20% fat ratios. These foods are also great for active dogs, as they include amino acids for recovery and offer extra nutrition for your hard-working pup.
EPA, an Omega-3 Fatty Acid, and Glucosamine are also included in the Sport formula to help support joint health and mobility in your Fido. Its concentrated nutrition helps to optimize oxygen metabolism for increased endurance.
There are many dog foods out there. With this information, hopefully, you can find the best dog food for Dobermans that will meet your pet's needs and fit your budget. Remember, if you have any concerns about your pet's diet, consult your veterinarian.
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