Are you parenting a German Shorthaired Pointer and have no clue what type of diet to choose? Did you know that this breed is prevalent among people and requires a wide range of nutritional needs throughout their life?
The German Shorthair Pointer falls into a category of large dogs, with a slender, muscular body, and floppy ears. He is an excellent tracker, able to run long distances, and quite active by nature.
Today we will be recommending the best dog food for German Shorthaired Pointer, as well as going into his feeding habits and health conditions.
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Dog Food For German Shorthaired Pointer Reviewed
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | INGREDIENTS | |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall  | Taste of the Wild Best Overall | ✓ Duck ✓ Duck Meal ✓ Chicken Meal ✓ Sweet Potatoes ✓ Peas | Check Price |
Grain Free  | Blue Buffalo Wilderness Grain Free | ✓ Deboned Salmon ✓ Menhaden Fish Meal ✓ Tapioca Starch ✓ Pea Protein ✓ Peas | Check Price |
Raw Freeze-Dried  | Stella & Chewy's Raw Freeze-Dried | ✓ Chicken with Ground Bone ✓ Chicken Liver ✓ Chicken Gizzard ✓ Pumpkin Seed ✓ Organic Cranberries | Check Price |
For Puppies  | Victor Yukon For Puppies | ✓ Salmon ✓ Menhaden Fish Meal ✓ Sweet Potato ✓ Peas ✓ Canola Oil | Check Price |
Dry Food  | Merrick Dry Food | ✓ Buffalo Meat ✓ Chicken Meal ✓ Turkey ✓ Beef ✓ Sweet Potatoes | Check Price |
Small Breeds  | Annamaet Ultra Small Breeds | ✓ Chicken Meal ✓ Brown Rice ✓ Chicken Fat ✓ Whole Dry Eggs ✓ Herring Meal | Check Price |
Gastrointestinal Diet  | Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Diet | ✓ Brewers Rice ✓ Chicken By-Product Meal ✓ Wheat ✓ Barley ✓ Natural Flavors | Check Price |
Taste of the Wild - Best Overall
Taste of the Wild has come up with an amazing formula to satisfy even the most demanding canines. And we have to admit it’s one of our favorite products.
Significantly above average protein and fat content, will fuel your pet with much-needed energy and provide a well-balanced diet. This recipe is packed with an exceptional blend of ingredients. It includes meats such as duck, chicken, and turkey.
We should mention a wide range of vegetables like peas and sweet potatoes. They will offer your pooch a healthy balance of fibers and carbohydrates. Additionally, a tomato paste will provide soluble fibers.
To conclude, if you want your canine to taste one of the best formulas in the pet industry, then don’t waste time, go shop for Taste of the Wild. You will be surprised by the results.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness - Best Grain Free
The Wilderness line takes the natural diet to another level. The company has tailored this recipe towards wolf’s eating habits, who is a dog’s distant relative. They are concentrating heavily on meats, which is a primary source of nutrition.
However, you must be wondering why Denali Dinner is the great choice for you GSP? First of all, it is rich in proteins and fats which will promote an active lifestyle of your pet. Secondly, with wild salmon, venison, halibut, and crab meat, he will have no issues licking the bowl clean.
And lastly, it’s grain-free, which won’t stress his digestive system.
In summary, whether you want to channel your pet’s inner wolf, or you want to help him stay active, the Blue Buffalo Wilderness should be your next pick.
Stella & Chewy's - Best Raw Freeze-Dried
For demanding pet parents and picky GSP, the perfect option out there is Stella & Chewy’s chicken dinner patties. This diet will fulfill your canine nutritional needs, starting from a high-quality animal protein source.
Many owners are concerned about the poultry ingredients and often avoid this type of diet. However, you can be rested assured that Stella & Chewy’s Chicken Meal is hormone and antibiotic free.
Furthermore, it is rich in fruits and veggies, offering plenty of carbs and fibers. There are no artificial flavors, preservatives, cheap fillers, grains, or gluten.
It also contains probiotics to boost healthy digestion in canines, and it’s a perfect choice for dogs with food sensitivities.
Overall, you will make a great choice with this raw food. It will not only promote your pet’s health, but he will taste a true wilderness in one meal.
Victor Yukon - Fit For Puppies
Does your German shorthaired pointer crave something different and unique? Do you want to offer him a chance to experience an Alaskan nature?
If your answer is affirmative, then you can explore that option with Victor Yukon and its salmon and sweet potato recipe. This premium dog nourishment will guide your pet through all life stages. The primary protein source comes from a salmon. Packed with omega fatty acids, and vitamin E will ensure your pup keeps the beautiful and shiny coat.
It doesn’t contain any artificial additives, while it features balanced formulation with a ratio of 32% of proteins, 34% of carbs, and 15% fats.
Finally, with Victor Yukon diet you will give your puppy the best mother nature has to offer: fresh, healthy, and nutritious ingredients.
Merrick - Best Dry Food
Merrick is a well-established brand in the pet care industry. They offer a wide range of high-quality dry dog foods. However, today, we are focusing on a grain free real buffalo and sweet potato recipe.
The primary protein source is buffalo meat, which helps you German shorthaired pointer stay fit and maintain a lean muscle mass. The advantage of the grain-free formula is what makes it perfect for all life stages.
We should point out the presence of glucosamine and chondroitin. These two compounds promote healthy joints and mobility. This food doesn’t contain wheat, soy, corn, or gluten, while it’s packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
In all, the Merrick recipe will offer your pet an excellent nutritious value, while keeping his health in check.
Annamaet Ultra - For Small Breeds
Ultra formula was designed to support the nutritional needs of mature dogs and puppies. It features a unique blend of ingredients which increase the performance and can be fed to small breeds as well.
The combination of chicken, brown rice, and fish make this food an ideal choice for your canine. It is often advertised as an ultra-dense energy product, considering it contains the highest levels of proteins and fats.
An important fact to mention, the formulation is made of hormone-free chicken, which is essential for proper development of your pooch. Additionally, it has L-Carnitine to balance the metabolism and promote healthy cognitive functions.
The bottom line, Annamaet Ultra will supply your pet will all the necessary components and promote his active lifestyle.
Royal Canin - Ideal For Gastrointestinal Diet
Some breeds may require a specialized diet due to certain health conditions. That’s why Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Line offers various recipes which target a wide range of ailments.
If your dog requires a limited ingredient, grain-free diet, then this formulation will solve his gastrointestinal issues. The Veterinary Diet Line combines brewed rice, chicken by-product meal, and digestible fats.
Also, the mix of perfectly-balanced proteins and prebiotics will ensure your pooch maintains proper levels of good bacteria in the stomach. This will additionally soothe his GI tract and stimulate an optimal stool quality.
In the end, it’s time to say goodbye to a sensitive stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea. With Royal Canin dog food, these problems will be the thing of the past.
Information About German Shorthaired Pointers
This is an energetic and intelligent breed that was first created in Germany in the late 1880s. Their purpose was to follow their owners through hunting adventures and be loyal human companions.
- Size – males are 23-25 inches tall at shoulder length, while females are 21-23 inches tall
- Weight – between 45 and 70 pound
- Life span – 12-15 years
- Personality – friendly, smart, enthusiastic, and highly trainable
- Health – they are generally healthy but can suffer from hip dysplasia, cancer, lymphedema, and Von Willebrand’s
- Kids and other pets – German Shorthair Pointers are quite adjustable creatures and can do well with children if raised with them. Considering they are sociable, GSP can get along well with other canines.
- Appearance – this breed has a short coat, which is extremely easy to care for. However, make sure to focus on their floppy ears. You should clean them on a regular basis and check for any signs of infection.
Common Medical Problems
Eye Problems
Dogs are sensitive creatures, and eye issues may cause a dramatic change in their behavior. They can range in severity, from harmless to dangerous ones. Sadly, German Shorthaired Pointer can inherit or develop a variety of eye conditions.
Some of them may cause blindness if not addressed immediately. For instance, older GSP often develops a cataract, which leads to a loss of sight. The first symptoms are misty eyes instead of clear and bright ones. To restore vision, an operation might be an option.
Allergies
Food allergens might be the cause of numerous skin disorders with German Shorthair Pointer. If you notice your pet has an allergy, or he is beginning to scratch or nibble on himself, then make sure to take him to the vet.
GSP’s are more prone to allergies than other breeds. That’s why you should consult a doctor and take necessary precautions to prevent further issues. In most cases, you will have to put your canine on a restricted diet, until you determine the cause of allergy.
Gastric Torsion
Gastric Torsion is commonly known as GDV or bloat. It often happens in canines with a broad and narrow chest. This means your German Shorthaired Pointer might be more at risk than other breeds.
When your pet bloats, his gut twist on itself and fills with gas. This process cuts off the blood supply to the stomach. And, if not treated immediately, your pooch may die within 30 minutes.
Von Willebrand’s Disease
Von Willebrand’s Disease falls into a category of blood disorders, and it’s frequently found in GSP. Unfortunately, you can’t notice symptoms, unless your mutt undergoes surgery procedure, or experiences some trauma.
It’s characterized by an inability to clot or to stop the bleeding appropriately.
Cardiomyopathy
This breed is often affected by multiple types of coronary diseases. They can occur both early, or develop later in life. When discovered on time, heart condition can be treated with many medications to prolong your pet’s life.
Cardiomyopathy is one of the heart disorder often found in GSP. Usually, he is suffering from a dilated cardiomyopathy or enlarged heart.
Lymphedema
The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in development, and it’s a network of small vessels that transfer fluids from body muscles to lymph nodes.
Lymphedema is a condition that affects puppies who are 12 weeks old. The lymph nodes don’t function properly, and fluids are stored into the tissue, causing the swelling in the legs.
Pannus
Pannus is a medical condition which alters the clear part of the eye. At first, it’s not painful, and elevated pink mass appears on the corner. Usually, both eyes can show the signs of pannus.
This is an inherited disease which takes progress as the canine ages.
Hip Dysplasia
Both hips are often at risk of developing dysplasia. Another inherited disease which causes joints to grow improperly. Hip dysplasia might become a significant problem for your GSP as he matures.
At first, you will notice symptoms such as stiffness in the legs and difficulty in getting up and lying down. Taking your pet to an X-ray will help you identify the issue.
Ectropion
Ectropion is a frequent condition which happens to all dogs. In this case, their lower eyelids droop or roll out. It can affect both eyes, and it’s mostly found in canines who have loose skin.
On the other hand, mutts tolerate ectropion relatively well, unless it’s a severe and requires a surgical procedure.
Hypothyroidism
The thyroid gland is one of the crucial organs in the body. It is placed in the neck, near the trachea, and has two lobes.
This gland has a significant influence on the metabolic rate, and if it’s overactive, then it can elevate the body’s metabolism. That’s why this disorder is called hypothyroidism and often happens in German Shorthaired Pointers.
Osteochondritis Dissecans
GSP puppies tend to grow quite fast, and sometimes in this process, their joints might not attach to the bone properly. This condition is known Osteochondritis Dissecans, and only surgery can fix this issue.
To prevent Osteochondritis Dissecans, you may want to avoid overfeeding your pup and follow the recommended growth rate. Make sure to weigh him every 3-4 weeks.
German Shorthaired Pointers Feeding Guide
Diet & Nutrition
Finding an appropriate dog diet requires some time and effort. This is a process of trials and errors. On the other hand, if you are informed about canine’s nutrition, and you are focusing on a specific set of ingredients, then this should be an easy task.
For dog owner who is approaching this subject for the first time diet might come as a huge issue. There are too many brands in the market and going through all of them is a massive waste of time.
Go for a manufacturer that offers high levels of proteins and fats, essential fatty acids, optimal levels of fruits and vegetable, probiotics, calcium, and glucosamine.
We shouldn’t mention that additives and grains such as corn, soy, and wheat are a big NO!
Eating Habits
Let’s face it, as an owner you are responsible for your GPS’s eating habits. However, sometimes we tend to make mistakes, which can have a negative impact on our pet’s health.
But, to keep your German Shorthaired Pointer in shape and to avoid obesity-related issues, it’s often necessary to adopt a consistent schedule. Since his bursting with energy, you will want to ensure a sufficient amount of proteins and fats which will fuel his body.
However, when it comes to food, this breed is quite greedy. So make sure to limit his calorie intake and keep your canine on a strict feeding timetable. As your pet grows, you will be able to determine what works best for him.
Don’t make your dog miserable by offering only nutrition advertised online or promoted by vets. Occasionally give him some treat to cheer him up, it will make his day.
Ingredients To Look For
Protein
Protein-based meals are what keep your dog going. Ideally, you’ll want to select nutrition that has up to three proteins listed on the packaging. Terms such as whole meats and meat meals have a different meaning, even though they might seem the same.
While the whole meats refer to chicken, beef, salmon, and lamb, the meat meals are concentrated forms of meat. The moisture has been removed and features fewer proteins than whole meat.
Fat
Same as proteins, fats are an essential part of a dog’s diet. While some call them the necessary evil, fats are not the real enemy. It all comes down to how much and what kind of fat your pet consumes.
Therefore, when choosing a formula, pay attention to fat sources. You may opt for chicken fat, a common ingredient in many dog foods. It offers a saturated source of energy which is essential for a highly active breed like GSP.
Glucosamine
When dealing with active canines such as German Shorthaired Pointers, you should consider a supplement like glucosamine. The combination of glutamine and glucose has anti-inflammatory properties. It will help your pet improve mobility and slow down the aging process of joints.
However, this compound hasn’t only shown amazing result with joints, but also with inflammation in GI tract.
Prebiotics/Probiotics
Both should be taken quite seriously since they help with digestibility and absorption of nutrients. However, you can easily get confused, so pay attention to the following differences:
- Prebiotics – serve as nutrition for “good” bacteria in your canine’s stomach.
- Probiotics – enhance the digestion of ingredients and contribute to the pet’s immune system.
Calcium
Calcium is an essential mineral in the body. However, your pet’s daily requirements may vary depending on age and status. Its role consists of forming bones and improving blood coagulation and impulse transmission.
Therefore, recipes rich in bones, dairy products, legumes will satisfy your GSP’s daily calcium intake.
Omega 3 & Omega 6 Fatty Acids
The reason why some fats are called essential is because the body can’t produce them. Therefore, they must be obtained from a diet.
- Omega-6 – the crucial fatty acid for dogs, it promotes skin health and maintains the external water barrier of the skin
- Omega -3 – necessary for a healthy metabolic rate and health overall
Ingredients To Avoid
Typically, dog food manufacturers often fail to mention the components that will affect your German Shorthaired Pointer health. Additionally, some dog owners are pretty careless, and they’ll purchase the food, without checking the label.
However, even if you are focusing on the ingredient list, you are skilled enough to assess which ingredient can make your pooch ill.
So, take a look at things you should steer clear of:
- Artificial colors – possible carcinogen
- Beef tallow – has no nutritional value
- Corn syrup – has addictive properties
- Whole grain corn – can cause allergies
- Meat by-products – shady origin
- Propylene Glycol – dangerous preservative
How Much And How Often To Feed
Feeding your pet with high-quality dry dog food promotes a well-balanced diet and improves his metabolic rate. You feeding chart should look like this:
- Puppy 8-12 weeks old – 4 meals per day
- Puppy 3-6 months old – 3 meals per day
- Puppy 6-12 months old – 2 meals per day
- Mature GSP, one-year-old – 1 meal per day
Of course, you don’t have a stick to this timetable because every canine is an individual creature with specific dietary needs. Maybe your pooch prefers two light meals. Therefore, you must get familiar with his habits and provide nutrition tailored to his requirements.
Also, make sure to cut down table food, since it can lead to mineral and vitamin deficiency. Sure, we’ve all been there, and who can resist puppy dog eyes? But, think of this as a greater good. You will be doing your four-legged friend a huge favor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best brand for fat dogs?
Due to his active nature, GSP isn’t prone to obesity. However, if this condition appears with your pet, then you should resort to Annamaet Grain-Free Dog Food. It’s formulated for all life stages, and best for adult weight loss.
What can I feed a dog with a sensitive stomach?
You can either try commercial dog food designed for this purpose or fix some homemade meal. Make sure to pick highly digestible ingredients and avoid a diet rich in fats and grains. They tend to stress your pet’s GI tract.
Are treats recommended?
Occasionally, yes! However, store-bought treats are full of empty calories, chemicals, and they aren’t cheap. So, why not use all-natural ingredients such as a slice of banana, baby carrots, watermelon, berries, apple slices, and cooked pumpkin. We are sure your GSP will love them.
Conclusion
German Shorthaired Pointers love their food. They enjoy various tastes, ingredient, and textures. However, it’s all about finding the right balance and discovering his nutritional needs. Being the owner, you are responsible for his health.
For that reason, select a diet that is packed with proteins, has a moderate amount of healthy fat, and features digestible carbs. We already suggested some of our favorites, so start exploring, you may find your next pick within our choice of reviewed food.
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