Australian shepherds can be beautiful dogs. Their beauty is not the only thing that makes them desirable companions and pups. Australian shepherds are intelligent, friendly, affectionate, and affectionate. They are happy dogs who love being with their owners.
It’s only right that Aussie pet parents would reward their dogs with nutritious, high-quality food that they can eat. There are many options, but some foods are more beneficial than others.
While Australian Shepherds may seem almost indestructible when they are playing with a ball or protecting their mailman, there are a few common problems. You can prevent your dog from suffering from painful and uncomfortable conditions like dry skin or severe joint pain by giving them the right chow.
As with humans, domestic dogs have a longer life expectancy. Access to healthy, balanced, and targeted diets could be partly responsible. A 15-year-old Australian shepherd can be seen gently coasting through old ages, especially if it was well-cared-for during its lifetime.
The key to a happy life is the food you eat. It is essential to understand what your Australian shepherd needs and craves in order to choose the right dog food. It’s important to know what your dog needs and how much. It’s possible to help your dog by doing some research and using a food chart.
What is the best dog food for an Australian Shepherd?
Merrick Grain Free Texas Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe Dry FoodOur Top Pick
Five Key Nutritional Needs for an Australian Shepherd
Modern domesticated dogs are derived from only a few common ancestors. However, there are hundreds of breeds available and each one is unique in its size, activity level and temperament. Labradors and terriers, for example, require very different environments and diets. To live healthy lives, Aussies need a few key nutrients.
Protein
Many people believe that Australian shepherds can live solely on meat. However, this is not true. Although most dogs do benefit from eating animal protein, domesticated dogs tend to be omnivores and not carnivores. They require a mixture of meat and vegetables to get the nutrients they need.
Dogs can thrive on a vegetarian diet, provided they are nourished with enough protein. Proteins are the primary source of energy for all age groups. Protein also contains essential amino acids, which help build muscle tissue and boost the immune system. They are necessary to keep living organisms strong and healthy.
Shepherding dogs are high-energy and extremely active. A high-protein diet is necessary to maintain their energy.
Fatty Acids
Australian shepherds have long, shiny and vibrant hair. This hair can be maintained shiny and strong by brushing it well. The natural oils of the skin are spread throughout the coat. Dogs that are deficient in fatty acids may not be helped by grooming.
Dry skin can affect the appearance, behavior, and health of some dogs, including Aussies. Medium- and long-haired dogs can have smooth, moisturized, healthy skin thanks to fatty acids such as those found in flaxseed or fish.
The coat of an Australian shepherd is best when its skin is in good condition. A pup with severe skin allergies or dry skin can inflict serious injuries. Preventing dry skin can help to prevent further veterinary visits.
Calcium/Phosphorus
Calcium is essential for teeth and bones strength. Too little calcium can lead to spinal deformities, arthritis, tooth loss, and joint pain. No matter how many times they chase their tails, active dogs need a little more calcium to keep their bones strong. This is especially true for larger breeds, which have more weight pressing on their joints.
Calcium alone won’t keep bones and joints in good shape. Phosphorus is also necessary. Phosphorus is also required in order for a dog to be able use the protein it consumes to build and repair muscle tissue. In dogs that lack phosphorus, it could cause a decrease in energy and irregular heartbeats.
However, a high level of vitamin A can lead to serious health problems. Every quality dog food has a balanced mix of nutrients. This includes a healthy balance of calcium and phosphorus.
DHA
DHA is a brain-boosting ingredient that you may be familiar with. While DHA can be beneficial for puppies and older dogs, it serves a different purpose for Australian shepherds. DHA can support healthy eye development and possibly prevent or delay vision problems.
Glucosamine
For years, people have used glucosamine to stop the progression of arthritis symptoms and pain. Larger dogs and those of medium size often have joint and bone problems. Regular glucosamine-rich diets can reduce the likelihood of your Australian shepherd getting arthritis, hip dysplasia, and other joint and bone problems.
Similar: The Best Brushes For Australian Shepherds
6 Special Nutritional and Dietary Considerations for Australian Shepherds
Nearly all purebred dogs have a genetic disorder. For example, bulldogs have a short nose and compact bodies that make them more susceptible to respiratory diseases.
Although Australian shepherds can be quite tough, they can also have health problems. To prevent problems and keep your pups happy, you need to be aware of the nutritional and dietary requirements.
Low Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are more important than protein, so carbs shouldn’t be a major part of an Australian shepherd’s diet. It can be difficult to avoid carbohydrates completely, especially when trying to give your dog adequate fiber. However, there are safer options than whole grains, rice, corn, and soy. For example, sweet potato is a great source for soluble carbohydrates and won’t cause blood sugar to spike. If you have the opportunity to completely eliminate carbs, you should make use of it.
Eye Support
There are many eye conditions that can affect Aussies. They may develop cataracts as young children and then experience progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). You may also see signs of Collie Eye Anomaly or colobomas. Although some of these conditions are more common than others, all can lead to total blindness.
Eye health can be supported by foods that are rich in DHA, betacarotene and Vitamin A. Regular veterinary examinations are important to ensure that your Australian shepherd does not have vision problems. Regular testing can detect diseases earlier, which will increase the chance of a healthy and happy outcome.
Joint and Bone Support
Larger breeds need more joint and bone care than smaller ones. Because they have more weight on their paws, this causes rapid cartilaginous decay. The soft cushioning between their bones and joints tends to wear faster, which can lead to arthritis, elbow, or hip dysplasia.
It can be difficult to get your Australian shepherd to relax and be more gentle with themselves, especially for young dogs who seem full of energy. Shepherding dogs were designed to run, chase, and walk all day. It is impossible to keep them sedentary.
A diet rich in calcium, magnesium, and glucosamine may help your dog’s bone and joint health. All Aussies, regardless of age, should have a yearly or bi-annual veterinary exam. This will ensure they are painless and free from any discomfort.
Epilepsy
Canine epilepsy can be a genetic condition that is passed from one parent to the next. Although it’s rare, it’s not uncommon in Australian shepherds. It is more common in purebred animals than in those with mixed genetic backgrounds. Therefore, it is important to buy your puppy from a reliable breeder.
There are options for treatment if your dog has seizures. This disorder is not possible to diagnose. It is possible to prevent it completely by adopting an Australian Shepherd or purchasing your puppy from a well-respected breeder. Although treatments may reduce seizures’ frequency, they are not able to eliminate them completely.
Healthy oils
Although oils aren’t often considered to be healthy, they can make a difference in a dog’s skin, coat, and digestion. Flaxseed, fish and coconut oils are good for skin and can give fur a shiny shine. The right oils can provide a healthy and happy life for dogs suffering from dry skin.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Cardiovascular health is as important as skeletal support, eye care, and skincare. The heart is responsible for pumping blood efficiently. Otherwise, the whole body will suffer. Oils are great for keeping the skin and hair of an Australian shepherd in good condition. However, oils may not be suitable for heart-healthy fats.
All breeds of dogs are susceptible to heart disease. This can become a serious problem as a senior pup enters the senior phase. Dogs who are able to take good dietary care and prevent their arteries from becoming weaker or clogged as they age will live longer and require fewer visits to the vet. It’s vital that Australian shepherds have strong hearts, given their active lifestyle.
Scheduling of Shepherd Feeding in the United States
How Often and how Much Should I Feed my Australian Shepherd?
The age of your Australian shepherd will determine how often they should be fed. The amount of food that you need to feed your Australian shepherd depends on their age and weight. This chart will help you keep track of what to feed your dog. However, it is important that you follow the recommendations provided by your preferred dog food manufacturer. High-quality meals are more filling and require fewer cups.
Age/WeightFeedings per DayCups Of Food Per DayLess Than Four Months / 25lbs or Less3 to 4 1/2 Cups to 2 CupsOlder Than Four Months / 26lbs up to 50lbs22 cups and 3 cupsOlder then four months/51lbs+23+ cups
The Best Dog Food for Australian Shepherds
Our 2022 Picks: The Best Australian Shepherd Dog Food
Merrick Grain Free Texas Beef & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog food
Wholesome grain-free dry dog food with beef.Made with 70% protein and healthy fat, with deboned beef as the number 1 ingredient.Price:$2.72/lbCHECK PRICE
Royal Canin Size Nutrition Medium Adult Dry Dog Food
For dogs over 12 months between 21 & 55 poundsHelps support a dog’s natural defenses with an antioxidant complex and mannanoligosaccharidesPrice:$2.03CHECK PRICE
True Acre Foods Chicken &Vegable Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
USA-raised chicken is the best source of protein to support lean muscles.
Nutro Ultra Adult Dry Dog Food
The unique combination of three lean animal proteins, from pasture-fed lamb, salmon, and chicken, provides unique and complementary Amino Acids. These amino acids work together to build strong muscles, healthy hearts, and sharp minds. Contains whole grains and natural oils that are essential in your dog’s diet.Price:$1.69/lbCHECK PRICE
Only Natural Pet MaxMeat Beef Grain-Free Dog Food
Made with 90% real meat from free-range, grass-fed New Zealand beef and organ meat that’s gently air-dried for optimal nutrition, health benefits and taste.Grain-free, corn-free and soy-free recipe that doesn’t include antibiotics or growth hormones making it a protein-packed meal that’s also allergy-friendly.Price:$10.66/lbCHECK PRICE
Wellness Core Grain-Free Puppy Chicken and Turkey Dry Dog Food
This high-protein and grain-free recipe is crafted with real chicken and turkey and contains optimal calories to provide your puppy pal with the real, wholesome nutrition he needs to grow healthy and strong.DHA naturally sourced from salmon oil helps to support your canine’s cognitive development as well as his skin and coat health.Price:$2.61/lbCHECK PRICE
VICTOR Senior Dry Dog Food for Healthy Weight
Composed of 78% meat protein with premium-quality beef, chicken, fish and pork meals.Nutrient-dense recipe with glucosamine and chondroitin for long-term joint health.Price:$1.37CHECK PRICE
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain Free Dry Dog Food
Grain-free recipe made with real buffalo as the first ingredient followed by other real protein-rich ingredients including bison, roasted venison and beef for lean nutrition and to help support strong muscles.Natural recipe with added vitamins and powerful antioxidants from real fruits and vegetables support overall health, while omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids support healthy skin and coat.Price:$1.75/lbCHECK PRICE
Nutro Wholesome Vitals Large Breed Farm Raised Chicken
The unique combination of three lean animal proteins, from pasture-fed lamb, salmon, and chicken, provides unique and complementary Amino Acids. These amino acids work together to build strong muscles, healthy hearts, and sharp minds. Contains whole grains and natural oils that are essential in your dog’s diet.Price:$1.69/lbCHECK PRICE
Hill’s Prescription Diet Weight and Joint Care Dry Dog Food
Clinical nutrition specially to help manage your dog’s weight and joint health with a synergistic blend of ingredientsClinically proven nutrition to improve mobility in as little as 21 days and reduce body weight by 13% in 60 daysPrice:$3.83/lbCHECK PRICE
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Dry Dog Food
Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health and mobility and Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.Essential high-quality protein and L-Carnitine for lean muscle development and carbs for energy for an active life.Price:$1.50/lbCHECK PRICE
Merrick Grain Free Texas Beef & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog food
Best Overall
This dry, grain-free dog food provides everything Australian shepherds need for a long and healthy existence. It’s mainly crude protein and fat, which are the essential nutrients that active medium-sized dogs require. It contains both omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for skin and heart health. This food contains some crude fiber, but it also has up to 11% water per serving.
The food contains 800mg/kg of joint-friendly, joint-friendly glucosamine. It’s a great food choice for Aussies, and pet owners can have some peace of mind.
Here are 10 more top-rated dog foods for Australian shepherds
Royal Canin Size Nutrition Medium Adult Dry Dog Food
Super Premium
This product is specifically designed for medium-sized dogs. It contains DHA and Omega fatty Acids. Skin-friendly Vitamin E, Vitamin A and Biotin are also included
This dry food is primarily made up of wheat and rice, but it also contains a great deal of vitamins and essential nutrients. It was designed to meet the needs of medium-breeds and is primarily made of crude oils and fats. There are also a few other nice ingredients, such as brain-friendly Choline (DHA), skin friendly Vitamin E and heart-healthy Omega fatty acids.
This food is a great choice for Australian shepherds. The ingredients cover almost all common conditions in Aussies. This food does not contain bone-strengthening calcium or joint-lubricating glucoseamine.
Pros
Option without peasCan prevent eye problemsPromotes skin and fur health
Cons
Some pet owners may find it too costly to feed their pets.
True Acre Foods Chicken &Vegable Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Most popular
A remarkablely affordable option without grains
This grain-free food is a great choice for anyone looking to reduce their dog’s carbohydrate intake. This dry food contains a lot of peas which may deter pet owners from trying it. Peas can be a problem when they are canned or salted. This food however uses fresh, dehydrated peas.
This chow is similar to other high-quality Australian shepherd foods. It primarily contains crude protein and fat. It also contains fiber and calcium, phosphorous, vitamin A, Vitamin E, selenium, and omega fatty acids. Although selenium isn’t often found in store-bought dog food, it is an essential trace nutrient that supports healthy immune function.
Pros
A grain-free, budget-friendly option
Cons
It contains peas and starch.
Nutro Ultra Adult Dry Dog Food
Best Value
It contains over a dozen superfood ingredient.
Nutro Ultra is aware that dogs are multi-sexes and require a variety of foods. Nutro Ultra has chosen only the most nutritious and healthy superfoods to be included in this recipe.
It’s a high-protein, high fat food, chock-full with moisture, trace nutrients and calcium as well as phosphorous, phosphorus, and other essential fatty acids. Although it does contain rice this dry food is much lower in complex carbs. This makes it a more efficient source of energy. This option is hard to beat in terms of value for money.
Pros
A good source of crude protein, fat, and vitamins. Also contains natural oils from flaxseeds, sunflowers and chia seeds.
Cons
Contains riceLacks DHA
Only Natural Pet MaxMeat Beef Grain-Free Dog Food
Pea-Free
It is free of wheat, corn, soy, wheat and grains.
Only Natural Pet MaxMeat dog food is an alternative to traditional kibble. The freeze-dried mixture of beef protein, beef fat and wholesome vegetables looks almost exactly like jerky. Your pup will devour it without hesitation.
It does not contain a lot of omega fatty acids or calcium, but it has a high level of crude protein. This grain-free and pea-free alternative can improve skin condition, coat luster, brain function, and skin quality. It provides enough protein for Australian shepherds to stay energized, and enough fat to keep them satisfied.
Pros
This is one of the most high-protein dry foods. Human-grade quality for maximum safety. Brain-healthy CholineA great source Vitamin E
Cons
Not a good source of calcium
Wellness Core Grain-Free Puppy Chicken and Turkey Dry Dog Food
Ideal for puppies
Is it 36% crude protein?Grain-free alternative
Australian shepherd puppies may benefit from a nutritional advantage. It is important to select a puppy food with DHA, Vitamin E and Calcium as well as phosphorous and omega fatty acid. It has a huge amount of crude protein and fat as well as fiber. This provides plenty of energy for your puppy and good health.
Some may find the fact that this option includes peas and carbs, mainly in the form potato starch, to be disappointing. This puppy-approved kibble still contains all the nutrients your little one needs for a healthy, happy childhood. Good nutrition is key to healthy eyes, bones and joints. Wellness CORE Grain Free is high in nutrients and made with love.
Pros
More than 1/4 of the crude protein
Cons
Peas
VICTOR Senior Dry Dog Food for Healthy Weight
Best for Seniors
Glucosamine and Chondroitin are key ingredients for joint and bone health.
As puppies require a high-nutrient, high-protein diet, so too do senior Aussies. They need a special blend of vitamins to keep them happy and healthy into old age. This combination is rich in chondroitin and joint-supporting nutrients, which is particularly important for senior dogs.
It also has a complex mix of immune-boosting nutrients such as zinc and selenium. Although this dry food contains carbohydrates and grains it also contains some ingredients that are not found in standard puppy kibble. This senior-friendly food contains many impressive ingredients, including taurine, seaweed, calcium, iron and copper.
Pros
The complex combination of vitamins and nutrients may help to reduce joint pain in older dogs. It could also help to improve vision and eye health.
Cons
It contains rice and carbohydrates
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain Free Dry Dog Food
Gluten-Free
It contains pasture-raised bison and venison.
This dry food is a good option for pet parents who want to make their dog eat paleo. It does contain some naturally carbohydrate-heavy veggies (such as potatoes), but it also contains 32% crude protein. This natural protein comes mainly from pasture-raised venison or pasture-raised bison.
These two animals were hunted by undomesticated Wolves in ancient times for their sustenance. Today, owners and farmers can manage the complicated parts and create a complex diet that is absolutely grain-free and nutrient-dense. This will drive even the most calm Australian shepherd wild.
Pros
Unique source of animal protein Contains absolutely no grains.
Cons
Peas
Nutro Wholesome Vitals Large Breed Farm Raised Chicken
Skin Health
Non-GMO options contain chondroitin, glucosamine. An excellent source of skin-friendly Vitamin E or biotin
Dry skin can lead to hairy problems in Australian shepherds. They can scratch their skin until it bleeds, and can also have hair loss, hair matted, and a dull, brittle coat. It is important to care for your dog’s skin and hair.
The delicious dry food is rich in skin-friendly vitamins, minerals that help to prevent dry skin and unhealthy hair. There are a few supplements that Aussies will need, such as zinc and glucosamine to improve their immune system. It does contain gluten and peas.
Pros
All ingredients are non-GMOContains immune-boosting zinc and seleniumHeart-healthy omega fatty acids throughout this dry kibble
Cons
Split peas are not a gluten-free choice
Hill’s Prescription Diet Weight and Joint Care Dry Dog Food
Support for the hips and joints
Helps overweight dogs to lose weight.
Hill’s has been providing professional-level dog food for many years. The Weight & Joint Care dry foods are no exception. This carefully formulated blend contains weight-loss-promoting ingredients and joint-cushioning supplement. This product can help medium-sized Australian shepherds lose weight and regain mobility and comfort.
This dry food is suitable for both senior and adult dogs. However, it might not be affordable for all pet owners. This food is not only intended to help with joint problems. It is also designed to provide puppies with a wide range of nutrients including Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Calcium, and Beta-carotene.
Pros
Combining joint care and weight loss to achieve ultimate wellness.
Cons
It is more expensive than other dry dog food.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Dry Dog Food
Immune Support
Zinc and Vitamin E. A complex arrangement of vitaminsB vitamins. An overall comprehensive source for vital nutrients
Blue Buffalo is a popular brand of dry dog food. It’s easy to see how this product is so loved. Although it contains a few less-than-lovely ingredients like grains and peas, it is hard to overlook the rich, vital nutrients that are included in every tiny piece of kibble.
The dry food contains Vitamin E to maintain skin health, zinc to support immune system function, a variety of B vitamins to improve metabolism and digestion, as well as a number of other important vitamins and minerals. These nutrients are balanced with the core protein/fat/fiber mixture is amazing.
Pros
A great blend that has a balanced calcium/phosphorus ratio. This mix gives pups two types of omega fatty acid, plus EPAHas both glucosamine (for bone and joint health) and chondroitin (for muscle and joint health).
Cons
It contains rice and grains
Our 2022 Australian Shepherd Feeding guide
Most Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some answers to the most common questions about Aussie dog food. For more information, please contact your veterinarian if you are unable to find the answer.
How Often Do I Need to Feed My Australian Shepherd Puppy?
Older dogs require more food for their puppies. Four-month-old puppies should be fed three to four times daily, but only small amounts should be allowed unless directed otherwise by the veterinarian.
Your adventurous little shepherd can be fed twice daily once it reaches five months. As puppies grow and gain weight, the ‘adult’ portion should gradually increase. You can ensure your pup receives all the nutrition that they require by following the recommended food portioning guidelines.
When should I switch my Australian Shepherd from Puppy to Adult Food
Austrian shepherd puppies can continue to eat their special puppy food until they are eight months old. Weight is an important factor. Puppy food can be continued for two more months by struggling or underweight pups without any dietary or weight gain.
Are Australian Shepherds prone to food allergies?
As with any other dog, Australian shepherds may be allergic to a variety of foods. This breed is most likely to have gluten intolerance. Dogs can also have digestive issues from complex carbohydrates and grains. Consult a veterinarian to rule out any potential food allergens.
Conclusion
You can now confidently feed your dog the highest quality Australian shepherd dog food and ensure that they are getting the best nutrition.
It is important to understand the breed’s nutritional requirements and any potential health problems. These products are highly recommended for keeping your Australian shepherd happy and healthy.
11 Best Dog Foods For Australian Shepherds in 2022 Pet Reviews
