When choosing the best dog food for the Australian Shepherd, there are a number of factors to consider before making a choice. This specific breed is known for its high energy, enjoying an active and playful lifestyle. Choosing an appropriate diet to accommodate this lifestyle is essential in keeping your pup healthy. Let’s now take a quick look at some other details to consider before choosing your Australian Shepherd’s diet.

Best Dog Food For The Australian Shepherd … What To Consider

Before you grab the first bag off the shelf, there are a number of things to consider before you make that purchase. The Australian Shepherd is indeed an unique breed, and requires a specific diet to flourish and to remain healthy. As we mentioned above, the Aussie is an energetic canine and requires a nutritional meal. Below are a number of other factors to consider as well:

• Life Stage – Keep in mind that the Aussie puppy will have different nutritional needs than an adult dog. These pups will experience a rapid growth rate during the first 15 months, so consider this when selecting a puppy food recipe. Adult and senior Aussies will need a specific diet for their own nutritional needs as well.
• Quality Ingredients – Regardless of the life stage, be sure to choose a recipe that contains quality ingredients. Look specifically for a healthy source of protein (Chicken, Fish, Lamb, etc.), whole grains and vegetables. A healthy, wholesome protein will go a long way in providing the energy source these breeds require. Stay away from those products containing such things as artificial flavors, preservatives, and unhealthy fillers. 
• Veterinarian Recommendation – Assuming you are scheduling and making regular visits with your vet (Highly Recommended), this professional may suggest a specific dog food product that meets the nutritional needs of your Aussie. Every pet is unique, and will have their own nutritional needs and requirements.

What Food Is Good For Australian Shepherd Puppies?

In general, the Aussie puppy life stage (Under 15 months) is one that requires quality ingredients to ensure that your pup gets a good head start to life. When selecting the best dog food for the Australian Shepherd puppy look for a formula with DHA to nourish brain and vision development and antioxidants to support their developing immune system during their first year of life. Below are a number of details to consider in choosing a product for your Aussie puppy. Look for a product that:

• Contains a quality whole meat protein (Chicken, Lamb, etc.) to build healthy muscle
• Includes a source of DHA that will help to establish healthy brain and eye development
• .Minerals to promote strong bones and teeth
• Vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids help maintain healthy skin and a shiny coat
  
• Contains a source of prebiotic fibers to support the gut microbiome and digestive system

Two Great Puppy Diet Choices Below Including Healthy Ingredients and Quality Brands:

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When Should I Switch My Australian Shepherd To Adult Food?

As mentioned above, the puppy Aussie life stage is one of 15 months and younger. This is the period of time when rapid growth occurs and why a nutritious, wholesome diet is so critical. These puppy recipes (quality ones) are formulated with this in mind, providing ingredients that are essential to the puppy’s development. So, when is the best time to transition from a puppy diet to the adult recipes? Let’s take a look:

Each Aussie pup is unique in its development, so there really is no ‘one size fits all,’ when it comes to transitioning from the puppy formulas to the adult formulas. As a guideline, consider this transition when your little ball of fur reaches the 12 to 18 month age period. Consider consulting with your veterinarian should be unsure or have further questions regarding the transition process, ensuring is one that is well-balanced, nutritional and includes quality ingredients.

It’s important to recognize that both the puppy formulas and the adult recipes provide a specific purpose. The puppy food products are designed to support and promote the overall development of your furry companion. Adult dog food recipes, on the other hand, are crafted to ensure your Aussie receives the nutritional requirements to maintain optimal health. Take a look at two healthy choices below:

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Do Australian Shepherds Need A High Protein Diet?

One of the main characteristics of the Australian Shepherd breed relates to their energetic and active lifestyle. In order to maintain this type of lifestyle, this specific breed requires a certain amount of ‘fuel’ that provides a source of energy. So where does this fuel come from? The primary source in answering this question comes from the protein ingredient that is found in your pet’s food.

In its simplest and perhaps most important form, protein in your Aussie’s diet is essential to your four-legged companions muscle growth and overall maintenance. In my opinion, and the opinion of many other dog food nutritional experts, the number one ingredient within the recipe should be a high quality protein. Look for ‘chicken, beef, lamb, fish, and turkey,’ as one of the first ingredients as shown on this ORIJEN Original Grain-Free dog food label. Take notice of the first three ingredients:

What You Should Know About The Australian Shepherd’s Diet … Include These Three

We have taken a look at the importance of protein in an Australian Shepherd’s diet, but are there other ingredients to consider when choosing a dog food product? To answer this question, I have outlined a number of items to consider when choosing the best dog food for the Australian Shepherd. Let’s take a look:

1. Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids – These ingredients will provide your Australian Shepherd with a number of significant benefits. Not only will these fatty acids furnish your pet with energy, support a healthy coat and skin, while supporting your pup’s brain function.
2. Minerals/Vitamins – A healthy source of vitamins and minerals will provide a number of benefits as well. Vitamin D assists in maintaining healthy bones and muscles, Vitamin E for your pet’s cell function and metabolism, and Vitamin A for healthy eyes, cell function and immune system.
3. Healthy Carbohydrates – This ingredient will go a long way in providing energy to your Aussie. Such items as brown rice, barley, whole oats, sweet potatoes are all good sources of carbohydrates.

Best Dog Food For The Australian Shepherd … Final Thoughts

As we have learned,  the Australian Shepherd breed is one of energy, enjoying the active lifestyle. As a result of this common characteristic, we took a dive into the type of diet that was best suited for the Aussie. We learned why a healthy, wholesome protein is essential in providing the energy these pups require.The best dog food for the Australian Shepherd is one that is well-balanced, nutritional and includes quality ingredients.

This is such a popular breed, and are welcomed into the homes of dog owners throughout the country. If you currently own, or plan on adding an Aussie to your home, I certainly hope the information presented above will be beneficial! Providing the best dog food for the Australian Shepherd will only promote a healthy and happy pup. I wish you the best, and to the health of your pet!