German Shepherd Dogs, as large and active breeds, require a balanced diet that contains a sufficient amount of protein to meet their nutritional needs. On average, a German Shepherd’s diet should contain at least 18% to 22% protein. However, the specific protein requirement may vary depending on the dog’s age, size, activity level, and health status.

Protein is an essential nutrient that provides the building blocks for strong muscles, healthy skin, and coat, and supports the immune system. For German Shepherds, high-quality animal-based proteins such as chicken, beef, lamb, and fish are the best sources of protein as they contain all of the essential amino acids the dog needs.

It’s important to note that not all protein sources are equal, and it’s essential to choose high-quality sources. For example, low-quality proteins such as by-products and fillers should be avoided as they can contain harmful substances and are less digestible than high-quality proteins.

German Shepherds also have a higher protein requirement during growth periods and during times of increased physical activity or recovery from injury. In these cases, it may be necessary to increase the amount of protein in the diet.

When feeding a German Shepherd, it’s important to consider the total daily calorie requirement and distribute the calories appropriately between protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Overfeeding protein can lead to imbalances in the diet and may cause health problems.

In conclusion, German Shepherd Dogs require a balanced diet that contains a sufficient amount of protein to meet their nutritional needs. On average, a German Shepherd’s diet should contain at least 18% to 22% protein, but the specific requirement may vary. High-quality animal-based proteins are the best sources of protein, and it’s important to choose high-quality sources and not overfeed protein.