German Shepherd feeding chart
Herding Group · Large breed
How much to feed a German Shepherd, based on the NRC 2006 energy model and this breed's typical weight range — not a single manufacturer's generic chart.
Feeding notes for German Shepherds
- Prone to a sensitive digestive system; sudden food changes often trigger loose stools, so transition to a new food gradually over 7–10 days.
- Deep-chested build carries an elevated risk of bloat (GDV) — feeding two or three smaller meals rather than one large meal is standard advice for this breed.
Calculate this breed's daily feeding amount
German Shepherd feeding calculator
Every complete dog food sold in the US must list this under the AAFCO calorie content statement on the bag or can — usually as kcal/cup or kcal/kg.
More Herding Group breeds
Frequently asked questions
How much should I feed a German Shepherd?
A German Shepherd at its typical adult weight of about 70 lb (31.8 kg) has a resting energy need of roughly 936 kcal/day before any activity multiplier. Use the calculator above with your dog's actual weight, life stage, and your food's own calorie density for an exact daily amount.
What is the typical adult weight of a German Shepherd?
German Shepherds typically reach an adult weight of 50–90 lb (22.7–40.8 kg), though individual dogs vary with sex, line, and body condition.
When does a German Shepherd stop growing?
As a large-sized breed, a German Shepherd typically reaches its adult weight by around 15 months old, though full skeletal and muscular maturity isn't complete until roughly 18 months.
How many meals a day should a German Shepherd puppy eat?
Puppies under 4 months generally do best with 4 meals a day, tapering to 3 meals from 4 months until they approach adult size, then settling into 2 meals a day as adults — use the life-stage selector in the calculator above to switch between these.