Our site has the potential to earn a commission from certain products or services that we suggest, without any cost to you. This advertising strategy allows us to provide you with free advice and assistance.
Last Updated: September 15, 2023 | By AI Assistant
As a Shetland Sheepdog owner, you want the best for your furry friend, especially when it comes to their diet. Providing your Shetland Sheepdog with top-quality dog food is essential for their overall health and well-being. But with so many options available in the market, how do you choose the best dog food for Shetland Sheepdogs? In this blog post, we will explore the criteria to consider and recommend some excellent choices tailored specifically to the needs of Shetland Sheepdogs.
Top-rated dog food for Shetland Sheepdogs
ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Top Dog Foods for Shetland Sheepdogs: Which Ones Are the Best?
- ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- Nutro Ultra Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
- ORIJEN Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused
- Purina Pro Plan Adult Large Breed
- Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin
- Blue Buffalo Blue’s Stew Natural Adult Wet Dog Food
- Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe
- Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy Formula
- Canidae All Life Stages Multi-Protein Formula
Reviews of the Top 10 Dog Foods for Shetland Sheepdogs
1- ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
2- Nutro Ultra Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Introducing NUTRO ULTRA Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food, a nutritious and delicious option for your beloved furry friend. With a blend of high-quality proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon, this food is crafted using real chicken as the #1 ingredient. Along with an array of 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries, this recipe supports coat health and healthy skin. Not only does this dog food provide a balanced diet for puppies, but it is also full of flavor to satisfy your growing canine’s taste buds. Made with non-GMO ingredients and following the NUTRO FEED CLEAN philosophy, this dog food is free from chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy protein, artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. Give your pet an extraordinary mealtime experience with NUTRO ULTRA Dog Food.
3- ORIJEN Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Introducing ORIJEN pet food, crafted with the utmost commitment to providing your furry friend with the best nutrition possible. Proudly prepared in ORIJEN’s privately owned DogStar Kitchen, this grain-free dog food boasts a diverse range of fresh regional ingredients sourced from trusted individuals. Following the WholePrey philosophy, ORIJEN dry dog food mimics the natural diet of animals, featuring wholesome ingredients like meat, organs, and cartilage or bone, devoid of grains, tapioca, or plant protein concentrates found in conventional dog food. With its protein-rich formulation and limited carbs, this food ensures your beloved canine stays happy, healthy, and thriving.
4- Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused
Introducing Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Grain Free Dog Food, the perfect choice to connect your dog with their ancestral diet. This unique freeze-dried meal contains raw-coated kibble and raw food bites, offering the benefits of a high-protein, raw diet in a convenient dry food form. Specially formulated for large breeds, the recipe starts with real chicken, complemented by duck and lamb to provide a rich and flavorful taste. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and taurine, this nutrient-rich food ensures optimal nutrition for your beloved furry friend. With high levels of omega fatty acids, the food promotes healthy skin and coat, while glucosamine and chondroitin support strong hips and joints. Made with pride in the USA, Merrick Backcountry is the ideal way to return your dog to the diet that nature intended.
5- Purina Pro Plan Adult Large Breed
The Purina Pro Plan Brand Dog Food Large Breed Chicken and Rice Formula is the perfect choice for your beloved large breed dog. Made with real chicken as the first ingredient, this dry dog food is packed with protein to support your dog’s health. It is also highly digestible, promoting optimal nutrient absorption. With the right balance of protein and fat, this formula helps to maintain your dog’s ideal body condition. Additionally, it delivers Vitamin A and Omega-6 fatty acids to nourish your dog’s skin and coat. Made with high-quality ingredients, this super-premium dog food offers complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs weighing 50 pounds and above. Give your large breed dog the care it deserves with Purina Pro Plan.
6- Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Give your beloved canine companion the nutrition they deserve with Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken Recipe. This specially formulated dry dog food is ideal for adult dogs and focuses on nourishing their stomachs and skin. With real chicken as the main ingredient, this recipe is both delicious and nutritious. The addition of prebiotic fiber supports a balanced microbiome, aiding in healthy digestion. Packed with vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids, it enhances skin health and leaves your dog with a shiny coat. With a legacy of groundbreaking research, you can trust this product for your furry friend’s well-being. Rest easy, knowing they’ll adore every delectable mouthful!
7- Blue Buffalo Blue’s Stew Natural Adult Wet Dog Food
Introducing Blue Buffalo Blue’s Stew Natural Adult Wet Dog Food, designed for your canine companion’s ultimate dinner party experience. Made with the utmost care, this delectable wet food features tender chunks of duck immersed in a delectable gravy brimming with garden veggies. Bursting with vitamins and minerals, it is specially crafted to meet your furry friend’s muscle maintenance and nutritional requirements. Free from by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives, this irresistible feast guarantees a nourishing and satisfying meal for your pupper pal.
8- Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe
Introducing Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food, the ultimate solution to satisfy your furry companion’s cravings for real food. Crafted with the ideology of raw nutrition, this formula is specifically designed to unlock your dog’s true potential. Bursting with real chicken, garden-fresh vegetables, and a proprietary blend of probiotics, natural omegas, and antioxidants, this delectable diet guarantees maximum digestibility. Not only does it promote a healthy coat and skin, but it also bolsters immune health. Give your pet the gift of thriving with Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe.
9- Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy Formula
Give your adorable puppy the nourishment it deserves with Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food. Made with buffalo and bison, this grain-free recipe provides your furry friend with novel proteins and essential nutrients for optimal growth. The inclusion of peas and sweet potatoes offers easily digestible energy, while real fruits, vegetables, and dried chicory root provide natural antioxidants and prebiotic support for a healthy digestive system. With chelated minerals for enhanced absorption, this complete and balanced nutrition will keep your puppy satisfied and thriving. Give them a taste of the wild they constantly crave!
10- Canidae All Life Stages Multi-Protein Formula
Introducing Canidae All Life Stages Multi Protein Formula with Chicken, Turkey, and Lamb Meals, a vet-formulated recipe designed to meet the nutritional needs of dogs at every stage of life. This convenient “one bag fits all” blend caters to multiple dog households, eliminating the hassle of guessing or switching based on age, breed, or size. Made with premium ingredients like chicken, turkey, lamb, and wholesome grains, this formula is rich in essential amino acids, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, and devoid of fillers like corn, wheat, or soy. From puppies and small breeds to adults, seniors, and large breeds, this Multi-Protein Formula provides optimum nutrition in one easy package. Fuel your dog’s every bite with the nutritionally dense goodness of Canidae, a brand focused on creating a world of sustainable goodness for pets and the planet. Commitment to responsibly sourced proteins, regenerative farming, sustainable operations, and eco-friendly packaging sets a new standard for the pet food industry. Choose Canidae and treat your furry friend to a bowl full of goodness.
Important Nutritional Factors to Consider
A well-balanced diet plays a crucial role in keeping Shetland Sheepdogs healthy and vibrant. When selecting the best dog food, pay attention to the following nutritional factors:
- Protein: Shetland Sheepdogs are active and energetic dogs, so they require a diet rich in high-quality proteins. Look for dog food options that list meat, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as the primary ingredient.
- Fat: Shetland Sheepdogs have a dense coat that requires proper nourishment. Healthy fats like Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids promote a shiny and healthy coat. Opt for dog food that includes fish oil or flaxseed as a source of these essential fatty acids.
- Carbohydrates: To provide ample energy for their daily activities, Shetland Sheepdogs require a moderate amount of carbohydrates. Choose dog food that contains easily digestible carbohydrates like sweet potatoes or brown rice.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Including a variety of fruits and vegetables in your Shetland Sheepdog’s diet ensures they receive essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Look for dog food options that incorporate ingredients like blueberries, spinach, or carrots.
Guide to Identifying Suitable and Unsuitable Dog Food
With so many dog food brands claiming to be the best, it can be challenging to separate the good from the subpar. Here are some tips to help you identify suitable and unsuitable dog food options:
- Read the ingredients: Always read the ingredient list to ensure the dog food contains high-quality, natural ingredients without fillers, artificial preservatives, or by-products.
- Look for AAFCO certification: The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets standards for pet food. Look for dog food that meets AAFCO’s guidelines to ensure it is nutritionally complete.
- Consider your dog’s specific needs: Every Shetland Sheepdog is unique, so consider factors such as age, activity level, and any specific dietary restrictions or allergies when selecting their food.
- Seek recommendations: Consult your veterinarian or fellow Shetland Sheepdog owners for recommendations on reputable dog food brands that have a positive track record.
Discover the Advantages of Nourishing Your Shetland Sheepdogs with Top-Quality Food
Feeding your Shetland Sheepdog with the best dog food offers numerous benefits:
- Improved overall health: High-quality dog food provides essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that promote excellent health and reduce the risk of health issues.
- Enhanced digestion: The best dog food brands are formulated with easily digestible ingredients, promoting optimal digestion and reducing the chances of digestive problems.
- Healthy skin and coat: Proper nutrition from quality dog food helps maintain a healthy skin barrier and promotes a lustrous, thick, and shiny coat.
- Increased energy and vitality: Premium dog food provides a well-balanced mix of nutrients, ensuring your Shetland Sheepdog remains active, agile, and full of energy.
Determining the Proper Feeding Amount for Shetland Sheepdogs
Feeding your Shetland Sheepdog the right amount of food is crucial to maintain their optimal weight and overall health. Factors such as age, activity level, metabolism, and individual dietary needs influence the feeding amount. Follow these general guidelines:
- Weigh your Shetland Sheepdog regularly to keep track of their weight.
- Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate daily calorie intake for your Shetland Sheepdog based on their age and activity level.
- Divide the daily recommended calorie intake into two or three meals depending on your dog’s preference and lifestyle.
- Monitor your Shetland Sheepdog’s weight and adjust the feeding amount accordingly to prevent under or overfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions: Choosing the Ideal Dog Food for Shetland Sheepdogs
Here are answers to some common questions dog owners have when choosing the best dog food for Shetland Sheepdogs:
- What are the dietary restrictions for Shetland Sheepdogs? While Shetland Sheepdogs typically do not have specific dietary restrictions, individual food allergies or sensitivities can vary. It’s essential to observe your dog’s reactions to different ingredients and consult your vet if needed.
- Should I opt for dry or wet dog food? Both dry and wet dog food options have their advantages. Dry food is convenient, promotes dental health, and can be left out for more extended periods. Wet food, on the other hand, can be more appealing to picky eaters and provides additional hydration. Consider a combination of both or consult your veterinarian for guidance.
- Can I supplement my Shetland Sheepdog’s diet with homemade food? Homemade food can be a great way to provide variety and specific nutritional needs. However, it’s crucial to ensure a well-balanced diet and consult a veterinary nutritionist to avoid any nutrient deficiencies or imbalances.
- Are grain-free dog food options suitable for Shetland Sheepdogs? While grain-free dog food gained popularity in recent years, it’s not necessary for all dogs unless they have specific grain allergies or sensitivities. Consult your veterinarian to determine if grain-free options are necessary for your Shetland Sheepdog.
Remember, always prioritize your Shetland Sheepdog’s health and well-being when selecting their food. By considering their specific needs and opting for high-quality dog food, you’ll ensure they lead a happy and healthy life.