You know you’re a German shorthaired pointer (GSP) parent when you’ve had a 3-hour fetch session, watched your woofer swim far more than you expected at the dog beach, or found yourself getting trained by your super-smart dog who shows no signs of slowing.
This perky pointer needs a plateful of balanced nutrients to keep up with her non-stop physical and mental energy. And just like your Rover’s rigorous bounding bouts, you won’t quit or compromise when feeding the freshest and finest to your spotted sweetie.
If you’re hunting for a diet that satisfies your sharp shooter’s unique needs, stick with us! We’ve sniffed out the best of the food bowl bunch just for your German shorthaired pointer!
How to Choose a Food for Your German Shorthaired Pointer
The German shorthaired pointer is an energetic bundle of love with an athletic spirit.
To keep up with your pup’s knack for action and ensure she performs in peak condition, you must understand common health hurdles associated with the breed for a more tailored approach to feeding. The right food may not prevent problems, but it can bolster your barker’s system as much as possible.
Sniff out the following in dog food to aid in your pointer’s overall health:
- Joint-Supporting Supplements: The German shorthaired pointer can suffer from joint malformations known as hip and elbow dysplasia that can be painful and impact mobility. This hard-playing canine may also encounter osteoarthritis as she ages. Glucosamine and chondroitin aid joints by nourishing and potentially rebuilding cartilage, the spongy material within joints that allows for smooth movement.
- Lots of Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3s are healthy fats that help to reduce inflammation. This means they can help promote good joint health (especially in active dogs), potentially easing the symptoms of hip dysplasia. They’re also great for promoting good skin and coat health, which can be beneficial for most GSPs, whether they have food allergies or not.
- Eye-Preserving Antioxidants: Eye issues like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy sometimes affect the German shorthaired pointer, though antioxidants have been shown to potentially slow vision loss in some canines. Antioxidants are also vital in keeping your pup’s immune system strong, helping your pup combat illness. Great sources of these wonder nutrients include blueberries, tomatoes, and kale.
- Heart-Healthy Eats: The German shorthaired pointer is prone to several heart issues, including aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy, making a diet packed with lean, quality proteins like chicken and wholesome grains ideal for maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding the potential link of grain-free diets to DCM. Also, in addition to promoting good joint health, Omega-3 fatty acids and also support canine heart health by aiding muscle strength and preventing harmful deficiencies.
- Calorie Consciousness: Like many breeds, the German shorthaired pointer is at risk of obesity. A working or active pointer will burn through calories during the day, but for couch potato pooches, extra calories can quickly lead to packed-on pounds that stress the joints. Your dog’s diet (and serving sizes) should complement her daily activity levels, ensuring her waistline doesn’t get too wide.
Remember, every pup is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Always consult your vet before major changes in your dog’s diet!
It is crucial to change your dog’s food gradually to avoid any potential digestive upset or tummy trouble.
To transition your dog to a new food, start by mixing a small amount of the new food with your dog’s current food. Gradually increase the amount of new food while decreasing the amount of the old food over a period of 7 to 10 days.
This slow transition will allow your dog’s digestive system to adjust to the new food comfortably and healthily.
The 9 Best Dog Foods for German Shorthaired Pointers
The dog food market’s loaded with potential picks for your pointer, but some foods just get the job done better with lean proteins, energy-filled grains, and so much more. Let’s see which all-star eat matches your GSP’s needs.
1. Nom Nom Fresh Dog Food [Best Overall Dog Food for German Shorthaired Pointers]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
German shorthaired pointer pawrents after US-made eats that are personalized to their pups’ dietary needs.
About: Taking a portion-perfect approach, Nom Nom’s Fresh Dog Food is put together with your specific canine in mind, considering breed, age, and activity level to ensure weight maintenance and full-body health. Its high-quality ingredients are sourced stateside and whisked together in the USA — a feat not many dog food brands achieve. Gently cooked to food-safe temperatures, Nom Nom’s taste and texture are preserved and mirror “human food,” pleasing even the pickiest pooches.
First Five Ingredients: Turkey, Brown Rice, Eggs, Carrots, & Spinach
Features:
- Expertly Executed: A board-certified veterinary nutritionist carefully crafts Every Nom Nom recipe for balance, putting your pointer’s health and happiness on a pedestal.
- Powered By Real Protein: All Nom Nom fresh food recipes start with a whole protein source, ensuring your play-obsessed pup’s muscles get the support they need. There is also a medley of meats to choose from, including turkey, pork, beef, and chicken-based options.
- AAFCO Acceptable: Every Nom Nom recipe meets the AAFCO profile for all life stages, ensuring nose-to-tail nutrition that grows with your pointer.
- Cuisine Control: You can update your mutt’s meal plan or profile anytime, making it easy to tweak your order when and if your dog’s needs change.
- Green Focus: Nom Nom’s packaging is fully recyclable, so your faithful friend can chow down while you give a paw-up to Mother Earth!
Ingredients List
Turkey, Brown Rice, Eggs, Carrots, Spinach...,
dicalcium phosphate, potassium chloride, beef fat, citric acid, salt, vinegar, calcium carbonate, water, fish oil, choline bitartrate, iron amino acid chelate, vitamin e supplement, taurine, natural flavor, zinc gluconate, copper gluconate, niacin (vitamin B3), manganese gluconate, vitamin A supplement, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), riboflavin (vitamin B2), cholecalciferol (source of vitamin D3), potassium iodide, folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement.
Pros
- Customized to your dog’s individual needs, helping with allergy avoidance and weight control
- A rare US-made food featuring only US-sourced ingredients
- The taste and texture win over most dogs
- No subscription is required, letting you try Nom Nom without a costly commitment
Cons
- Pricing is steep, especially to feed a pup with a potentially big appetite like the German shorthaired pointer
- Only the turkey-based recipe is grain-inclusive
Like the fresh stuff?
If fresh dog food is your jam, be sure to check out our list of the best fresh dog food brands — they’re mouth-watering options that will please even the prissiest picky eaters.
2. Nutro ULTRA Adult [Best Kibble for German Shorthaired Pointers]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Pointer pawrents seeking premium kibble with health-focused ingredients like real meat and produce.
About: Fuel your German shorthaired pointer dog’s adventures with Nutro ULTRA Adult, a kibble crammed with protein to keep your four-footed athlete’s muscles primed and ready for fun. Chicken is the primary ingredient and protein source, aided by chicken, lamb, and salmon meals. A gala of grains, including whole grain sorghum, barley, oats, and rice, offer sustainable energy and satiation between meals, while omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed battle inflammation and nourish your pointer’s skin and coat.
First Five Ingredients: Chicken, Brewers Rice, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, & Whole Grain Barley
Features:
- Non-GMO Noms: Nutro Ultra ranks among the rare dog foods made with non-GMO ingredients, pleasing pawrents seeking more natural eats.
- Garden Galore: An assortment of real fruits and vegetables, including blueberries, pumpkin, and spinach, offer fiber, antioxidants, and flavor.
- Joint Care: Reinforced with glucosamine and chondroitin, this food helps fortify your pointer’s joints, making it a fantastic choice for spry puppies and venerable veterans.
- No Faux Fixins: Nutro recipes don’t include artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- American Made: Nutro makes all its recipes in the United States using globally sourced ingredients.
Ingredients List
Chicken, Brewers Rice, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Whole Grain Barley...,
Whole Grain Sorghum, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Rice Bran, Natural Flavor, Whole Flaxseed, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Citric Acid (preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Chia Seed, Dried Coconut, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Egg Product, Dried Pumpkin, Dried Kale, Dried Spinach, DL-Methionine, Salt, Vitamin E Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), D-Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Biotin, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Manganous Oxide, Potassium Iodide, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract
Pros
- Protein-rich recipe ideal for active doggos like GSPs
- Good mix of formulas to choose from, including Large-Breed, Puppy, Adult, and Senior
- Packed with joint-pleasing perks, including glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s
- Non-GMOs are a rare find in the dog food world
Cons
- A touch pricier than other kibbles
- Mixed proteins can be a concern for pointers with sensitive tummies
Mastiffs are prone to bloat, also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV).
It’s a serious condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, causing pain and potentially cutting off blood flow. It can even prove fatal, so it is definitely something you want to avoid.
Feeding smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding exercise right after eating can help prevent this scary situation.
3. Diamond Naturals Canned Beef Dinner [Best Wet Dog Food for German Shorthaired Pointers]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
German shorthaired pointer owners looking to jazz up kibble with a tasty topper or feed a Fido with dental problems.
About: Diamond Naturals Canned Beef Dinner is a wet food that gets an extra oomph of flavor and hydration straight from a nutritious broth. Real organ meat makes a special appearance on the ingredient list, dishing out a hefty dose of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The pate texture is a breeze to mix into your canine’s kibble, but you can also serve it alone to dogs with dental issues, as it’s easy to eat, even with missing teeth.
First Five Ingredients: Beef, Beef Broth, Beef Liver, Rice Flour, & Carrots
Features:
- Meat-Forward Feast: Diamond Naturals sticks to the golden rule of meat ruling the roost, with real, clearly labeled meat always bagging the top spot on their ingredient lists. If beef isn’t your pointer’s go-to pick, check out the other offerings of chicken and lamb.
- Grain Gains: Rice flour offers the carbs your canine needs to fuel her next playdate and help curb the hunger pangs between meals.
- Fruit and Veg Fiesta: Real fruits and veggies like cranberries, pumpkin, and blueberries offer fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants in every chow-down session.
- Growth-Geared: Diamond Naturals Canned Beef Dinner meets the AAFCO nutrient profile for growth and maintenance, including that of dogs exceeding 70 pounds.
- USA-Made: Diamond Naturals takes pride in being made in America. This canned canine diet features global ingredients from trusted suppliers.
Ingredients List
Beef, Beef Broth, Beef Liver, Rice Flour, Carrots...,
Dried Egg Product, Lamb Meal, Fish Meal, Tricalcium Phosphate, Guar Gum, Salt, Sunflower Oil, Potassium Chloride, Agar-Agar, Pumpkin, Cranberries, Quinoa, Blueberries, Inulin, Choline Chloride, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Sodium Carbonate, Vitamin E Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Sodium Selenite, Thiamine Mononitrate, Cobalt Amino Acid Chelate, Niacin Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Potassium Iodide, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract
Pros
- Taste is a high point with most doggo diners
- Grain-inclusive nature keeps the grain-free DCM concerns at bay
- Wallet-friendly pricing, especially for a canned food
Cons
- Some pups prefer a stew-style food with more broth
- Mixed proteins can be a problem for pointers with sensitive systems
Need a wet food for your woofer?
Canned foods can be great for picky eaters and dogs with dental issues. Check out our guide to the best wet dog foods to see some more great options!
4. American Journey Lamb, Brown Rice & Vegetables [Best Budget-Friendly Dog Food for German Shorthaired Pointers]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Pet parents looking for quality pointer eats with real ingredients that won’t sink their budget.
About: Your budget won’t take a mega hit with this Lamb, Brown Rice & Vegetables Recipe, a crunchy kibble from Chewy’s in-house food brand, American Journey. Grain-inclusive, this dry food meets the AAFCO nutrient profile for all life stages, suiting multi-dog families and those who prefer lifelong food. Another high point? This cost-conscious kibble skips corn, soy, wheat, and poultry by-products that may cause concerns for sensitive pups.
First Five Ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Lamb Meal, Turkey Meal, Brown Rice, & Rice Bran
Features:
- Prioritizes Protein: Lamb takes the top ingredient spot, with lamb and turkey meals hustling in right after, promising lean protein sources. If your pointer prefers another protein, she can dine on beef, chicken, or salmon recipes.
- Great Grains: Brown rice, rice bran, and barley are just some of this kibble’s grains loaded with dietary fiber to support smooth digestion and energize your pointing pal through every race and romp.
- Primed with Produce: A garden-variety selection of fruits and vegetables pitch in with a rich medley of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, bolstering your dog’s overall wellness.
- Omega Oasis: Thanks to flaxseed and fish oils, this formula showers your pal with omega-3 fatty acids, championing skin and coat health.
- American Manufacturing: American Journey dog foods are made in the USA using domestic and imported ingredients.
Ingredients List
Deboned Lamb, Lamb Meal, Turkey Meal, Brown Rice, Rice Bran...,
Barley, Peas, Natural Flavor, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Flaxseed, Brewers Rice, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Oatmeal, Pea Protein, Fish Oil, Suncured Alfalfa Meal, Dried Tomato Pomace, Salt, Dried Egg Product, Carrots, Sweet Potatoes, L-Threonine, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid), Minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Iodate), Blueberries, Cranberries, Dried Kelp, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Taurine, Dried Chicory Root, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Rosemary Extract.
Pros
- Budget-pleasing price point, especially when you factor in cost-saving extras like omega-3s
- Grain-inclusive recipe offers ample energy and fiber
- Owners report most dogs seem to approve of the taste
- Packed with real fruits and vegetables
Cons
- Mixed proteins can be an issue for pointers with sensitivities
- Lacks joint-supporting glucosamine and chondroitin
- Peas may be a concern for some pawrents
Need more affordable dog food options?
Want a tasty, nutritious food that won’t break the bank? Check out our list of the best budget-friendly dog foods to see some more options that’ll save you a few bucks!
5. Blue Buffalo Life Protection (Puppy) [Best Food for German Shorthaired Pointer Puppies]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Pointer puppy parents seeking development-focused food that doesn’t skimp on everyday goodies like probiotics.
About: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Formula merges lean proteins and wholesome carbs in perfect harmony, all to nourish your bundle of joy towards lifelong wellness. Extras like DHA and ARA fatty acids offer a kick-start to healthy brain and eye development, and Blue’s signature LifeSource Bits for an antioxidant-powered immune system boost. This kibble also remains free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
First Five Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, & Barley
Features:
- Meaty Headliner: Always claiming the top spot, real meat presents your puppy with the protein power needed for proper muscle growth. Choose from lamb and chicken-based recipes.
- Digestion-Friendly: This mix isn’t shy on added prebiotic fiber or probiotics, ensuring that your German shorthaired cutie’s belly feels good.
- No-Fuss Ingredients: Wave goodbye to potential triggers, as this kibble is crafted without corn, soy, wheat, or poultry by-product meals.
- Fruits & Veggies Unleashed: Blue Buffalo brings a vibrant blend of carrots, blueberries, and cranberries to the canine culinary table, serving as natural sources of vitamins, fiber, and flavor.
- Born in the USA: Blue Buffalo takes pride in being made right in the good ol’ USA and remains devoted to globally sourced ingredients of the highest quality.
Ingredients List
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley...,
Fish Meal (source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Peas, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Flavor, Flaxseed (source of Omega 6 Fatty Acids), Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Egg Product, Pea Protein, Fish Oil (source of ARA-Arachidonic Acid and DHA- Docosahexaenoic Acid), Salt, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Direct Dehydrated Alfalfa Pellets, Dicalcium Phosphate, Dried Chicory Root, Potatoes, Pea Fiber, Alfalfa Nutrient Concentrate, Calcium Carbonate, DL-Methionine, preserved with Mixed Tocopherols, Vitamin E Supplement, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Garlic, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Sulfate, Vegetable Juice for color, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Blueberries, Cranberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Turmeric, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), L-Carnitine, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), L-Lysine, Copper Sulfate, Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Sulfate, Taurine, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Dried Yeast, Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, Dried Aspergillus niger fermentation extract, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, Dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Sodium Selenite, Oil of Rosemary
Pros
- Specially formulated to aid in proper puppy growth
- Flavor is a hit with many puppies
- Rich in brain and eye-boosting omega-3 fatty acids
Cons
- Multi-protein can be problematic for pooches with sensitivities or food allergies
- Some puppies refuse to eat Blue’s LifeSource Bits
German shorthaired pointers top out at around 70 pounds, right on the border between medium- and large-breed dogs. Larger GSPs weighing 70 pounds or more can benefit from large-breed formulas, especially puppies expected to be toward the top of the breed size standard since large-breed puppy food ensures slow, steady growth that’s easier on joints.
A good rule of thumb is to base your GSP’s puppy’s ultimate size on her parents if you’ve met them. You can also ask your breeder or vet if you’re unsure.
6. Nutro Lamb & Brown Rice (Senior) [Best Dog Food for Senior German Shorthaired Pointers]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Pawrents of senior pointers seeking kibble catered to mature needs like joint and digestive support.
About: Nutro Natural Choice Lamb & Brown Rice Senior is a grain-inclusive kibble tailored to your mature gal’s needs with calcium for sturdy bones. Deboned lamb reigns as the chief ingredient, with chicken meal playing a supporting role, dishing out a natural supply of glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints and promoting lean muscle maintenance. Quality grains like rice and barley are designed for all-day energy and enduring satiety, while the recipe remains free of potential problems like corn, soy, and wheat.
First Five Ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Chicken Meal, Whole Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, & Rice Bran
Features:
- Fats Done Right: A healthy dash of omega fatty acids from fish oil and chia seeds supports a healthy, shiny coat and soft, supple skin — key for maturing canines who might battle with troublesome dry patches.
- Abundant Antioxidants: Your senior’s immune system gets a nudge in the right direction with a hefty serving of antioxidants.
- Produce Parade: This recipe boasts a bounty of fruits and veggies like dried pumpkin, kale, and spinach that furnish a natural stockpile of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Say No to GMO: Nutro recipes are made with non-GMO ingredients.
- Made in America: Nutro’s dog food is crafted within the U.S. using globally sourced ingredients.
Ingredients List
Deboned Lamb, Chicken Meal, Whole Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Rice Bran...,
Whole Grain Oatmeal, Lamb Meal (source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate), Natural Flavor, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Sunflower Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Soybean Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Pea Protein, Fish Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Potassium Chloride, Salt, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid (preservatives), Zinc Sulfate, Niacin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Selenium Yeast, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.
Pros
- Specially designed for senior doggos aged 7 or older
- Glucosamine and chondroitin give your senior pointer’s joints a helping paw
- Non-GMO ingredients are rare finds in the dog food kingdom
Cons
- Not every dog can tolerate mixed-protein recipes
- Lacks probiotics that could give your pointer’s belly additional support
7. Taste of the Wild Grain-Free High Prairie [Best Grain-Free Food for German Shorthaired Pointers]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
German shorthaired pointer owners looking for grain-free eats packed with protein and flavor.
About: Taste of the Wild Grain-Free High Prairie offers grain-free goodness for pointers with vet-diagnosed grain allergies, keeping your pup running strong with carb sources like sweet potatoes and peas. This protein-rich food showcases a delectable medley of meats, led by water buffalo and bolstered by lamb, chicken, and fish meals beside roasted bison, venison, and beef. Talk about mouth-watering meaty flavor!
First Five Ingredients: Water Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, & Peas
Features:
- Fruit & Veggie Finds: This recipe includes wholesome veggies and fruits like raspberries, tomatoes, and blueberries for natural fiber, antioxidants, and added yum.
- Fantastic Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids help promote healthy skin and a healthy coat from the inside out.
- Belly Booster: A blend of prebiotics and probiotics keeps your dog’s belly happy, healthy, and, hopefully, running smoothly.
- Balanced Bites: High Prairie checks all the boxes according to the AAFCO nutrient profile for adult maintenance.
- American Preparation: Taste of the Wild recipes are made stateside, incorporating ingredients from trusted suppliers worldwide.
Ingredients List
Water Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas...,
Potatoes, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Egg Product, Roasted Bison, Roasted Venison, Beef, Natural Flavor, Tomato Pomace, Potato Protein, Pea Protein, Ocean Fish Meal, Salt, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Dried Chicory Root, Tomatoes, Blueberries, Raspberries, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid.
Pros
- Grain-free recipe ideal for pointers with vet-diagnosed grain allergies
- Most dogs adore the meaty taste
- Great source of digestion-friendly prebiotic fiber and probiotics
Cons
- Inclusion of peas is a potential DCM concern
- Mixed-meat recipe may spell trouble for some doggos
Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before selecting a grain-free food for your doggo.
Veterinarians have established a correlation between grain-free foods and increased rates of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).
It isn’t yet clear whether grain-free foods are causing these problems or if it is coincidence.
Nevertheless, caution is warranted.
Additionally, the overwhelming majority of dogs digest grains without issue, and few four-footers are actually allergic to grains (most food allergies are caused by things like chicken, beef, or dairy products).
8. ACANA Grasslands [Best Food for Active German Shorthaired Pointers]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Pet parents of a hard-working (or hard-playing) German shorthaired pointer who need a food that can keep their rocket Rovers well-fueled.
About: For all you parents of tirelessly active pups and workaholic woofers, ACANA Grasslands can be the ticket to keep your buddy bounding at her best. Bursting with fresh lamb and duck, this meal boasts a whopping 38% protein that comfortably outpaces the average dry dog food. Pup not too keen on lamb? No worries, they offer alternate recipes packed with duck, fish, and other protein-packed icons.
First Five Ingredients: Lamb, Duck, Eggs, Lamb Meal, & Goat Meal
Features:
- Whole Prey Proportions: Infusing the recipe with meat, organs, and cartilage for a nutrient-dense composition, this balanced recipe prides itself in showcasing up to 70% superior animal ingredients and 30% veggies, fruit, and nutrients.
- Digestion Boosters: Prebiotics and probiotics join forces to ensure smoother food breakdown for your activity-charged pointer.
- Lightning-Low Carbs: With a cut-down carb content, your furry friend harnesses energy predominantly from protein sources, aiding in lean muscle development.
- Supercharged with Produce: Fresh fruits and veggies like pumpkin, collard greens, butternut squash, apples, and pears offer vital vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for complete and balanced canine health.
- American Crafted: ACANA Grasslands takes shape within the USA, relying on thoughtfully sourced ingredients from around the globe.
Ingredients List
Lamb, Duck, Eggs, Lamb Meal, Goat Meal...,
catfish meal, whole red lentils, whole pinto beans, chicken fat, whole green lentils, whole chickpeas, lentil fiber, pea starch, quail, rainbow trout, duck meal, fish oil, natural lamb flavor, whole green peas, whole yellow peas, lamb liver, duck liver, lamb tripe, lamb kidney, collard greens, salt, dried kelp, zinc proteinate, whole pumpkin, whole butternut squash, whole carrots, whole apples, whole pears, mixed tocopherols (preservative), riboflavin, folic acid, vitamin A acetate, vitamin E supplement, vitamin D3 supplement, thiamine mononitrate, calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine hydrochloride, freeze-dried lamb, freeze-dried duck, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, copper proteinate, dried chicory root, turmeric, sarsaparilla root, althea root, rosehips, juniper berries, citric acid (preservative), rosemary extract, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product, dried Lactobacillus casei fermentation product
Pros
- Designed for active and working dogs in need of extra protein
- Meat-rich recipe highly enticing to pups
- Great source of belly-friendly fiber and probiotics
Cons
- Wide variety of proteins can be too rich for some canines
- Grain-free nature is not ideal for every dog
9. Merrick Healthy Grains Salmon + Brown Rice [Best Food for German Shorthaired Pointers with Joint Problems]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Because it is made with such high-quality ingredients, we consider this one of the best overall foods for ANY four-footer, including Malamutes.
About: Perk up your pointer’s joints with Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Salmon + Brown Rice, a dry food featuring a whopping serving of glucosamine and chondroitin to care for your canine’s cartilage and hopefully keep her moving in tip-top shape. This grain-inclusive recipe relies on brown rice, barley and oatmeal to fulfill your pup’s carbohydrate needs instead of controversial grain-free legumes. You’ll also find a smattering of fruits and vegetables on its ingredient list, including carrots and apples for natural vitamins and minerals, including eye-benefitting vitamin A.
First Five Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, & Oatmeal
Features:
- Salmon Superstar: The top ingredient is salmon, offering a bountiful (and flavorful) protein source. Meanwhile, chicken meal and turkey meal offer additional protein to keep your canine’s muscles strong and aid in mobility.
- Inflammation Fighters: Omega-3 essential fatty acids from fish and flaxseed combat inflammation and leave your pointer’s skin and coat looking and feeling great.
- Probiotics, Please: A delicate blend of probiotics and fiber-rich ingredients work together to aid in doggo digestion, aiming for firmer poops and fewer tummy rumbles.
- All-Natural Delights: With no room for artificial preservatives, dyes, or flavors, your German shorthaired pointer doesn’t have to worry about faux finds disrupting her tummy or skin.
- American Pride: Whipped up in Merrick’s USA kitchens, this brand assures rigorous quality control and carefully chosen, top-tier global ingredients.
Ingredients List
Deboned Salmon, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal...,
Turkey Meal, Chicken Fat, Flaxseed, Quinoa, Natural Flavor, Sunflower Oil, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Apples, Carrots, Organic Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Choline Chloride, Minerals (Iron Amino Acid Complex, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Zinc Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Potassium Iodide, Cobalt Proteinate, Cobalt Carbonate), Taurine, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Acetate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Folic Acid, Niacin, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex, Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Citric Acid for freshness, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product. 2A32000
Pros
- Excellent source of joint-friendly glucosamine and chondroitin
- Omega-3s deliver skin and coat support while also battling inflammation
- Rich in muscle-nourishing protein to help your pointer’s frame remain fit
Cons
- Mixed proteins can upset some dogs’ tummies
- Pricing is steep compared to other kibbles
General Advice for Picking a Good Food
Picking out a food for any breed can feel like trying to solve a complex puzzle, but fret not, fellow pet parent! There are three easy questions to ask of a food to see if it’s the right fit for your floof so you don’t spend all day reading bag after bag.
Ask the following of a prospective food. If you find one that checks off all three boxes, you can rest assured it should work for your woofer!
- Does the food meet the AAFCO nutrient profile for your dog’s life stage? Crafted in accordance with your dog’s life stage and needs, these guidelines confirm that your dog’s food is nutritionally complete and balanced, translating into a healthier, happier doggo life.
- Does the food address any health issues your pup has? If your dog is navigating any health hiccups, choosing a food tailored to her concerns can make a difference. Many brands whip up recipes targeting a slew of issues, like joint complications or fussy stomachs, providing comfort and possibly a health boost, too!
- Did your vet give the food a thumbs up? Before you commit to any food, schedule a convo with your vet. Based on your vet’s know-how of your dog’s breed-specific nutritional needs, health history, and potential diet hiccups, he or she can help you navigate the culinary conundrum of food labels and single out the cream of the crop.
Cracking the Extra-Credit Dog Food Code
Having nailed the “must-haves,” it’s time to stroke your chin and consider some “nice-to-haves” to ensure you’re not just bringing home a good dog food, but a GREAT one. Your pup is worth it, right?
Look for the following features to nab a truly pawesome pup food:
- Canine Nutritionist on Board: Does the brand have a canine nutritionist calling the dietary shots? This dog diet professional’s expertise confirms that the brand’s offerings are nutritionally sound and canine-friendly.
- Focus on Safety: Brands prioritizing regular safety inspections ensure your pooch’s plate is free from harmful substances and that the cooking facilities meet top hygiene standards. The best of the best prepare food in small batches, testing each for compliance and possible contamination.
- Prepared Proteins: Brands that cook or pasteurize proteins take care to weed out potentially dangerous bacteria. This is nothing to sneeze at, as Salmonella and food-borne illnesses can make you or your dog seriously ill.
- Manufacturing Origin: Western countries usually enforce rigorous regulations, meaning pet food facilities often abide by stringent quality standards. This list includes the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Western Europe.
- Ingredient Origin: The birthplace of a food’s ingredients is equally as important as its country of manufacture, as it can provide an insight into the food’s quality. Western-sourced ingredients generally follow stricter quality guidelines.
To learn more about navigating the maze of dog food labels, check out our handy guide: How to Choose a Dog Food!
Best Food for German Shorthaired Pointers: FAQ
Is your mind still whirling with questions about what or how to feed your pointing princess? Browse the most commonly asked questions and matching answers about feeding these energy-packed hunting dogs.
What food is best for German shorthaired pointers?
The best way to find a high-quality dog food for your German shorthaired pointer is to pick one that satisfies three core requirements:
*Meet the AAFCO nutrient profile for her current life stage
*Treat any underlying health conditions she has
*Receive the OK from your vet (especially important for GSPs with health issues!)
There isn’t one product that works best for all GSPs, as pups don’t come in a one-size-fits-all form. Many GSPs can benefit from the customized nature of Nom Nom’s Fresh Dog Food, for instance, but others tolerate a crunchy kibble like Nutro ULTRA Adult or American Journey Lamb, Brown Rice & Vegetables Recipe best.
When should I switch my German shorthaired pointer to adult food?
Most German shorthaired pointers can transition to adult food at 1 year of age, which is on track with most medium-sized breeds. For German shorthaired pointer puppies likely to teeter into large-breed territory (70 pounds or more in adulthood), feeding large-breed puppy food until 15 months may be ideal. Discuss your canine’s feeding schedule with your vet if you’re unsure when to switch.
How many times a day should I feed my German shorthaired pointer?
Like any doggo, feeding your German shorthaired pointer twice daily is recommended to ensure she doesn’t go too long between meals, leading to a rumbly tummy or stomach upset. You also want to avoid feeding her too much at once with a single feeding, which risks bloat.
Puppies and especially active or working GSPs may need three equally-spaced feedings daily to maintain a healthy weight. These should be carefully portioned to ensure your pup isn’t overeating.
How many cups of food should a German shorthaired pointer eat?
Your German shorthaired pointer’s daily food intake will vary by her age, activity level, health needs, and what food you’re feeding. Some recipes have more calories than others, requiring less food overall. That said, adult GSPs typically eat between two and dive cups of food each day.
Refer to the feeding instructions on your pup’s food for a ballpark of how much you should feed your fur kiddo and adjust accordingly. Consult your vet if you’re worried you’re underfeeding or overfeeding your pup, as maintaining a proper weight is vital in warding off joint issues and other health problems.
Should you feed your German shorthaired pointer a raw diet?
Broadly speaking, German shorthaired pointer owners should avoid feeding their pets a raw diet. Feeding a raw diet exposes your pet to potential illnesses, and it does little (if anything) to improve your pet’s overall health. Instead, stick to a commercial dog food, featuring fully pasteurized proteins. High-quality commercial dog foods provide the kind of essential vitamins and high quality protein and balanced canine nutrition that all dog breeds — including GSPs — need.
What is the ideal weight for a German shorthaired pointer?
Male German shorthaired pointers weigh between 55 and 70 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, between 45 and 60 pounds. The right for your individual German shorthaired pointer varies by his build, with these pups ranging from 21 to 25 inches tall.
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And there you have it, the best food finds for German shorthaired pointers! We hope one of these mouth-watering offerings leaves your German shorthaired pointer tail-waggingly satisfied and keeps her zoomies zooming. Because, let’s face it, a well-fed GSP is a happy GSP!
We’d love to hear about your journey to finding the tastiest and healthiest food for your GSP. Which brand works best for your German gem? Share your experiences in the comments!
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