A breed built to be healthier than the German Shepherd, the King Shepherd does exceptionally well on fresh whole food. Here's exactly what to feed them — and two complete recipes to get you started.
King Shepherds don't get nearly the attention German Shepherds do, which is a shame given how much thought went into developing the breed. Created in the United States in the 1990s by crossing German and American Shepherd bloodlines with the Shiloh Shepherd, the King Shepherd was designed from the ground up to be bigger, calmer, and healthier than the GSD. The result is a large, gentle family dog that settles beautifully into fresh-food feeding.
If you've been looking for specific guidance on feeding your King Shepherd — especially if you're making their food at home — this guide covers what they actually need: the right proteins, how much to feed by weight, a few things worth watching for health-wise, and two complete recipes you can make this weekend.
Size: Males 41–68 kg (90–150 lbs) · Females 34–50 kg (75–110 lbs) | Lifespan: 10–11 years | Group: Working | Coat: Double coat, medium to long | Character: Calm, intelligent, loyal, excellent with families
King Shepherds were specifically bred to address the health issues that have historically affected German Shepherds — particularly joint problems and digestive sensitivity. The breed tends to have fewer EPI (exocrine pancreatic insufficiency) cases than the GSD, and their temperament is notably calmer, which means less cortisol-driven digestive disruption as well.
That said, they are a large breed, and large breeds have their own nutritional requirements. Joint health becomes a genuine consideration at this size. The good news is that diet can do a lot of the work here. Omega-3 fatty acids from salmon oil support joint lubrication and reduce inflammatory load, and getting the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio right prevents the slow skeletal wear that affects poorly fed large dogs over time.
Fresh food also tends to produce better-formed stools, healthier coats, and steadier energy in King Shepherds — things owners notice within a few weeks of switching from commercial kibble.
At 35–68 kg, these dogs carry significant size. Omega-3 fatty acids from salmon oil are the most effective dietary tool for joint health — they reduce inflammation and keep joint fluid well-lubricated. Add 1 teaspoon of salmon oil per serving, always stirred in cold after cooking to preserve the fatty acids. As they age, you can also add a glucosamine supplement on your vet's recommendation.
Deep-chested, large breeds have a higher-than-average risk of bloat (GDV), and King Shepherds share this vulnerability with other working-breed dogs of similar build. The prevention is straightforward: split their daily food into two meals, avoid vigorous exercise in the hour before or after eating, and use a slow feeder bowl if your dog gulps food quickly. These three habits significantly reduce risk.
King Shepherds have a thick double coat that benefits from omega-3s and a modest amount of healthy fat in the diet. Lean protein is the foundation, but don't make the food too fat-stripped — a small amount of fat (from salmon oil, egg yolk, or the natural fat in beef) keeps the coat in good shape. Signs of inadequate fat are a dry, dull coat and flaky skin.
Adult King Shepherds typically need 2–2.5% of their body weight in fresh food per day. Active, working, or younger dogs go toward the higher end; older or less active dogs stay at the lower end. Always split into two meals — never one large feeding.
| Dog's Weight | Daily Food (2%) | Daily Food (2.5%) | Per Meal (2 meals) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35 kg (77 lbs) | 700 g | 875 g | 350–440 g |
| 45 kg (100 lbs) | 900 g | 1,125 g | 450–560 g |
| 55 kg (120 lbs) | 1,100 g | 1,375 g | 550–690 g |
| 65 kg (145 lbs) | 1,300 g | 1,625 g | 650–810 g |
Puppies and pregnant or nursing females have different requirements — consult your vet before using this table for those life stages.
Makes 4 servings · Good for a 50–55 kg King Shepherd
Makes 4 servings · Omega-3 complete from salmon
Large dogs like King Shepherds can handle a relatively smooth transition, but going too fast sometimes causes loose stools as the gut microbiome adjusts. A 10-day transition works well: start with 20% fresh food and 80% kibble for the first three days, then 50/50 for three days, then 80/20, then full fresh food. If stools soften, slow the transition by a few more days at the current ratio.
Pumpkin purée (plain, not pie filling) added to meals helps firm stools during transition. A tablespoon per serving is enough.
Always split meals: Two meals a day reduces bloat risk in deep-chested breeds. Never one large feeding.
Weigh portions for the first few weeks: Large dogs can gain weight quietly. A kitchen scale keeps portions accurate until you have a good feel for the right amount.
Salmon oil goes in cold: Heating destroys omega-3 fatty acids. Add it to the bowl just before serving, after food has cooled to room temperature.
Monitor joint comfort: As your King Shepherd ages, watch for any stiffness after lying down. Increasing omega-3 and considering glucosamine supplements (with vet sign-off) can make a real difference.
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