Wondering what’s the best dog food for Australian shepherds? Well, the answer to that critical question depends on the AGE of YOUR particular pet. That’s because…Aussie puppies… adults… and seniors have different nutritional needs.
For example…Adult Aussies can thrive on almost ANY quality dog food… wet or dry. But…Aussie puppies have a higher risk of developing a crippling form of hip disease… a risk which may increase if they’re fed a diet that contains too much calcium… while they’re growing.
What’s more… there are OTHER age-related nutritional differences, too. For example…Senior Aussies need more protein… and fewer calories… than younger dogs.
Here’s the point…Since there are no “official” nutrient standards for ANY breed… It’s super important to choose the best dog food for Australian shepherds designed to match your particular Aussie’s nutritional life stage.
The 3 Nutritional Life Stages of Australian Shepherds
Considering that Aussies are classified as medium-breed canines, these life stages outlined below serve as handy markers to aid you in discovering the ideal grub for your pup.
| Life Stage | Age |
| Aussie puppy | Under 12 to 15 months |
| Aussie adult | Over 12 to 15 months |
| Aussie senior | Over 7 to 10 years |
Best Dog Food for Australian Shepherds
Blue Buffalo Life Protection
Blue Buffalo Life Protection
Discover the perfect choice for your Aussie: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Chicken and Brown Rice Adult.
Packed with premium protein, balanced nutrients, and fortified with antioxidants, it’s a top pick for optimal health.
Just be aware it contains grains, which may not suit all dogs.
But with countless happy customers praising its benefits, give your pup the best with Blue Buffalo Life Protection.
Pros
Rich in animal protein.
Balanced macronutrient profile.
No artificial preservatives.
Fortified with antioxidants and vitamins.
Cons
It contains grains, which may not be suitable for all dogs.
Chicken and Brown Rice Adult is among the 21 dry recipes scrutinized in our Blue Buffalo product line evaluation.
Blue Life Protection sources its primary animal protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Analyzing the dry matter label, the recipe boasts 27% protein, 16% fat, and 50% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 58%.
This formula steers clear of BHA or any other artificial chemical preservatives. It’s bolstered with Blue’s exclusive Life Source bits—a unique concoction of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals crafted to strengthen immune health.
It is highly recommended.
For a detailed review of the Blue Buffalo Dog Food range, click here.
- Main Ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 27%
- AAFCO Standards: Maintenance
- Best For: Adult Aussies
Sample buyer review: “We most recently switched from Purina Pro, a sensitive stomach meal, and Ranger loves it! When he hears that kibble hit his Stainless steel bowl, he struts over to the kibble, leaving trails of drool. His stool seems smaller, which is what I was looking for (less filler).”
Orijen Regional Red
Orijen Regional Red
Elevate your Aussie’s diet with Orijen Regional Red.
Packed with diverse proteins like beef, wild boar, and more, it fuels muscles and supports overall health.
Grain-free and highly praised by satisfied customers, it’s a premium choice for your furry friend.
Try Orijen Regional Red today.
Pros
Rich in diverse animal proteins.
High protein content promotes muscle health.
Grain-free formulation.
Suitable for all life stages according to AAFCO standards.
Cons
Higher price
Regional Red is among the 9 dry recipes examined in our Orijen product line review.
Orijen Regional Red derives its primary animal protein from beef, wild boar, lamb, pork, and beef liver. Analyzing the dry matter label, the recipe boasts 43% protein, 20% fat, and 28% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 47%.
A meat-rich dry kibble crafted by a renowned company celebrated for its premium, biologically appropriate formulations. While it may come with a slightly higher price tag, it’s worth serious consideration.
For a comprehensive Orijen Dog Food (Dry) range review, click here.
- Main Ingredients: Beef, wild boar, lamb, pork, beef liver
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-free
- Protein Percentage: 43%
- AAFCO Standards: All Life Stages
- Best For: All Australian Shepherds
Sample buyer review: “We love this food! Since we started feeding this, we have noticed that our dog needs to eat less, has more energy, and sheds less. We are halfway through our second 13lbs bag, and our dog still stands over his bowl, licking his lips while we scoop his favorite food ever!”
The Farmer’s Dog Fresh
The Farmer’s Dog Fresh
Elevate your Aussie’s meals with The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Pork Recipe.
Tailored plans, human-grade ingredients, and convenient delivery.
Despite a higher price and freezer storage, countless happy customers swear by its benefits.
Treat your Aussie to the best today.
Pros
Tailored feeding plans.
Human-grade ingredients.
Convenient home delivery.
Scientifically balanced diet.
Cons
Higher price.
Requires freezer storage.
Pork Recipe is among the 4 fresh human-grade formulas examined in our review of The Farmer’s Dog product line.
The formula primarily sources its meat protein from fresh pork. Analyzing the dry matter label, the recipe boasts 36% protein, 28% fat, and 28% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 78%.
The Farmer’s Dog offers a scientifically balanced diet that rivals homemade meals in quality without the hassle. Though pricier and needing special storage, it’s a worthwhile investment. It is highly recommended.
For a detailed review of The Farmer’s Dog Food (Fresh) range, click here.
- Main Ingredients: Pork, sweet potatoes, potatoes, green beans, cauliflower
- Type: Grain-free, fresh
- Protein Percentage: 36%
- AAFCO Standards: All Life Stages
- Best For: Aussie adults and puppies
Sample buyer review:
“My dog was beginning a downward slope. We decided to change her food…and we chose Farmer’s Dog…The difference is ASTOUNDING. She eats with gusto; her energy levels are back up, and her teeth and coat are of even better quality. She’s like a whole different dog. I honestly feel that Farmer’s Dog saved her.”
Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon
Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon
Elevate your Aussie’s meals with Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon.
Rich in fresh beef protein and grain-free, it offers balanced nutrition at an affordable price.
While some may have concerns about canola oil or taste preferences, countless happy customers attest to its benefits.
Give your Aussie the best with Taste of the Wild.
Pros
Rich in fresh beef protein.
Grain-free and balanced nutrition.
Affordable option.
Cons
Contains canola oil.
Taste or texture may not suit all dogs.
Southwest Canyon is among the 9 dry recipes examined in our review of the Taste of the Wild product line.
Available in various flavor options, Taste of the Wild offers an affordable grain-free choice for Australian Shepherds. Incredibly popular. It is highly recommended.
For a detailed review of Taste of the Wild Dog Food range, click here.
- Main Ingredients: Beef, peas, garbanzo beans, lamb meal, canola oil
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-free
- Protein Percentage: 32%
- AAFCO Standards: All Life Stages
- Best For: All Australian Shepherds
Sample buyer review: “My dog loves this food! He eats it enthusiastically, and it has helped him thrive! He is energetic, has a gorgeous coat, and devours his meals!”
Purina Pro Plan Large Breed
Purina Pro Plan Large Breed
Upgrade your Aussie’s diet with Purina Pro Plan Large Breed.
Rich chicken protein, balanced nutrition, and expert recommendations make it a top choice.
Despite containing corn and poultry by-product meal, it’s loved by many happy customers—Trust Purina Pro Plan for your adult Aussie’s wellbeing.
Pros
Rich in fresh chicken protein.
Balanced nutrition.
Preferred larger kibbles.
Experts highly recommend it.
Reasonably priced.
Cons
Contains corn and poultry by-product meal.
Some may prefer grain-free options.
Large Breed Adult is among the 19 dry recipes assessed in our review of the Purina Pro Plan product line.
A classic, grain-inclusive dog food, Purina Pro Plan Large Breed offers balanced nutrition at an affordable price, backed by professional recommendations, and highly recommended for adult Aussies.
- Main Ingredients: Chicken, rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn, poultry by-product meal
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 30%
- AAFCO Standards: Maintenance
- Best For: Adult Aussies
Sample buyer review: “Good source of protein for your big dog. It gives him a shiny coat and helps maintain his weight. Huge improvement in his poops from Kibbles n Bits. They are more solid than the soupy mess he was making.”
Nutro Ultra Large Breed
Nutro Ultra Large Breed
Upgrade your Aussie’s diet with Nutro Ultra Large Breed. Rich in fresh chicken and chicken meal, it provides balanced nutrition with added minerals for absorption.
Though high in carbs and not for puppies, it’s highly recommended by satisfied customers for adult Aussies—Trust Nutro Ultra for premium nutrition.
Pros
Rich in fresh chicken and chicken meal.
Balanced nutrition.
Contains iron amino acid complex and chelated minerals.
It is highly recommended.
Cons
High carbohydrate content.
Not for puppies.
Large Breed Adult is among the 9 dry recipes featured in our Nutro Ultra product line review.
Nutro Ultra Large Breed provides premium nutrition with its protein-rich formula and added minerals for superior absorption. While it may have a higher carbohydrate content and may not be suitable for puppies, its quality ingredients make it a top choice for adult Aussie owners.
- Main Ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain brown rice, whole grain sorghum, whole grain barley
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 24%
- AAFCO Standards: Maintenance
- Best For: Adult Aussies only (not recommended for puppies)
Sample buyer review: “My dog loves this dog food; she’s a very picky eater and enjoys it! I love the ingredients listed; it’s hard to find good quality dog food with chicken as the main ingredient! I will be buying this for a long time!”
Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy
Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy
Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy: Your Aussie’s optimal nutrition.
Protein-rich chicken, chicken, and salmon meal guarantee balanced nutrition (32% protein, 14% fat).
Includes omega-3 for brain and vision development and ideal calcium levels for growing pups.
Reasonably priced and highly recommended.
Pros
Rich in chicken, chicken meal, and salmon meal.
Balanced nutrition: 32% protein and 14% fat.
Contains omega-3 for brain and vision.
Suitable calcium levels for puppies.
Reasonably priced.
Cons
Higher carb content (45% estimated).
Not suitable for all puppies.
Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy – Best Dog Food for Australian Shepherds
Large Breed Puppy is among 13 dry kibble recipes scrutinized in our Wellness Complete Health product line review.
Reasonably priced and highly recommended, Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy offers balanced nutrition crucial for Aussie puppies’ growth. While it may have a higher carbohydrate content and not suit all puppies, its quality ingredients make it a top choice.
- Main Ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, peas, ground brown rice, salmon meal
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 32%
- AAFCO Standards: Growth
- Best For: Australian Shepherd Puppies
Sample buyer review:
“A 6-month-old lab loves this food. He had been on the Purina Pro Plan from the breeder, but I wanted to change it to higher-quality ingredients. He gobbled this down and is so excited to eat. Great weight, energy & shiny, healthy coat. Also, the food has no smell, which is nicer than other dry foods.”
Iams ProActive Health Lamb & Rice
Iams ProActive Health Lamb & Rice
Iams ProActive Health Lamb & Rice offers rich protein from lamb and chicken by-product meals, with balanced nutrition (28% protein, 16% fat).
Trusted by veterinarians and breeders, it’s affordable and has multiple options.
However, note its higher carbs (49% estimated carbs) and use of chicken by-product meal.
Still, it provides quality nutrition for adult Aussies at a great value.
Pros
Rich in fresh lamb and chicken by-product meal.
Balanced nutrition (28% protein, 16% fat).
Affordable with multiple options.
Trusted by veterinarians and breeders.
Cons
Higher carbs (49% estimated carbs).
Contains chicken by-product meals.
Affordable and highly recommended, Iams ProActive Health Lamb & Rice provides balanced nutrition that is crucial for adult Aussies. Despite higher carbs and the inclusion of chicken by-product meal, its quality ingredients make it a top choice.
- Main Ingredients: Lamb, brewers rice, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain barley, ground whole grain corn
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 28%
- AAFCO Standards: Maintenance
- Best For: Adult Aussies
Sample buyer review:
“My picky eater rescue mix has been hard to please for the 2 years we’ve had her. I’ve tried several food brands and have settled on Blue Buffalo lamb, as she prefers lamb to chicken in her food. As time went on, she stopped eating the Blue Buffalo. I had to start mixing wet food, cheese, bacon, or anything I could find to get her to eat it. Then we found Iams, Lamb, and Rice. WOW! She eats ALL her food happily, and I don’t need to mix anything. Finally, I have found a food she likes.”
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Real Beef
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Real Beef
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Real Beef: Tailored for adult Australian Shepherds with premium ingredients, 29% protein, and 17% fat.
Grain-inclusive and free from by-products, it offers optimal nutrition at an affordable price.
It is ideal for keeping your Aussie healthy and happy.
Pros
Quality nutrition with fresh beef and pork meal.
Balanced diet (29% protein, 17% fat).
Grain-inclusive formula excludes meat by-products and synthetic preservatives.
Affordable and highly recommended for sensitive pups.
Cons
Moderate carbs (46% estimated).
Limited flavor options.
Merrick Healthy Grains Real Beef offers quality nutrition with fresh beef and pork meal as its primary protein sources. Analyzing the dry matter label, it contains 29% protein, 17% fat, and 46% estimated carbs, ensuring a balanced diet for adult Aussies.
Unlike Merrick’s grain-free line, this classic, grain-inclusive formula excludes meat by-products and synthetic preservatives like BHA. Affordable and highly recommended, it’s a top choice for sensitive pups.
- Main Ingredients: Deboned beef, pork meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 29%
- AAFCO Standards: Maintenance
- Best For Adult Australian Shepherds
Sample buyer review:
“I spent days researching food for my dog. He is allergic to chicken and turkey, and his stomach is susceptible. I’ve experienced with many food brands, and they didn’t work. This has worked wonders for him! He doesn’t have a rash or upset stomach any more. He loves the flavor! This lasts us way longer than other foods we have bought. It’s high quality and works for our little sensitive pup.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Specialized Diets Necessary for Australian Shepherds?
While there aren’t established nutrient standards for Australian Shepherds, it’s crucial to acknowledge their varying nutritional needs across life stages.
Tailored nutrition is essential for Aussie puppies, adults, or seniors. Therefore, eating dog food formulated to meet your pet’s specific life stage is imperative.
Which Dog Food is Ideal for Australian Shepherd Puppies?
Considering their susceptibility to hip disease, it’s wise to opt for foods with a controlled calcium balance for Aussie puppies. Despite their medium-breed status, prioritizing large-breed puppy formulas is safer.
For instance, Wellness Large Breed Puppy food is a suitable choice. Explore The Doggo Bio’s Best Large Breed Puppy Foods for a comprehensive list.
When Should I Transition My Australian Shepherd Puppy to Adult Food?
Australian Shepherd puppies continue growing and aren’t suited for regular adult dog food until 12 to 15 months old. Switching too early could heighten the risk of canine hip dysplasia, a debilitating condition.
Which Dog Food is Ideal for Senior Australian Shepherds?
As per VCA Hospitals, larger breed dogs like Australian Shepherds may enter their senior years earlier, typically around 7 to 10. If your Aussie falls into this category, explore our best senior dog foods page for excellent recommendations.
How much food should I give my Australian Shepherd?
The quantity varies depending on their age, size, and activity level. Typically, adult Australian Shepherds require 2 to 3 cups of dry food daily, divided into two meals. Adhere to the food package instructions and tweak as necessary based on your dog’s wellbeing and activity level.
Is a grain-free diet suitable for Australian Shepherds?
While they can consume such a diet, it’s typically unnecessary unless they have particular allergies or sensitivities. Ensuring the grain-free diet is well-balanced and includes all essential nutrients is crucial.
Before implementing significant dietary changes, consult your veterinarian for guidance. Explore our best grain-free dog foods page for excellent recommendations.
Is wet or dry food more suitable for Australian Shepherds?
The decision hinges on your Aussie’s inclinations and health requirements. Dry food promotes dental health, whereas wet food can be tastier and more hydrating. Some owners prefer combining both to offer a well-rounded set of advantages.
You can also explore our best wet dog foods and best dry dog foods page for excellent recommendations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best dog food for Australian Shepherds is crucial for their health and wellbeing. It is essential to opt for high-quality dog food rich in proteins, moderate in fats, and tailored to their age, activity level, and specific health needs.
Whether you choose grain-free or grain-inclusive options, prioritize real meat as the primary ingredient and avoid fillers like corn or wheat.
Additionally, feeding your Australian Shepherd twice daily and consulting with your veterinarian for guidance on diet and nutrition are vital steps to ensure they lead a healthy and happy life.