Breed-specific feeding: the right diet for the 10 most popular dog breeds

Several dog breeds sitting next to each other

Every dog is unique – not only in their personality, but also in their nutritional needs. Age, size and activity level play an important role in this, but breed also has a profound influence. It determines the metabolism, energy requirements and can even give an indication to possible health problems commonly associated with certain breeds.

Imagine a tiny Chihuahua next to an imposing Great Dane. 1.5 kg meets 60 kg– the difference doesn't get much bigger than that. Both dogs need a balanced diet, but their needs do not only differ in terms of their food servings. Proper feeding lays the foundation for a long, healthy and happy life for your dog.

Why is breed-specific nutrition important?

First things first: the basis of any healthy dog diet is high-quality ingredients that contain all the important nutrients in a balanced ratio. Proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals are essential in supporting your dog's health and vitality. What's crucial here is the bioavailability of the ingredients – in other words, the dog's ability to optimally absorb nutrients from the food.

A high-quality complete dog food is characterised by natural ingredients, a balanced meat content and the absence of unnecessary additives. This way, your dog gets everything they need every day.

Although special breed-specific feed is commercially available, it is not clear whether it offers a significant advantage. It is much more important to know the individual needs of your dog. And these can vary depending on their age, activity level and state of health. So diet should not depend solely on breed, but should be adapted to the specific requirements of your four-legged friend.

Breed and food: where do things differ?

Dogs are as individual as their owners – and this is not only reflected in their character, but also in their needs. One thing is certain: all dogs benefit from a high-quality and natural complete feed. A healthy diet is the basis for a healthy dog life, but there are breed-specific traits to note. The size of a dog has a major influence on its nutritional needs. Small breeds such as Chihuahuas or Yorkshire Terriers often have a fast metabolism and need high-energy, easily digestible food that supports their activity.

In contrast, larger breeds such as Bernese Mountain dogs are more prone to becoming overweight and suffering joint problems – their food should be specially targeted and be moderate in calories. Supplements that contain joint-supporting nutrients such as glucosamine, collagen and chondroitin can be used as additional support.

Very small and short-nosed dogs (such as Chihuahuas, Pugs and Frenchies/French Bulldogs) often struggle with dental problems – they benefit from additional support through food or treats.

Activity level also plays a central role. Breeds such as the Australian Shepherd, which need a lot of exercise, need a higher daily intake of protein and carbohydrates. Lazier dogs, such as the French Bulldog, need a lower calorie intake to avoid being overweight, while still receiving all the essential nutrients.

There are other breed-specific particularities. Studies show that Labradors often cope better with dry food because they have quite a short intestine, which is suitable for digesting compact food. Coat length can also play a role: long-haired dogs like the Maltese benefit from food rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These fatty acids not only promote a shiny coat, but also have an anti-inflammatory effect and support skin health.

The right diet for the 10 most popular dog breeds

Here you will find an overview of the nutritional recommendations for the 10 most popular dog breeds. Regardless of the breed, it is essential to pay attention to high-quality ingredients and a diet tailored to individual needs. And it goes without saying, DOG'S LOVE is opposed to illegal puppy trading and selective breeding that results in health defects, which often go hand in hand with aesthetic trends.

Bernese Mountain dog: The good-natured Bernese mountain dog needs a diet that supports joints. Obesity should be avoided at all costs. A wet food diet tailored to their needs can be ideally combined with a dietary supplement.
Pug: Pugs often struggle with allergies. Hypoallergenic wet food with high-quality protein and no added sugar can help to meet this challenge.
German Shepherd: This versatile breed needs protein-rich food to support their muscles. Functional treats can help support their joints.
Golden Retriever: Golden Retrievers are great family dogs with moderate energy requirements and a lot of hunger. A balanced diet with omega-3 fatty acids promotes shiny fur, and special herbal mixtures support heart health and circulation.
Yorkshire Terrier: The Yorkie is small but has a high energy requirement depending on activity. Crunchy dry food provides them with all the essential nutrients each day and can promote dental health.
Maltese: The Maltese's long, silky coat needs special care – even from within. Dog food that contains healthy fats and omega fatty acids keeps skin and coat healthy. An organic oil is suitable as a supplement.
Australian Shepherd: These active dogs are usually real bundles of energy. Your food should be high in protein and high in quality. When it's time to relax, special treats can help.
Chihuahua: small but mighty. Chihuahuas are unfortunately prone to dental problems, which is why a high-quality complete dog food is best combined with functional treats.
French Bulldog: Frenchies are prone to digestive problems and benefit from easily digestible food with only one source of protein. Natural supplements can further soothe stomach discomfort.
Labrador retriever: The active and eager to learn Labrador loves movement and food in any form. Light dog food can help avoid weight problems.

Age-appropriate dog food

Your dog's nutritional needs change with age. Large breeds grow slower, but age faster. The age limits for junior, adult and senior feed are also guidelines and must be adjusted individually. Talk to your vet to optimally tailor your dog’s diet and provide them with the best possible support in every phase of life.

Puppy time (between 2 and 12 months): in the growth phase, puppies need a lot of energy and high-quality protein to build muscle and tissue. An extra portion of calcium also promotes strong bone development.

The speed of growth depends heavily on the breed: small dogs such as Chihuahuas, Maltese or Pugs usually mature within a year. Large breeds such as Labradors, German Shepherds or Bernese Mountain Dogs take significantly longer.

Adult (between 1 and 10 years): as an adult dog, your four-legged friend needs a balanced complete food that provides him with all essential nutrients. A moderate calorie and fat content helps to maintain ideal weight and stay active.

Senior (aged 10 and over): the senior years bring further change in needs. Older dogs have a slower metabolism and usually need fewer calories. At the same time, the diet should be rich in high-quality protein that's easily digestible to maintain muscle mass and not strain the digestive system.

Two small puppies eating from a food bowl

The right diet for my dog

Although certain dog breeds may have certain tendencies, no general statements can be made about the breed-specific diets. Because every dog is unique, and you should take this into account when choosing food.

The right diet is the key to a healthy and happy life for your dog. Pay attention to high-quality ingredients and a targeted diet that is perfectly tailored to your dog's age, activity level and individual preferences.

If you pay attention to what ends up in your four-legged friend's bowl, you will not only make every meal a treat, but also invest in their health – for a lifetime.