Strong, energetic, intelligent, and fearless, the Doberman Pinscher is a loyal canine companion that requires and deserves good, delicious, nutrient-dense foods. This breed is prone to certain health problems if the owner is not very careful with his or her pet’s lifestyle, so the importance of good dog food choices cannot be overstated.
To keep your Doberman healthy and happy, you need to provide him with all the nutrients he needs, including protein, healthy fats, carbs, vitamins, and minerals. To help you do that, we’ve compared and tested dozens of different canine foods, coming up with the list of the best dog foods for Dobermans. Take a look and pick the right product for your regal canine pet.
At a Glance: 11 Best Dog Food for Dobermans
| Editor's Picks | Product Name | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Merrick Grain Free Dry Dog Food | Buy on Amazon | 4.7 |
| Best for All Life Stages | Canidae Premium Dry Dog Food with Whole Grains | Buy on Amazon | 4.5 |
| Best Grain-Free | Wellness Core Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food | Buy on Amazon | 5.0 |
| Best Organic | Castor & Pollux Chicken & Sweet Potato Dog Food | Buy on Amazon | 4.7 |
| Best Wet Food | Newman's Own Dinner for Dogs | Buy on Amazon | 4.5 |
| Best for Weight Gain | Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Dog Food | Buy on Amazon | 4.7 |
| Best for Healthy Skin & Coat | AvoDerm Natural Chicken Recipe Dog Food | Buy on Amazon | 4.6 |
| Best for Puppies | ORIJEN Puppy Large Dry Dog Food | Buy on Amazon | 4.6 |
| Best Holistic | Holistic Select Natural Dry Dog Food | Buy on Amazon | 4.4 |
| Best for Older Dogs | Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Dog Food | Buy on Amazon | 4.8 |
| Best for Less Active Dogs | Purina Pro Plan Weight Management Adult Dog Food | Buy on Amazon | 4.6 |
1 Best Overall: Merrick Grain Free Dry Dog Food
- Brand: Merrick
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned Bison, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Potatoes, Deboned Beef
- Primary Protein Source: Bison, Chicken & Turkey
- Calories: 391 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Bison, Beef + Sweet Potato
- Life Stage: Adult
Full of protein, healthy fats and fiber, Merrick’s grain-free dog food contains real deboned buffalo meat along with healthy sweet potatoes and other produce. Rich in omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids that not only boost your dog’s immune system and overall well-being, but improve the appearance and feel of his coat, this dog food will have your Doberman look and feel great.
The product contains no wheat, soy, corn or any gluten ingredients which makes it perfect for dogs with grain allergies and sensitive stomachs. This is an easily digestible, highly palatable dog food that also contains glucosamine and chondroitin – ingredients known to help with joint and muscle pain. It’s made in the USA, in the Merric’s organically certified kitchens, so the quality is guaranteed.
You may also like this guide on Merrick Dog Food.
Deboned Bison, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Potatoes, Deboned Beef, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, Chicken Fat, Whitefish Meal, Tapioca, Natural Flavor, Salmon Meal, Potato Protein, Pea Protein, Flaxseed, Sunflower Oil, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Apples, Blueberries, 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, Copper Sulfate, 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, 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.
2 Best for All Life Stages: Canidae Premium Dry Dog Food with Whole Grains
- Brand: CANIDAE
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, White Rice
- Primary Protein Source: Chicken, Lamb & Turkey
- Calories: 468 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Chicken, Turkey, Lamb, Fish Meal
- Life Stage: All
A nutritionally dense formula with high-quality ingredients that is suitable for all life stages of a Doberman (or any dog breed for that matter), the Canidae is the ideal choice for pet parents who own multiple dogs.
Containing chicken, turkey, lamb and fish meals, this dry dog food has optimum protein for muscle development and support. Vet-formulated, it contains no wheat, corn or soy, which makes it a great choice for canines sensitive to grains. Furthermore, it has no chicken by-product, only real meat and wholesome ingredients. To be nutritionally complete, the Canidae dog food is fortified with vitamins and minerals, as well as probiotics. Additionally, it contains naturally occurring glucosamine and chondroitin which are good for bone and cartilage health.
Read our in-depth CANIDAE Dog Food Review.
Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, White Rice, Rice Bran, Peas, Potatoes, Oatmeal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Chicken Fat, Millet, Tomato Pomace, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Oceanfish Meal, Salmon Oil, Choline Chloride, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Suncured Alfalfa, Inulin (From Chicory Root), Lecithin, Sage Extract, Cranberries, Beta-Carotene, Rosemary Extract, Sunflower Oil, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Trichoderma Longibrachiatum Fermentation Extract, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid), Minerals (Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Manganese Proteinate, Manganous Oxide, Manganese Sulfate, Sodium Selenite), Mixed Tocopherols (A Preservative), Papaya, Pineapple. Contains A Source Of Live Naturally Occurring Microorganisms.
3 Best Grain-Free: Wellness Core Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food
- Brand: Wellness
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Lentils, Peas, Dried Ground Potatoes
- Primary Protein Source: Chicken & Turkey
- Calories: 342 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Chicken & Turkey
- Life Stage: Adult
If you’re looking for nutritionally complete, calorie-dense food packed with natural and healthy ingredients, check out the Wellness Core’s grain-free dry dog food. With chicken and turkey, spinach and flaxseed, this particular dog food is highly rich in protein, healthy fats, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. It’s also fortified with important vitamins and minerals, as well as probiotics, meaning it’s excellent for improving your Doberman’s overall health and digestion.
The Wellness Core dog food contains no grain, meat by-products, artificial preservatives or flavors, so it’s a perfect choice for all pet parents who want their dog’s diet to be as healthy as possible. And if your dog has bone or muscle pain, know that there are glucosamine and chondroitin added in this kibble.
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine), Turkey Meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate), Lentils, Peas, Dried Ground Potatoes, Tomato Pomace, Ground Flaxseed, Pea Fiber, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Chicken Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Vitamin E Supplement, Spinach, Broccoli, Carrots, Parsley, Apples, Blueberries, Kale, Choline Chloride, L-Carnitine, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Zinc Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Iron Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Chicory Root Extract, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract. This is a naturally preserved product.
4 Best Organic: Castor & Pollux Chicken & Sweet Potato Dog Food
- Brand: Castor & Pollux
- First 5 ingredients: Organic Chicken, Organic Chicken Meal, Organic Sweet Potatoes, Organic Potatoes, Organic Peas
- Primary Protein Source: Chicken
- Calories: 387 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Chicken, Sweet Potato, Poultry, Fruits & Vegetables
- Life Stage: Adult
If you are looking for some high-quality dog food for your Doberman, look no further than the Castor & Pollux. This particular dry dog food contains organic chicken as its #1 ingredient, as well as some sweet potatoes and a blend of healthy, organic foods such as flaxseed, blueberries, and coconut oil. A feast for your Doberman, for sure!
There are no artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors, and since everything is made of organic ingredients, you can also relax about added growth hormones, antibiotics, and pesticides – the Castor & Pollux contains none of that. It does, however, contain essential fatty acids, a hefty amount of fiber, and added vitamins and minerals. There is also Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate present, which is great news for your Doberman’s bones and muscles.
To see how it stacks up to the competition, see our article on The Best Organic Dog Food.
Organic Chicken, Organic Chicken Meal, Organic Sweet Potatoes, Organic Potatoes, Organic Peas, Organic Tapioca, Organic Chicken Fat, Organic Sunflower Seed Meal, Organic Pea Protein, Natural Flavor, Organic Flaxseed, Organic Sunflower Oil, Organic Chicken Liver, Organic Blueberries, Salt, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid), Choline Chloride, Minerals (Zinc Methionine Complex, Calcium Carbonate, Zinc Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Ethylenediamine Dihydroiodide), Taurine, Potassium Chloride, Organic Amaranth, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness. 8B35074.
5 Best Wet Food: Newman’s Own Dinner for Dogs
- Brand: Newman’s Own
- First 5 ingredients: Organic Chicken, Sufficient Water for Processing, Ocean Whitefish, Organic Brown Rice, Carrots
- Primary Protein Source: Chicken
- Calories: 191 kcal/5.5 oz can
- Flavor: Chicken & Brown Rice
- Life Stage: Puppy & Adult
A wet dog food with a cause, Newman’s Own Organics has been creating and selling amazing organic dog food for over 20 years. Behind every sale of Newman’s Own Dinner for Dogs are several amazing charitable causes that the sale proceeds go to. Newman’s Own have been giving to charity since 1982, ensuring that the people and dogs who need assistance are getting it.
This great-tasting can of Dinner for Dogs is made using 70% organic ingredients, with the very first ingredient on the label being organic chicken. That means that there’s more chicken in this recipe than any other ingredient, ensuring that your pup is getting the best quality dog food when they eat their dinner beside you.
Organic Chicken, Sufficient Water for Processing, Ocean Whitefish, Organic Brown Rice, Carrots, Oat Bran, Flaxseed, Tricalcium Phosphate, Dried Kelp, Guar Gum, Carrageenan, Potassium Chloride, Minerals (Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Cobalt Amino Acid Chelate, Sodium Selenite, Potassium Iodide), Salt, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Biotin, Riboflavin Supplement).
6 Best for Weight Gain: Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Dog Food
- Brand: Taste of the Wild
- First 5 ingredients: Salmon, Ocean Fish Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Peas
- Primary Protein Source: Salmon & Peas
- Calories: 360 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Salmon, Seafood & Fish
- Life Stage: Adult
Premium dog food on a budget? Yes, the Taste of the Wild has got you covered with its Pacific Stream Canine Formula that is packed with protein, healthy fats and probiotics. This is a fish-protein and grain-free kibble that tastes absolutely delicious in dog-terms.
Made of smoked salmon and supplemented with various vegetables and fruits, this formula is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as in various antioxidants, which is all fantastic news for your Doberman’s well-being and coat. Besides high-quality fish, you can find sweet potatoes and peas here, tomatoes, blueberries and rasperries, as well as a few added vitamins and minerals. The added probiotics and dried chicory root up the fiber content and make this dog food highly digestible. Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream is one of 7 dog food recipes included in our Taste of The Wild Dog Food Review.
Salmon, Ocean Fish Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Peas, Canola Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Lentils, Salmon Meal, Smoked Salmon, Potato Fiber, Natural Flavor, 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, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganous Oxide, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D Supplement, Folic Acid. Contains A Source Of Live (Viable), Naturally Occurring Microorganisms.
7 Best for Healthy Skin & Coat: AvoDerm Natural Chicken Recipe Dog Food
- Brand: AvoDerm
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken Meal, Ground Brown Rice, Ground White Rice, Oatmeal, Chicken Fat
- Primary Protein Source: Chicken
- Calories: 360 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Chicken, Poultry
- Life Stage: Adult
In need of super-healthy, delicious Doberman dog food? Give AvoDerm’s formula a try. This kibble contains chicken meal, brown rice and California avocados for that healthy fat content and savory taste. Crafted for adult dogs, the AvoDerm’s food is rich in protein and quality fats with a balanced omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio. Brown rice, oatmeal, flaxseed, kelp meal and other natural ingredients add to the fiber content and ensure high levels of antioxidants, so important for the Doberman’s overall health.
The formula is also enriched with a few vitamins and minerals, but contains no artificial colors. Also, you’ll find no corn, wheat or soy here. And finally, this dog food is made of dry food ingredients that come from USA, Canada, New Zealand or France, so the quality is guaranteed.
Chicken Meal, Ground Brown Rice, Ground White Rice, Oatmeal, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Rice Bran, Avocado, Dried Tomato Pomace, Flax Seed (Source of Omega 3), Natural Flavor, Alfalfa Meal, Herring Meal, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Kelp Meal, Avocado Oil, Vitamins (Choline Chloride, a-Tocopherol Acetate (Source of Vitamin E), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source of Vitamin C), Niacin, Biotin, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Source of Vitamin B6), Thiamine Mononitrate (Source of Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid), Minerals (Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Selenium Yeast, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Calcium Iodate), Rosemary Extract, Sage Extract, Pineapple Stem, Papaya Extract, Dehydrated Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dehydrated Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product, Dehydrated Bifidobacterium Thermophilum Fermentation Product, Dehydrated Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product.
8 Best for Puppies: ORIJEN Puppy Large Dry Dog Food
- Brand: ORIJEN
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Turkey, Flounder, Whole Mackerel, Chicken Liver
- Primary Protein Source: Turkey, Chicken
- Calories: 451 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Turkey, Chicken, Poultry, Seafood & Fish
- Life Stage: Puppy
“Biologically appropriate” dog food that is made with fresh regional ingredients. Some of the top ingredients in this product’s recipe include free-run chicken and turkey that has been deboned before it’s been added to the formula, and wild-caught fish. Your pup is truly getting pampered with all of these amazing raw animal ingredients.
Orijen understands that canines are carnivores. Their meat-eating nature is ancestral, and even today’s domestic house dogs need to have a diet that is rich in meat-based nourishment. That’s part of the reason that raw feeding is so popular, but not all pet parents enjoy handling raw meat every day, so Orijen has stepped up to deliver a quality kibble that has 15 different raw or fresh animal ingredients in its recipe. For a wider selection of choices, check out our Orijen dog food review.
Chicken, Turkey, Flounder, Whole Mackerel, Chicken Liver, Turkey Giblets (Liver, Heart, Gizzard), Whole Herring, Eggs, Dehydrated Chicken, Dehydrated Turkey, Dehydrated Mackerel, Dehydrated Chicken Liver, Dehydrated Egg, Whole Red Lentils, Whole Pinto Beans, Whole Peas, Lentil Fiber, Whole Green Lentils, Whole Navy Beans, Natural Chicken Flavor, Whole Chickpeas, Pollock Oil, Chicken Fat, Chicken Heart, Pea Starch, Dehydrated Pumpkin, Salt, Vitamin E Supplement, Whole Pumpkin, Whole Butternut Squash, Collard Greens, Whole Apples, Whole Pears, Whole Cranberries, Dried Kelp, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Freeze-Dried Chicken, Freeze-Dried Turkey, Taurine, Thiamine Mononitrate, Calcium Pantothenate, 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.
9 Best Holistic: Holistic Select Natural Dry Dog Food
- Brand: Holistic Select
- First 5 ingredients: Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Brown Rice, Barley
- Primary Protein Source: Lamb & Chicken
- Calories: 433 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Lamb Meal & Oatmeal
- Life Stage: Puppy
If you have a Doberman puppy, you need to feed him the finest, most nutritionally-dense ingredients so he can properly develop and grow into a strong, capable canine. That’s where he Holistic Select’s formula can help. Packed with protein, healthy fats and loads of probiotics and prebiotics, this dog food is one best foods for Doberman puppy.
The formula contains lamb and chicken meal, salmon oil and whole grains such as oatmeal, brown rice, barley, as well as flaxseed, apples, blueberries, papayas, pomegranates and other healthy, wholesome ingredients. It’s also fortified with various vitamins and minerals and contains many natural fibers, digestive enzymes and botanicals. Importantly, there are no artificial flavors, colors and other fillers, and the formula is wheat-free. All in all, a perfect Doberman puppy food!
Find out more about the best dog food for puppies in our ultimate guide and review.
Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Brown Rice, Barley, Peas, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Oats, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Salmon Oil, Flaxseed, Pumpkin, Cranberries, Apples, Brewers Dried Yeast, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Papayas, Taurine, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Blueberries, Pomegranates, Vitamin E Supplement, Inulin, L-Carnitine, Dried Kelp, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Zinc Sulfate, Niacin, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Vitamin A Supplement, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Ground Cinnamon, Ground Fennel, Ground Peppermint, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Dried Lactobacillus bulgaricus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus thermophilus Fermentation Product, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Dried Bacillus licheniformis Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Aspergillus oryzae Fermentation Product, Dried Trichoderma reesei Fermentation Product, Dried Rhizopus oryzae Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.
10 Best for Older Dogs: Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Dog Food
- Brand: Nutro
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Brewers Rice
- Primary Protein Source: Chicken
- Calories: 304 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Chicken, Brown Rice & Sweet Potato
- Life Stage: Senior
Expertly crafted for larger dog breeds that have entered their senior years (age 6 and up), Nutro’s Natural Choice Dog Food boasts a chicken and brown rice recipe that your older pup is sure to enjoy. There are no nasty filler ingredients in this kibble – which means no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy to take up space in a wholesome recipe.
Real chicken is the top ingredient in this product, giving the bulk of the kibble a high-quality source of protein to work with. There’s also plenty of natural fiber included in the recipe, which will aid your dog’s digestive system while the rest of the ingredients get to work aiding their joints and cartilage. This is certainly an excellent product for all aging dogs, but particularly those who are already suffering from joint aches and pains.
Check out our guide on large breed dog food for more info.
Chicken, Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate), Whole Grain Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Split Peas, Rice Bran, Whole Grain Sorghum, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Flavor, Whole Flaxseed, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Choline Chloride, Potassium 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.
11 Best for Less Active Dogs: Purina Pro Plan Weight Management Adult Dog Food
- Brand: Purina Pro Plan
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Rice, Whole Grain Wheat, Poultry By-Product Meal, Corn Gluten Meal
- Primary Protein Source: Chicken
- Calories: 361 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Chicken & Rice
- Life Stage: Adult
Great dry dog food for your chubbier pet who needs a little extra help losing weight. There are plenty of dogs out there who overeat, and Toy dog breeds are particularly prone to obesity if they aren’t watched during mealtimes. Purina is a household brand name that everyone has heard of, even if they don’t feed it to their own pets.
The brilliant thing about this product from Purina is that it contains 15% less fat than their other Pro Plan Chicken and Rice Formula for Adult Dogs. It’s also optimized to help your pup keep their muscle while they lose their fat, so your dog won’t be losing what makes them strong as they start dropping the pounds. Natural fiber, prebiotics, and probiotics all play an important role in your dog’s digestive health, making sure that they can easily digest their food without holding on to the calories.
Chicken, Rice, Whole Grain Wheat, Poultry By-Product Meal (Source Of Glucosamine), Corn Gluten Meal, Oat Meal, Barley, Pea Fiber, Fish Meal (Source Of Glucosamine), Dried Egg Product, Beef Fat Preserved With Mixed-tocopherols, Natural Flavor, Wheat Bran, Fish Oil, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Potassium Citrate, Vitamins [Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin (Vitamin B-3), Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Vitamin K), Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Biotin (Vitamin B-7)], Choline Chloride, Mono And Dicalcium Phosphate, Minerals [Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite], L-lysine Monohydrochloride, Taurine, L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (Vitamin C), Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product, Garlic Oil. G448119.
Best Dog Food for Dobermans Buying Guide & FAQ
Like humans, dogs require proper nutrition to be healthy and happy. But Dobermans in particular, the very active and muscular breed that they are, require special nutrition, with a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. All nine dog foods we reviewed above check the right boxes and then some, so it should be easy to pick the right dog food for your Doberman. And if it isn’t, this buying guide should be able to help.
Here, we cover everything you need to know in order to pick the best dog food for Dobermans. We also answer some of the commonly asked questions, in the hope the answers further assist you in your purchase. So read on, inform yourself, and get your Doberman the food he deserves.
Characteristics of a Reliable Doberman Dog Food
To get the best dog food for your Doberman, it’s crucial to know what to look for. So what does a good Doberman food look like?
First of all, you want to look for dog foods consisting of real, natural, nutritious ingredients, such as real meat, healthy fats, fish, whole grains if your pup can tolerate them, and some fruits and veggies for a complete nutritional profile, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s good when the food is also fortified with additional vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins D3, A, C, B, zinc, calcium, magnesium, manganese, and others.
Meat
Good food for Dobermans should have real meat listed as its first ingredient. This can be whole meat, such as beef or chicken, or meat meal, as both of these have plenty of protein and important amino acids.
Healthy fats
Healthy fats should always be a part of a good dog diet. Look for ingredients such as salmon oil (excellent for the Doberman’s coat!), coconut oil, flaxseed oil, avocados, but also chicken fat and beef fat. Basically, your Doberman, whether a puppy or an adult dog, needs a hefty amount of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to be healthy.
Fish
Fish is always a nice addition to a dog’s diet. Rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids and packed with protein, fish will boost your Doberman’s health and improve the look of his coat. Fish ingredients to look for are whole salmon, smoked salmon, herring, walleye, and other shorter-lived species that contain minimal amounts of heavy metals. Take a look at our article on salmon dog food for more info.
Whole grains
If your Doberman can tolerate grains, make sure you include some in his diet, as they are rich in fiber and excellent for digestion. Look for brown rice, oats, millet, barley, and other healthy whole grains.
Fruits and veggies
A reliable Doberman dog food should also include some fruits and veggies. Plants contain fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants and can reduce your dog’s risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Some things to look for: sweet potatoes, peas, carrots, tomatoes, zucchini, blueberries, raspberries, apples…
Nutritional Needs of Dobermans
As mentioned, Dobermans are energetic and can grow up to be really big canines, and as such, their calorie intake should be slightly higher than the intake of a typical dog. Of course, this entirely depends on the size and weight of your Doberman, as well as his activity levels, but generally speaking, Dobermans should eat calorie-dense diets.
Check out our round-up of High-Calorie Dog Foods.
And then there are Doberman’s health problems to consider. Because they’re prone to bloat, allergies, kidney disease, Wobbler’s syndrome, hypoglycemia, and hypothyroidism among other things, it’s important to feed give them only high-quality foods that will support their immune systems and wellbeing, and not add to potential underlying health issues.
Protein
Dobermans need lots of protein, but then again, not too much. Because they’re quite energetic and active, they tend to thrive on high protein dog food – for adult dogs, that’s anywhere between 15% – 30% of protein, while for puppies, it’s between 22% to 32%. And the more your dog is active, the more protein she needs.
However, and this is big, however, Dobermans are also prone to kidney disease. As you know, eating too much protein worsens the condition, so it’s important not to go overboard with meat and other protein-rich foods. To be sure you’re feeding your Doberman the right amount of protein, it’s best to talk to your vet.
You may also like our review of Dog Food for Kidney Disease.
Fat
Like most canines, Dobermans require quite a bit of fat in their diet. Granted, they don’t have long hair so you may not be able to see how a lack of healthy fats affects the look of their coat immediately. Nevertheless, their coats are prone to drying out, so it’s important they have enough of good fats in their diet, omega -3 and omega-6 fatty acids included.
You may also like our piece on the best dog food for shedding.
Carbs
Because they’re prone to hypoglycemia and hypothyroidism, it’s vital to feed your Doberman good, complex carbohydrates. As we already mentioned, whole grains are an excellent choice if your dog is not sensitive to grains, but even if she is, slow-burning fruits and veggies can take their place. In fact, even if your Doberman is eating dog food rich in healthy, whole grains, it’s always a good idea to look for vegetables and fruits as ingredients as well.
Ingredients to Avoid Feeding Your Doberman
Just like there are things you should look for when buying Doberman dog food, there are things you should stay away from. These include:
Meat by-products
Although strong and energetic, Dobermans are sensitive canines who should only be fed the best foods. Meat by-products are not one of them. These ingredients can sometimes be ok, but sometimes anything but ok – the point is, with meat by-products you never know, so it’s best not to risk. Sometimes the meat can be whole meat (highly unlikely though), but most often than not, it just remains from the slaughterhouse, including brains, chicken feet, intestines, blood, etc.
Artificial preservatives
Although dog food must stay fresh and safe for as long as possible, it’s best to avoid artificial preservatives such as BHT and Ethoxyquin, as these ingredients can irritate sensitive stomachs and the immune systems of Dobermans.
Artificial flavors and colors
Some added flavors can make the dog food more appetizing to your Doberman, but it’s still best to avoid artificial…well, anything. Because they’re prone to quite a few health issues and allergies, Dobes should ideally stick to natural, wholesome foods.
Low-quality fillers
Whole grains, veggies, and fruits are welcome in dog food, but wheat, corn, and other gluten fillers? Not really. In fact, it’s wise to avoid these ingredients as they add nothing of value to your Doberman’s diet, except for calories. Not to mention, if your pup has a gluten allergy or just a sensitive stomach, these low-quality fillers can aggravate her symptoms.
See our round-up of the Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs.
Common Doberman Health Problems
Dobermans are a highly energetic dog breed that requires physical exertion every day, but they’re also quite sensitive animals that need a proper diet in order to be healthy and well. Still, even if you’re doing everything right, your dog can develop some of the following health problems:
Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Dilated Cardiomyopathy, or DCM for short, is basically an enlarged heart that progressively becomes weaker. Symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Depression
- Fainting
- Weakness
Wobbler’s syndrome
This health problem is a neurological disorder caused by an instability in the intervertebral disk in the dog’s neck area. Symptoms of this disorder, otherwise known as Cervical Vertebral Instability, are:
- Wobbly gait
- Neck pain
- Holding the neck in a flexed arc
- Weakness of the hind legs
Chronic active hepatitis
This disease affects the liver and makes it unable to metabolize copper, normally found in many whole foods, as well as packaged dog foods. Symptoms include:
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
- Fluid retention
Hypothyroidism
Like humans, some large dog breeds are prone to hypothyroidism. Although not gravely dangerous, it’s wise to test your dog for an underactive thyroid so you can feed him the right foods. Symptoms are:
- Dry skin
- Lethargy and depression
- Cold sensitivity
Bloat
Dobermans are prone to serious bloating which can be life-threatening if not dealt with immediately. It may occur if the dog is fed heavy, with foods difficult to digest, or if she eats too fast. Exercise right after eating or right before eating doesn’t help either. Symptoms of bloat, also know as Volvulus Syndrome, are:
- Gagging
- Abdominal pain
- Excessive slobber
Hip Dysplasia
Unfortunately, many Dobermans are prone to hip dysplasia, which a malformation of the hip joint that can lead to pain and weakness. The condition can be both hereditary and acquired through life. Symptoms include:
- Decreased activity
- Difficulty rising
- Limping
When Should I Switch my Doberman Puppy to Adult Food?
There isn’t any difference between switching a Doberman puppy and any other breed of a puppy from puppy food to adult food. You can start the transition at 12 months old, sticking with the same brand where possible. All brands that make puppy food usually make adult dog food, too. By sticking with the same brand, you’ll be giving your dog a very similar set of ingredients, which will help prevent any stomach upsets. The best dog food is one that can follow your pup as they grow.
Take a look at our guide on Popular Dog Food Brands.
How do I Transition my Doberman to a New Food?
When switching dog foods, always do so slowly. Start the transition by mixing both dog foods together using a quarter cup of the new food and three-quarters of the old food. Do this for two days, then mix the dog foods on a ratio of 50/50 for days three and four.
Day five and six should be three-quarters new food and one-quarter old food.
Day seven should be all new food.
If at any point your dog appears to have an adverse reaction to the new food, they may have food allergies to the ingredients in the new food. Some stomach upset is normal when switching foods, but food allergies will cause more symptoms.
Let’s Talk Raw! Should I Feed my Doberman Raw Food?
Although the pet industry is full of some of the best dog foods around, the raw diet has been gaining popularity with plenty of pet owners. Dog food formula has come a long way, but many dog owners are turning to raw feeding because of the carnivorous nature of canines. Even the best dog foods can’t truly replicate a fully raw food diet.
When deciding to feed your Doberman healthy raw foods, be sure that they are getting the proper nutrition that is needed for large breed dogs. Doberman Pinscher dogs are more than capable of eating raw, but it’s not enough to throw your dog some raw meat and call it a day.
To feed your Doberman Pinscher a balanced diet of raw food, you’ll need to calculate how much raw meat your pup needs, as well as how much other raw food (like vegetables, bones, fruit, etc.) should be in their diet.
Read here our article on Freeze-Dried Dog Food.
What about Grain-Free Food? Is it Really Better for my Doberman Pinscher?
Having your Doberman Pinscher eat grain-free as part of their balanced diet is a great way to help them avoid obesity and other health issues. Large breed dogs can be prone to obesity, largely due to overfeeding or overeating. Too many carbohydrates will make your dog sleepy, and may also cause digestive issues. Good dog food should be grain-free, contain a good source of animal protein, and have a few animal by-products as possible.
Source:
- Dobermann, Pets4Homes
FAQ:
Like all young pups, Doberman puppies require special care and attention. To put it mildly, they’re lively and rambunctious, so they require daily exercise and play. If they’re not exercised daily, they may become irritated and too mischievous, so make sure you spend some quality time with your puppy every day.
Like adult Dobermans, puppies are also highly intelligent, loyal and trainable, so make a point of spending some time honing their skills and adjusting their temperament to suit your and your family’s needs every or every other day. Don’t forget to provide enough socialization for your Doberman puppy too, who, if not exposed to people and other animals early, can become aggressive or too shy towards and around strangers.
And finally, don’ forget about your puppy’s diet. Dobermans are prone to certain health issues (see above), so it’s vital to give them healthy, nutritious dog food only.
Because they’re prone to bloat, Dobermans should be fed small meals several times throughout the day. If you have a puppy, feed him three times a day, and if you have an adult Doberman, give him two to three (top) meals a day.
The amount of food you should be giving to your Doberman depends on two major factors:
- His age
- His activity levels
Puppies should be fed three times a day and according to the instructions provided on the label of the product. Of course, it’s always best to talk to your vet, but generally speaking, Dobe puppies who get average physical activity should eat around 25% protein and around 15% healthy fats. As for adult dogs, they should be fed 2-3 times a day, small portions. You can follow the similar guidelines here as well, but the more active a Doberman is, the more protein and fat he can have.
Puppies have little control over their impulses, so they’ll eat food if it’s available. Because of this, you’ll want to buy from dog food brands that produce puppy chow which is grain-free and uses plenty of natural ingredients. Cheap dog foods often use filler ingredients that aren’t nutritious at all. The best puppy food is one that helps boost your pup’s immune system, uses high-quality protein, stays away from meat meals, and has plenty of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.
Dogs can sometimes have a sensitive stomach, even if they usually have healthy digestion rates. Human food isn’t like pet food, it’s usually much richer and harder for dogs to digest. If you’re thinking of feeding your dog some human food, stick to small amounts and make sure you do your research before feeding them anything off of your plate.
Here are some human foods that dogs can tolerate: Deboned chicken, fish (try to avoid fish meal or fish by-products), white rice, carrots, apples, peanut butter, and watermelon.
Only feed your dog small amounts to help them avoid unnecessary weight gain.
When you’re looking to bulk up your Doberman Pinscher, be sure that they’re doing the right kind of weight gain and not getting chubby from overeating. Though good quality dog food will help you reach the goal you have for your dog, exercise is the best way to help them build muscle. Combine a high-protein diet with a decent amount of daily exercise, and you’ll soon see a difference in your pup.
Try to avoid carbs – so keep your pup away from your famous sweet potato recipe and go for a grain-free recipe dog food. Use good quality protein foods, instead. Farm-raised chicken is fine and is usually a cheap source of protein.
If you find that your dog is always hungry, even when you’ve tried various dog foods for Dobermans and changed their diet to include the best food possible, you may need to consider that there’s an underlying health condition causing issues with their immune system and digestive system. There are some dogs who suffer from health conditions that cause larger appetites, making your dog seem like they’re hungry all the time.
