Best Cheap Dog Food for German Shepherds (Dry and Wet Food)

Are you concerned about paying too much for dog food and not getting a high-quality product? It can be challenging to look for what to look for good quality dog food for your German Shepherds on a budget.

The best dog food for large breeds like German Shepherds should contain mainly animal sources for protein and healthy fats within the AAFCO recommended level. Quality dry dog food for both adult dogs and puppies can run from $0.85 per pound. Wet dog food can cost you as low as $0.14 per oz. Cost does not equal quality.

Regardless, the labels on the packaging are where you want to look at. They contain essential information like the main ingredients, protein and fat percentages, kcal readings in a cup, and so on. Let’s look at some of the cheap dog food you can buy in the market.

(All prices in this post are for reference only, they can change without notice.)

What to look for when choosing the best dog food for German Shepherds?

German Shepherd Dog is a large, muscular, and energetic breed that needs a nutritious diet for their growth and daily activities. They are also prone to having joint issues. So dog owners need to pay special attention when it comes to buying cheap dog food.

The best dog food for your canine companion should meet his nutritional needs.

AKC

Below are the key things you should look for when choosing the best dog food:

Food compositions: Your GSD will thrive on high-quality proteins such as animal protein as opposed to plant protein. The nutrients should be within the minimum and maximum ranges given by AAFCO.

	Puppy	Adult	Senior/Aging
AAFCO recommended requirement	Protein: 22% to 30% Fat:9%	Protein:18% to 29% Fat: 5.5% to 25%	Protein: 18% to 29% Fat: 5.5% to 25%

Skin and coat boosters: Look for ingredients such as  omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids – that are promote healthy skin or coat.

Bone and joint health support: Joint problems can develop early in this breed. Some dog food contains Glucosamine and chondroitin to help prevent arthritis.

Digestive help: Digestible proteins and fiber content can obviously promote healthy digestion.

Potential allergens: If your dog has been diagnosed with a food allergy (e.g. caused by grains), you may consider a grain-free diet under the guidance of your veterinarian. 

Regardless of the price, every owner would want the best food for their dogs. And it’s even better if we can get a bargin especailly during a time of high inflation.

Does price equal quality?

There are plenty of cheap dog foods that are of good quality. Make sure to check labels and ingredient lists. Cost does not always mean it is the highest quality.

Good dog food should have a good source of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Protein should come from an animal source such as chicken, beef, or fish. Dog food should also include essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6.

Best cheap dry food for adult German Shepherds

Here are some of the top best dry foods available for German Shepherds at $2 or less per pound. On average, they should contain around 24% protein and 12% of fat.

And interestingly, the one with the most energy per cup is at the top of the list while the cheapest one has the least kcal per cup.

Brand	Nutrition breakdown	Main ingredients	Price	Unit price per Ib	Energy (kcal) per cup, oz or ib
Blue Buffalo	24% Protein 14% Fat	Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice	$60.98 per 30 lb. bag	$2.04	377 kcal per cup
IAMS Large Breed	22.5% Protein 12% Fat	Chicken, Barley, Corn	$43.99 per 30 lb. bag	$1.46	351 kcal per cup
Victor Super Premium	24% Protein 12% Fat	Beef Meal, Sorghum, Rice	$49.99 per 40 lb. bag	$1.25	357 kcal per cup
Diamond Naturals	25% Protein 15% Fat	Chicken, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes	$42.99 per 40 lb. bag	$1.07	335 kcal per cup
Pedigree	27% Protein 12% Fat	Corn, Meat and Bone Meal, Chicken Meal	$33.78 per 40 lb. bag	$0.85	315 kcal per cup

1. Blue Buffalo Life Protection

Price $2.04 per lb.

Blue Buffalo is a popular brand known for its wholesome ingredients. The Blue Buffalo Life Protection formula has chicken as its first ingredient. There is also a good blend of vegetables and fruits, including tomatoes, peas, and carrots. A 30 lb. bag costs $60.98.

2. IAMS Large Breed Chicken and Whole-Grain Recipe

Price $1.46 per lb.

IAMS Large-Breed has chicken and whole grains as the first ingredients. There is 22.5% protein and 12.5% fat. It is a strong choice for dog food at a great price. Iams large breed is $43.99 for a 30 lb. bag.

3. VICTOR Super Premium Dog Food Beef Meal & Brown Rice Formula

Price $1.25 per lb.

This Victor Super Premium recipe is gluten-free and made from beef and rice. Quality ingredients include a mix of supplements, minerals, and vitamins. The majority of protein is from meat sources. A 40 lb. bag is $49.99.

4. Diamond Naturals Dry Food for Adult Dog, Beef and Rice Formula

Price $1.07 per lb.

Diamond Naturals is a good choice if you need a grain-free option. Cage-free chicken and sweet potatoes are the main ingredients. Salmon oil is also a good source of fatty acids. There is 24% protein and 14% fat. A 28 lb. bag is $51.99.

5. PEDIGREE^® Dry Dog Food High Protein Beef and Lamb Flavor

Price $085 per lb.

This Pedigree High Protein formula has 27% protein, which is the highest in this list. It is also made from real red meat, an excellent protein source for dogs. There is no added sugar or artificial ingredients. At $0.85 per pound, Pedigree is a cost-effective option. A 40 lb. bag costs $33.78.

Best cheap dry food for German Shepherd puppies

German Shepherd puppies require a balanced diet that contains four types of nutrients below. These ingredients will ensure that your pup grows and develops optimally for a longer quality of life.

Here are the recommended nutrition levels for GSD puppies as a large breed dog:

1. Proteins: 22-32%:Proteins can be found in chicken, salmon, beef, lamb, eggs, and dairy.

2. Fats: 10-25%: Fats are important for healthy skin, fur, brain, and vision. Fats can be found in fish oil, chicken fat, and beef fat.

3. Digestible carbohydrates, up to 20%: Carbohydrates supply a good amount of energy for young puppies’ growth. Digestible carbohydrates can be found in rice, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and whole oats.

4. Micronutrients: German Shepherd puppies also need micronutrients like calcium, phosphorus, DHA, and omega-3. They also need fiber to promote digestion and bowel movement and clean water to help with bodily functions.

Brand	Nutrition breakdown	Main ingredients	Price	Unit price per Ib	Energy (kcal) per cup, oz or ib
Victor Active Dog and Puppy	33% Protein 16% Fat	Beef Meal, Peas, Sweet Potato	$56.99 per 30 lb. bag	$1.90	384 kcal per cup
Pure Balance Pro Puppy	27% Protein 17% Fat	Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice	$29.48 per 16 lb. bag	$1.85	367 kcal per cup
Diamond Natural for Puppy	27% Protein 15% Fat	Lamb, lamb mel, whole-grain brown rice	$54.99 per 40 lb. bag	$1.37	414 kcal per cup
IAMS Smart Puppy	27% Protein 14% Fat	Chicken, Ground Whole Grain Corn, Chicken Meal	$41.98 per 30.6 lb. bag	$1.37	373 kcal per cup
Puppy Chow by Purina	27.5% Protein 10% Fat	Corn, Chicken Meal, Corn Gluten Meal	$26.99 per 32 lb. bag	$0.85	406 kcal per cup

1. VICTOR Super Premium Dog Food – Grain Free Active Dog & Puppy

Price $1.90 per lb.

As its name suggests, this food is ideal for puppies and very active dogs. It contains 33% of protein and is made gluten and grain free. 77% of the protein comes from animal sources. At about $1.90 per pound, it is great cheap dog food for your GSD puppy’s growth

2. Pure Balance Pro+ Puppy Chicken & Rice Recipe 

Price $1.85 per lb.

Sold by Walmart, Pure Balance is made with the best ingredients that are carefully selected. Chicken is the first ingredient, and there are no fillers or artificial preservatives. This food has 27% protein with a balanced mix of omega fatty acids to support puppy health.3

3. Diamond Naturals Dry Food for Puppy, Large Breed Lamb and Rice Formula

Price $1.37 per lb.

Specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of your large breed puppy, this formula contains DHA for proper brain and vision development. Ideal protein and mineral content, along with omega fatty acids and antioxidants, help support your large breed puppy’s growth and development. L-Carnitine helps to convert protein and fat into energy for ideal, healthy body condition.

4. IAMS Smart Puppy

Price $1.37 per lb.

This is an all-natural dog food specially made for large-breed puppies of all ages. It is made with real, wholesome ingredients. Made with 22 key nutrients like those found in mother’s milk, including omega-3 DHA to promote healthy cognition, this tasty kibble is also enriched with antioxidants to help develop a strong immune system.

5. Puppy Chow Large Breed Chicken Flavor Formula Dry Dog Food

Price $0.85 per lb.

Puppy Chow by Purina is specially made for dogs under 1 year of age. They contain all essential nutrients and high protein content. This food is extremely cost-effective with a pound of dry kibble at $0.85 cents.

Best cheap wet dog food

Wet food is an excellent addition to your dog’s diet. There are many benefits to adding it.

• Water content is good for hydration
• Adds variety to their food
• Wet food is easy to digest
• Can be more flavorful than dry food
• Often have a higher protein content

Wet food is usually more expensive than dry food. Here are some options to get a high-quality product for the cost.

Brand	Nutrition breakdown	Main ingredients	Price	Unit price per oz	Energy (kcal) per oz or ib
Merrick Full Source	9% Protein 4% Fat	Chicken, Chicken Broth, Turkey Broth	$56. 28 per 12 cans	$0.37 per oz.	396 kcal per 12.7 oz.
Natural Balance Wet Food	5.5% Protein 3.5% Fat	Chicken, Chicken Broth, Potatoes	$41.88 per 12 cans	$0.27 per oz.	405 kcal per 13 oz.
Blue Freedom Wet Food	8.5% Protein 6% Fat	Chicken, Chicken Broth, Liver	$34.68 per 12 cans	$0.24 per oz.	451 kcal per 12.5 oz.
American Journey Limited Ingredient	9% Protein 7% Fat	Lamb, Lamb Broth, Lamb Liver	$30.79 per 12 cans	$0.21 per oz.	460 kcal per 12.5 oz.
Purina Beyond Natural	8% Protein 6% Fat	Chicken, Chicken Broth, Liver	$21.01 per 12 cans	$0.14 per oz.	445 kcal per 13 oz.

Merrick Full Source

Merrick Full Source is great wet food. They provide a sustainable recipe that utilizes as much from each ingredient as they can.

• 95% of protein is from animal sources
• The first ingredient is chicken
• Does not contain peas or lentils
• Readily available at many locations
• Recipes crafted and cooked in USA

Natural Balance Wet Food

Natural Balance wet food offers simple recipes. There are many sensitivities that they consider when making food.

• Chicken is the first ingredient and main protein source
• Sweet potato is a grain-free source of fiber
• Can be a meal or meal topper
• Limits the number of ingredients added
• Complete and balanced nutrition

BLUE Homestyle Recipe® Chicken Dinner with Garden Vegetables 

Blue Buffalo is made from the finest natural ingredients. They use wholesome ingredients to help your dog have a healthy and happy life.

• Do not use chicken by-products
• Chicken is the first ingredient
• Do not use artificial flavors or preservatives
• No corn, wheat, or soy
• Use a wholesome blend of vegetables and fruits

American Journey Limited Ingredient

American Journey is exclusively made for Chewy. All products are manufactured in the USA.

• Made with limited ingredients for dogs with sensitivities
• Grain-free, no corn, wheat, or soy
• Lamb is the one animal source of protein
• Includes omega fatty acids
• Does not contain any poultry by-products

Purina Beyond Natural

Purina has been a trusted name for a long time. They have many foods to fit your dog’s diet. This wet food is made from real chicken raised without steroids or hormones. It contains no corn, wheat, soy, poultry-by-product meal or artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.

Conclusion

There are many great choices for cheap dog food. Many brands offer balanced nutrition at great prices. There are also many great recipes for homemade dog food that you can use. Hopefully, you can confidently check labels and make the best decision for your budget and dog.