Edited by: Mike Powell
Reviewed by: Abby TexasLast Update:
The Rundown
Best Overall for Australian Shepherds: Orijen Dry Dog Food
“Orijen Dry Dog Food is an excellent source of protein and nutrient-dense materials, which is ideal for dogs of all life stages. This overall winner comprises 85% meat that contains fresh or raw and air-dried ingredients.”
Best For Active Australian Shepherds: Canidae Pure Grain Free Dry Dog Food
“Canidae Pure Real Duck Limited Ingredient dog food is high in protein, which allows highly active dogs to maintain muscle mass while expending large bouts of energy.”
Best for Immune System Boost: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dry Dog Food
“Blue Buffalo Life Protection Program contains gluten-free grains that are easy to digest—ideal for highly active dogs that love to run! This grain-containing dog food supports your Australian Shepherd’s demanding energy needs while allowing them to maintain a healthy weight.”
If you’re on the hunt for the best dog food for your Australian Shepherd, it’s important to remember that they were initially bred as working dogs. They’re typically highly energetic and require ample sources of energy.
Originally bred to herd cattle, Australian Shepherds must channel their boundless energy into plenty of exercise and have the diet to support their daily activities.
If you’re the proud dog parent of one of these beautifully colored fireballs, dog food selection is critical. Below are what we consider the best dog food for sustaining athletic dogs like your pooch.
Table of Contents
- The Rundown
- Best Dog Food for Australian Shepherds
- 1. Orijen Dry Dog Food
- 2. Canidae Pure Grain Free Dry Dog Food
- 3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dry Dog Food
- 4. American Journey Dry Dog Food
- 5. Nutro Grain Free Wet Dog Food
- 6. Merrick Grain Free Senior Dry Dog Food
- 7. Merrick Grain Free Dry Puppy Food
- 8. Earthborn Holistic Coastal Catch Dry Dog Food
- 9. The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food
- 10. Wellness Limited Ingredient Dog Food
- 1. Orijen Dry Dog Food
- What to Look for in the Best Food for Australian Shepherds
- Questions & Answers
- What should I consider when looking for the best dog food for Australian Shepherds?
- What are the nutritional needs of an Australian Shepherd?
- What should I avoid feeding my Australian Shepherd?
- How much should I feed my Australian Shepherd?
- How often should I feed my dog?
- What health conditions should I be aware of with my Australian Shepherd?
- How do I change my Australian Shepherd’s diet?
- What should I consider when looking for the best dog food for Australian Shepherds?
Best Dog Food for Australian Shepherds
Here are our top picks for the best dog foods for Australian Shepherds:
- Best Overall for Australian Shepherds: Orijen Dry Dog Food
- Best for Active Australian Shepherds: Canidae Pure Grain Free Dry Dog Food
- Best for Immune System Boost: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dry Dog Food
- Best Value For Money: American Journey Dry Dog Food
- Best for Fussy Eaters: Nutro Grain Free Wet Dog Food
- Best for Australian Shepherd Seniors: Merrick Grain Free Senior Dry Dog Food
- Best for Puppy Australian Shepherds: Merrick Grain Free Dry Puppy Food
- Best for Sensitive Stomachs: Earthborn Holistic Coastal Catch Dry Dog Food
- Best without Artificial Preservatives: The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food
- Best for Dogs with Allergies: Wellness Limited Ingredient Dog Food
1. Orijen Dry Dog Food
Best Overall for Australian Shepherds: A fantastic protein source that supports puppies and adult dogs
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PROS
- Packed with wholesome ingredients that will sustain your Australian Shepherd’s high energy levels
- Designed to be biologically appropriate or mirror what your dog would have eaten in the wilderness
- Fantastic protein sources for maintaining muscle mass
- Ideal for dogs of all life stages
CONS
- More expensive than some others
Orijen Dry Dog Food is manufactured to be as close as nutritionally possible to your dog’s biological needs. Orijen contains 85% quality animal ingredients to achieve this, which can sustain your dog’s demanding energy needs throughout puppy and adulthood.
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High-protein and at 470 calories a cup, Origen Dry Dog Food is best suited for dogs that get regular exercise throughout all life stages.
2. Canidae Pure Grain Free Dry Dog Food
Best for Active Australian Shepherds: Ideal for dogs with high activity levels and sensitive stomachs
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PROS
- An excellent protein count for dogs that get regular exercise
- Contains limited ingredients to soothe sensitive stomachs
- Simple recipes contain only necessary ingredients
- Includes vitamins, minerals, and a healthy probiotic mix
CONS
- Contains chicken fat, so wouldn’t be suitable for pups who are sensitive to poultry
- High-calorie, so may not suit less active dogs
Because Australian Shepherd dogs tend to be very energetic, Canidae Pure Grain Free Dry Dog Food dog food’s high-calorie count can sustain even the liveliest of pups. Containing 520 calories per cup, this is the highest calorie food we recommend for your sprightly dog.
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As a rule of thumb, work out your sums to determine how many calories your dog needs—this will depend on the amount of exercise it gets in a day and how much your dog weighs. If you have trouble calculating this amount on your own, consult with a veterinary professional.
3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dry Dog Food
Best for Immune System Boost: Contains gluten-free, healthy grains to help sustain a strong immune system
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PROS
- Contain healthy grains such as brown rice, oatmeal, and barley
- Highly palatable and nutritious but low in calorie content
- LifeSource Bits help your dog maintain a healthy oxidative balance and robust immune system
- Contains L-carnitine, which helps your dog burn off fat more efficiently
CONS
- Slightly lower in protein than some
- The “non-chicken” flavours contain sneaky chicken fat, so they’re not poultry-free
For some dog owners, grain-containing dog food is an immediate no-no. However, not every grain is the same—nor does every dog have an intolerance for it. While some indigestible grains such as wheat, corn, and soy are food allergy culprits, those found in the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dry Dog Food, are gluten-free and an excellent energy source.
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Even dogs with sensitive stomachs will take well to the grain content in Blue Buffalo, as it is a reliable source of nutrients and fiber.
4. American Journey Dry Dog Food
Best Value For Money: High-quality ingredients at an affordable price
PROS
- Highly affordable for its high-quality formula
- Perfectly adequate protein, fat, and calorie counts
- Ideal for fueling super-active daily exercise regimens
- Well-rounded and fully balanced with 25% high-quality proteins
CONS
- Chicken sneaks into even the non-chicken flavours in the form of chicken fat, so it may not be great for those pups who are sensitive to poultry
- No glucosamine or chondroitin specified on the label
This American Journey Dry Dog Food is ideal for pet parents on a budget. For just $39.99, you can get a 28-pound bag rich with high-quality ingredients that more than meet your dog’s dietary needs.
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Its formula is manufactured with wholesome ingredients, which provide your Australian Shepherd with the lasting energy it requires. It is also suitable for pets with sensitive stomachs, as it is free of allergy-inducing ingredients such as corn, wheat, soy, and other fillers.
5. Nutro Grain Free Wet Dog Food
Best for Fussy Eaters: Meets your dog’s minimum nutritional needs just as a dry dog food would
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PROS
- Makes for a nutritionally dense supplemental food or topper
- Contains no carrageenan, a non-nutritious thickening agent
- Moist food that is hydrating and contains non-GMO ingredients
- No corn, wheat, soy, by-product meals, and artificial preservatives
CONS
- Slightly lower calorie, so if you’re looking to use this to up your pet’s calories it may not be the best choice
- All flavours contain chicken in some form
Having a go-to canned food is an excellent habit for Australian Shepherd owners to keep up with. Options such as the Nutro Grain Free Wet Dog Food make for an ideal treat or food topper when on the go or supplementing dry dog food.
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These little tubs are made with flavorful meat cuts dipped in gravy. If you’re catering to an older or less active pooch, each cup only contains between 90 and 100 calories. Alternatively, you can mix this into a dry meal for puppies that need to put on weight.
6. Merrick Grain Free Senior Dry Dog Food
Best For Australian Shepherd Seniors: Specially formulated for senior dogs with active lifestyles
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PROS
- Crafted with fewer calories to help older dogs maintain a healthy weight
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support aging joints
- Provides a healthy combination of proteins and fat levels
CONS
- More expensive than some others
- No specified calcium/phosphorus counts, but glucosamine and chondroitin will help
Even in your dog’s later years, the Merrick Grain Free Senior Dry Dog Food can help maintain their active lifestyles and ever-changing nutritional needs. Its calorie count comes in at a moderate 349 per cup, which is helpful for dogs who prefer to lounge over an afternoon running outdoors.
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This Merrick recipe is also rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which keep your senior dog’s coat as healthy and shiny as ever. Its supreme levels of glucosamine and chondroitin help support aging hips and joints.
7. Merrick Grain Free Dry Puppy Food
Best For Puppy Australian Shepherds: Specifically for puppies with higher activity levels
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PROS
- Contains high levels of DHA to support healthy brain development
- Contains glucosamine to strengthen your puppy’s developing joints
- Grain-free formula caters to puppies with sensitive stomachs
CONS
- A little lower in calories than some, which means you may need to make up your pup’s calories with treats (do your calculations first, though!)
Merrick Grain Free Dry Puppy Food is well-suited for puppies of varying activity levels. Its calorie count is on the moderate side, containing around 370 in a single cup to help maintain your growing dog’s weight.
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Containing 28% protein and 12% fat, introducing Merrick as your puppy’s daily meal will allow it to thrive.
Pickier puppies can enjoy two palatable flavors—natural beef and real chicken with sweet potato.
8. Earthborn Holistic Coastal Catch Dry Dog Food
Best for Sensitive Stomachs: Great sources of protein despite containing herring and salmon meal
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PROS
- Formulated with herring and salmon meal to help sustain energy and muscle mass
- Dehydrated ingredients help preserve freshness without the use of artificial preservatives
- Contains antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, which are ideal for optimal health
- Manufactures without gluten, grains, or potatoes
CONS
- No real meat (although the meat meal is good quality)
Despite containing herring and salmon meal, Earthborn Holistic Coastal Catch Dry Dog Food is higher in protein and gentler on the stomach. Its high protein levels suit this breed perfectly and provide what is required to keep them healthy and active.
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It satisfactorily meets all your dog’s nutritional needs and contains a mix of natural fibers from a combination of fruits and vegetables. Enriched with minerals, vitamins, and supplements, Earthborn’s holistic diet helps active dogs maintain lean muscle mass.
9. The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food
Best without Artificial Preservatives: Highly digestible and with a limited-ingredient formula to sustain sensitive stomachs
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PROS
- Without preservatives, by-products, GMO ingredients, and fillers that can cause sensitivity
- Made with natural whole food ingredients that are high in protein
- Of human-grade quality and produced in a human food facility
- Easy to mix with water if your dog requires more moisture in its diet
CONS
- No specified calcium/phosphorus ratio or glucosamine/chondroitin levels (so if your pup needs bone or joint support, you may need to supplement)
- Quite pricey, although one box makes four times the amount
The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food is a lesser-known gem ideal for this specific breed who might have digestive problems. If your dog has trouble gaining weight due to sensitivities or aversions, this dry food is high in calories at about 514 per cup.
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It is ideal for any medium-sized herding dog of all life stages. Rich in essential nutrients, the Honest Kitchen’s formula is bound to make your puppy or adult dog happy!
10. Wellness Limited Ingredient Dog Food
Best for Dogs with Allergies: Ideal for dogs with irritable bowels, intolerance, or allergies
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PROS
- Limited-ingredient and grain-free formula aids digestion in dogs with allergies
- Its natural prebiotics support healthy digestive systems
- Does not contain chicken, which is a common allergen in dogs
- Made with the finest, globally sourced ingredients
CONS
- A little on the pricey side
Unfortunately, this breed of dogs are prone to food allergies and experience sensitive stomachs and unwanted bowel movements. Thus, the Wellness Simple Natural Limited Ingredient Dog Food can make for a go-to staple, as it contains less than ten ingredients.
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It is crafted with a single protein source and contains essential nutrients that are easy for your dog to digest. Without any fillers and indigestible carbohydrates, this dry dog food makes for a balanced diet ideal for high-energy pets.
Plus, its low-calorie count can help your overweight pooch shed additional pounds!
What to Look for in the Best Food for Australian Shepherds
1) Calorie Count
It should go without saying that your lively fur ball can burn calories at the speed of light. Thus, they require a minimum calorie count to help sustain these bursts of energy. The average, medium-sized Australian Shepherd will require roughly 1,500 calories per day. To meet its basic caloric needs, you’ll need to select a wet or dry dog food with at least 350 calories per cup.
On the other hand, less active dogs will require low-calorie options, as this breed is prone to rapid weight gain. Most Australian Shepherds become overweight due to the following occurrences:
- A lack of space to exercise
- Lowered activity levels due to age
- Illness or injury
- Naturally inactive or sedentary lifestyles
You can calculate your dog’s caloric needs according to their age, size, and weight.
2) Protein Count & Quality
When crafting a balanced diet for your dog, you’ll want to prioritize options with healthy animal proteins. High-energy dogs will require a protein count of at least 22%
Other options we have reviewed contain between 22% and 38% of protein, which is ideal for medium-sized dogs such as your Aussie. These protein requirements may vary according to your dog’s age, activity levels, and other, more specific needs.
3) Fat Count & Quality
These high-energy dogs will benefit from a higher-than-usual fat count. Higher fat levels are an excellent source of fuel that converts into energy when metabolized.
You should consider the minimum fat count to be 8%, though more active dogs will require up to 20% of fat.
The quality of the fat in the food matters just as much as how much you’re feeding your dog. Animal fat, for instance, is a fantastic fat source when correctly identified. Flaxseed and canola oil are also good options that support your dog’s growth and development.
4) Calcium-Phosphorus Ratio
Because these dogs are prone to knee and hip dysplasia, the amount of calcium and phosphorus in their food can directly impact their health.
Too much calcium in your pet’s diet can result in brittle bones and an increased risk of arthritis and other types of dysplasia. On the other hand, too little of it can weaken your dog’s bones and create other calcium-deficiency-related problems.
The calcium and phosphorus numbers in your dog’s diet should have at least a 1:1 ratio.
5) Affordability
Experienced pet parents will know how much feeding an energetic dog can cost. While some foods are pricier than others, many are affordable and still pack a nutritional punch.
Ideally, you should prioritize pricier foods with higher nutritional value. However, shopping according to your budget can be just as beneficial to you and your dog if you know what you’re looking for.
When searching for food options that won’t break the bank, shortlist your top picks according to:
- Animal sources in the food
- Inclusion of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
- Calorie, protein, and fat content
- Inclusion of vegetables and fruits
- Support for early growth and development
6) Essential Complex Carbs
Unless your dog has stomach sensitivities, it will benefit from whole-grain complex carbohydrates. Otherwise, you can opt for a dry dog food rich in added vitamins and minerals, which help boost your Aussie’s energy levels.
Questions & Answers
What should I consider when looking for the best dog food for Australian Shepherds?
Bred as working and herding dogs, Australian Shepherds are highly active and expend a lot of energy. However, each dog has a unique personality—some may even be less active than usual. Ultimately, what you give your dog will depend on their age, activity levels, and any special considerations, such as joint conditions.
Remember, these dogs are among the most hyperactive dog breeds that will require a precise caloric intake. As such, you’ll want to prioritize this feeding factor, along with animal protein sources and fat levels.
Then, you’ll want to consider other specifics. Does your dog have a sensitive stomach? If so, grain-free food may be best.
Do they suffer from skin or hair allergies? A food with generous omega fatty acid inclusions can help keep its coat healthy and shiny.
Do you have an older dog? A dash of glucosamine, chondroitin, and L-carnitine can help sustain aging bones and joints.
Naturally, you’ll want to select a food made with natural and high-quality ingredients. Avoid brands that are abundant in filler and artificial preservatives.
What are the nutritional needs of an Australian Shepherd?
Australian Shepherds toggle between medium and large breed dogs. Ultimately, their nutritional requirements will depend on their size, activity level, and any special needs.
On average, a typical Aussie will weigh between 45 and 55 pounds (20 to 25kg) with some variation. At this size and weight, an Aussie will require between 1,500 and 1,600 calories. A universally accepted formula is 30 calories per pound of bodyweight daily.
Your pooch will need a healthy amount of protein in their diet. It’s just as imperative that this comes from high-quality animal protein sources. Consider real meat or meat meal as high on the ingredient list of any dog food you purchase. Don’t shop for less than 22% of real meat unless your dog is on a low-protein diet.
If your dog is still active, they will benefit from 30% and upwards of real meat content. Fats should be at a minimum of 5%, but more is always better when rearing an Australian Shepherd. Limit this amount to about 20%.
Glucosamine is also a must when preventing hip and elbow dysplasia, a common occurrence in this dog breed. For puppies, consider a slightly higher protein and fat count to help maintain a healthy weight. DHA is also necessary for optimal eye development.
Optimize your dog’s nutritional intake by allowing for at least 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day.
What should I avoid feeding my Australian Shepherd?
Although these dogs don’t typically suffer from sensitive stomachs, you should still avoid diets that contain artificial or overly processed foods. You can review our comprehensive list here.
Overall, you’ll want to avoid feeding your Aussie human or table food unless correctly prepared to sustain a raw diet. Avoid cooking homemade meals with salt or oil—dogs don’t process these ingredients the same way we do.
Other ingredients you’ll want to avoid are:
- Garlic and onions: These destroy red blood cells in dogs, which can cause anemia.
- Chocolate: Theobromine in chocolate cause severe digestive issues and even cause death.
- Caffeine: Like chocolate, caffeine can cause digestive problems in dogs and result in vomiting, restlessness, and palpitations.
- Xylitol: This common sweetener, which you’ll find in sweets and candies, can dangerously impact your dog’s blood sugar levels and lead to liver failure.
- Alcohol: Naturally, you’ll want to avoid giving any dog alcohol, as it can lead to diarrhea, breathing problems, and more.
You won’t want to feed your Aussie cat food either. Contrary to popular belief, the nutrient inclusions in cat food are very different from those in dog food.
How much should I feed my Australian Shepherd?
Determining how much to feed your dog will involve some weighing and minimal mathematics. Ultimately, the amount of food you provide will depend on your dog’s weight and the caloric value of its food. As previously mentioned, the typical Aussie will require at least 30 calories per pound of body weight per day.
You can determine the rest by following these simple steps:
First, weigh your pup. When using a household scale, weigh yourself, then weigh once more while carrying your dog. The difference is your pet’s weight. Alternatively, you can weigh your dog with your local veterinarian.
The next step is to work out how many cups of food will make up their daily calorie intake. For instance, if your dog’s food equates to 300 calories per cup, you can feed them roughly 5 cups a day.
You can get creative with how you feed your dog his or her calories – they don’t all need to be dry kibble. A few cups of kibble with a tasty, high-calorie canned topper will do the trick. Don’t forget to leave space for treats!
How often should I feed my dog?
Regularly, puppies should be fed three to four times a day, while adults will scale down to between two and three times a day.
If your schedule doesn’t allow for midday feeding, twice a day will suffice so long as your dog is achieving its daily caloric intake. Otherwise, you might want to consider investing in an automatic treat-dispensing toy to supplement them throughout the day.
What health conditions should I be aware of with my Australian Shepherd?
Aussies are prone to certain health conditions that can become debilitating if left untreated. Unfortunately, while not frequently, these dappled shepherds can suffer from food allergies. As such, you might want to opt for a limited ingredient food until you can identify their specific intolerance. Consider this list of the most common allergens in dog foods that may be affecting your dog.
Hip, knee, and elbow dysplasia are also reasonably common in Australian Shepherds, especially considering their activity levels. Foods with a healthy calcium-phosphorus ratio and added glucosamine are an excellent option.
Australian Shepherds may struggle with other conditions, including epilepsy, hypothyroidism, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, multiple drug sensitivity, and obesity. The best way to keep your Australian Shepherd healthy is to be aware of these conditions and treat them as soon as they manifest.
Some of these conditions are easily helped by a change in diet or more regular exercise. However, in most cases, a trip to your local veterinary clinic and medication will be necessary. Never leave an emergency to linger for longer than you have to.
How do I change my Australian Shepherd’s diet?
When transitioning your dog from one diet to another, you’ll want to do so gradually to allow their bodies to adjust to any new or missing ingredients. Begin by serving your dog’s old food, introducing their new food little by little every week until they are fully transitioned.
