Best Dog Food for Weimaraners

11 Best (Highest Quality) Dog Foods for Weimaraner’s in 2024

The Weimaraner’s origins date back to 19th century Germany. It was originally bred to be used as a hunting animal and is a large, strong dog. However, times change, and while you can still find some of these awesome dogs used for hunting, most are basically now our beloved household pets. Because their natural instinct is to hunt, be prepared to have an extremely active and high-energy dog.


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A Weimaraner is anything but a lazy dog, and if you love to play and be on the go, this dog will be your absolute best friend. Having said that, isn’t it important to keep your best friend healthy and happy?

In order to accomplish that, it is significant to know that the diet of the Weimaraner does differ from other breeds due to its high energy. Let’s review some of the best dog foods for Weimaraner’s.

5 Key Nutritional Needs of a Weimaraner’s Diet

Good nutrition is one of the most important decisions you can make for your Weimaraner if you want them to live a long and healthy life.The decision you make regarding nutrition affects not only their long-term health but also their immune system, teeth, vital organs, coat, and overall lifespan. Choose wisely. Requirements include:

  • high protein (should be listed first on ingredients)
  • fruits and vegetables (for antioxidants)
  • Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids (for a healthy, shiny coat)
  • Glucosamine (for healthy bone and joint development)
  • prebiotics and probiotics (for a healthy digestive tract)
  • natural sources of DHA (for healthy brain development)

6 Special Considerations for Weimaraner’s

Weimaraner’s have lots of personality, and they are not like your average dog. For those reasons, it is important to know what you may want to consider if you are planning to get one, or if you already have one or more.

  • Pack Animals – They don’t like to be alone! Consider how much you value your personal space because they will want to be with you all the time. It is best to include them as much as you can.
  • Training – They can be stubborn, mischievous, powerful and strong-willed. It is vital to let them know right away that you are the leader, or they will take charge. Are you willing to take them to train or hire a trainer? If not, you may want to reconsider. Training for this breed is a must!
  • Socialization – While this is important for all dogs, it is especially significant to the Weimaraner, because they will be less likely to respond to new situations with aggressiveness and clumsiness. They are easily excitable and able to knock a small child down without meaning to. Socialization will make them better able to handle not only other animals but children and adults also. (Note: they are very good with children.)
  • Barking – Because the Weimaraner is naturally a protective dog, it will watch out the window and bark at the mailman, FedEx guy, a squirrel, etc. If the thought of barking drives you crazy, this breed is notorious for it. However, with some good training, they can be deterred.
  • Physical Exercise – Weimaraner’s need much physical exercise. They need to be walked regularly and must have some room to run and frolic, but make sure it is an enclosed space. It is important that they are able to release their energy as much as possible, leaving them to relax while inside. Try a good game of fetch. They love it!
  • Chewing – This is a chewing breed. Be sure to have plenty of things for your dog to chew on. Try Nylabones and Kong Balls, whatever it takes to keep them away from your shoes!

Overall Best Dog Food for Weimaraner’s in 2023

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Key Features:

  1. Grain-free, made with buffalo, venison, bison, and beef. Promotes lean nutrition and strong muscles.
  2. Extra vitamins and antioxidants supporting overall health and Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy coat and skin.
  3. No grain, corn, wheat, filler, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.
  4. Probiotic blend to support digestive health.
  5. Made in the USA!

Overall Best Dog Food for Weimaraner’s – Because nutrition is so important, this dog food makes the top of our list. Formulated with tons of proteins, peas and sweet potatoes, it is highly digestible and will provide your best buddy with the energy it needs to thrive. Complete and balanced, Taste of the Wild will keep your pet satisfied, happy and full.

This food is specifically geared towards providing the benefits needed for the diet nature intended, including energy, immune system support, nutrient absorption, balanced omegas and overall ingredients for better health.

Pros:

  • Contains everything needed for a healthy Weimaraner.

Cons:

  • Can be costly depending on age, size and how much they eat.

American Journey Salmon and Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Key Features:

  1. Grain-free, corn-free, wheat and soy-free for sensitive stomachs.
  2. Includes dried kelp, carrots, and blueberries for immune system sustenance.
  3. High protein for muscle mass.
  4. Includes Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids and DHA for healthy skin and coat and brain and eye development.
  5. Includes fiber-rich sweet potatoes and chickpeas for energy.

Most Inexpensive – At a great price, your dog will crave this food. Rich in protein and flavor and grain-free nutrition, the proof is in the ingredients. Loaded with antioxidants, DHA, omega fatty acids and high-quality protein, you can’t go wrong when choosing American Journey. Many Weimaraner’s have a hard time with grains, and if they eat a diet filled with wheat, rye or legumes, you could find they have an upset stomach more than not. This food is not only one of the top picks on our list, but also one that will promote your dog’s healthy lifestyle for many years to come.

Pros:

  • Cheap in price but not in quality.

Cons:

  • None.

Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Chicken Dinner with Garden Vegetables & Brown Rice Canned Dog Food

Key Features:

  1. Includes chelated minerals to boost your dog’s immune system and Biotin for healthy coat and skin.
  2. Consists of high-quality chicken for protein and important amino acids.
  3. It provides carbohydrates for needed energy.
  4. Loaded with fruit and vegetables.
  5. Nutritionally complete.

Best Canned Food for Weimaraner’s – Blue Buffalo is a reputable brand name dog food. This canned food is packed with nutrition and is like a homestyle meal for man’s best friend. It is loaded with antioxidants to boost the immune system and keep the urinary tract system functioning properly. The lack of wheat and corn is a plus for those dogs who have sensitive stomachs or skin allergies.

Blue Buffalo comes in a variety of flavors and was founded with the family’s own dog (Blue) in mind.

Pros:

  • Made in the USA
  • affordable.

Cons:

  • This particular canned food is for adult dogs only.

FirstMate Endurance/Puppy Pacific Ocean Fish Meal Formula Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Key Features:

  1. Hypoallergenic formula.
  2. Grain-free and digestible, made with wild herring.
  3. Rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids to promote a shiny coat and healthy skin.
  4. Bite-sized food with high levels of protein and fat for growth and development.
  5. Made in Canada with quality ingredients.

Best Limited Ingredient Food for Weimaraner’s – This limited ingredient formula is packed with nutrition and is grain-free for your growing puppy. It is loaded with high-level proteins and fat for optimal growth at this stage in life. The single source of protein is fish and the single source of carbohydrates is potatoes. Your puppy is bound to thrive on this particular food and it is highly recommended.

Made by a reputable company in Canada.

Pros:

  • Limited ingredient
  • grain-free
  • nutritional.

Cons:

  • None

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Key Features:

  1. Made for puppies, grain-free, made with bison, buffalo, roasted venison and beef. Promotes lean nutrition and strong muscles.
  2. Extra vitamins and antioxidants supporting overall health and Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids for healthy coat and skin.
  3. No grain, wheat, corn, filler, artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.
  4. Probiotic blend to support digestive health.
  5. Made by a family-owned company.

Best Weimaraner Puppy Food – Because nutrition is so important, this puppy food is our pick for the best. Formulated with tons of proteins, peas and sweet potatoes, it is highly digestible and will provide your best bud with the energy it needs to thrive. Complete and balanced, Taste of the Wild will keep your pet satisfied, happy and full.

This food is specifically geared towards providing the benefits needed for the diet nature intended, including energy, immune system support, nutrient absorption, balanced omegas and overall ingredients for better health.

Pros:

  • Contains everything needed for a growing, healthy puppy.

Cons:

  • It can be costly, but worth it.

6 More Top-Rated Weimaraner Foods

Instinct by Nature’s Variety Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken Dry Dog Food

Key Features:

  1. The first ingredient listed is cage-free chicken which is high in protein and helps to promote strong muscles.
  2. 70% protein and nutritious oils, 30% fruits and vegetables for excellent nutrition.
  3. No grain, corn, wheat, potato, by-products, soy, preservatives or artificial coloring.
  4. It contains live, natural probiotics, omegas and antioxidants for good digestion, immune health, and a beautiful coat and skin.
  5. Pure kibble, made in the USA with the finest ingredients.

True Acre Foods Chicken & Vegetable Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Key Features:

  1. No wheat, corn, grains, artificial flavors or colors.
  2. Filled with natural fibers for gentle digestion.
  3. It contains farm-grown fruits and vegetables including cranberries, carrots and peas.
  4. Complete with much-needed antioxidants and omegas.
  5. The first ingredient is USA-raised chicken for the support of lean, strong muscles.

American Journey Landmark Plateau Blend with Angus Beef and Pork Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Key Features:

  1. No grains, wheat, gluten, corn, potatoes, soy, poultry by-product, artificial preservatives, colors or flavors.
  2. It contains pre and probiotics for digestion, antioxidants for immune support, and Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy coat and skin.
  3. It contains healthy amino acids, healthy fats, and natural vitamins and minerals.
  4. The first ingredients are USA Angus beef (antibiotic-free) and pork which are sourced from trusted farmers.
  5. High protein levels with 70% animal protein and natural fats.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food

Key Features:

  1. No wheat, soy, corn or poultry bi-products.
  2. Chelated minerals, vitamins and antioxidants for a healthy immune system.
  3. It contains Glucosamine for healthy joints and mobility support.
  4. It contains phosphorus and calcium and vitamins for strong teeth and bones.
  5. Quality protein for muscle development health.
  6. Essential carbohydrates for energy and active lifestyles.

Merrick Grain-Free Real Texas Beef & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food

Key Features:

  1. It contains the finest sourced ingredients from trusted farmers.
  2. Poultry-free for dogs with sensitivities.
  3. It contains Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for a healthy coat and skin.
  4. It contains Glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy hips and joints.
  5. Grain-free, gluten-free and free of artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.
  6. The first ingredient is beef, together with loads of fruits and vegetables.

Gentle Giants Canine Nutrition Chicken Dry Dog Food

Key Features:

  1. Antioxidants and vitamins including Vitamin A and Vitamin B12 for the optimal health of your beloved pet.
  2. It contains prebiotics and probiotics for better digestion of food.
  3. It contains 12 whole fruits and vegetables including cranberries, apples, blueberries, and beets – not genetically modified.
  4. Natural formula.
  5. Balanced nutrition. Great for all ages and sizes. Great for sensitive stomachs.

Our 2023 Weimaraner Feeding Guide

Owning a Weimaraner can be a truly rewarding experience. In order for your puppy to grow to be healthy and prosper, it is important for you to know how to care for them properly when it comes to feeding through each life stage. Understanding your Weimaraner’s unique dietary requirements is vital during each different stage. Read our feeding guide below to ensure that your Weimaraner lives its life to the fullest.

Puppy

Growing puppies need to consume more calories than adult dogs. Ensuring that you get your new puppy’s diet right is important because it helps to form the correct building blocks to their future health. However, keep in mind that every dog is different. Some dogs will suffer from allergies and skin conditions while others will not. Refer to the reviews above and be sure to adjust their diet as needed.

Puppies should be fed ¼ to ¾ of a cup three (3) times a day from the age of 8 weeks to 12 months. Make sure it is good quality food. Weimaraner’s tend to mature slower than other breeds, so they can be considered puppies up to 21 months.

Below is an approximate age and weight chart for your Weimaraner puppy:

  • 5 months – approximately 60-85 pounds
  • 6 months – approximately 65-100 pounds
  • 7 months – approximately 70-110 pounds
  • 12 months – approximately 95-140 pounds

Keep in mind that males and females vary slightly, with the female weighing in slightly lower.

Adult

At this time, usually around 12 months, most people start feeding their adult dogs 2 to 3 cups of quality food twice a day. Be careful not to feed your adult dog before or after exercise as their tummies tend to get a bit bloated. Some Weimaraner’s tend to gulp their food way to fast. If that is the case with yours, you will need to invest in a special bowl that is designed to slow them down. Alternatively, you could place a large ball in their food bowl so that they will have to work to eat around the ball.

Make sure that aside from them eating good, quality food, that the ratio is 12% fat and 22% protein for best results.

If for any reason you have to change your adult dog’s food, be sure to do it slowly and gradually, mixing a small bit of the new food with their old food and a bit more each day so that their stomach can adjust properly. In addition, it is advised that you put a little bit of pumpkin in with the mix of food to help them to digest it better.

Your healthy adult Weimaraner should weigh:

  • female – approximately 110-145 pounds
  • male – approximately 135-170 pounds

Senior

Weimaraner’s generally tend to live to about 11 years of age. The better their diet is, the more years they tend to live. Your senior dog is probably not getting as much exercise as they were when younger. Therefore, keep an eye on their weight. If you notice they are exercising less and getting a little plump, reduce their food by a ½ cup a day as needed.

If, on the other hand, they are still getting a good amount of exercise and still have a healthy appetite, keep them on the same feeding schedule.

At this point in their lives, it is best to add some glucosamine and chondroitin to their food for healthy bones and joints.

FAQ

  • Should a Weimaraner eat dry or canned food? This is not a breed that is particularly prone to obesity. Therefore, you could feed them either dry or canned food. However, feeding a dog of this size, canned food can become quite expensive. Most people opt for dry food, but you could throw in a small bit of canned food with each meal or just now and then as a special treat.
  • Should my Weimaraner eat a grain-free diet? Although it is not necessary, many Weimaraner’s are prone to skin conditions, food allergies and sensitivities. Eating a grain-free diet is either necessary or the safest way to go.
  • Do Weimaraner’s have sensitive stomachs? The answer, quite simply, is yes! Even the healthiest Weimaraner will sometimes have a sensitive stomach. This is why we always suggest a grain-free diet. To avoid sour stomach, the experts suggest that you stay clear of grains, avoid over-vaccinating, keep a watchful eye on everything they ingest and be aware of sensitivities. Some Weimaraner’s will have a sensitivity to potatoes while others won’t.
  • Why does my Weimaraner fart so much? There could be a number of reasons for this. Sometimes the farting could be due to anal glands that can be taken care of at either the groomer or the vet. It could also be an infection. It’s always best to check with the vet. However, we have heard from many owners of Weimaraner’s that they do tend to fart a lot! Our advice would be that the better the food you give to your dog, the less of a problem this will be.
  • Is a Weimaraner consider a small breed? Weimaraner’s are not small by any means. They are considered to be between a medium and a large breed, depending on how big they get, as they can vary in size. Anything over 60 to 80 pounds is generally considered to be a large breed.

Conclusion

When selecting the best dog foods for Weimaraner’s, we adhere to the following criteria:

  • Nutritional research.
  • Excellent quality control
  • Foods that are vet-approved, with food trials.
  • Foods that are formulated with the best, highest quality ingredients.
  • Marketing is not a deciding factor, but nutritional benefits are.
  • Affordability with high health standards.

Weimaraner’s are unique, originally bred for hunting, fun and playful dogs. As such, it is vital that you pay close attention to your dog’s nutritional needs in order to provide it with the health benefits that will give it a long, happy, fulfilling life. This is why our team has come up with the top 11 highest quality and most affordable dog foods for Weimaraner’s.

In summary, let’s go through some of the most significant points to remember when taking care of your Weimaraner’s nutritional needs.

The most important things to look for when choosing your pet’s food:

  • A grain-free food, unless specifically told differently by your pet’s veterinarian.
  • A fiber percentage between at least 3 to 6 percent.
  • A fat percentage between at least 11 to 17 percent.
  • Quality food that is grain-inclusive.

You’ll want to specifically watch for:

  • Vitamins and Minerals – These help your Weimaraner stay healthy and function correctly. They will assist in helping your dog’s body to grow in the best way possible. Keep in mind that not all dog foods include vitamins and minerals. Therefore, you must be proactive with this important detail.
  • Carbohydrates – You may have heard that carbohydrates are only fillers/empty calories. This is not true. Carbs are actually good for your dog, providing them with much-needed energy, nutrients and fiber. They also assist in keeping your dog’s brain functioning properly and keep their glucose level steady. The fiber will help to regular their digestive system and keep them from feeling hungry all the time.
  • Fat – Fat is essential and also provides energy to your pet. As we learned above, fatty acids are essential for a healthy coat and skin and for the development of their organs. Not to mention, they love the taste!
  • Protein – Your Weimaraner requires a significant amount of protein in their diet. If they are puppies, pregnant or nursing, you may want to give them a bit more protein during these times for optimal health.
  • Prebiotics – This is the good bacteria that is needed for gastrointestinal health and digestion.
  • Probiotics – Living microorganisms that colonize the digestive system with good bacteria.

Ingredients to avoid:

  • artificial flavorings
  • BHT
  • BHA
  • Ethoxyquin

Weimaraner Issues (not discussed above – but a must-know):

  • HOD – A condition that causes painful swelling in your puppy’s leg bones. Sometimes this happens because your Weimaraner puppy is growing too quickly. If this occurs, you may want to start feeding them fewer calories, but always be sure to consult with a qualified veterinarian.
  • Bloat – This is a common condition in Weimaraner’s. You will see this when your dog is gulping down the food they are eating and they suddenly begin to choke on the air they are breathing in. Be sure to always use dishes that are elevated so your dog will not have to bend over while eating, and ensure that they are not eating too fast as discussed above.
  • Tricuspid Dysplasia – This involves the tricuspid valve which is between the upper and lower chambers of the heart. It is a congenital defect where the tissue doesn’t grow normally. You may want to have your dog checked if you notice lots of fatigue.
  • Skin Allergies – Weimaraner’s are prone to skin allergies which they especially received from ticks and fleas. Be proactive in having them protected, specifically when in the woods. One they start scratching; they can also cause secondary infections.
  • Eye Problems – Entropion and retinal dysplasia are common eye problems in Weimaraner’s. Entropion is genetic and is caused when the lower lid folds inward. Retinal dysplasia can be caused by a Vitamin A deficiency or a viral infection.
  • Elbow and Hip Dysplasia – Happens when normal growth and development are not present. Always follow our suggestions for nutritional health to avoid this condition.
  • Hypothyroidism – You will notice a loss of muscle mass, loss of hair, fatigue, slow heart rate, and cold intolerance. Consult your vet immediately.

Feeding Schedule – Follow the feeding guide above. If you have questions, because each Weimaraner is unique, always consult with your veterinarian as they will consider your dog’s age, activity levels and any medical conditions that they may suffer from.

The Weimaraner is a loyal, fun-loving, breed who is eager to please and great with children. They are outstanding companions with a high energy level, making them also great for running companions. They are great hunting dogs and, even better, they have minimal shedding!

Keeping in mind all of the nutritional needs mentioned above, Weimaraner’s will live a long healthy life if you keep their bodies lean and provide them with a stage-appropriate balanced, nutritional diet and regular veterinary care.

On a side note – Weimaraner’s tend to be highly prone to separation anxiety. This has lots to do with feeding because its ability to eat slowly and digest correctly can be affected by anxiety. Something to consider if having problems.

Additional Tips

  • Brushing – Use a bristle brush in order to help keep their coat and skin healthy. Although they tend to shed very little, brushing will keep the loose hairs off of your clothes and furniture.
  • Bathing – Bathe only when necessary.
  • Ear Cleaning – All breeds with hanging ears tend to be prone to ear infections. Check your Weimaraner’s ears on a weekly basis. Use a cotton ball soaked with ear cleanser to clean out whatever is on the surface. Never stick anything into their ears. You could damage them. If you notice a stinky smell, take them to the vet. It could be an ear infection. Or, if you notice they are shaking their head back and forth or rubbing their ears with their paws, this is also a sign of ear infection.
  • Teeth – If possible, try to brush their teeth at least once a week for best results and to avoid a buildup of bacteria.
  • Nails – It will be necessary to have your dog’s nails trimmed once or twice a month, depending upon how much they wear them down naturally.

With everything considered, your healthy Weimaraner should live to at least 11 years old. The better the diet, the better the chance for long life.  Remember that you have a uniquely special dog whose nutritional needs may be different from other breeds that you may have owned in the past or currently own. Be aware of those needs, and be sure that your Weimaraner receives the diet they will thrive on. If you follow all of our suggestions, you should have the love of your life for 11 or so years – make them the happiest years or both or your lives! A Weimaraner is well worth it!

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