Australian Shepherd and nutrition: how to keep your energetic dog healthy

The Australian Shepherd, affectionately known as the ‘Aussie’, is a bundle of energy that moves and thinks a lot every day. All that work calls for good-quality fuel. A balanced diet not only ensures a shiny coat and strong muscles, but also supports the mental sharpness that is so typical of this breed.

An active breed requires sufficient energy

Aussies were originally bred as working dogs on farms and ranches. They naturally have high energy levels and burn a lot of calories, especially if they exercise regularly, do agility or take long walks. Therefore, choose high-quality kibble or fresh food with sufficient protein and healthy fats, tailored to your dog’s activity level. A less active Aussie simply needs fewer calories than a dog that trains for several hours a day.

Protein and fat as the foundation

High-quality animal proteins, such as chicken, beef, fish or lamb, form the basis of a healthy diet. These provide the amino acids needed for building and repairing muscle. Healthy fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, contribute to a beautiful coat and support the joints, which can be put under heavy strain in this active breed.

• Choose food with a high percentage of meat or fish as the first ingredient
• Avoid food with a lot of fillers such as maize or wheat
• Pay attention to the balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
• Adjust portion size according to age, weight and activity level

Puppy food: building a strong foundation

Australian Shepherd puppies grow quickly and need special puppy food tailored to this growth spurt. Too much calcium or energy can make them grow too fast, which in turn can affect the joints later in life. So choose a food specifically developed for medium-sized breeds with an average growth rate, and split the daily amount into several small meals.

Watch out for excess weight

Although Aussies naturally get a lot of exercise, they can still put on weight with a less active lifestyle or the wrong diet. Being overweight puts extra strain on the joints and muscles, which increases the risk of problems. Feel your dog’s ribs regularly: you should be able to feel them without pressing too hard, but not see them. Adjust the amount of food and the number of treats if you notice that your dog is gaining weight.

Sensitive digestion

Some Australian Shepherds have sensitive digestion and react to certain ingredients with itching, skin problems or irregular bowel movements. When choosing food, pay attention to the ingredient list and if in doubt, try a hypoallergenic or easily digestible food. Always introduce new food gradually, mixing it into the old food for a week, so that the stomach can get used to it.

Good nutrition is the fuel for your Aussie’s body and brain, and in this breed the two work hand in hand.

Puppymakelaar editorial team

Water and snacks

Make sure your Aussie always has access to fresh, clean drinking water, especially after intense training sessions. Use snacks in moderation and opt for healthy varieties, such as carrot pieces, cucumber or special training treats that are low in calories. This prevents the daily calorie intake from becoming too high due to snacking.

A well-balanced diet, tailored to your Australian Shepherd’s age, weight and activity level, lays the foundation for a long and healthy life. If you are unsure about the right diet or notice changes in your dog’s behaviour or weight, always consult a vet for personalised advice.