If you've recently acquired or are considering adopting a German Shorthaired Pointer, you may be wondering how much to feed a german shorthaired pointer puppy.
Because dogs are still growing creatures, it is a typical concern among new dog owners, whether experienced or not.
It's natural to be concerned about how much a German Shorthaired Pointer puppy should be fed, but we have the answers.
We've divided it into weeks to assist you in feeding your puppy a healthy amount of food, and we'll even suggest the types of food you should feed your puppy.
Here's everything you need to know about it.
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What Should I Feed My German Shorthaired Pointer Puppy?
We want the best for our pets as pet owners, especially as new owners of a German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP).
We know that their diets are critical to their health, but the lines between quantity and quality are a little unclear.
So, from the time they're a clumsy puppy to their golden years, how much should you feed a GSP?
The feeding demands of a German Shorthaired Pointer are determined by a variety of factors, including the dog's age, nutritional requirements, and product quality.
Feeding schedules and amounts are altered as GSPs age, and they will change once they reach their senior years.
Filling a bowl with food and calling it a day isn't enough when it comes to feeding your pets.
When it comes to taking care of a GSP, there are a few things to remember.
German Shorthaired Pointer Puppy Feeding Chart
We've put together a reference sheet to help you figure out how much food your puppy should be eating, how often, what to watch out for, and what you should truly expect while feeding your puppy.
Keep in mind that some of this will rely on the food you feed your puppy, as puppies require a high calorie intake to support their growing bodies.
It's vital to keep in mind that these are working dogs who will expend a lot of calories during the day and will need to compensate with food.
Here Are The Feeding Suggestions For A German Shorthaired Pointer Puppy
2 Weeks Old German Shorthaired Pointer Puppy
Your German Shorthaired Pointer puppy should not be eating anything other than his mother's milk until he is two weeks old.
The puppies will be quite close to their mother at this period, and she will be providing all of their dietary requirements.
If a puppy and its mother have a feeding problem, it's best to contact your veterinarian to find out what kind of food a puppy that young requires.
Otherwise, leave the puppies with their mother and refrain from feeding them at this time.
4 Weeks Old German Shorthaired Pointer Puppy
Your puppy will still be living with and reliant on his mother by the time he is four weeks old.
The puppies will begin to mill around and put some distance between themselves and their mother at this point, although they are unlikely to be weaned at this time.
If the mother is avoiding the puppies, you can try giving your dog a little amount of puppy chow, but it's too early to presume that the dog will be able to eat anything on a regular basis.
6 Weeks Old German Shorthaired Pointer Puppy
Your puppy should be busy and moving away from his mother around 6 weeks of age.
As the puppies move to being weaned, the mother is most likely moving away from them.
They may still rely on their mother's milk to some extent, but this is a good time to introduce puppy chow to them.
At this point, they won't require much, so merely give them a quarter of a cup once a day.
You can gradually increase the amount if the puppy eats it up.
8 Weeks Old German Shorthaired Pointer Puppy
Puppies should be entirely weaned from their mothers by the age of eight weeks, as this is when they will be rehomed to new families.
Because your puppy will no longer be able to survive on milk, you will need to feed him three times a day.
The amount varies, but you should anticipate to feed your puppy 14 to 12 cup per meal.
Some of this will be determined by the food, while others will be determined by your puppy's hunger.
10 Weeks Old German Shorthaired Pointer Puppy
When your puppy reaches the age of ten weeks, he is about to embark on a major growth surge.
You should still feed your puppy three times a day, at a rate of roughly 12 cup per meal.
If your puppy appears to be too thin, you can increase it little; if your puppy appears to be acquiring too much weight, you can reduce it slightly.
Always feed your puppy the same food, and make sure it's puppy food.
12 Weeks Old German Shorthaired Pointer Puppy
At the age of 12 weeks, the German Shorthaired Pointer has a massive growth surge.
If your puppy's weight starts to rise, don't be startled.
Your dog will require food to compensate for the calories lost due to rapid growth.
You should continue to feed your puppy three meals each day, but increase the amount slightly to ensure that he gets all of the calories he need.
At this point, your puppy's body shape will be more apparent, making it easier to keep track of his weight.
How to figure out what your GSP's optimal body weight is
The optimal weight for a German Shorthaired Pointer is 55-70 pounds for males and 45-60 pounds for females, according to the American Kennel Club.
However, that is far too brad a range to make a conclusion for your specific GSP.
So, when you're gazing at your German Shorthaired Pointer's body, pay attention to the ribs.
Your dog is too skinny if you can see them plainly.
You should be able to quickly detect them. If you can't feel them, your GSP is probably overweight.
You can also take a peek at their tummy and waistline.
When looking at your dog from above, there should be a small waist. If the problem is serious, your GSP will most likely need to gain weight.
Their tummy should be somewhat stretched up and backwards.
If your GSP doesn't have a tuck, he or she is probably overweight.
If you're still unsure, consult your veterinarian, who will guide you in the appropriate direction.
How often should GSP be fed every day?
Over the age of six months, a German Shorthaired Pointer should be fed twice a day.
If they are younger, they will require three to four meals per day.
When your GSP feeds, the digestion process takes only a few hours and will leave their stomach empty in around 8- 10 hours.
Your dog will benefit from two meals each day to avoid becoming excessively acidic, which can cause symptoms like vomiting, lip licking, difficulty swallowing, decreased appetite, and restlessness.
Hyperacidity is characterized by the regurgitation of yellow bile by dogs.
It's a sign that you're hungry. If your GSP does this, it's time to rethink their feeding schedule.
How To Take Care Of Your German Shorthaired Pointer?
German bird dogs, scent hounds, and trail dogs were used to create German shorthaired pointers.
The dogs, dubbed “GSPs,” are noted for their intelligence and exceptional scenting skills, which combine to make them adept at trailing and tracking.
German shorthaired pointers make excellent pets for active families, despite their reputation as sporting dogs.
Because the breed's coat is short, it only requires infrequent grooming, thus shedding isn't an issue.
1st step
Choose a high-quality dry food with a high fat/protein ratio for your German shorthaired pointer.
GSPs require more fat and protein in their diet than other breeds because they are energetic dogs.
Choose a dog food that is formulated for your dog's age group: puppy, adult, or senior.
2nd Step
Depending on your dog's activity level, feed him at least twice a day.
Over the course of a day, an adult German shorthaired pointer should consume 2 to 5 cups of food.
Dogs that aren't trained for hunting and don't receive much activity may require less food than dogs who are more active.
3rd step
Ensure that your dog has access to plenty of fresh water.
Provide your GSP with his own water dish, which should be refreshed and refilled at least once a day.
4th step
To give your German shorthaired pointer his own space, set up a container for him.
To further define the area as “his” space, place a cushioned blanket or dog bed inside the crate and keep your dog's food and water bowls close.
5th step
At night, keep your dog in his kennel.
This is a necessary phase in housebreaking German shorthaired pointer puppies, as well as an adult dog.
Because the breed is unusually interested and active, keeping your dog confined or “crated” at night will keep him out of danger.
You won't hato close the crate door every night for the rest of the dog's life.
6th step
Squeeze a few drops of dog ear cleaner into the ear canals once a week to clean your German shorthaired pointer's ears.
Wipe away any discharge and excess cleanser with a dry cotton ball.
These dogs are more prone to ear infections than pointed-ear breeds because they have floppy ears that limit airflow to the ear canal.
7th step
Once a week, use a dog toothbrush and specially developed dog toothpaste to brush your dog's teeth.
You can also feed your pointer specific snacks and bones that will help to keep his or her teeth and gums healthy.
8th step
Keep your German shorthaired pointer's nails short by trimming them on a regular basis.
During frequent checkups, ask your veterinarian to clip your dog's nails, or take the dog to a professional groomer.
Allowing your GSP's nails to grow long may cause them to become caught on anything and torn off when the dog is sprinting.
Even a house dog has his nails cut on a regular basis.
9th step
Brush your German shorthaired pointer once a week to keep shedding to a minimum.
To remove dead and loose hairs, use a grooming glove or a firm bristle brush.
10th Step
Bathe your dog only as needed; over-bathing your pointer can cause his skin to dry up and get irritated.
GSPs become muddy from time to time since they are active dogs who enjoy being outside.
Allow the mud to dry on your dog's coat before brushing it away with a wire-pin or bristle brush.
11th step
Every day, make sure your German shorthaired pointer gets at least 30 minutes of exercise in the morning and evening. If at all feasible, let your dog run free in a secure, gated area.
Take your dog for a quick walk or jog twice a day if you don't have a large enclosed yard.
12th Step
Enroll your Golden Retriever in obedience classes.
These programs will help you learn how to control your dog while teaching your dog basic obedience skills.
The younger your dog is when you start teaching him, the more likely he will respond.
13th Step
Take your German shorthaired pointer to the vet on a regular basis for examinations.
Consult your veterinarian about the diseases that this breed is prone to and how to avoid them.
GSPs are more prone to stomach torsion, epilepsy, and hip dysplasia, and they have a higher risk of having von Willebrand disease, an inherited blood ailment.
14th Step
If you wish to use your dog for hunting, teach him to track and trail game.
This breed is recognized for its all-around hunting abilities, including scenting, tracking, trailing, and recovering game.
German Shorthaired Pointer Puppies’ Best Dog Food
Puppies of German Shorthaired Pointers require high-quality puppy food or food for all life stages.
The suggested calcium to phosphorus ratio for puppies is approximately 1.2 parts calcium to 1 part phosphorus, while there is some space for fluctuation (such as 1.5:1).
The calcium to phosphorus ratio in most puppy meals should be in this range.
It's also crucial that dog and puppy meals don't include too much (or too little) calcium, as this can impact bone formation.
Here are some of our favorite German Shorthaired Pointer puppy foods:
1.Taste of the High Prairie Puppy Food in the Wild
Taste of the Wild is the most popular online dog food since it is both inexpensive and high-quality.
Taste of the Wild's product is made in the United States and is grain-free, like Orijen's.
This is ideal for GSPs with skin allergies or sensitive stomachs because it eliminates many of the common additives that cause itchiness and bloating.
Chewy currently has their 30 pound bag on sale for $43.99.
Salmon, ocean fish meal, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and peas are the main ingredients.
- 25 percent protein
- 15 percent fat
- 3 percent fiber
- 360 calories per cup
2. Dry Dog Food Fromm Gold Holistic Puppy
This puppy formula, like the Fromm Gold Holistic Adult formula, is free of corn, wheat, and soy.
To assist giant breed puppies grow slowly, the meal contains moderate amounts of protein and fat, as well as calories.
The food's technical analysis reveals that the calcium to phosphorus ratio is ideal for growing puppies.
For optimal brain and eye development in puppies, Fromm Gold Holistic Puppy formula includes DHA-rich salmon oil.
Each morning, USDA-inspected ingredients for the food are delivered fresh.
Duck, chicken meal, chicken, oatmeal, pearled barley are the main ingredients.
- 27 percent protein
- 18% of calories are fat.
- 3.5 percent fiber
- Calories per cup: 417 kcal
3 . Ultra Formula Annamaet
Annamaet Ultra is a puppy and performance dog recipe that is suitable for all life stages.
It's a wonderful fit for growing puppies because of the calcium to phosphorus ratio.
Annamaet uses algae as an omega-3 fatty acid source for healthy skin and coat development as well as heart development.
DHA is also present in the meal, which is beneficial to brain development.
Antibiotics are not used in the chicken's production.
Because this is an all-life-stage diet, you may continue to feed it to your puppy as he grows bigger and matures into an adult.
Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Chicken Fat, Whole Dry Eggs, Herring Meal are the main ingredients.
- 32 percent protein
- 20 percent fat
- 3 percent fiber
- 480 calories per cup
What is the best dog food for an adult German Shorthaired Pointer?
Every dog is a one-of-a-kind creature. Even dogs of the same breed can have varying dietary requirements.
For the GSP, we propose a range of foods.
Some have grains, whereas others do not. Unless otherwise stated, we have chosen foods that are free of maize, wheat, and soy.
It's possible that you'll have to try a few different foods to figure out which one is best for your dog. Keep in mind that your dog's nutritional requirements may alter as he grows and ages, so you may need to switch foods to accommodate him.
1 . Victor Yukon River Salmon & Sweet Potato
Food is a company that works as a co-packer for a number of well-known brands.
Corn, wheat, soy, gluten, and grain by-products are all avoided in their goods.
They don't use any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives in their products.
Fish is responsible for 76% of the protein in the diet.
This is a fantastic formula for your German Shorthaired Pointer, but we also recommend looking into Victor's other options.
Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Sweet Potato, Peas, and Canola Oil are the main ingredients.
- 33 percent protein
- 15 percent fat
- 3.8 percent fiber
- 398 calries per cup
2 . Taste of the Wild Wetlands
Taste of the Wild's Wetland dry dog food is another excellent option for German Shorthaired Pointers.
It's made in the United States, and it's grain-free, like Orijen.
This is ideal for GSPs with skin allergies or sensitive stomachs because it eliminates many of the common additives that cause itchiness and bloating.
Chewy currently has their 30 pound bag on sale at $48.99.
Duck, Duck Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas are the main ingredients.
- 32 percent protein
- 18% of calories are fat.
- 4 percent fiber
- 375 calories per cup
3 . Merrick's Grain-Free
Merrick's formula contains 70% meat and fish, with the remaining 30% made up of vegetables, vitamins, and minerals.
Corn, soy, wheat, gluten, poultry by-products, and chemical preservatives are all absent.
They also work with local Texas farms to produce the meals.
Deboned Buffalo, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Deboned Beef, Sweet Potatoes are the main ingredients.
- 38 percent protein
- 16 percent fat
- 3.5 percent fiber
- 460 calories per cup
What is the best dog food for a senior German Shorthaired Pointer?
As previously stated, German Shorthaired Pointers are known to live beyond their adolescent years.
As a result, you'll need to think about what kind of food to feed your dog as he gets older.
It's a good idea to schedule an annual senior check-up with your veterinarian as your dog becomes older.
As they become less active, many older dogs, especially GSPs, tend to gain weight. As a result, most senior dog diets are lower in calories and lower in protein.
As your older GSP gets older, keep an eye on his weight to ensure he doesn't become overweight.
You may be able to simply reduce the portions of his regular dog food to help him keep fit or increase his exercise in some circumstances.
Very old dogs, on the other hand, frequently develop issues metabolizing nutrients, especially protein.
As people get older, maintaining proper muscle tone and weight might be difficult.
As a result, many dog foods labeled “senior” should be avoided, as they are generally created for older dogs that have acquired weight.
Look for a senior dog food, such as Orijen.
1 . Senior Dog Orijen
For your elder German Shorthaired Pointer, Orijen Senior gives sufficient of high-quality protein.
It aids in the maintenance of muscle mass in senior dogs that are less active.
The diet is made up of 80% meats and fish and is low-glycemic and low-carb to assist keep your older dog's blood sugar stable.
To keep your GSP's joints healthy, the meal also contains natural ingredients of glucosamine and chondroitin.
Deboned Chicken, Deboned Turkey, Atlantic Flounder, Whole Eggs, and Whole Atlantic Mackerel are the main ingredients.
- 38 percent protein
- 15 percent fat
- 8 percent fiber
- Calories per cup: 414 kcal
How Much Do German Shorthaired Pointer Puppies Grow Each Week?
You might want to know how much a German Shorthaired Pointer puppy can grow in a week because puppies develop so quickly.
The amount your puppy gains is mostly determined by how big he or she is at the start and whether the puppy is male or female.
Puppies can grow anywhere from half a pound to a full pound in a week, depending on their stage of development.
Switching From German Shorthaired Pointer Puppy Food To Adult Food
Your dog won't be able to live on puppy food indefinitely.
Adult dogs should not eat meals with as many calories as puppy food, therefore you'll have to plan on switching your dog.
Around the one-year mark, most dogs will begin to switch.
There's no need to keep feeding your puppy puppy chow if he hasn't finished growing.
Change the diet gradually, gradually adding the new food while reducing the amount of puppy food.
You should be able to wean yourself off the old cuisine in about a week.
What If My German Shorthaired Pointer Puppy Won’t Eat?
You should be concerned if your puppy isn't eating as much as you believe he should.
The first thing to look for is whether the puppy is refusing to eat or simply eating less.
It's possible that he's outgrown his growth spurt and now requires less.
Your dog's food may also be finicky, or you may have recently changed it.
However, if your dog appears to be refusing to eat at all, you should contact your veterinarian to ensure that everything is in order.
What Are the Nutrients Required for a German Shorthaired Pointer Puppy?
German Shorthaired Pointers are working dogs, so keep that in mind.
They are working dogs by nature and make excellent family pets.
As a result, your dog's diet should be high in protein and fat.
To make up for all of the calories he'll be burning, your puppy's meals should contain at least 20% protein and 8% fat.
Should You Feed A German Shorthaired Pointer Puppy Supplements?
While supplements are widely available for both humans and canines, you may be wondering if they are the right decision for you.
The truth is that you should see your veterinarian before giving your dog any supplements.
The meal you're feeding your puppy should provide all of the nutrition he or she requires.
If you suspect something is wrong, speak with your veterinarian and describe the issue before trying anything.
What is the recommended amount of water for a German Shorthaired Pointer puppy?
Your puppy should have unlimited access to water, allowing him to drink whenever he wants. On average, puppies require half a cup of water every two hours.
You'll need to keep an eye on your puppy to ensure that he gets enough food.
For older puppies, the amount needed is primarily dictated by their weight.
It's fine to remove the water dish at night when you're trying to housebreak your puppy.
Exercise A German Shorthaired Pointer Need?
German Shorthaired Pointers are active dogs who require a lot of daily activity.
Because he will have a lot of energy to burn, you should expect to have to exercise your German Shorthaired Pointer for an hour every day.
When the dogs aren't properly exercised, their nasty behavior manifests itself in their restlessness. Before you adopt, you must be ready to do so.
German Shorthaired Pointer Background Information
The sleek and regal German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP for short) is a terrific hunting dog who also thrives as a family friend, making it one of the most versatile sporting breeds around.
He pursues both feathered and furred prey, as well as deer. In the evenings, he either plays with the kids or curls up on the sofa next to you.
Are you not a hunter?
The German Shorthair will gladly accompany you on a hike or exercise.
The GSP has a finely sculpted head with dark almond-shaped eyes, a clever, good-humored countenance, and a wide, dark nose, making it somewhat smaller than a Pointer.
The broad, drooping ears are situated high on the skull and lie flat against it.
The GSP's short, dense, sleek coat of solid liver or liver and white, which can be patched, ticking, or roan, is the most distinctive feature of his appearance.
Typically, the tail is docked, leaving around 40% of its original length.
This clever and lively dog enjoys both work and play. He enjoys being around people and is a good friend to children, albeit a little rowdy.
If the GSP is left alone for lengthy periods of time, his people-loving attitude makes him sad, and if he isn't given regular company and exercise, he can become neurotic and destructive.
Although he barks at strangers, he is not violent. Males are more extroverted than females, and they hunt more aggressively.
The muscular GSP requires a lot of workout. Expect him to work out for an hour or two every day.
He's a terrific water dog who enjoys swimming because to his webbed feet and water-resistant coat. Expect him to join you in the pool if you have one.
GSPs enjoy pleasing their owners and will work hard for them, especially if praise, play, or food is involved.
They are usually not obstinate and pick up new exercises fast.
The most difficult task is to keep them focused on their training.
They are prone to boredom.
This is one of the few hunting breeds that can play almost every duty a gundog can.
A GSP can function as both a pointer and a retriever. He can hunt upland birds, ducks, rabbits, raccoons, and deer, as well as rabbits, raccoons, and deer.
Whatever request you make of your GSP, he will cheerfully fulfill it with unwavering dependability.
Frequently Asked Question German Shorthaired Pointer
How much food should a German Shorthaired Pointer puppy eat?
These meals will be roughly 14–12 cup each when you first bring your puppy home (about 8–10 weeks). Your German Shorthaired Pointer's growth will accelerate about 12 weeks, resulting in a higher calorie requirement. Gradually increase the amount of protein in each meal.
How much should a German Shorthaired Pointer eat a day?
2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food each day, divided into two meals, is the recommended daily quantity. See our buying the correct food, feeding your puppy, and feeding your adult dog guides for additional information on feeding your GSP.
What do you feed a German Shorthaired Pointer puppy?
What kind of food should I give my German Shorthaired Pointer puppy? Because it is still growing, a puppy German Shorthaired Pointer need a minimum of 22 percent protein and 8% fat. Animal sources of protein should be used. A German Shorthaired Pointer puppy can survive on three meals every day until it reaches adulthood.
How much does an 8 week old GSP weigh?
At 8 weeks of age, female German Shorthaired Pointer puppies weigh roughly 10 lbs (5 kg), and males weigh around 13 pounds (6 kg).
How much do u feed a German Shepherd puppy?
On average, puppies should be fed 2 cups of food every day. The amount of food consumed is determined by the crude fat content of the food. A puppy should eat three times a day at first, then two times a day after a year.