The Best Dog Food for Pointers 2023
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By
Victoria Bennett
- Last updated: September 10, 2023
Active individuals who are always looking for the next best form of exercise will certainly take delight with the right athletic companion. From taking on long and extreme walks to running through parks and the wilderness, one of the most active dog breeds you can come across is no other than a German Shorthaired pointer (GSP).
Active, energetic, and loyal, this particular dog breed may be the right one for you if you have the same characteristics and personality type. However, Pointers need to have the right food and care to meet their special needs and for them to thrive.
The pointer I have experience with, my friend’s dog Belle. She is so much fun to hike with, running around you while you are on the trail. She loves to run and the beach chasing birds. But she needs lots of exercise. If you live in an apartment this dog might not be the best choice for you.
If you are on the lookout for the best dog food for Pointers on the market, we have got you covered. This article will provide you with the right resources and guide you to finding the best dog food for your beloved doggie.
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Table of Contents
What Exactly Is A Pointer?
A ‘Pointer’ is short for a German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP). As the name implies, the German Shorthaired Pointer was originally bred in Germany in the late 1800s to create a breed that is a great and well-rounded hunting dog that’s also a friendly companion.
Today, this particular dog breed is recognized not only for its hunting and athletic prowess, but also for its unmatched energy. However, it must also be noted that they make for great family pets as they are friendly and loving.
How much pointers need to eat in a day
Because of its high level of energy and activity, Pointers actually need more food than others. Adult GSPs will normally eat anywhere from 2 to 4 cups of food a day across two meals. After all, these are quite the hardworking dog, and this, will require them to make up for lost calories over their activities throughout the day.
6-week-old puppies may not need much, so a quarter cup of dog food may already be enough. This amount can be increased over time. 8-week-old Pointers can be fed anywhere from ¼ to a ½ cup of dog food per meal, while 10-week-old doggies can eat ½ a cup per meal.
One thing you should bear in mind when you have a German Shorthaired pointer is that they tend to suffer bloat. As such, feeding them after their rigorous activities is a must. Plus, they should not be doing any activity after eating their meals.
Choosing the best dog food for pointers
The best dog food for your pointer should meet their nutritional needs. Most widely available commercial food meets basic nutritional needs for most dogs but it is important to remember that pointers have different needs being very energetic dogs. Pointers require a wide range of nutrients in different quantities in different stages of their lives. A puppy will require different formulas and quantities of food than an adolescence or a senior dog will. See the Merck Veterinary Manual lists the recommended nutrients for dogs, along with the recommended amount by weight and age.
The best dog food for your doggie is ultimately up to you to decide. You are the one after all who sees your dog every day. If you want your dog to be healthy longer, and you can afford it, buy natural and organic foods. Another good option is to cook for them. This can be cheaper and healthier but requires more time and you may not know what the best ingredients are for your pointer without lots of research. I remember when I was growing up dogs in households just got leftover human food. That’s not the case today. Today there is a whole industry built on researching and creating the healthiest, most nutritious food for pets.
Watch their poop! If it is firm, healthy looking and your dog is fit, strong with a good healthy appetite then what you feeding them with is probably fine. Try not to overfeed your dog, obesity is on the rise. Not on purpose but dog owners often overfeed their pets. This is why it is important to take them to the vet for regular checkups. Your veterinarian knows more about pet nutrition than the average owner and they have the experience to advise you what the best for your dog. They can also answer all your question regarding your dog’s food.
Victor Select – Grain Free Yukon River Canine
For those looking for dog food for Pointers that are fit for young and mature dogs, this dry food by Victor is a great choice. Its All Life Stages formula makes it appropriate for all ages. It has the V-Pro Blend composed of four top-quality ingredients namely selenium yeast, mineral complexes, prebiotics, and probiotics, intended to support metabolism, immunity, digestion, and overall health.
This kibble is rich in protein up to 33% and made of high-rate fish, making it perfect for dogs with meat allergies. Aside from being a great alternative for chow containing other meat proteins, it is a great source of vitamins, minerals, healthy fatty acids, and amino acids.
Besides being appropriate for dogs of all ages, it is also great for different sizes and activity levels. Just make sure to follow the recommended feeding amount for adults and puppies.
Pros:
- Flexible for dogs of different sizes, ages, and activeness
- Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients
- Seafood flavor and ingredients
- Proteins from plants and meat sources only
Cons:
- Not for dogs with fish allergies
Purina Pro Plan Sport, Energy & Vitality
GSPs are sporting dogs and they are known to be highly energetic and playful, so they need chow that can supply them with the juice they need to keep up with their instincts. Purina Pro Plan Sport is a great choice as it contains ingredients that help with providing muscle energy and endurance. This is designed specifically for active dogs, making it one of your best bets for your German Shorthaired pointer.
This dog food comes with the right protein to fat ratio that can help support oxygen metabolism to improve stamina. To get the optimal amount of protein and amino acids, this chow is made of real salmon and rice. It is also infused with probiotics for better digestion and immunity. This option comes in different sizes, so you can get the right amount for your pup. It also comes with wet and dry options.
Pros:
- Perfect for all ages
- 30% salmon and 20% fat from rice formula
- Best for active dogs
Cons:
- May not be suitable for dogs who dislike fish or have allergies
Joy Dog Food High Energy
Joy Dog’s High Energy dog food is another great choice for your Pointer. Its 24/20 formula makes it great for active pets such as hunters and workers, as well as sporting dogs. It is jam-packed with nutrients in an easily digestible and filling form. It comes with all essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to support general health and daily lifestyle.
Of course, you want to make sure that your dog looks and feels good. This chow can see to that, as it contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for healthier skin, coat, pads, and joints. To further promote joint health, this kibble contains glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. Your pup will surely love this dog food with its beefy taste and pumpkin flavor.
Pros:
- Beef and pumpkin flavor
- Best for active dogs
- Great for all sizes
- Provides a complete, yet balanced diet
Cons:
- Comes in one size only
Victor Purpose - Performance
Another option from the brand Victor is this Performance Dry Dog Food. This kibble is made for sporting dogs who love physical and mental exercises. You can expect extra energy and performance for your dogs because it is not only high in protein, but also healthy fats, fiber, amino acids, and nutrients for better energy spending and overall health.
This chow is fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin for healthier joints, which your highly active pup will appreciate. It comes with the brand’s exclusive V-Pro Blend for better metabolism, immunity, and digestion.
Pros:
- Contains the Victor Core Ingredients: Selenium, mineral complexes, prebiotics, and probiotics
- Protein content comes from meat and plant sources, as well as grains
- Made of premium beef, chicken, and pork
- Available in 5- and 40-pound packs
Cons:
- Limited size options
- May not be for dogs allergic to beef, pork, and chicken
Wellness Natural Pet Food CORE
This offering from Wellness Natural is best for large dogs, thanks to its nutrient-rich formula, making it a superfood option. It offers a balanced option for big pups to reach their daily needed supply of vitamins and minerals, proteins, healthy fats, and amino acids. GSPs are medium to large dogs, so you can definitely get this for your beloved animal.
Large dogs need a lot of proteins to help them grow better and get sufficient energy to last through the day. This dog food contains 45% premium-quality protein from chicken and turkey. It does not contain by-products, fillers, preservatives, or artificial flavorings.
Pros:
- Made of deboned chicken to avoid hazards
- Promotes whole-body health
- All-natural recipes with no GMOs
Cons:
- Other flavors not available
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula
Adult dogs in need of proper diets can rely on Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula. Made using the brand’s LifeSource Bits formula, you can rest assured that your pet will get the essential vitamins, antioxidants, and vital minerals they need to lead a healthy and fruitful life, every day. Plus, each bit of the chow is cold-formed to help retain its potency.
The best thing about this dog food is it comes in different flavors. With this, your beloved canine can enjoy savory options like beef, chicken, lamb, and fish. Plus, you can get this in 5-, 6-, 15-, 30-, and 34-pound packs.
Each variant is made of real meat, so you know your dog is getting genuine nutrition. Plus, it has everything they need for holistic growth and health.
Pros:
- Different variants available
- Climate-friendly and sustainable
- Made using natural ingredients
Cons:
- May not be suitable for young dogs
Acana Highest Protein Dry Dog Food
Dogs who love different flavors will be delighted to find this chow in their bowl. It comes in Appalachian Ranch, Meadowland, Wild Atlantic, and Grasslands flavors, so your pup has a lot of varieties to explore.
This grain-free option is high in protein, thanks to its fresh and raw animal ingredients, whole vegetables, healthy fruits, and other botanicals. It does not contain any artificial coloring or preservatives. Plus, it does not contain components that can be harmful to young dogs, making it suitable for puppies.
Pros:
- Great for all ages
- 70% premium animal ingredients, 30% plants and botanicals
- Thoughtful sourcing of ingredients
- Made in an award-winning kitchen
Cons:
- Recipes may contain allergens, so make sure to check ingredients
The bottom line
Selecting the appropriate dog food is crucial for the health and well-being of your canine companion. This choice can greatly influence the overall vitality, energy, and longevity of your pet. For breeds like the German Shorthaired Pointer, it becomes even more significant.
Feeding them the right kind of diet ensures that they receive the essential nutrients tailored to their specific needs, allowing them to flourish and live a robust, healthy life. When they consume a balanced and suitable meal, not only does it promote their physical health, but it also contributes to their mental well-being, making them happier and more content.
Victoria Bennett
Victoria Bennett has firmly established herself in the writing realm with several years of dedicated and passionate work to her name. Her love for dogs is not just a personal affection but deeply influences her writing, often adding a unique, well-researched perspective to her pieces. Beyond her professional commitments, Victoria’s dedication extends to her community, where she volunteers her time. This hands-on approach enriches her work, ensuring that her readers benefit from content that is not only well-crafted but also grounded in real-world experience and insights.
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