10 Best Dog Foods for Dobermans in 2023
- Certified content. This article has been fact checked and verified by our veterinary advisor.
Approved By: Dr. Sara Ochoa, DVM
Notes from our DVM, Sara Ochoa:
“Recent studies put out by the FDA show that grain-free food can cause heart disease. Dobermans are a very common breed of dog that gets heart disease. I recommend avoiding grain-free dog foods in all dogs especially the ones who have a genetic predisposition to heart disease.”
The Doberman Pinscher is a magnificent German dog breed – known for their tough appearance, their alert, and stubborn personality and for their unquestionable loyalty towards their owner.
Dobermans are intelligent and need both mental and physical stimulation to reach their full potential, and it is important to feed a Doberman a high-quality diet with plenty of protein.
Knowing the best food to feed a puppy, adult and senior may require some research, but while all Dobermans are individuals – there are a few basic things that every Doberman need.
Dobermans make wonderful family members, and we owe it to them to properly see to their nutritional needs.
Related Review: Best Foods for German Shepherd Dogs.
Our team has spent hours researching products to find the best dog food for Dobermans, read our in-depth reviews below. Learn more about our 10 point inspection checklist.
Best Dog Food For Dobermans
1. The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food s
A Doberman is a sleek dog with fur that glistens in the sun if fed the right diet. Farmer’s Dog Food is a dog food subscription service that bypasses commercial markups and artificial ingredients and processes.
Farmer’s Dog Food cares not only about dogs, but the environment as well. All the packaging is environmentally friendly. You can create your own food plan meant for your Doberman.
Why We Like It – Each recipe is specifically engineered to complement your dog’s nutritional needs.
Nutrition Information (Calorie Weighted Basis):
| Protein | 27% |
| Fat | 37% |
| Carbs | 36% |
First 7 Ingredients
USDA turkey, parsnips, chickpeas, carrot, broccoli, spinach, fish oil…
Pros:
+ Dog food specially tailored plans for each dog
+ Environmentally friendly packaging
+ No artificial ingredients
+ Delivered to your door
Cons:
– Has a shorter shelf life compared to kibble
2. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula
All adult Dobermans will be protected with the Blue Buffalo formula designed to address their needs. There are added LifeSource Bits within the dry kibble to give your Dobermans that added texture that will convert the pickiest of eaters into food-loving dogs.
Dobermans are larger dogs that require joint protection. Your pooch will get bone lubrication from the added doses of glucosamine in this dog food. There are no traces of corn, soy or wheat in the Life Protection Formula, which are non-essential to dogs.
Why We Like It – The joint protection additives will really help Dobermans in their senior years. Even if you have a picky eater, the Lifesource bits will make the bowl of kibble extra enticing!
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 3,627 kcal/kg, 378 kcal/cup |
| Crude Protein | 24% min |
| Crude Fat | 14% min |
| Crude Fiber | 5% max |
| Moisture | 10% max |
First 7 Ingredients
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal, Pea Starch, Flaxseed (source of Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids)…
Pros:
+ Dog food for Doberman adults
+ LifeSource Bits
+ No corn, soy or wheat
+ High-protein from quality sources
Cons:
– Not ideal for picky eaters
3. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Taste of the Wild appeals to your dog’s natural cravings with this formula – minus the grains. The exotic roasted bison and venison are considered exotic meats that will appeal to your dog’s palate.
You can count on essential vitamins and minerals in the recipe to boost your Doberman’s immune system and keep him as healthy as possible for as long as possible. The probiotics will help with digestion and the antioxidants will keep your fur baby strong.
Why We Like It – Dogs can have sensitive tummies sometimes, no matter the breed. The added probiotics will make sure digestion is easier so the kibble passes through your dog’s system without issue.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 3,719 kcal/kg, 370 kcal/cup |
| Crude Protein | 32% min |
| Crude Fat | 18% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4% max |
| Vitamin E | 150 IU/kg min min |
First 7 Ingredients
Water Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, Potatoes, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols)…
Pros:
+ Probiotics for improved digestion
+ Lean protein source for a healthy weight
+ Dog food with vegetables, berries, and seeds
+ No wheat, corn, soy or artificial flavors
Cons:
– Not ideal for picky eaters
4. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy (Venison & Bison)
Here we have one of the top kibble brands in the world – known for making high-quality dog food with natural ingredients.
It is hard to compete with Taste Of The Wild as the best food for Doberman puppies since it has loads of healthy protein from real Bison and Venison; making it the kind of kibble that will help your big puppy develop both physically and mentally.
This type of protein is highly digestible, which is an important food for sensitive puppy stomachs, and it has a smoky flavor that will have your Doberman pup begging for more after each meal.
Why We Like It – Taste of the Wild is the kind of kibble brand that has focused on developing a formula close to what a canine would eat if they lived in the wild, and it is packed with nutrition to help a puppy grow strong.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 3,656 kcal/kg, 364 kcal/cup |
| Crude Protein | 28.0% min |
| Crude Fat | 17.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 5.0% max |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.3% min |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.8% min |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Vitamin E | 175 IU/kg min |
First 7 Ingredients
Water Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Egg Product, Pea Protein, Peas, Potatoes…
Pros:
+ Rich in meat and meat-derived protein
+ DHA for brain and vision development
+ Natural diet free from grains
+ With species-specific probiotics
Cons:
– This food is better suited for puppies
5. Purina Beyond WILD Prey-Inspired Recipe
Some Dobermans can’t- or won’t eat kibble alone (due to being picky eaters or having teeth- or oral problems), and they might need a little extra encouragement.
This Purina Pro Plan wet food is a great Doberman Pinscher food to either give on its own or to use as a kibble topping for the fuzzy eater that won’t finish his- or her plate otherwise.
This best dog food for a Doberman Pinscher has no artificial flavor, color or preservatives, and it is also free from grain, wheat, corn, and soy.
Why We Like It – A Doberman diet needs to contain a high percentage of animal-based protein, which makes Purina Beyond the best food for Doberman owners that want to give their fur babies a little something extra, besides kibble.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 1169 kcal/kg, 431 kcal/can |
| Crude Protein | 9.0% min |
| Crude Fat | 7.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 1.5% max |
| Moisture | 78.0% max |
First 7 Ingredients
Turkey, turkey broth, chicken, liver, duck, chicken liver, ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS AND OTHER INGREDIENTS: Minerals (potassium chloride…
Pros:
+ Made with nutritious organ meat
+ Natural and protein-rich recipe
+ All ingredients come from trusted sources
+ With added vitamins and minerals
Cons:
– Shorter shelf life compared to dry kibble
6. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Large Breed Puppy
This recommended Doberman puppy food lists ingredients like deboned chicken, brown rice and salmon- and chicken meal, and its overall protein content is high.
Wellness Complete Health is a large breed formula with added DHA (an Omega 3 fatty acid) for healthy eye-, brain- and bone development; which is just what Doberman puppies need to grow at a proper pace.
The kibble size is adapted to large breed puppies, which is great for their teeth, and it is making it a product of interest for anyone on the hunt for the best food for Doberman puppy family members.
Why We Like It – The best food for Doberman Pinscher puppies can be hard to find, but it is worth the effort since it sets the foundation for your dog’s overall adult health.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 3,533 kcal/kg or 367 kcal/cup ME (metabolizable energy) |
| Crude Protein | 29.0% min |
| Crude Fat | 13.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 5.0% max |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.75% min |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 3.5% min |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Vitamin E | 200 IU/kg min |
First 7 Ingredients
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Peas, Ground Brown Rice, Salmon Meal, Oatmeal, Barley…
Pros:
+ Vitamin A and E for a boosted immune system
+ Digestive aid with prebiotics and probiotics
+ Promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat
+ Adequate kibble size for teeth- and gum health
Cons:
– Not for mini Dobermans
7. Spot Farms Human Grade Natural Dehydrated
Spoil your Doberman with this grain-free turkey recipe, full of delicious deboned chicken, beef, duck, pork or turkey, depending on the flavor variety you choose to feed your dog.
All the ingredients in Spot Farms are human grade; meaning they are fit for human consumption because dogs deserve to be brought up on high-quality food, just like we do.
Why We Like It – It is good to look past the well-known food brands; like Royal Canin Doberman food, from time to time, since it might lead you to a gem like this! The gentle dehydration process preserves as many nutrients as possible, and your dog will love the meaty flavor and consistency.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 3,740 kcal/kg, 425 kcal/cup |
| Crude Protein | 26.0% min |
| Crude Fat | 16.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 5.0% max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
First 7 Ingredients
Dehydrated Turkey, Dried Potatoes, Flax Seed, Dried Apples, Dried Carrots, Dried Spinach, Dried Cranberries…
Pros:
+ Freeze-dried for a higher nutritional value
+ No fillers or artificial preservatives
+ All ingredients are fit for human consumption
+ Full of flavor from real meat and vegetables
Cons:
– Not all dogs need a grain-free recipe
8. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight
Keep an eye on your Doberman’s weight with Hill's Science Diet crunchy chicken flavored kibble! It is reported that over 70% of dogs that were put on this dry food lost weight within the first 10 weeks, something that makes it a great option for dog owners with Dobermans that can’t seem to stay at what would be considered a healthy weight.
Chicken is a lean meat which provides them with the protein they need, while still promoting healthy weight loss and providing a path to keeping excess weight off in the future.
Why We Like It – What is the best dog food for Dobermans with weight problems? You are looking at it. This light blend will help your fur bestie down to what would be considered an ideal Doberman weight, which in turn will enable them to live longer and happier lives.
Want to learn more about The Farmer’s Dog Food? Read our in depth Farmer’s Dog Food Review.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 291 kcal/cup |
| Crude Protein | 24.0% min |
| Crude Fat | 9.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 5.0% min |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Vitamin E | 400 IU/kg min |
First 7 Ingredients
Chicken, Cracked Pearled Barley, Brown Rice, Pea Fiber, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Meal, Dried Tomato Pomace…
Pros:
+ Made with lean chicken
+ Promotes healthy weight loss
+ Boosts the immune system
+ Rich in vitamins and antioxidants
Cons:
– Not for those at an ideal weight
9. Ollie Fresh Dog Food s
You won’t have to worry about what goes into your dog’s belly each time feeding time comes around. With Ollie Dog Food, your doberman will get nothing but fresh food of the highest quality. They are made with fresh ingredients and if your dog doesn’t like it, you get your money back!
Ollie Dog Food results in change you can see. You will see a change in weight, if that’s what you are targeting, and by 9 months, you can see an overall improvement in your pup’s health.
Why We Like It – You know it’s working and the better choice when you can actually see the change happen before your eyes.
Want to learn more about Ollie Dog Food? Read our in depth Ollie Dog Food Review.
Fresh dog food is the better, healthier option for your fur baby.
Ollie tailors your dog’s meal plan based on their age, breed, activity level, allergies, and ideal weight—creating the perfect portion for your pup.
It's loaded with quality human-grade meat, fruits, veggies and superfoods with zero fillers.
Nutrition Information:
| Calorie Content ME | Serving depends on weight |
| Fiber | 2% |
| Fat | 3% |
| Protein | 10% |
| Moisture % | 73% max |
First 7 Ingredients
Beef Kidney, Turkey Meat, Basil, Salt, Carrots, Spinach, Sweet Potatoes…
Pros:
+ Freshly made dog food
+ Ollie gives back
+ Money-back guarantee
+ Change you can see
Cons:
– Has a shorter shelf life compared to kibble
10. Nom Nom Fresh Dog Food
What else does your dog need if he has a well-balanced meal? Supplements of course! To go along with each bowl of nutrition, Nom Nom Dog Food also manufactures their own line of supplements to boost your dog’s gut health and joints.
Nom Nom Dog Food doesn’t use anything you wouldn’t eat yourself. Each recipe is formulated by Dr. Justin Schmalberg, a board certified vet nutritionist to guarantee your doberman gets nothing but the best.
Why We Like It – Nom Nom Dog Food is pre-portioned to make sure your pet won’t be overfed.
Want to learn more about Nom Nom Dog Food? Read our in depth Nom Nom Dog Food Review.
Fresh dog food is the better, healthier option for your fur baby.
Nom Nom a service that delivers balanced, freshly made pet food perfectly balanced with fresh, whole natural ingredients.
The formula is carefully developed by Dr. Justin Shmalberg DVM so you can trust your dog is in good hands.
First 7 Ingredients
Ground beef, russet potatoes, eggs, carrots, peas, dicalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate…
Nutrition Information:
| Calories (Kcal/Kg) | 1239 |
| Crude Protein | 10% min |
| Crude Fat | 5% min |
| Crude Fiber | 1% max |
| Moisture | 73% max |
Chicken Cuisine Ingredients
Diced chicken, sweet potatoes, squash, spinach, sunflower oil, canola oil, dicalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, fish oil, natural flavor, vinegar, citric acid, taurine, choline bitartrate, zinc gluconate, ferrous sulfate, vitamin E supplement, copper gluconate, niacin (vitamin B3), manganese gluconate, vitamin A supplement, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), selenium yeast, riboflavin (vitamin B2), vitamin B12 supplement, cholecalciferol (source of vitamin D3), potassium iodide.
Nutrition Information:
| Calories (Kcal/Kg) | 1255 |
| Crude Protein | 8.5% min |
| Crude Fat | 6% min |
| Crude Fiber | 1% max |
| Moisture | 77% max |
Pork Potluck Ingredients
Ground pork, russet potatoes, green beans, squash, kale, brown mushrooms, dicalcium phosphate, salt, potassium chloride, fish oil, natural flavor, vinegar, citric acid, taurine, choline bitartrate, zinc gluconate, ferrous sulfate, vitamin E supplement, copper gluconate, niacin (vitamin B3), manganese gluconate, vitamin A supplement, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), selenium yeast, riboflavin (vitamin B2), vitamin B12 supplement, cholecalciferol (source of vitamin D3), potassium iodide.
Nutrition Information:
| Calories (Kcal/Kg) | 1246 |
| Crude Protein | 8% min |
| Crude Fat | 5% min |
| Crude Fiber | 2% max |
| Moisture | 75% max |
Turkey Fare Ingredients
Ground turkey, brown rice, eggs, carrots, spinach, dicalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, salt, potassium chloride, fish oil, natural flavor, vinegar, citric acid, taurine, choline bitartrate, zinc gluconate, ferrous sulfate, vitamin E supplement, copper gluconate, niacin (vitamin B3), manganese gluconate, vitamin A supplement, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), selenium yeast, riboflavin (vitamin B2), vitamin B12 supplement, cholecalciferol (source of vitamin D3), potassium iodide.
Nutrition Information:
| Calories (Kcal/Kg) | 1479 |
| Crude Protein | 8% min |
| Crude Fat | 5% min |
| Crude Fiber | 1% max |
| Moisture | 70% max |
Pros:
+ Well-balanced nutrition
+ Professionally formulated
+ Whole and natural ingredients
+ Dog food delivered to your door
Cons:
– Has a shorter shelf life compared to kibble
How We Found the Best Dog Foods for Dobermans
Kibble Size
Since Dobermans are considered large breeds, we primarily looked at kibble that aren’t too small or meant for large dogs. If you have a mini Doberman, make sure you look for dog foods with smaller kibble.
Type of Food
Wet dog food? Dry dog food?
Joint Protection
Small dogs are susceptible to patella luxation while larger breeds may suffer from elbow and hip dysplasia. Added glucosamine, chondroitin and fish oils can help minimize these potential ailments.
Dog Food for Dobermans Buyers Guide
Dobermans are large and strong dogs that need a high-quality diet throughout all life stages.
Just like many dog breeds; Dobermans are prone to some health conditions, but many of these can be prevented and/or helped by providing the proper nutrients.
The sooner you start feeding quality food the better, but it is never too late to start! Learn what you need to look for, where to find it, and start browsing the internet for the product that would be the best fit for you and your dog!
High-quality meat
When you are buying dog food, no matter what dog breed you are buying it for, it is important to be aware that not all meat ingredients are high-quality meat ingredients.
Many cheap dog food brands will list ingredients such as “animal by-products,” “chicken by-products” and “meat” (without specifying what meat it is), and these are considered low-quality meat ingredients.
By-products are what are deemed unfit for human consumption at slaughter-houses and may or may not contain enough protein and nutrients for your dog to thrive.
Unnamed meat sources are also questionable since a dog food brand that is proud of their food content would specify where the meat comes from, so the fact that someone chooses not to potentially says a lot about quality.
Instead of above-listed meat ingredients – look for real and specified meats; such as deboned chicken, salmon, beef and pork, and make sure that these meat products are listed as high up on the ingredients’ list as possible.
Taurine for Cardiac Health
This is a little Easter egg you should be happy to find in your Doberman’s diet, since recent studies show that it might be essential for a healthy and strong heart.
Do not rule out products that do not list Taurine, however, since some other ingredients might contain taurine naturally.
If you are unsure whether the product you are interested in contains the recommended levels of Taurine, then you can always reach out to the manufacturing company and ask, just to be sure.
Conclusion
The Doberman is loyal to his family and to his owner, so try and return that favor by providing quality nutrition throughout all his life stages. Remember that nutritional needs change and that your dog will require different food products depending on their age.
You might have to test out a few different ones before you get it right, but you can always check to see if you can find small sampler bags first before taking the step and purchasing a larger quantity bag.
Expert Tip
Don’t let a fancy looking bag full of printed promises fool you into thinking that it has high-quality ingredients.
Always read the ingredient list and make an educated decision based on that, rather than to trust the oldest marketing tricks in the book.
Did You Know?
Dobermans are known for their superior intelligence, they originate from Germany and the breed first started to take form somewhere around the early 1880s.
