Healthy Diet for Rottweilers

Rottweilers are a large breed of dog with short black and tan fur. These dogs make for great guard dogs and companions for any home. As very loyal companions, rottweilers have a lot of energy, which is why they need a healthy diet to help them stay active and healthy. If you have a rottweiler in your home, be it a grown dog or little pup, educate yourself on what your rottweiler needs to live a long and healthy life.

  1. Two Feeding Options

    • Decide on what to feed your rottweiler. There are two options: store-bought food or food you make yourself at home. With store-bought food, the issue is that not all brand foods are equal in health value and some have ingredients that can be bad for your rottweiler, like harsh chemicals, bad proteins and lots of fats with little nutrients. However, some people like the convenience factor of store-bought food and opt to use it. With homemade food, while you get to decide exactly what your rottweiler eats, you might not always have the time to spend in the kitchen to make it. With either option, you should be able to work out a healthy diet for your rottweiler based on your personal preferences.

    Store Foods

    • Store-bought foods and brand-name foods carry many taboos, but not all of the foods on the market are terrible for your dog. Avoid cheap store-bought foods and check the ingredients. If you see a lot of chemicals listed, this probably isn't the food for your rottweiler. Also, if you see the words "animal by-product," that basically means there are no good proteins in that brand. Remember, your rottweiler needs good proteins. Ask a store worker at the pet shop to help you find the highest quality dog food you can for your rottweiler.

    Homemade Meals

    • If you like cooking and want absolute control over what your rottweiler eats, then try homemade meals. Your rottweiler needs protein, carbohydrates and minerals and vitamins to keep going strong, so remember this when making meals. A good rule of measure is to include at least 30 to 40 percent protein, like turkey, fish, or beef; 30 percent carbohydrates, such as whole grain pastas; and 20 percent veggies, like kale, broccoli or peas. Rottweilers also love potatoes and carrots, too. Cook food at each meal or make a large portion, toss it in the freezer and heat up a serving at breakfast and dinner.

    How Much To Give

    • Rottweilers are a very big breed, which means that the dog puts away a lot of food to keep his massive body going. While each rottweiler varies, depending on health needs and situation, expect to feed an adult about anywhere from 3 to 5 cups twice a day, at breakfast and dinner. For a rottweiler pup, until six months, feed him 1 cup three times a day. After six months, give him 2 cups twice day, then after 18 months, feed him as an adult.

    Treats and Snacks

    • Think of snacks for your rottweiler as you would the meals you give them. Stick with high quality, all natural snacks and avoid the cheaper brand names. You can even make them at home. You can also find a variety of recipes online, or come up with your own, based on ingredients you use at mealtime, if you cook at home. Otherwise look at your local pet shop and find some good organic and all natural treats for your rottweiler.

    Work With Your Vet

    • Anytime you acquire a new animal, you should make an appointment with your vet. This is especially true if you have a new puppy in the house. If you are making homemade meals, share your recipes with your vet. Also, tell her what store food you are using and, of course, tell her how much you are feeding your dog. Working with your vet can ensure you are giving your rottweiler the diet it needs, and your vet can help you make diet changes as needed.