Hitesh Yadav
- Pet EnthusiastHey, Myself Hitesh Yadav and I am the author of the Pet Cremation Guides blog, Here I shares pet loss emotional advice, memorial ideas, and...
Hitesh Yadav
- Pet EnthusiastHey, Myself Hitesh Yadav and I am the author of the Pet Cremation Guides blog, Here I shares pet loss emotional advice, memorial ideas, and...
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog (GSMD) is a very loyal and powerful breed. They have a large, active and muscular body. So they need a special diet that meets their physical needs like strong bones, healthy joints and plenty of energy.
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In this blog post, I will share 10 best dog foods for Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs with benefits for that particular food or recipe, essential nutrition and some home made recipes.
TL;DR: Best Dog Food for Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs (for the quick readers)
This guide will give you all the information you need about the best dog food for Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs. We have shared 5 packaged food and 5 easy and nutritious homemade recipes that will keep your dog healthy and happy, as well as what to avoid to ensure the health of your furry companion.
Before proceeding further let’s see some common questions related to the diet of Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs.
1.) What should be included in the diet of a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog?
Greater Swiss Mountain dog is a large breed. This means they require more protein to keep the muscles strong. Require the right amount of calcium and phosphorus to keep the bones and joints working properly.
They requires nutrients like omega 3 fatty acids to keep the skin and gut healthy. and if it is a puppy, then DHA and more calories are required.
2.) Common health problems of Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs and their solution through diet
Here are some common health problems and their solutions are seen in these dogs are :-
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Hip and Elbow Dysplasia | With the right diet their joint health can be maintained |
| Bloat or flatulence | Food should be given in small portions |
| Being overweight | Consider giving Low-fat diet and exercise are necessary |
| Skin Allergies | Allergies can be controlled with limited ingredient food |
3.) Nutritional Requirement of a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
- Proper calories and protein – A 60kg adult GSMD needs around 2500–2700kcal/day and 20–30% protein is ideal.
- For Joint and heart support GSMD needs glucosamine, chondroitin and omega‑3.
- For digestive support they requires Probiotics, prebiotics and fermented ingredients.
- Raw/fresh options – Raw or fresh food helps retain nutrients and reduces inflammation.
- AAFCO accreditation – Only choose foods that meet AAFCO standards
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Top 10 Best Dog Food for Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs
The right diet not only strengthens the muscles and bone health of the dog, but also improves your dog’s energy levels and lifespan. In this section I am going to tell you about the top 10 dog food brands that are perfect for this breed (GSMD) and is perfect whether it’s a puppy, adult or senior dog.
For ranking these best food for greater swiss mountain dogs , I consider reviews of people on Amazon, some veterinary doctor advise, their nutrients and their popularity (we can assume that a dog food that is more popular among pet parents means more healthy for their dog or any other pet ).
1.) Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Large Breed Dry Dog Food
The Blue Buffalo’s dog food is specially formulated for large breed dogs such as Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs. It has lamb as the main protein source and brown rice to support the digestive system. It also includes Blue Buffalo’s exclusive LifeSource Bits which are rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.
✅ Pros :-
- Provides Joint Support:- Glucosamine and Chondroitin present in it that helps to keep bones and joints strong and healthy.
- Immune and Brain Health :- The antioxidants and vitamins in LifeSource Bits are beneficial for the immune system and mental health development.
- Good Digestion :- Brown rice and natural fibers help to make digestion easier, reducing stomach problems.
- High Quality Protein :- Made with real lamb without any by products.
- No Artificial Additives :- Contains no artificial colors flavors or preservatives.
🍽️ Nutritional Values :-
- Crude Protein – 22% (for muscle building)
- Crude Fat – 12% (for energy)
- Fiber – 6% (for digestion)
- Calcium & Phosphorus – Balanced for bone development
- Omega 3 & 6 – Great for coat and skin
❌ Cons :-
- Doesn’t suit every dog :- Some dogs may be allergic to lamb or grains.
- Can be a little expensive :- Priced a little higher than other dog food brands.
- Heavy packing :- The 30 lbs (about 13.6 kg) pack can be difficult to lift or store.
2.) ORIJEN Grain High Protein Dry Dog Food
This dog food is designed for large breeds and adult dogs. It primarily consists of high-quality ingredients like chicken and whole barley, which support muscle strength, joint health and healthy digestion. This Diet is recommended by vets and Orijen Grains is a trusted brand among pet parents.
✅ Pros :-
- High-quality protein :- It is Made with real chicken, which helps build and maintain muscle.
- Joint & Bone Health :- It contains Glucosamine and chondroitin these are beneficial for joint and bone health, especially for older dogs.
- Brain & Heart Support :- Taurine and other essential nutrients nourish the heart and brain.
- No Artificial Fillers :- No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives ( an all-natural diet ).
- Vet Recommended :- This best dog food for greater swiss mountain dogs is the most recommended brand by vets in the US.
Nutritional Value (Per Serving approx) :-
- Protein – 20%
- Fat – 11.5%
- Fiber – 4%
- Calcium & Phosphorus – Balanced for bone health
- Omega‑6 Fatty Acids – Helps maintain healthy coat and skin
❌ Cons :-
- Comes in the premium price range :- The price is a bit higher as it is a vet-supervised premium brand.
- Higher Grain Formula :- Some pet dogs may be allergic to grains or barley.
- Package is big and heavy :- The 35 lb pack can be a bit difficult to store or carry.
3.) Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dog Food
This dog food is specially formulated for large breed adult dogs. It contains real chicken as the main protein source and nutrients like omega fatty acids, glucosamine that support joint and coat health.
✅ Pros:
- Made from real chicken that is great for muscle building.
- Glucosamine and EPA support strong joints.
- Omega-6 and Vitamin A support skin and coat health.
- Prebiotic fiber aids in digestion
Nutritional Values (Approx) :-
- Protein: 26%
- Fat: 12%
- Fiber: 4.5%
- Glucosamine: 500 ppm
- Balanced Calcium and Phosphorus
❌ Cons:
- May not suit dogs with slightly sensitive stomachs
- Some users have reported issues with packaging
4.) Dr. Kellyann Bone Broth Meal Topper for Dogs
This is one of the best food for greater swiss mountain dogs and it is developed by Dr. Kelian’s and it is made with grass-fed beef bone broth, which contains nutrients that support gut, joint and coat health. It can be used to add both taste and nutrition to dog food.
✅ Pros:
- Bone & Joint Support – It Contains natural collagen which strengthens joints and bones.
- Taste Improvement – Taste better when mixed before or after meals that increases appetite.
- Digestion Help – Light and easily digestible, suitable for the stomach.
- 100% Clean Formula – No artificially coloured, flavor or preservative and grain-free.
🧬 Nutritional Value (Per container approx ) :-
Ingredients: Collagen peptides, beef bone broth, beef liver, organic wheatgrass, barley grass, spirulina, alfalfa
Supports: Stomach, Joints, Coat, Digestion
❌ Cons:
- Small and expensive packet: 6.8oz (195g) of content can be a bit pricey.
- Not a main meal: It is only a topper, not a replacement for a full diet.
- Storing challenges: Being a powder/paste type, prone to spills and mashing in open spaces.
5.) VICTOR Super Premium Dog Food – Chicken Meal & Brown Rice
This Hi-Pro Plus formula GSMD dog food from Victor’s is designed for dogs that need more energy, higher protein, and balanced nutrition. It contains a blend of beef, chicken, pork, and fish meal, making it an 88% animal protein source. It is a reliable choice especially for working dogs, active breeds, or breeds like the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.
✅ Pros:
- High Protein (30%) – Ideal for active and muscular dogs
- Multi-Meat Formula – A great blend of proteins from beef, chicken, pork and fish
- Glucosamine & Selenium – For joint support and immune health
- USA-made, Quality-controlled – Made to US quality standards
- Gluten-Free Formula – Good choice for dogs with wheat and gluten allergies
🧬 Nutritional Value (Approx.) :-
- Protein: 30%
- Fat: 20%
- Fiber: 3.8%
- Moisture: 9%
- Omega-3 & 6: Balanced for coat and skin
- Prebiotics, Selenium Yeast, Glucosamine best for immune, joint and digestion
❌ Cons:
- Multi-Meat Blend – May not suit some dogs on a protein-heavy diet
- Heavy pack (40 lbs) – Can be difficult to store and carry
- Price may seem a bit high – but it’s fair for the quality
5 Best Homemade Recipes For Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Here are 5 great homemade recipes that you can easily make for your Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. These recipes are not only delicious but also full of nutrients. Below i will share each recipe with its ingredients, nutritional value and detailed method of preparation.
1. Chicken and Rice Healthy Meal
Ingredients Required :-
- Boneless chicken breast – 500 grams
- Brown rice – 1 cup
- Carrot (chopped) – 1 cup
- Peas – 1/2 cup
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Nutrition :-
- Protein :- High (30g/100g) per serve
- Fiber :- Medium
- Fat :- Low
Method of preparation :-
- First of all, wash the chicken thoroughly and put it in a vessel and add enough water to cover the chicken. Now boil it on medium flame for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked.
- After the chicken is cooked, cool it and cut it into small pieces.
- Wash the brown rice thoroughly and boil it in 2 cups of water on low flame for 15-20 minutes until it is completely cooked.
- Lightly steam the carrots and peas in a steamer or water so that they become soft but the nutrients remain intact.
- Now heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pan and add chicken, boiled rice, carrots and peas and mix lightly.
- Cook on low flame for 2-3 minutes so that the ingredients mix properly. Then cool it down and serve to the dog.
2. Beef and Sweet Potato Stew
Ingredients Required :-
- Beef (fatless) – 500 grams
- Sweet potato – 1 cup (chopped)
- Apple (seeded) – 1/2 cup
- Coconut oil – 1 tsp
Nutrition :-
- Iron: High
- Protein: High
- Carbs: Balanced
Method of preparation :-
- Cut the beef into small pieces and boil it in water without salt for 20 minutes or cook on low flame.
- Peel the sweet potato and cut it into small pieces and boil it till it becomes soft.
- Peel the apple and remove the seeds and cut it into small pieces. Steam it lightly.
- Now heat 1 tablespoon coconut oil in a pan and add beef, sweet potato and apple and cook for 5-7 minutes so that all the flavors get mixed.
- Serve to dog when it become cool.
3. Salmon and Spinach Dinner
Ingredients Required :-
- Salmon (boneless) – 300 grams
- Spinach – 1 cup
- Brown rice – 1/2 cup
- Sunflower oil – 1 tsp
Nutrition :-
- Omega-3 fatty acids: High
- Protein: High
- Fiber: Adequate amount
Method of preparation :-
- Wash the salmon well and lightly grill or cook it on a pan without spices (both sides for 4-5 minutes).
- Wash the spinach and blanch it in boiling water for 1 minute and then chop it finely.
- Boil the brown rice.
- Heat 1 tablespoon sunflower oil in a pan, add salmon, spinach and brown rice and mix lightly.
- Mix everything well and serve chilled.
4. Turkey and Oats Meal
Ingredients Required :-
- Ground turkey – 400 grams
- Rolled oats – 1 cup
- Carrots and green beans – 1 cup
- Coconut oil – 1 tsp
Nutrition :-
- Protein: High
- Carbs: Balanced
- Fiber: Good amount
Method of preparation :-
- Firstly, cut carrots and green beans into small pieces and lightly steam them.
- Heat coconut oil in a non-stick pan and add ground turkey and fry it till it is completely cooked (about 10 minutes).
- Boil oats with 2 cups of water in a separate pan till it becomes soft.
- Now mix all the ingredients (turkey, oats, vegetables) in a large bowl.
- make them cool and thenserve.
5. Eggs and Paneer Nutri Bowl
Ingredients Required :-
- Boiled eggs – 2
- Paneer (low fat) – 100 grams
- Coriander leaves – a little
- Oats – 1/2 cup
- Carrots (grated) – 1/4 cup
Nutrition :-
- Protein: High
- Calcium: Good source
- Fiber: Adequate amount
Method of preparation :-
- Boil the eggs (for 10 minutes) and cool and cut into small pieces.
- Cut the paneer into cubes or break it by hand.
- Boil the oats in a pan with 1 cup water till it becomes soft.
- Grate the carrots and keep them ready.
- Now mix boiled egg, paneer, oats and carrot in a bowl. Add some green coriander on top.
- Mix everything well and serve after cooling.
These are some of the best food for greater swiss mountain dogs. You can add these recipes to your dog’s regular meals 2-3 times a week for variety.
Always remember to consult your vet before giving homemade food.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Feeding Chart :-
| Age | Weight | Food ( Cups ) | Meals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-4 Months | 25-45 Kg | 2-3 Cups | 3 Times per day |
| 6-12 Months | 65-100 Kg | 3.5-4.5 Cups | 2 Times per day |
| Adult | 100 kg+ | 5-6 Cups | 2 Times per day |
What things should be avoided?
Some foods can be harmful for Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs. Always ensure that whatever food you are giving is fresh, less spicy and full of balanced nutrition. You should avoid below mentioned food for your GSMD breed dog that contains :-
- Fatty foods or bones
- Chocolates, grapes, garlic – these are toxic
- Cheap or non-branded dog foods – these may contain fillers and chemicals
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the best diet for Greater Swiss Mountain Dog?
The best diet for GSMD breed is that contains high-protein, supports joint health and, large breed formula based diet.
Q2. Should GSMD be given a grain-free diet?
Not necessary if there is no allergy. Grain-inclusive diet is also fine.
Q3. Is there a difference between the food of Bernese Mountain Dog and GSMD?
Both are large and working breeds, there is little difference in their diet such that GSMD needs a little more calories and protein than Bernese mountain dogs
If you liked this guide, then definitely share it with other GSMD parents. ❤️
Hey, Myself Hitesh Yadav and I am the author of the Pet Cremation Guides blog, Here I shares pet loss emotional advice, memorial ideas, and practical tips for bidding farewell to your pet. Inspired by my own experiences, I aims to help anyone who has lost a beloved pet companion in preserving their memories, with love.
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