large breedUpdated March 2026

Best Dog Food for Old English Sheepdogs

Our top food picks for Old English Sheepdogs. Fresh food delivery, subscription boxes, and kibble brands that actually work for this breed.

At 60 to 100 pounds, the Old English Sheepdog is a moderate energy large breed. Old English Sheepdogs come from the Herding group. They're wired to move, and that constant activity burns through calories. What you put in the bowl has a direct effect on how they feel and perform day to day.

Old English Sheepdogs are prone to Hip Dysplasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Cataracts. Joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine help. A food that addresses these breed-specific risks goes a long way.

Old English Sheepdogs have demanding coats that need omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from their food. If the coat looks dull, diet is usually the first thing to check. We put together our top picks below: subscription food services, monthly boxes, and kibble options that work well for this breed.

Old English Sheepdog Nutrition Profile

22–26%
Protein
10–15%
Fat
4–6%
Fiber
20 cal/lb
Calories

Best Fresh Food Delivery for Old English Sheepdogs

These services build a meal plan around your Old English Sheepdog's weight and age. Real food, vet-approved recipes, shipped to your door.

Best Subscription Boxes for Old English Sheepdogs

Monthly boxes with toys, treats, and chews picked for your Old English Sheepdog's size. Good nutrition is half the battle. Enrichment is the other half.

Feeding by Life Stage

🐶Old English Sheepdog Puppies

Old English Sheepdog puppies should be on a large-breed puppy formula with controlled calcium. They grow to 100+ pounds, and rushing that growth stresses developing bones. Since Old English Sheepdogs are prone to joint issues, this is especially important.

🧓Senior Old English Sheepdogs

Old English Sheepdogs live about 10 to 12 years, so around age 8 you should start thinking about a senior formula. Fewer calories, easier on the stomach. Joint supplements like glucosamine become more important at this stage.

Recommended Kibble Brands

Widely available dry food brands suitable for Old English Sheepdogs. Listed for informational purposes.

Joint Support
Wellness Core Large Breed
Glucosamine and chondroitin built in, optimized protein-to-fat ratio for bigger dogs
Popular
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Large Breed
L-carnitine for lean muscle, glucosamine for joints, controlled calories
Best Overall
Orijen Large Breed
Tailored for large and giant breeds with glucosamine and chondroitin from natural sources
Vet Favorite
Hill's Science Diet Large Breed
Clinically proven antioxidants and glucosamine for large breed joint and immune health
Budget Pick
Diamond Naturals Large Breed
Added glucosamine and chondroitin at the lowest price in the large breed category
Weight Control
Wellness Core Reduced Fat
Lower calorie density with high protein to maintain muscle while trimming weight

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Old English Sheepdog

How much food does a Old English Sheepdog need per day?

A Old English Sheepdog weighing 60 to 100 lbs needs roughly 1800 to 3000 calories per day, depending on age and how active they are. Split that into two meals. Use a slow feeder or puzzle bowl to reduce the risk of bloat.

What health issues should Old English Sheepdog food help with?

Old English Sheepdogs are known to develop Hip Dysplasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Cataracts. Look for foods that address these: glucosamine and chondroitin for joints, and omega-3 fatty acids for overall health.

What protein percentage is right for a Old English Sheepdog?

Old English Sheepdogs do well on 22–26% protein. The first ingredient should be a named meat like chicken, beef, fish, or lamb. Skip foods where corn, wheat, or soy is listed first.

When should a Old English Sheepdog puppy switch to adult food?

Old English Sheepdogs are a bigger breed, so keep them on puppy food longer. 12 to 24 months is the usual range because their bones need time to finish developing. Your vet can check growth progress and give you a more exact timeline.

What foods are toxic to Old English Sheepdogs?

Same as all dogs: chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol (check sugar-free gum labels), onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, and cooked bones. Old English Sheepdogs can get into things fast, so keep these stored where they can't reach.

When is a Old English Sheepdog considered senior?

Old English Sheepdogs live about 10 to 12 years, so they start hitting senior territory around age 8. That's when you might want to look at lower-calorie formulas with joint support and easier-to-digest protein.

Learn More About Old English Sheepdogs