Ideal Diet for Quality-Bred Australian Shepherds

Jeanne Carter
Jan 8
2 min read

Nutrition Tips from Brushy Creek Aussies of Texas

At Brushy Creek Aussies, an Australian Shepherd breeder in Red Oak, Texas, our dogs aren’t just pets — they’re family. Whether you bring home a Toy, Miniature, or Standard Australian Shepherd, one thing remains true: proper nutrition is critical to lifelong health, performance, and happiness.

If you’ve ever asked “what should I feed my Australian Shepherd?” or “what is the best diet for an Aussie puppy?” — you’re in the right place.

Let’s break down exactly what your Aussie needs to thrive.

Why the Australian Shepherd Diet Matters

Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent, energetic working dogs. Their bodies and brains demand proper fuel. Nutrition plays a major role in:

Muscle development
Skin and coat health
Joint strength
Digestive health
Immune system function
Mental focus and energy levels

Puppy nutrition is especially important. Early dietary imbalances can affect growth, bone development, and long-term health. That’s why every puppy at Brushy Creek Aussies is started on a balanced, age-appropriate diet before going home.

Protein: The Foundation of an Aussie’s Diet

Protein is the cornerstone of Australian Shepherd nutrition. It supports:

Lean muscle development
Energy for active lifestyles
Healthy skin and coat

Best protein sources for Australian Shepherds include:

Chicken
Turkey
Beef
Lamb
Fish (especially salmon)

When choosing dog food, whole animal protein should always be the first ingredient on the label — not meat meals, by-products, or fillers.

Plant proteins can be included, but animal-based proteins should always be the primary source for this breed.

Healthy Fats: Energy, Brain Health & Coat Quality

Healthy fats are essential for Australian Shepherds, especially active dogs. They provide:

Long-lasting energy
Brain and nerve support
Skin and coat health

Excellent fat sources include:

Salmon oil
Fish oil
Flaxseed
Chicken fat
Coconut oil (in moderation)

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Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids help reduce inflammation, support joint health, and keep coats glossy. At Brushy Creek Aussies, we rotate high-quality, odor-free salmon oil and coconut oil into our dogs’ diets — a noticeable benefit for skin and coat condition.

Carbohydrates: Clean, Slow-Burning Energy

Australian Shepherds can benefit from carbohydrates — when they’re the right kind.

Avoid:

Corn
Soy
Wheat fillers
Artificial starches

Better carbohydrate choices include:

Sweet potatoes
Brown rice
Oats
Pumpkin (excellent for digestion)

These provide slow-release energy, fiber for gut health, and help balance protein and fat intake. Carbs should always be moderate, not dominant.

Vitamins & Minerals: Small but Powerful

Vitamins and minerals play a major role in overall Aussie health. They support:

Bone development
Immune function
Cellular repair

Nutrient-rich additions we love include:

Spinach
Carrots
Green beans
Blueberries (a favorite antioxidant boost!)

Calcium and phosphorus are especially important for puppies — but balance matters. Too much or too little can cause growth issues. That’s why controlled, breeder-vetted diets are so important during early development.