How much my dog should eat?

Question
I have a full blood German Shepard, He is about 2 yrs old. I would say he weighs about 75 lbs. I really need to know how much food to feed him at feedings, and what type of food would be the best for him.

Answer
Your dog definitely should be narrower at the waist than the hips and chest. You should be able to easily feel the ribs, but not see them. Each dog is different. Standard recommendations are a good place to start, but each dog must have its food and exercise adjusted to its individual needs. Here is a link to a good illustrated guide, http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx  Shepherds often refuse to eat more than they need.  Some younger ones will hardly eat enough to hide their ribs completely.  If so, it is best to leave well enough alone.  

Most dogs will thrive on most chows.  There is a lot of talk around about ''better ingredients'' and anecdotes about dogs that did better on premium chows.  I haven't been able to find any proof dogs do better eating chows with ingredients that sound better to people.  I do know the professionals responsible for the care of service dogs have carefully looked at different diet and most of the schools are feeding their highly valuable dogs one or another of the common brands.  The 11 week old Golden we are raising to be an assistance dog is on adult Purina 1.  

If you aren't seeing any problems with what you are feeding now, stick to it.  Every day on another site I read where somebody switched to a premium chow and their dog had problems on it.  If you dog isn't doing well, and the vet can't find a cause, you might try another of the common brands.  My friend's dog guide developed an allergy to the chicken in the Pro Plan she was feeding.  The dog is doing fine now on Iams lamb and rice.