When selecting commercial kibble, what common starting point is recommended by experienced owners regarding the ingredients list?

Looking for a named meat source as the first ingredient.

When navigating the selection process for dry kibble intended for German Shepherds, a frequently suggested initial guideline focuses purely on the ingredient transparency at the top of the list. Experienced owners often advise prioritizing foods where the very first ingredient listed is a specific, named source of animal protein, such as 'deboned chicken' or 'lamb meal,' rather than ambiguous terms like 'meat by-products' or plant-based ingredients. This practice helps ensure that the foundational source of protein and necessary amino acids is clearly identified, providing a strong starting point for evaluating the food's overall quality and suitability before delving into specialized nutrient ratios.