Last Updated on September 20, 2023
Quick Summary: The German Shepherd dog (GSD) is a large breed that grows quickly and requires a lot of care. The playful little puppy will eventually become a larger and more active adult dog. Different German shepherds grow at different rates, and every dog is unique, so it is essential to keep track of their growth and milestones in order to ensure normal development. A fully-grown male German Shepherd will weigh 70 to 90 pounds and stand at around 24 to 26 inches high. On the other hand, a fully-grown female GSD will weigh between 60 to 70 pounds and stand at about 22 to 24 inches tall.
The German Shepherd dog breed is beloved by many. These dogs are known for being loving, loyal, and intelligent. They are also known for being gentle and protective dogs.
Historically, German Shepherds were bred to be work dogs. They are still used for therapy, police work, and service dog work. They became loved human companions because of their intelligence and sweet nature.
This guide will help you understand your German Shepherd’s development from puppyhood to adulthood. We begin by looking at the typical German Shepherd and what we can expect each month.
As your puppy grows, we provide a growth chart that shows the normal development of the breed. Next, we will take a look at all the factors that could affect your puppy’s health as he grows. We also address the most common questions regarding the German Shepherd’s growth. Let’s get started.
What to Expect From Your Shepherd Puppy
Puppyhood is the most important stage in your puppy’s development. Puppyhood is a precious time. It is important to prepare as much as you can to ensure your puppy has a healthy and long life.
While growth charts can be a great reference tool, they do not provide all the information you need to properly raise your particular breed. Find out how to care for your dog, so they are happy and healthy. A few reminders are needed before we begin the puppy growth timeline.
Important Reminders
This guide outlines the typical growth patterns for a German Shepherd. Keep in mind that every puppy is different. As with many other large breeds, German Shepherds are not considered fully developed until they reach 18 months. Both males and females will continue to grow after this point.
Growth depends on many factors, including the nutrition of your dog. The foods you give your dog will affect their weight and development.
Every dog is unique, and each one will be his or her own size regardless of growth charts or guides. Talk to your veterinarian if you have concerns about your dog’s development or if you they may not be developing as expected.
Puppy Development: Timeline
German Shepherds can be independent but are known to attach themselves to one person and not leave their side.
We discuss the most important aspects of caring for larger breed puppies at each stage. Puppies grow quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on them as their growth continues each month.
Birth to 2 Weeks Old
Puppies are vulnerable when they arrive. Puppies are deaf and blind for the first three weeks of their lives. They rely on their mother to help them survive.
In the first three weeks of their lives, they will be able to open their eyes and learn to use the bathroom, eat, crawl and walk. Males and females will roughly be the same size at birth.
- Male dogs weigh between 4 and 8 pounds.
- Female puppies are approximately 3 to 5 pounds in weight.
1 Month Old
Puppies begin to socialize with other dogs, pets, and humans around three weeks to one month. They will remain with their mother, but they will start to trust and interact with humans. This is crucial as they will need to become comfortable with people.
The puppies will be more stable on their feet. Puppies will also begin to develop teeth so get ready for some chewing!
- Male dogs weigh between 5 and 9 pounds.
- Females weigh 4 to 10 pounds.
2 Months Old
Puppies should stay close to their moms for the first eight weeks of their lives . They are provided with nutrition, cleanliness, and comfort by her. They will continue to drink mother’s milk for eight weeks. After that, their stomachs are able to handle soft and mushy puppy food. Somewhere between one and two months, puppies will need to begin vaccinations.
Training is possible even now, your dog is learning the right behaviors and manners as he explores more of the world. Training your puppy in leash and crate manners is a good idea. It will teach him to recognize human commands. Grooming should also be a priority. Regular brushing is essential for your dog.
- Male puppies weigh 10 to 20 pounds.
- Females weigh 10 to 16 pounds.
3 Months Old
Puppies should be eating puppy food by three months old and have stopped drinking milk. This is a perfect time to think about house training the little guy. Puppies can start to bite their human and canine friends around this age. Stop this behavior. Obedience training starts now, and he needs to know what behaviors are not appropriate.
He will start to have teeth and like to chew. These teeth are very sharp, so he will need plenty of chew toys.
- Male puppies weigh 20 to 30 pounds.
- Females weigh 18 to 25 pounds.
4 Months Old
Your pup will be a quick-moving, energetic ball of energy. He will also grow quickly. He will be able to travel in the car, and he will spend more time walking and socializing with his humans. He might act like a child, being curious, learning new things, hiding from others, and making mischief.
Housetraining should be initiated by now. If you have not, now is the time to introduce your puppy to other dogs or humans. Professional training is an option if you don’t have the experience or desire to train your dog. He must learn to be friendly with other dogs. While some behaviors may seem cute to a puppy, they can become destructive and even dangerous for an adult dog.
- Male puppies weigh 30 to 40 pounds.
- Females weigh 25 to 30 pounds.
5 Months Old
Your puppy will grow quickly and be a lot heavier than he was just a few weeks ago. He will continue to learn how to behave and will be constantly learning new things. Here, patience is crucial. To understand the difference between what is okay and what isn’t, he will need lots positive reinforcement.
Puppies at this stage are energetic and eager for love and will need a lot from you . He will need high-quality fuel to sustain his growth. German Shepherds will shed their baby fur around this time so you might notice more hair in the house.
- Male puppies weigh 40 to 49 pounds.
- Females weigh 30 to 40 pounds.
6 Months Old
Your puppy will not look like a fluffy little ball. He will look more like a large dog, but he is still growing mentally and physically. He will be a playmate all day and night. He is still developing and growing so he will need to get enough rest.
Even if he is determined to continue, ensure that he has downtime. Too much exercise while growing so fast can result in issues like hip dysplasia. Although his internal organs are fully developed, he’s still growing in size. Around this time, he should have all his adult teeth.
This is when you should consider spaying or neutering your puppy if you don’t plan to breed. Your puppy will reach sexual maturity between now and 16 months. Discuss with your vet when the right time is to move on to the next step. Be cautious about getting your dog pregnant even if it has reached sexual maturity. A puppy that is pregnant is not healthy since she is still growing.
- Male puppies weigh 50 to 55 pounds.
- Females weigh 40 to 48 pounds.
7 Months Old
Your puppy will be well-adjusted in his routines and behavior by this age. He will enjoy long walks and be very active. He needs to be active and will require your full attention. If they have separation anxiety, you might start to notice it.
He may start to look more like an adult dog than a puppy. This is a good time to reinforce training. German Shepherds are stubborn teenagers and can sometimes test their limits.
- Male puppies weigh on average 50 to 62 pounds.
- Females weigh anywhere from 45 – 53 or more pounds.
8 Months Old
Your puppy will continue to develop and should be familiar with proper behavior and routines. Ensure he has ample room and entertainment, especially if leaving him for long periods. You should always keep an eye on your dog. He may become rambunctious if left alone too long.
- Male puppies weigh in the range of 62 to 68 pounds.
- Females weigh around 53 – 58 pounds.
9 Months Old
Your dog will be older, but it will still act like a puppy. He will need regular exercise, at least 45 minutes a day. It is important to give your furry friend playtime and attention.
Keep rewarding positive behavior. Puppy growth is still ongoing. They should continue to eat puppy-formulated food to ensure proper nutrition.
- Male puppies weigh about 65 to 70 pounds.
- Females weigh in the range of 55 to 60 pounds.
10 Months Old
As your dog gets closer to being fully grown, you will notice less physical growth. Although he will continue to grow and gain weight, he will be much smaller than when he was just a puppy. He should respond well to verbal commands. Ask your veterinarian for other training options if obedience is a problem.
Regular exercise is important for your dog. Your dog should also be allowed to play at home. To keep your dog happy, give him a variety of toys and chewing materials. Outdoor time is great for large dogs such as German Shepherds. You can make outside access a priority. They become bored and destructive in the house.
- Male puppies weigh 66 to 75 pounds or more.
- Females weigh anywhere from 55 to 60 or more pounds.
11 Months Old
Your pup should be well-behaved and almost fully-grown by now. Walking your dog in the dog park and hiking are all options.
This is also the right time to find out more about adult dog food. For more information about adult dog food, talk to your trainer or vet.
- Male puppies weigh 66 to 75 pounds on average.
- Females weigh 60 to 65 or more pounds.
1 Year Old
Happy Birthday, Champ! At one year old, puppies stop growing as fast. In some cases, there will be slower and less visible growth in the six months to one year. Keep your dog active and on a regular schedule. Your dog should be able to socialize with humans, dogs, and other pets. Your dog will stop acting more like a puppy as they grow up.
Large breeds such as the German Shepherd can be playful for many more years and will thrive if given proper care and attention. You should ensure that they are receiving proper nutrition and medical care. You should ensure your dog is healthy at all stages of his life.
- Male puppies weigh 71 – 75 or more pounds.
- Females weigh 60 to 65 or more pounds.
18 Months Old
Like other larger breeds of dog, a German Shepherd is not considered fully grown until 18 months of age. Some types will grow until they reach age two or even 3, though many reach maturity around 18 months. A male German Shepherd will grow slowly until they are about two years old, while a female German Shepherd will continue to grow until they reach the age of 2.
- Male puppies weigh 71 to 80 or more pounds on average.
- Females weigh 60 to 65, even 70 pounds.
The Full-Grown German Shepherd
This beautiful German breed is named after its origins in Germany. A German Shepherd is known for its high energy and will remain active for many years. They will need to be able to walk and engage in outdoor activities throughout their lives, as they are a large breed.
They are friendly, intelligent, and loyal dogs that form close relationships with their owners. On average, males will be slightly bigger than their female counterparts.
- Male: A fully-grown male German Shepherd will weigh 70 to 90 pounds and stand 24 to 26 inches high.
- Female: A fully-grown female German Shepherd will weigh between 60 to 70 pounds and stand 22 to 24 inches high.
GSD Growth Chart
We created a chart showing the expected growth in weight for male and female German Shepherds. This is an estimation and not a precise measurement of the German Shepherd’s weight. If you have any concerns about your dog’s weight, consult your veterinarian.
| Age | Male Weight (lbs. ) | Female Weight (lbs. ) |
|---|---|---|
| Birth | 4 – 8 | 3 – 5 |
| 1 month | 8 – 10 | 4 – 10 |
| 2 months | 10 – 20 | 10 – 16 |
| 3 months | 20 -30 | 18 – 25 |
| 4 months | 30 -40 | 25 – 30 |
| 5 months | 40 – 49 | 30 – 40 |
| 6 months | 50 – 55 | 40 – 48 |
| 7 months | 55 – 62 | 48 – 53 |
| 8 months | 62 – 68 | 53 – 58 |
| 9 months | 65 – 70 | 55 – 60 |
| 10 months | 66 – 75 | 55 – 60 |
| 11 months | 66 – 75 | 60 – 65 |
| 1 year | 71 – 75 | 60 – 65 |
| 18 months | 71 – 80 | 60 – 65 |
| 2 years | 70 – 80 | 60 – 65 |
| 3 years | 70 – 90 | 65 – 70 |
Things to Consider
Although growth charts and guidelines can give an indication of a dog’s adult appearance and weight, these are just estimates.
Every dog is different, so proper nutrition and care throughout their lives play an important role in how they develop.
Genetic Makeup
While we can provide basic information about what to expect regarding the growth and development of your dog’s life, many factors are beyond our control. Genetics is one area. German Shepherds can be larger dogs than other breeds, but there’s no guarantee that every dog will be the same size.
Due to their genetic makeup, some dogs are larger than others. Relax if your dog is healthy and you have eliminated any underlying diseases. Your dog will eventually reach its full size.
While you can get an idea of the size of your dog’s parents, it is impossible to know how much he will grow up until he reaches full maturity. If your dog is healthy and happy, nature will take care of all the rest. Your dog will reach the ideal size for him. If you have concerns about your dog’s growth or genetics, consult your veterinarian.
Nutrition and Food
Ensure your German Shepherd is getting the right nutrition from the time he is a puppy to the time he is an adult. This is one of the most important responsibilities in pet ownership. Poor nutrition may cause stunted growth or poor physical development.
Puppies will need specially formulated food to give them the necessary nutrients to thrive. This breed requires a higher protein and calorie count than other smaller breeds. Younger dogs should have a diet with 22% protein, and older dogs need less, around 18%.
This breed may be allergic to certain ingredients in dog food, such as dairy, wheat, corn, and beef. All other foods, such as grapes and raisins, are toxic for dogs and should be avoided.
German Shepherd’s food needs will change as they age. As an example, dogs older than puppies will require fewer calories. Discuss with your veterinarian any special nutritional needs that your dog might have.
Rapid Growths and Plateaus
Every dog will grow and mature at its own pace. There are periods of rapid growth, and there will be times when the puppy seems like it is stalling growing.
Unexpected growth spurts or plateaus may occur during puppyhood. These are normal parts of growth and development. There is little one can do to stop or manage them.
Being a responsible pet parent is crucial to ensure that your dog receives the best possible care. If your dog is acting strangely, such as gaining weight or lagging behind in growth, consult your veterinarian. They will help you determine if it is normal growth fluctuations and guide you in the right direction.
Health Needs
Many factors can affect your German Shepherd’s development and growth, and physical health is one of the most important. It is possible for your dog to suffer from injuries or illnesses that could affect its ability to thrive. This can sometimes limit activity or impact its growth.
The German Shepherd is a particularly active breed, and your pup will need a lot of exercise and entertainment to keep themselves out of trouble.
If they are bored or don’t get enough exercise, German Shepherds can become anxious and destructive. They will require multiple activities each day and will be as energetic as puppies.
Spaying and Neutering
While many dogs can be spayed/neutered within eight weeks of birth, German Shepherds must wait. This will not prevent them from growing. It can have long-lasting health effects.
Studies done by UC Davis reveal that neutering before age one can triple the risk of some canine joint diseases and the risk of cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears. Female German Shepherds who were spayed or neutered before the age of one year are at increased risk for incontinence. Discuss your options with your veterinarian about the best time for your dog to be spayed or neutered.
FAQs
Q: Do big paws signify a large dog?
A: German Shepherds have large paws like other large breeds. Although this may not be true in all cases, it is a rule of thumb that your dog will grow into its paws. If your dog’s paws look larger than his body, it is likely that he has more growth ahead of him. But, big paws don’t necessarily indicate how large a dog will grow. This is an old wives’ tale.
Q: When do German Shepherds stop growing in Germany?
A: German Shepherds can grow until they are 18 months to about two and a half years. Some varieties will grow faster than others. Females will continue to grow until they reach age 2. Males will reach about 2.5 years. When fully grown, males will be larger than females.
Q: Do German Shepherds grow after being spayed/neutered?
A: Yes, German Shepherds can continue to grow even after being neutered or spayed. However, this does not mean that they stop growing. Discuss this with your veterinarian to determine the best time. It is important not to take this step too soon as they may end up with arthritis and hip dysplasia later on. If you want to keep your pet healthy, you will need to take additional care.
Q: What should I do if my German Shepherd has a high or low body weight?
A: Make sure your pet gets regular exercise. Talk to your vet about the best food for him. You can work with your pet to ensure that he is healthy.
Conclusion
Your German Shepherd puppy will grow up to be a loving, loyal, and friendly dog. You are responsible for providing the best nutrition and care for your furry companion.
A responsible pet owner must know what to expect in your dog’s growth and development. It is important to have the right information.
The German Shepherd is a large breed that needs to be groomed, so it’s important to know all you can about them before you bring your fur baby home. GSDs are energetic, large dogs that need plenty of exercise and recreation. They are loyal and intelligent and make wonderful family pets. To keep your dog in good health, make sure you regularly consult your veterinarian.