So, you’ve brought home an adorable German Shepherd puppy! Those floppy ears, playful paws, and boundless energy are captivating. But as you watch them grow at what seems like lightning speed, you might start to wonder: “When will my German Shepherd stop growing?”
Understanding the growth timeline of your German Shepherd is essential for providing the right care, nutrition, and exercise. Let’s dive into the fascinating journey of German Shepherd growth and development!
The Rapid Puppy Phase: 0-6 Months
The first six months of a German Shepherd’s life are characterized by rapid growth. During this period, your pup will experience significant changes in size and weight.
- Milestones: At four months, your furry friend reaches the halfway point of height and weight. By six months, they’ve reached about 70 percent of their final growth.
- Male vs. Female: At six months, male German Shepherds typically weigh between 49 and 57 pounds and stand 16 to 18 inches tall. Female puppies will weigh between 44 and 49 pounds and attain a height of 15 to 17 inches.
- What to Expect: Be prepared for a seemingly endless appetite! Puppies need plenty of high-quality food to fuel their growing bodies.
The Adolescent Stage: 6 Months – 2 Years
This is a crucial phase in your German Shepherd’s development. They’re no longer a tiny puppy, but they’re not quite a fully mature adult either.
- Continued Growth: During this stage, your German Shepherd will continue to grow in height and weight, though the pace may slow down compared to the puppy phase. Male German Shepherds can grow up to 4 inches in height and 30 pounds in weight between 12 and 24 months of age.
- Reaching Adulthood: A German Shepherd is considered an adult once they hit 18 months of age. At one year of age, a female German Shepherd weighs between 60 to 64 pounds and has a height of 20 to 22 inches, while male German Shepherds weigh between 71 to 71 pounds and have a height of 22 to 24 inches.
- Potential Challenges: This stage can sometimes be accompanied by adolescent behaviors. Be patient, consistent with training, and provide plenty of positive reinforcement.
The Adult Stage: 2-3 Years and Beyond
Most German Shepherds will stop growing between the ages of two to three years.
- Filling Out: Even after they stop growing in height, German Shepherds may continue to fill out and gain muscle mass.
- Growth Spurts: A growth spurt can occur between 1.5 and 3 years of age, resulting in an up to 10 percent increase in height and weight.
- Maintaining Health: Once your German Shepherd reaches adulthood, focus on maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise.
Factors Influencing Growth
Several factors can influence when a German Shepherd stops growing.
- Genetics: Genetics play a significant role in determining a dog’s size and growth rate.
- Nutrition: A balanced diet is crucial for optimal growth.
- Health: Certain health conditions can affect a dog’s growth.
Growth Chart
Here’s a general guideline for German Shepherd growth:
| Age (Months) | Male Height (Inches) | Male Weight (Pounds) | Female Height (Inches) | Female Weight (Pounds) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 20 to 22 | 60 to 64 | 20 to 22 | 60 to 64 |
| 12 | 20 to 22 | 60 to 64 | 20 to 22 | 60 to 64 |
| 18 | 21 to 22 | 60 to 66 | 21 to 22 | 60 to 66 |
| 24 | 21 to 22 | 60 to 66 | 21 to 22 | 60 to 66 |
| 36 | 22 to 24 | 66 to 70 | N/A | N/A |
Important Note: This chart provides averages. Individual dogs may vary.
How Big Will My German Shepherd Be When Fully Grown?
On average, most German Shepherds will weigh anywhere from 60-84 pounds once they have reached three years of age, and they will reach up to 2 feet in height at the shoulder. The best way to predict your dog’s adult size is by meeting their parents.
What If My German Shepherd Is Smaller or Larger Than Average?
If your German Shepherd is significantly smaller or larger than the average, consult with your veterinarian. They can assess your dog’s overall health and growth and determine if there are any underlying concerns.
Tips for Supporting Healthy Growth
- Feed a high-quality puppy food: Choose a food specifically formulated for large-breed puppies.
- Follow feeding guidelines: Don’t overfeed your puppy, as this can lead to rapid growth and joint problems.
- Provide regular exercise: Encourage moderate exercise to build strong muscles and bones.
- Schedule regular vet checkups: Your veterinarian can monitor your puppy’s growth and development and address any potential issues early on.
Enjoy the Journey!
Watching your German Shepherd grow from a tiny puppy to a magnificent adult is a rewarding experience. By understanding their growth timeline and providing the right care, you can help them reach their full potential and enjoy a long, happy, and healthy life.