Bringing a German Shepherd puppy into your life is an exciting adventure. As a responsible owner, you’re likely wondering if your furry friend is growing at a healthy rate. Knowing the expected weight range for a German Shepherd puppy at different stages can help you monitor their development and ensure they’re on track to become a healthy adult dog. This guide provides a detailed overview of German Shepherd puppy weight, growth patterns, and factors that can influence their size.
Understanding German Shepherd Growth
German Shepherds are considered a medium to large breed, with distinct size differences between males and females. They typically reach physical adulthood between 18 and 24 months, though some Eastern European bloodlines (DDR) may mature even more slowly, sometimes closer to 36 months. Consistent weight gain is expected, with puppies reaching about 70 or more times their birth weight by the time they reach physical maturity. After about 6 months, the rate of growth begins to slow, with minimal weight gain after 12 months.
German Shepherd Puppy Weight Chart
Keep in mind that these numbers are approximations, and individual puppies may vary. Factors such as genetics, environment, and diet can all play a role in a puppy’s growth.
| Age (Months) | Male (lbs) | Female (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 9.2 | 7.2 |
| 2 | 19.9 | 16.6 |
| 3 | 31.3 | 26.7 |
| 4 | 41.8 | 36.2 |
| 5 | 50.6 | 44.0 |
| 6 | 57.4 | 50.1 |
| 7 | 62.6 | 54.4 |
| 8 | 66.4 | 57.5 |
| 9 | 69.4 | 59.7 |
| 10 | 72.0 | 61.5 |
| 11 | 74.3 | 63.1 |
| 12 | 76.0 | 64.2 |
Factors Affecting Puppy Weight
- Genetics: A puppy’s parents play a significant role in determining their size. If you purchased your puppy from a breeder, they may be able to provide an estimated weight based on the puppy’s parents and past litters.
- Nutrition: A well-rounded diet is vital for healthy growth. Puppies need proper nutrition to reach their optimal weight.
- Environment: Just as each genetic make-up is different, each environment is different, so this can affect the pup.
- Gender: Males typically weigh more than females. An adult male German Shepherd can weigh anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds, while a female weighs 55 to 70 pounds.
- Age: If your German Shepherd is less than two years old, they likely still have room to grow.
Monitoring Your Puppy’s Growth
Tracking your puppy’s growth is essential. If a puppy appears to be developing too slowly or quickly, consult with your veterinarian. A healthy newborn German Shepherd pup typically weighs between 1 pound and 1 pound 6 oz at birth. Most large breed pups are expected to at least double their birth weight at one week of age and then experience a consistent daily weight gain of 5-10%.
You can also gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get by checking your puppy’s age and their paw size. If their paws look large compared to their legs and body, this means your pup is likely still growing.
Adult German Shepherd Weight
- Males: According to the F.C.I. standard, males should be 66 to 88 pounds and 23.62 to 25.6 inches tall. By maturity, male dogs will reach 24 to 26 inches tall and weigh 79 to 88 pounds, a healthy weight.
- Females: According to the F.C.I. standard, females should be 49 to 71 pounds and 21.7 to 23.6 inches tall. Adult female German Shepherds are typically 22 to 24 inches tall and weigh 55 to 70 pounds.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Extra weight can decrease your pet’s overall life expectancy by more than two years. Speak with your vet about your German Shepherd’s ideal weight and any concerns.
When to Consult a Veterinarian
If you have any concerns about your German Shepherd puppy’s weight or growth, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian. They can assess your puppy’s individual needs and provide personalized recommendations.