As a German Shepherd owner, you’re likely dedicated to providing the best possible care for your loyal companion. One aspect of their health that often raises concerns is their weight. Is your German Shepherd too skinny? It’s a question many owners ask, and it’s essential to know how to assess their weight accurately.
Understanding the Ideal German Shepherd Body Condition
Before diving into whether your German Shepherd is underweight, it’s crucial to understand what a healthy German Shepherd should look like. German Shepherds are naturally muscular and athletic dogs, with a distinct body shape.
- Ribs: You should be able to feel your dog’s ribs easily with a slight fat covering. If the ribs are highly visible from a distance, your dog is likely underweight.
- Waist: When viewed from above, your German Shepherd should have a noticeable waistline. If their body appears straight from their chest to their hips, they may be overweight.
- Abdominal Tuck: When viewed from the side, your dog’s abdomen should tuck up behind their ribcage. A lack of tuck or a sagging belly can indicate excess weight.
What the Numbers Say: Height and Weight Guidelines
According to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard, adult male German Shepherds typically stand 24 to 26 inches tall and weigh 75 to 90 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, with an average height of 22 to 24 inches and a weight of 55 to 70 pounds. However, genetics and environmental factors can cause some dogs to fall outside these ranges.
Here’s a general growth and weight chart to give you an idea of how your German Shepherd puppy should be growing:
Male German Shepherd Puppy Growth Chart
| Age (Months) | Height (inches) | Weight (pounds) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4-6 | 5.5-9 |
| 2 | 7-9 | 16-20 |
| 3 | 9-11 | 22-30 |
| 4 | 11-14 | 35-40 |
| 5 | 14-16 | 40-49 |
| 6 | 16-18 | 49-57 |
| 7 | 19-20 | 57-62 |
| 8 | 20-22 | 62-66 |
| 9 | 21-23 | 64-71 |
| 10 | 22-24 | 66-73 |
| 11 | 22-24 | 71-75 |
| 12 | 22-24 | 71-79 |
| 18 | 23-25 | 71-79 |
| 24 | 23-23 | 71-84 |
| 36 | 24-26 | 79-88 |
Female German Shepherd Puppy Growth Chart
| Age (Months) | Height (inches) | Weight (pounds) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3-6 | 4.5-8 |
| 2 | 6-9 | 11-17 |
| 3 | 8-10 | 17-26 |
| 4 | 10-12 | 31-35 |
| 5 | 12-14 | 35-44 |
| 6 | 15-17 | 44-49 |
| 7 | 17-19 | 49-53 |
| 8 | 18-20 | 53-57 |
| 9 | 19-21 | 55-60 |
| 10 | 19-21 | 57-62 |
| 11 | 20-22 | 60-64 |
| 12 | 20-22 | 60-64 |
| 18 | 21-22 | 60-66 |
| 24 | 21-22 | 60-66 |
| 36 | 22-24 | 66-70 |
Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates, and individual dogs may vary.
Performing a Hands-on Body Condition Score Assessment
The best way to determine if your German Shepherd is too skinny is to perform a hands-on body condition score (BCS) assessment. Here’s how:
- Feel the Ribs: Gently run your hands along your dog’s ribcage. You should be able to feel the ribs easily with a slight fat covering. If the ribs feel sharp and are prominently visible, your dog is likely underweight.
- Assess the Waistline: Stand above your dog and look down at their body. They should have a noticeable waistline behind their ribs. If their body appears straight or wider at the hips, they may be overweight.
- Check the Abdominal Tuck: View your dog from the side. Their abdomen should tuck up behind their ribcage. A lack of tuck or a sagging belly can indicate excess weight.
- Evaluate Muscle Mass: Pay attention to your dog’s muscle mass, particularly in their legs and shoulders. Underweight dogs often have reduced muscle mass.
Potential Causes of Underweight in German Shepherds
If you’ve determined that your German Shepherd is too skinny, it’s essential to identify the underlying cause. Some common causes include:
- Inadequate Diet: Insufficient food intake or a diet lacking essential nutrients can lead to weight loss.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: Parasites, dental issues, or other health problems can affect a dog’s ability to absorb nutrients or maintain a healthy weight.
- High Activity Levels: Very active dogs may require more calories to maintain their weight.
- Age: Senior dogs may experience weight loss due to decreased appetite or muscle mass.
- Stress or Anxiety: Stressful situations can sometimes lead to a decrease in appetite and subsequent weight loss.
What to Do If Your German Shepherd Is Too Skinny
If you’re concerned about your German Shepherd’s weight, here are some steps you can take:
- Consult Your Veterinarian: The first step is to schedule a checkup with your veterinarian. They can help rule out any underlying medical conditions and provide guidance on the best course of action.
- Adjust Diet: Your vet can advise you on choosing a high-quality dog food that meets your dog’s nutritional needs.
- Increase Feeding Frequency: Instead of feeding one large meal, consider dividing their daily food into smaller, more frequent meals.
- Monitor Food Intake: Keep track of how much your dog is eating and whether they are gaining weight.
- Consider Supplements: In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend adding supplements to your dog’s diet to help them gain weight.
Regular Check-ups Are Key
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for maintaining your German Shepherd’s overall health and well-being. Your veterinarian can help you monitor their weight, identify potential health problems, and provide guidance on nutrition and exercise.
A Happy and Healthy German Shepherd
Determining if your German Shepherd is too skinny requires a combination of visual assessment, hands-on evaluation, and knowledge of breed standards. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to consult with your veterinarian. With proper care and attention, you can help your German Shepherd maintain a healthy weight and enjoy a long, happy life.