Understanding the Growth Stages of German Shepherds: From Puppyhood to Adulthood
Bringing a German Shepherd puppy into your life is exciting and a little difficult you might find yourself wondering about their growth and what each stage will bring. German Shepherds have unique Growing standards that shape them into the strong, loyal companions we love. I’ve been through each stage with my own German Shepherd, and it’s amazing to see how they grow both physically and emotionally over time. Let’s dive into the journey from those wobbly puppy steps to a confident adult stance.
- Understanding the Growth Stages of German Shepherds: From Puppyhood to Adulthood
- Puppyhood (0-6 Months): The Foundation of Growth
- Adolescence (6-18 Months): Testing Limits and Building Strength
- Young Adulthood (18-36 Months): Reaching Full Potential
- Full Adulthood and Senior Years (3+ Years): Steady Maturity and Companionship
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ’s
Puppyhood (0-6 Months): The Foundation of Growth
The early months of your German Shepherd’s life are full of quick growth. Between birth and six months, you’ll notice changes in their coat, weight, and teeth. During this time, their double coat begins to nurture, turning from soft puppy fluff into a denser, adult coat. Around two to three months, German Shepherd puppies start teething and if you’re like me, you’ll want to hide your shoes during this phase! You might also notice their ears starting to stand up, sometimes flopping back down before they settle.
Weight gain is fast at this stage, with most puppies adding 2-4 pounds per week. A growth chart is incredibly helpful in tracking this Fast growth, as it gives you a way to ensure they’re growing within a healthy range.
Here’s a growth chart to help you track your puppy’s progress:
| Age | Average Weight (Male) | Average Weight (Female) | Expected Height (Male) | Expected Height (Female) | Development Milestone |
| 1 Month | 5-9 lbs (2.3-4 kg) | 4-8 lbs (1.8-3.6 kg) | 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) | 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) | Weaning, learning to walk, senses developing |
| 2 Months | 16-20 lbs (7-9 kg) | 11-17 lbs (5-7.7 kg) | 6-9 inches (15-23 cm) | 6-9 inches (15-23 cm) | Socialization, starting teething |
| 3 Months | 22-30 lbs (10-13.6 kg) | 17-26 lbs (7.7-11.8 kg) | 9-11 inches (23-28 cm) | 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) | Puppy coat developing, chewing phase intensifies |
| 4 Months | 35-40 lbs (16-18 kg) | 31-35 lbs (14-16 kg) | 11-14 inches (28-36 cm) | 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) | Ears start standing, more coordination |
| 6 Months | 49-57 lbs (22-26 kg) | 44-49 lbs (20-22 kg) | 16-18 inches (41-46 cm) | 15-17 inches (38-43 cm) | Adolescent behavior, physical growth slows slightly |
Adolescence (6-18 Months): Testing Limits and Building Strength
At around six months, your German Shepherd enters Youngsters, a stage marked by more independence and curiosity. You might notice your German Shepherd starting to test boundaries, which is completely normal. Physically, their body is filling out, and their adult coat is starting to take shape. This is also when they reach their full height but will continue to gain weight and muscle mass.
Watching my own dog go through this phase felt like watching a teenager grow they’re inflexible at times, curious, and figuring out their place in the world. In terms of weight and size, you can use this growth chart as a reference:
| Age | Average Weight (Male) | Average Weight (Female) | Expected Height (Male) | Expected Height (Female) | Development Milestone |
| 9 Months | 64-70 lbs (29-32 kg) | 55-60 lbs (25-27 kg) | 20-22 inches (51-56 cm) | 18-20 inches (46-51 cm) | Stronger body, beginning adult coat |
| 1 Year | 71-75 lbs (32-34 kg) | 60-64 lbs (27-29 kg) | 22-24 inches (56-61 cm) | 20-22 inches (51-56 cm) | Near full size, reaching physical maturity |
| 18 Months | 75-80 lbs (34-36 kg) | 62-66 lbs (28-30 kg) | 23-25 inches (58-63 cm) | 21-23 inches (53-58 cm) | Fully grown, emotionally mature |
At this stage, German Shepherds also show more pronounced muscle development and coordination. Remember that German Shepherds grow at different rates, so a little variation from the chart is normal. Just keep an eye on their weight and health, and always consult a vet if you have concerns.
Young Adulthood (18-36 Months): Reaching Full Potential
By two years, German Shepherds are typically close to their full size, and this stage is marked by both physical and emotional maturity. Most females will weigh between 50-70 pounds, while males range from 65-90 pounds. In my experience, this is when their loyalty really shines, and they’re ready for advanced training.
Here’s a look at their weight at full growth:
| Age | Average Weight (Male) | Average Weight (Female) | Expected Height (Male) | Expected Height (Female) |
| 2 Years | 75-90 lbs (34-41 kg) | 60-70 lbs (27-32 kg) | 24-26 inches (61-66 cm) | 22-24 inches (56-61 cm) |
Full Adulthood and Senior Years (3+ Years): Steady Maturity and Companionship
Around age three, German Shepherds reach their full adulthood. They’re in their prime, stable, and ready to be lifelong companions. In my experience, this is when they’re fully loyal, protective, and incredibly affectionate. They’re also at their physical peak, so activities like agility training or long hikes can be great ways to keep them stimulated.
As they age, you may notice slight changes in their energy levels and weight. Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and moderate exercise become crucial to ensure a healthy senior life.
Final Thoughts
Tracking your German Shepherd’s growth stages helps you support their development every step of the way. From puppyhood to adulthood, each phase is unique, bringing with it memorable milestones. German Shepherds are incredible companions, and embracing every stage of their growth can deepen the bond between you and your pup. Just remember that while growth charts and averages can guide you, every dog is unique, so celebrate the journey – quirks and all!
