When Do German Shepherds Stop Growing?
It’s one of the biggest questions I had when I brought my German Shepherd pup home. At just a few weeks old, they’re all fluff and clumsiness. But let me tell you, the growth is rapid and I mean rapid. By six months, most German Shepherds hit about 70% of their adult size. That’s when you start noticing those iconic tall ears and the commanding stance.
Here’s a growth chart to give you an idea of how quickly they grow:
| Age | Male Weight (lbs) | Female Weight (lbs) |
| 1 Month | 5-9 | 4-8 |
| 2 Months | 16-20 | 11-17 |
| 3 Months | 22-30 | 17-26 |
| 4 Months | 35-40 | 31-35 |
| 5 Months | 40-49 | 35-44 |
| 6 Months | 49-57 | 44-49 |
| 7 Months | 57-62 | 49-53 |
| 8 Months | 62-66 | 53-57 |
| 9 Months | 64-70 | 55-60 |
| 1 Year | 71-75 | 60-64 |
| 18-24 Months | 75-90 (Full Grown) | 65-70 (Full Grown) |
Most German Shepherds stop physically growing by 18 to 24 months. However, their mental maturity takes a bit longer expect up to three years before they outgrow their puppy antics.
How Big Should a 6-Month-Old German Shepherd Be?
When my GSD pup hit six months, I was constantly checking growth charts (like any worried pet parent). Typically, a six-month-old male weighs around 49 to 57 pounds, while females fall between 44 and 49 pounds.
Here’s another perspective by six months, your German Shepherd should weigh about 70% of their adult size:
| Age | Percentage of Adult Weight |
| 1 Month | 10% |
| 3 Months | 30% |
| 6 Months | 70% |
| 9 Months | 85% |
| 1 Year | 95% |
| 18-24 Months | 100% |
Watching my pup grow during this stage was like witnessing a transformation every week. If you’re ever unsure about their growth, a balanced diet and regular vet visits are key.
How Much Bigger Will My German Shepherd Get?
This was my favorite guessing game. After one year, my GSD felt huge already, but there was still some filling out to do. Males typically reach around 66-88 pounds, while females settle between 49-71 pounds when fully grown.
Check out this chart for their typical height progression:
| Age | Male Height (inches) | Female Height (inches) |
| 1 Month | 4-6 | 3-5 |
| 2 Months | 7-9 | 6-8 |
| 3 Months | 10-12 | 9-11 |
| 4 Months | 14-16 | 12-14 |
| 6 Months | 20-22 | 18-20 |
| 9 Months | 22-24 | 20-22 |
| 1 Year | 23-25 | 21-23 |
| 18-24 Months | 24-26 (Full Grown) | 22-24 (Full Grown) |
Even after they stop gaining height, their muscles and chest will continue to fill out, making them look more majestic.
Growth Stages of German Shepherds: Newborn to Adulthood
German Shepherd growth isn’t just about size. Each stage comes with its quirks:
| Stage | Age Range | Key Characteristics |
| Newborn | 0-2 weeks | Tiny, blind, and fully dependent on their mom. |
| Puppyhood | 2 weeks – 6 months | Rapid growth, playful behaviors, and teething chaos. |
| Teenage Phase | 6 months – 1 year | Rebellious phase with boundary-testing and energy. |
| Adulthood | 1-3 years | Fully grown physically but still maturing mentally. |
| Senior Years | 7+ years | Slower movements but full of love and loyalty. |
I vividly remember the teenage phase my pup seemed to have endless energy and a knack for finding trouble. Patience and training were lifesavers.
Final Thoughts
Raising a German Shepherd is an adventure. From their tiny puppy days to their majestic adult years, every stage is unique. Remember to enjoy the process celebrate the milestones, tackle the challenges, and embrace the unending love they bring to your life.
By the way, don’t stress too much about numbers. Use weight charts and growth stages as a guide, but always trust your instincts. Your German Shepherd’s health and happiness are what truly matter.
