How To Get My German Shepherd Bigger

A German Shepherds Size Often Varies According To Type

There are five basic types of German Shepherds. Purposely-produced pet Shepherds, bred for less aggression, lower exercise requirements, and decreased work and prey drive, are similar in size to the show or working dogs from whence they originate. Many pet German Shepherds are from casual or backyard operations and can vary widely in size, most on the large end of the scale near 100 pounds.

American show lines are taller and correspondingly longer than their West German counterparts. West German show lines tend to have denser bone than the American dogs but weigh less. There are no AKC formal weight restrictions, so some American show dogs are over 100 pounds.

East German, West German, and Czech working lines of the German Shepherds tend to be smaller and lighter than show lines. Czech working dogs are generally the smallest of all, often only ranging from 20 to 25 inches tall at the shoulders.

German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Guide: 12 Weeks To 6 Months

After approximately 12 weeks of age, puppies can be trained to eat fewer meals a day, at set times, and with set amounts. While you still dont want to limit their food too much at this age, its also not a good idea to just let them pig out whenever they want.

Large breed puppies have a tendency to overeat, and concerned puppy parents often give in to their pups cries for more. This sets your German Shepherd up for obesity, heart problems, liver issues, joint pain, and a host of other medical conditions.

Instead of letting your puppy have a free-for-all on a bag of kibble, ask your vet what they recommend. Theyll look at your German Shepherd puppy as an individual as well as considering the breed as a whole.

The vet will also consider the pups overall health, activity level, and metabolism.;

While your vets recommendation should overrule anything you read online, here is a decent middle ground feeding guide for most German Shepherd puppies.

This potbelly baby stage means she is not quite mature enough for reduced feedings.

Watch her body composition, shape, and weight. When she starts to look more like an older puppy and the potbelly is slimming down, you can reduce the feedings to 3 per day.;

Teach Your Gsd Obedience

Obedience training is perfect for building confidence in your German Shepherd Dog.

When you teach obedience to your German Shepherd, it puts you as the alpha.

With Obedience training you will teach the dog crate training, leash training and some basic obedience dog .

Here is a Helpful Guide Artcle :

Don’t Miss: Chihuahua And German Shepherd Mix

Impact Of Nutrition On Breed Puppy Growth

The food you select is vital in managing your puppys growth rate.

However, for large breed dogs, it is essential to understand that the goal is not to maximize growth. Rapid growth increases the risk of serious health problems relating to the bones and joints.

Always select a prepared food or recipe specifically designed for a large breed puppy or specifically for German Shepherd puppies. And ensure that it was developed by a veterinary nutritionist or another appropriately trained expert.

Avoid modifying the diet with vitamins or supplements unless these are recommended by a veterinarian.

In A Hurry Heres Our Top Picks

Blue Buffalo is known for producing some of the best high-end dog food on the market. Although the price tag is pretty high on this product , its still a fine choice for those who can afford its high cost.

The main thing is that this dog food contains no fillers like corn or wheat. Instead, all of its carbohydrates come from vegetable sources like potatoes and peas.

It is true that corn and wheat are not dangerous to dogs, but they also dont offer a whole lot of nutritional value other than carbohydrates, so peas and potatoes are the better choices.

These foods are a lot more nutrient-dense, so your dog will get more nourishment per cup. Blue Buffalo also makes all their foods with 100% natural ingredients, modeling them after the diets that wild canines eat.

This product also contains small pellets known as Lifesource bits. These are concentrated nutrition pills that contain a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. These are carefully selected to match the nutritional needs of the average dog.

Our only real concern is with the fact that this food is only 15% fat. Considering that weight gain is our goal here, we think that to be a little bit on the low side.

Also, at these kinds of prices, you should get more than that. To be fair, we should note that Blue Buffalo probably wasnt trying to make a weight gainer formula with this one. Still, its high protein content makes it a good choice anyway.

Don’t Miss: Kennel Von Wiese

Routine Care Diet And Exercise

Build her routine care into your schedule to help your GSD live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine.

• Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. This will keep her out of trouble and away from objects she shouldnt put in her mouth.
• She needs a thorough brushing at least weekly most of the year. Twice a year she blows her coat and loses crazy amounts of hair; daily brushing is recommended during this time.
• German Shepherd Dogs generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week!
• Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. Dont worrywell show you how!
• She has a high prey drive, so she needs to be leash walked and a fenced yard is a must.
• She’s a large, smart dog with lots of energy, so keep her mind and body active, or she’ll get bored. That’s when the naughty stuff starts.
• Naturally a bit wary, she’s distrustful of strangers; bond her to children early to trigger protective behaviors.
• Keep your dogs diet consistent and dont give her people food.
• Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age.
• Exercise your dog regularly, but dont overdo it at first.

How Big Do German Shepherds Get

German Shepherds typically range between 22 to 26 inches tall and 60 to 85 pounds in weight.

However, do you ever wonder why Shepherds are of a particular size? What about the breed standard, and what if you want to show your dog? Maybe you have an Alsatian mix, and you want to know how much the Shepherd side will influence her size.

Read Also: How Smart Are German Shepherds Compared To Humans

German Shepherd Height Charts

You can use this chart to check to see if your German Shepherds growth is on track. As with weight, there will be some dogs that fall outside of the ranges listed here, but thats normal as long as your dog is otherwise healthy.

Male German Shepherd Growth/Height Chart

Trying To Get Your Attention

Youre petting your pooch one lazy afternoon. Stroking their fur, caressing their head.;

Every time you stop, they whine as if they are being tortured. Well, you cant be petting them all day, can you?

Sometimes, German Shepherds can really be drama queens. Especially when they are used to being spoiled.

They use their whines as a way of talking to you.;

In their perspective, the more they whine, the more youll come rushing to give them what they want.;

You May Like: Chihuahua Mix German Shepherd

It Is Important To Rule

The first thing you should do if you have a German Shepherd that is underweight is to take him to a vet to make sure there are no medical issues standing in your way. There are some viruses and infections that will make it impossible for your dog to put on weight. Barring these, it is time to make sure that your dog is eating the right type of food. How do you know what food is best for your dog?

What Happens During The Fast

A dog can fell sick when it is full of toxins or has eaten the wrong food for a long time. During the fast, The body will Transform the dead cells, waste material in Energy and will burn all the toxins because when we eat our Energy is used for digesting and when you stop all the Energy will go to the healing process.

So do not worry if your dog does not want to eat. Maybe it is trying to heal himself. But if there are dangerous life treating condition, it is always better to listen to your vet.

Also Check: When Does A German Shepherd Ears Stand Up

Seeing You Is The Best Part Of Their Day

Whenever you come home from work, you see your German Shepherd looking at you from your houses window.

15 steps away they slowly start wagging their tail.

10 steps away their tail already looks like car wipers on a rainy day.;

5 steps away they disappear from the window and come to the door.

And as you open it, they greet you by jumping on you. They whine like theres no tomorrow.;

You ask yourself,;

If they are so happy to see me, why do they whine?;

It could be because of too much excitement. Whining is the only way they can express how they feel.;

Every dog is different. And not all whines are bad.

Some German Shepherds show their love by following you. While others adore you so much they just cant help but whine.;

Whats The Average Adult German Shepherd Weight

The average weight of German shepherds varies by gender. Males usually end up weighing 66 88 pounds while females 48 to 70 pounds. This is the ideal weight that adult German shepherds should have. In case a German shepherd is not gaining weight, they may show signs, such as loss of appetite, lethargy, dull fur, loss of muscle mass, etc.

Read Also: When Do German Shepherds Ears Stand Up

Work Ethic Unique To The German Shepherd Dog

From the very beginning, a keen emphasis was placed on the unique character, trainability, and protective instincts found in these herding dogs. Their dependability and their special herding traits became legendary. Over time the breed began to be used for many other services. When blind Morris Frank returned from Switzerland in 1929 with his German Shepherd Dog Buddy, he opened the door for German Shepherd Dogs to be used as guide dogs for the blind. ;In a very short period of time, the breed would be associated with programs for the blind and for services involving many other disabilities. Their intelligence, trainability, and desire to work put German Shepherd Dog at the top of all lists. Some breeders began their own lines for temperament as opposed to conformation and physical appearance. It was not long before breeding programs throughout America began to selectively breed for service dog programs as their ultimate goal.

Skeletal Health And Supplementation

Musculoskeletal disorders are debilitating conditions that are often associated with genetic makeup, malnutrition, and stress-related events. Some breeds like the German shepherd, are predisposed to a variety of different skeletal disorders, including but not limited to: canine hip dysplasia, Cauda equina syndrome, and osteoarthritis. These conditions can be a result of poor breeding or induced by intense exercise and poor diet.

Canine hip dysplasia is an orthopedic condition resulting from abnormal development of the hip joint and surrounding tissue causing the instability and partial dislocation of the hip joint, resulting in pain, inflammation, lameness, and potentially osteoarthritis of the joint. German shepherds are genetically predisposed to CHD and the University of Veterinary Medicine in Germany found its prevalence estimated to be approximately 35% of veterinary cases associated with the disorder.

Osteoarthritis is one of the main contributors of musculoskeletal pain and disabilities that commonly affect German shepherds. Mechanical stress, oxidative damage and inflammatory mediators combine to induce the gradual degeneration of the articular cartilage in the joint, resulting in reduced muscle mass, pain, and locomotion.

Vitamins such as A and D also have crucial roles in bone development and maintenance by regulating bone and calcium metabolism. Adequate levels should be incorporated into a German shepherd diet to promote a healthy musculoskeletal system.

Don’t Miss: How To Potty Train A German Shepherd Dog

They Dont Want To Be Left Alone

Your German Shepherd whines every time they are alone.;

Even if its for just a little while, they cant help but be anxious. They could be thinking:

Are they coming back? Why did they leave me here all by myself?;

Dont wanna be here all by myself anymore

Dogs are social animals. They thrive in an environment where they can interact with humans and other dogs.;

If they whine whenever they are alone, it could be because of separation anxiety.;

Its a common thing for dogs who came from animal shelters. It could be that their previous owners abandoned them before.;

Or it could be that they were separated too early from their mother and other siblings.;

So when you leave, they fear you wont come back again.;

Heartbreaking, isnt it?

How Can I Keep My German Shepherd Healthy

If your German Shepherd Is healthy weight gain will not be a big problem.

You have to make sure when you change his diet or increase his feeding. You have to feed him the right amount of nutrients:

There are 2 types of Nutrients:

Water is essential for life. Water is one of the main ingredients in the world.

Which are Functions Of Water In the Body?

• Carries the nutrients
• Flushes Out Bad Stuff
• regulates body temperature

Like us, Humans 70 % of German Shepherd Dog Body is Formed of water. This does not mean you have to Force him to drink a lot of water. Just make sure you give him enough water.

Take your German shepherds bowel clean in which he will drink the water to avoid infections.

Also Check: Belgian Malinois Or German Shepherd

More Information & Facts About The German Shepherd Dog Breed

Friendly Disclaimer;

TheDailyShep.com are not veterinarians, or animal professionals/experts. Information provided is for;informational purposes only it;is not a substitute for professional or qualified advice.

The information is based on either our own thorough research, and/or own experiences, as a means of free speech.

You should always;consult your own veterinarian, animal expert, or health care professional and follow their advice before;making decisions on all matters.

You can find our full set of disclaimers and T & Cs in the footer of this site.

Enjoy your reading, and thank you for being here;

Home » Breed Info » How Big Will My German Shepherd Get?

Juvenile Period: 3 Months 6 Months

At this point, puppy development begins to slow down as they have done most of the developing they need and will now primarily just grow larger. Near the end of this stage is when youll want to start puppy classes and start training your puppy.

Here are some important milestones that a German Shepherd puppy will go through at this stage:

• Have all puppy teeth
• Improved motor skills
• Begin getting adult teeth

You May Like: Why Is My German Shepherd So Skinny

German Shepherd Growth & Weight Chart

These numbers are estimates to give you an idea of how much a German Shepherd weighs month by month. Dont worry if your puppy is slightly behind or ahead; just be sure to take your pet to regular vet appointments to ensure they are healthy and happy!

Pro Tip: Want to get reimbursed for up to 100% of veterinary bills any time your dog gets sick or injured? Compare German Shepherd health insurance options before its too late.

German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Guide: Birth To 12 Weeks

All dogs should stay with their mother for no less than eight weeks, ideally up to ten weeks. During this time, the mother will nurse the pups until they are old enough to begin eating puppy mush.

Puppy mush is usually regular dog kibble thats been soaked in water, formula, or homemade puppy milk made with human-grade ingredients.

After the puppies are fully weaned from their mothers milk, they will get all of their nutrition either from puppy mushmade progressively drier every few daysor other puppy-safe foods.

Its important to continue feeding your puppy whatever the breeder started them on, at least for the first few weeks. This will help prevent gastrointestinal distress.

Also, be certain it is food intended for puppies and not adults or senior dogs. Adult dog foods do not have the proper nutrients to support a growing puppy.

Once your German Shepherd puppy is homebetween 8 and 12 weeksyou may begin weaning them off of the breeders food and introducing their new foodif youve decided to switch, that is.

Over the course of the next few weeks slowly introduce the puppys new food into her old food, adding more of the new food each day.

Start with ¾ of the serving of the old food and ¼ of the new food. After a few days, make it half and half. After the first week or so, make it ¾ the new food and ¼ the old food. Then by two to three weeks, your pup should be fully on her new food.

Recommended Reading: German Shepherd Hock

Diet: Best Food For German Shepherds

German Shepherd puppies need large breed specific diets.

Many different brands offer large breed recipes for puppies, but a good option is Solid Golds Wolf Cub with real bison and oatmeal.

It is a high-quality food enhanced with probiotics, which are essential in maintaining healthy GI systems.

When your dog has reached full maturity than can be transitioned to an adult dog food.

Be sure to choose a diet that meets your dogs activity level.

If your German Shepherd is more active, you will want to put them on a specially formulated food for working dogs. If your dog is less active, you will want to choose a food lower in fat.

German Shepherds do well with high protein diets since protein helps to develop and maintain muscles mass.

If your dog doesnt require a diet containing grains, a high protein food made by Orijen, Acana, or Taste of the Wild would work best.