How Fast Do German Shepherds Grow?
Isn’t it fascinating to see your fuzzy, cuddly German Shepherd puppy evolve into a full-grown, majestic adult? One of the common questions I get from new German Shepherd puppy parents is, “How fast do German Shepherds grow?”
Well, buckle up, because we’re about to embark on the exciting journey of a German Shepherd’s growth!
German Shepherds, being a large breed, typically take a bit longer to reach their full adult size compared to their smaller canine counterparts. On average, a German Shepherd will reach their full height by about 18 months old, but they’ll continue to fill out and gain muscle until they are around 2.5 to 3 years old.
In the first month, German Shepherd puppies grow at lightning speed. From a birth weight of around 1 pound, they may multiply their weight five-fold, reaching roughly 5 pounds by the end of the first month. Hold on to your hats, folks – it’s quite a ride!
During the next few months, your German Shepherd pup will continue to gain weight and grow rapidly. By the time they reach 6 months old, they’ll likely be about half of their adult weight and around 60-70% of their adult height.
The next phase of growth isn’t quite as rapid, but your German Shepherd will still be growing steadily. Between 6 and 18 months, they’ll be getting taller, their chest will be broadening, and they’ll be gaining muscle mass.
But don’t put away that growth chart just yet! Even though they’ll likely reach their adult height by 18 months, German Shepherds keep gaining muscle and filling out until they’re about 2.5 to 3 years old. So, you’ll still see some changes even after they’ve stopped getting taller.
Remember, these are just averages, and individual growth can vary. Factors like genetics, diet, and overall health can affect a puppy’s growth rate.
It’s also important to keep in mind that rapid growth can sometimes lead to growth-related issues, particularly in large breeds like German Shepherds. To support their growth, they need a diet that’s formulated for large breed puppies, with the right balance of nutrients to support their growth without causing them to grow too rapidly. Regular vet check-ups can help catch and manage any potential growth-related issues early.
In the end, watching your German Shepherd puppy grow is one of the most exciting parts of dog parenting. Each stage brings its own joys and challenges, and before you know it, your little furball will have transformed into a full-grown, majestic German Shepherd. Enjoy the journey!
