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How Large Do German Shepherd Dogs Get?
How Large Do German Shepherd Dogs Get? Can you please detail the size of males and female German Shepherds on how large they get compared to their age? For example, a chart how much a male German Shepherd dog weighs at three months, six months, nine months, twelve months, 18 months, 24 months, 30 months, 36 months. The same with female German Shepherd dogs. How much does a female German Shepherd dog weigh at three months, six months, nine months, twelve months, 18 months, 24 months, 30 months, 36 months. When is a German Shepherd dog fully grown and when do they reach full maturity level? Thank you in advance.
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20 Replies
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Here’s a detailed growth chart showing how large male and female German Shepherds typically get at various ages and when they reach full maturity.
Male German Shepherd Growth Chart:
Age (Months) Weight (lbs) Weight (kg) Height (in.)
Three months 22 – 30 lbs 10 – 14 kg 9 – 11 inches
Six months 49 – 57 lbs 22 – 26 kg 15 – 18 inches
Nine months 64 – 71 lbs 29 – 32 kg 20 – 23 inches
12 months 71 – 79 lbs 32 – 36 kg 22 – 24 inches
18 months 77 – 84 lbs 35 – 38 kg 24 – 25 inches
24 months 77 – 88 lbs 35 – 40 kg 24 – 25 inches
30 months 79 – 88 lbs 36 – 40 kg 24 – 26 inches
36 months 79 – 88 lbs 36 – 40 kg 24 – 26 inches
Female German Shepherd Growth Chart:
Age (Months) Weight (lbs) Weight (kg) Height (in.)
Three months 17 – 26 lbs 8 – 12 kg 8 – 10 inches
Six months 44 – 49 lbs 20 – 22 kg 14 – 16 inches
Nine months 53 – 59 lbs 24 – 27 kg 18 – 21 inches
12 months 60 – 66 lbs 27 – 30 kg 20 – 22 inches
18 months 62 – 66 lbs 28 – 30 kg 22 – 24 inches
24 months 62 – 66 lbs 28 – 30 kg 22 – 24 inches
30 months 62 – 66 lbs 28 – 30 kg 22 – 24 inches
36 months 62 – 66 lbs 28 – 30 kg 22 – 24 inches
When Is a German Shepherd Fully Grown?
Physical Growth: Most German Shepherds reach their full height by 12 to 18 months, but they may continue to gain muscle mass until they are about 24 to 36 months old. Males are typically larger than females, with males weighing between 77-88 lbs and females weighing 62-66 lbs once fully grown.
Full Maturity: While German Shepherds reach their full size around 24-36 months, they achieve full mental and emotional maturity between 2 and 3 years. During this period, they become more settled and calm.
Key Points:
- Males tend to be larger than females.
- Growth slows significantly after 12 months, with most dogs reaching their full size by 24 months.
- German Shepherds continue to develop muscle mass and reach full maturity up to 3 years of age.
Regular veterinary checkups, proper diet, and exercise will help your dog grow to its full potential.
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German Shepherds are a large and versatile breed known for their intelligence and loyalty. Understanding their growth patterns can help owners provide the right care at each stage. Below is a detailed overview of the expected weight ranges for male and female German Shepherds at various ages.
Growth Chart for German Shepherds
Male German Shepherd Weight
Age (Months) Weight Range (lbs)
3 Months Old 25 – 30
6 Months Old 50 – 60
9 Months Old 65 – 75
12 Months Old 70 – 85
18 Months Old 75 – 90
24 Months Old 80 – 95
30 Months Old 85 – 100
36 Months Old 90 – 105
Female German Shepherd Weight
Age (Months) Weight Range (lbs)
3 Months Old 20 – 25
6 Months Old 40 – 50
9 Months Old 50 – 65
12 Months Old 55 – 70
18 Months Old 60 – 75
24 Months Old 65 – 80
30 Months Old 70 – 85
36 Months Old 75 – 90
Growth and Maturity
Full Size: German Shepherds typically reach adulthood by 18 to 24 months. Males generally weigh between 90 to 105 pounds, while females weigh around 75 to 90 pounds when fully grown.
Full Maturity: While they may reach their full size by age 2, German Shepherds continue to mature emotionally and behaviorally until they are about 3 years old.
Additional Considerations
Growth Rate Variability: Individual growth rates can vary based on genetics, nutrition, and overall health.
Diet and Exercise: Proper nutrition and regular exercise are crucial during their growth stages to ensure healthy development and prevent obesity.
In summary, male German Shepherds typically weigh between 90 and 105 pounds, while females weigh between 75 and 90 pounds when fully grown. They reach their full size by 18 to 24 months and continue to mature until about 3 years of age. Tracking their growth can help ensure they develop healthily and reach their potential as strong, loyal companions.
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Are there breed variations in size within German Shepherds?
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German shepherds have unique looks and sizes, and their bloodlines influence them.
Here is the summary for all the main types of German Shepherds, along with their size differences:
American German Shepherds
Size Variance: Larger and more muscular in comparison to European German Shepherds.
Male Range: 90-105 pounds
Female Range: 75-90 pounds
Description: These breeds are intended for companionship and show, so they have a more distinct look that includes changed heads and an angled-back Dwaine than working breeds.
European German Shepherd
Size Variation: They are leaner and smaller compared to American German Shepherds.
Male Range: 75-95 pounds
Female Range: 50-70 pounds
Description: Primarily aimed for sports, they have a wider, thick-set look with a flatter back—common debarked barkers. Mostly used in volunteer police and military.
Working Line German Shepherds
Size Variation: It varies but tends to be in the middle of the scale. The range for both males and females is 70-90 pounds.
Description: These dogs are bred with a focus on behavior, motivation, and skill, giving them a unique look and great strength and speed.
Show Line German Shepherds: The size is the same as that of the American Lines, but these can also differ.
Males: These usually weigh from 90 to 105 pounds.
Females: Typically, these are between 75 to 90 pounds. Characteristics that Are More Show Line German Shepherds Quality Characteristics: These are show line German German Shepherds are often angulated and are slightly more pleomorphic type than the breed type of German shepherds, which are mostly provided strong type.
Dog show Highlight weighs more than breed type.
In summary, German shepherds’ size is standard; however, the different breeding lines vary. German shepherds’ appearance and size are greatly affected by their genetics, focus on breeding work, and health. Furthermore, someone deciding to buy a German shepherd should know that the breed has variations and the dog’s purpose, whether for companionship, work, or show.
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Are there health concerns linked to specific size variations?
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Of course, some lines of German Shepherds possess some breed and size variations, which can be attributed to health issues. So here’s a list of how different types of German Shepherds might suffer about their health:
American German Shepherds
Hip Dysplasia is a hereditary defect common in big dogs. It is a condition of the hip in which the head of the femur does not fit well into the acetabulum, and arthritis and pain follow.
Elbow Dysplasia: Elbow dysplasia is almost the same condition as the previous one, but it mainly affects the elbows. It may affect mobility and cause a degree of joint pain.
Degenerative Myelopathy: This condition slowly worsens and affects the functions and workings of the spinal cord, leading to movement-related issues.
Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): This condition, also known as bloat, can be fatal. It occurs in bigger dogs, especially those with a deeper barrel chest.
European German Shepherds
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: These are joint problems that many European lines tend to have, although they lack practitioners to monitor selective breeding practices, which supplements this problem.
Skeletal Issues: European breeds with extreme angulations may have skeletal issues caused by structural stress.
Heart Conditions: Some regions may experience more heart problems than others, and some lines are more affected than others.
Working Line German Shepherds Joint Issues: Exercising and eating nutritious food can prevent the excessive strain that working lines endure on their joint abuse. Therefore, they have to be controlled, which is essential.
Injury Predisposition: Due to their heightened activity levels and engagement, working line dogs may be more likely to sustain injuries during challenging activities or extensive durations of physical training.
Show Line German Shepherds Hip Dysplasia: With extreme angulation, there is a high risk of hip dysplasia with hip dysplasia, an example of dislocation. Some Nazrul dogs also show this characteristic.
Spinal Issues: Show lines with back angulation, which may be at a higher risk of spinal issues due to body structure.
Respiratory Issues: They are less frequent than in extremely built breeds. However, some physical factors can cause mild respiratory problems, which some carriers experience.
Guidelines for General Health Recommendations Regular Medical Checkup:
Ensuring scheduled checkups can promote health by catching any issues that might come before they become problematic.
Nutrition: Proper dietary nutrition according to the dog’s age, size, and performance is important to maintain the dog’s well-being.
Exercise and Weight Control: Exercise should continuously maintain a healthy weight for proper joint support and health.
Responsible Practices in Breeding: The best way to prevent inherited problems is to use health screening to ensure that the husband uses a good breeder.
Like other breeds, German shepherds possess genetic health problems, which are influenced by genetic lineage, size, and owner initiatives. Being aware of these requirements enables owners to take preventative measures and maintain their dog’s health and status.
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What are the typical sizes for each German Shepherd type?
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The typical sizes for each type of German Shepherd can vary based on their breeding lines and purpose.
Here’s a breakdown of the standard size ranges for American, European, Working Line, and Show Line German Shepherds:
American German Shepherds
Males:
- Weight: 90 to 105 pounds
- Height: 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder
Females:
- Weight: 75 to 90 pounds
- Height: 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder
European German Shepherds
Males:
- Weight: 75 to 95 pounds
- Height: 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder
Females:
- Weight: 50 to 70 pounds
- Height: 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder
Working Line German Shepherds
Males:
- Weight: 75 to 95 pounds
- Height: 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder
Females:
- Weight: 50 to 70 pounds
- Height: 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder
Show Line German Shepherds
Males:
- Weight: 90 to 105 pounds
- Height: 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder
Females:
- Weight: 75 to 90 pounds
- Height: 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder
Males typically range from 24 to 26 inches in height and weigh between 75 to 105 pounds, depending on the line.
Females usually stand between 22 and 24 inches tall and weigh 50 to 90 pounds.
These size ranges can provide a general guideline, but individual dogs may vary based on genetics, diet, and overall health. When considering a German Shepherd, choosing a reputable breeder who adheres to breed standards and emphasizes health and temperament is essential.
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How do I find a reputable German Shepherd breeder?
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It is very important to find a good German Shepherd breeder so the puppy can be healthy and have a good temperament and genetics.
To determine good breeders, here is a detailed guide checklist:
Research Breed Standards
Understand the Breed: It would help to know the German Shepherd breed standards, including its common health problems, size, and temperament.
Know What to Look For: Your search for a breeder will depend on whether you want an American, European, working, or show-line German Shepherd.
Seek Recommendations
Veterinarians: Your veterinarian should be approached to know the reliable breeders in your area.
Local Clubs: Organizations such as the German Shepherd Dog Club of America or local breed clubs should also be called for referrals.
Dog shows and competitions: German Shepherds can also attend dog shows or competitions to meet the breeders and their dogs.
Check Breeder Credentials
Experience and Reputation: Breeders who have been breeding German Shepherds for a while are well-reputed in the breed community.
Health Testing: Breeders should check for common issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and other breed-specific conditions.
Tour the Breeder’s Facility
Concern: Visit the breeders’ home or premises to determine how the dogs are housed. The environment should be hygienic and not threaten puppies during their initial growth stages.
Puppy Raising: Notice how the separate puppies are raised. They are expected to be well-socialized, exposed to various stimuli, and warmly interact with people and other animals.
Parent Dogs Questions
Temperament: What is the disposition of the parent dogs? A reputable breeder will tell their dogs’ personalities and behaviors without hesitation.
Health Records: Ask for health testing papers and the pedigree of the respective parent dogs.
Rate the Breeder’s Codes of Conduct
Contracts and Guarantees: Any responsible breeder will require the buyer to sign a contract that sets his lapsus and guarantees on health and return policy.
Lifelong Support: It is preferable to approach breeders who actively follow up and answer inquiries long after you’ve brought your puppy home.
Gut Feeling Is Important
Communications: A competent breeder should be able to moderate his respect, readiness to respond to questions, and divulge basic facts about breeding practices.
Puppy Mill Indicators: Breeders have many litters simultaneously for sale many times. They do not let buyers come to see the puppies and never want to show papers to them.
Think About Adoption
Pet Rescue: If you are willing, you may also consider adopting from a German Shepherd rescue or shelter. Many organizations rehome German Shepherds.
Becoming the proud owner of a German Shepherd dog comes after a thorough selection process of taking time and searching for German Shepherd breeders. Doing background research, asking the necessary questions, and trusting your gut feeling constitute this research process, and you need to take your time. The time you spend will be relieved when you find a German shepherd that meets your requirements and lifestyle and, more importantly, is up to the standards of the particular breeder in terms of health and happiness.
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How can I tell if a breeder is a puppy mill?
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Recognizing a puppy mill can be critical in making sure you select a good breeder and do not promote unethical variables in breeding. So, to aid you, the following are some signs and red flags when it comes to breeders:
Breeding Practices
Incorrect Breeds: Puppy mills breed various dog breeds in a breeding operation without following the breed standards. A healthy breeder normally deals in one to two breeds only.
Mass Production of Puppies: If a breeding person has too many litters at one time or always seems to have puppies for sale, this suggests it is a puppy mill.
Living Conditions
Unsuitable Surroundings: Make a turn to the kennel area. Any hints of puppy mill activity may be present if the animals are kept in unsanitary, crammed, and hazardous areas.
Isolated Dogs: A sound environment for a puppy to be reared should involve interaction with people and other pets, such as dogs. On the other hand, puppy mills normally keep dogs confined.
Health and Veterinary Care
No Security: Thriving breeders test their breeding dogs on common genetic health issues for the most common breed issues. Most of the time, puppy mills ignore this stage, hence the puppy will acquire various health conditions.
Who does not keep them: Puppies and their parents should have health records, so ask for them. A person who cannot provide them does not value the health of his dogs.
Breeder’s outlook towards the pets and insights into their abilities
Lack of Information: An esteemed breeder will possess information concerning the breed and will be able to communicate about the health, temperament, and training of the dog they provide. This is usually not the case with puppy mills.
Too many Selling Strategies: If a breeder tries to market to you aggressively, for example, persuading you to buy the puppy on an instance or trying to market the pet at a very fair price, it could be a warning sign.
Legal Documentation and Deals
No Paperwork: Responsible breeders provide their clients with a signed contract showing what to expect regarding the pet’s health and what happens if the pet has to be brought back. Puppy mills often do not provide such contracts.
No contact after selling: Good breeders or sellers will always keep in contact and be open to questions regarding the pet they sell. Typically, puppy mills do not provide this contact.
Example Questions
Parent section of the literature: Countercheck the health, history, and temperament of the breeding dogs from the puppy mill. Puppy mill responses are often vague or not to the point.
For Ask about Socializing: The responsible breeder will use hypothetical case imagery or feedback to explain the puppy’s socialization after birth. Puppy mills usually do not value this area.
Digital business footprints
Little or No Online Presence: Most puppy mills will not have an online presence, and if they do, ensure a motto or slogan for their business can easily be found. A better way would be to check out their sites and social networking for critiques of the puppy mill.
Negative Reviews: Pay attention to reviews to check a particular breeder’s complaints. If there is consistent negative feedback, then there are problems that need further examination.
If you are careful and ask the right questions, you can avoid breeders who run puppy mills and find a good breeder who cares about the health of her dogs. Always trust your instincts. It may be worth looking for alternatives if something seems wrong.
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I adopted my female German Shepherd dog, Skylar, on October 6th, 2024. She was born on January 25th, 2024. Today, December 11th, 2024, I took her to the veterinary clinic to weigh her, and she weighed 62 pounds. When I got her, I took her to the animal hospital on October 7th, 2024; she weighed 50 pounds then. When we came home, I worked with her to train her how to sit, stay, and come. She learned it in a matter of minutes—a very smart girl. Here are a few pictures of Skylar with her big brother Chase. Chase is one year older than Skylar. The picture inside was taken when I first got Skylar at the vet when she weighed 50 pounds.
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Here are more pictures of Skylar and Chase. Skylar has floppy ears. These photos were taken on October 7th, 2024, when I adopted her.