How Much Does A 14-Weeks Old German Shepherd Weight?

Weight gain in puppies is a common concern among dog owners. The good news is, it’s easy to figure out if your puppy is overweight!

This article will help you learn how much your German Shepherd puppy should weigh at 14 weeks old and how to tell if he or she is gaining too much weight.

German Shepherd Puppy Growing from 30 Days to 7 Months

Takeaways
German Shepherd puppies typically weigh between 20 to 30 pounds at 14 weeks old.
The weight of a 14-week-old German Shepherd can vary based on individual growth rates.
Monitoring your German Shepherd’s weight and growth is important for their overall development.
Nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary check-ups play a crucial role in promoting healthy growth.
Consulting a veterinarian for personalized advice is recommended for your German Shepherd’s specific needs.

How much should a 14-week old German Shepherd weight?

While it’s hard to say exactly what your 14-week old German Shepherd should weigh, you can get an idea from the average weight of other dogs of the same age.

Most GSDs will weigh between 20 and 30 pounds at this age, but this is not always the case. The German Shepherd Club of America recommends that a puppy should be weighed twice per week at around 3 months old, with a goal weight of about 30 pounds for males and 25 for females.

If your dog doesn’t seem to be gaining enough weight over time or is gaining too much, talk to your veterinarian as soon as possible so you can make sure that everything is okay and that they aren’t in any danger.

If you’re wondering how long it takes for a German Shepherd to be fully grown, our comprehensive guide on German Shepherd growth timeline provides valuable insights and information. Understanding the growth stages of your German Shepherd is essential for tracking their development and ensuring their overall well-being.

What can affect GSD’s weight?

There are several factors that can affect a GSD’s weight. The breed of the dog and its activity level, genetics and health conditions, metabolism and stress/emotional behavior all play a part in how much your German Shepherd weighs.

It is important to remember that if you have an overweight German Shepherd, then it is not just his or her fault but yours as well too. You need to take responsibility for your pet’s diet and exercise routine.

Factors	Description
Genetics	Genetic factors play a role in determining a German Shepherd’s weight. Certain bloodlines may have naturally larger or smaller individuals.
Diet	The type and amount of food a German Shepherd consumes can significantly impact its weight. Nutritional balance and portion control are essential for maintaining a healthy weight.
Age	German Shepherds go through different growth stages, and weight can vary accordingly. Puppies generally weigh less than adult dogs.
Exercise	Regular physical activity is crucial for managing weight in German Shepherds. Sufficient exercise helps burn calories and maintain muscle tone.
Health Conditions	Certain health issues, such as thyroid problems or metabolic disorders, can affect a German Shepherd’s weight. Consulting a veterinarian is important for identifying and addressing these conditions.
Neutering/Spaying	The neutering or spaying process can impact a German Shepherd’s metabolism, potentially leading to weight changes. Controlled diet and exercise are essential after the procedure.
Treats and Snacks	Excessive consumption of treats and snacks can contribute to weight gain in German Shepherds. Monitoring and limiting these indulgences is important.
Environmental Factors	Environmental conditions, such as temperature and activity levels, can affect a German Shepherd’s energy expenditure and, consequently, its weight.
Breed Standards	Breed standards may provide guidelines for desired weight ranges for German Shepherds, especially in show or working lines.

breed

The size of your dog and its breed are two major factors that determine how much it weighs. A German Shepherd, for example, is one of the larger breeds with a high metabolism.

A 14-week old German Shepherd should weigh between 15 to 35 pounds depending on its size and build.

The more active your dog is, the more energy it will need from food intake and exercise. An overweight or obese dog is at risk for developing health problems such as arthritis, heart disease and diabetes due to increased pressure on joints and internal organs.

Curious about the typical lifespan of a German Shepherd? Our article on German Shepherd lifespan sheds light on this important aspect of your furry companion’s life. Discover the factors that influence a German Shepherd’s lifespan and learn how to promote their longevity.

Activity Level

Puppy: Your puppy’s activity level will vary depending on his age, weight and breed. A German Shepherd puppy needs plenty of exercise to grow into a healthy adult dog. As with all puppies, you should watch the frequency and intensity of playtime.

Adult Dog: An adult German Shepherd’s activity level is usually moderate to high. The amount of physical exertion needed will depend largely on your dog’s size and breed; overall health; gender (male vs female); age (puppy vs senior); if he was previously active as a puppy or not; as well as any other medical conditions he may have such as arthritis or obesity.

Senior Dog: Just like humans, dogs become less active as they get older which means their daily caloric needs decrease too!

This doesn’t mean that you should reduce how much food you feed them—it just means that exercising can help keep them happy!

Factors	Description
Age	Younger German Shepherds tend to have higher activity levels compared to older ones.
Health	The overall health and physical condition of a German Shepherd can affect its activity level.
Exercise	Regular exercise and physical activity play a vital role in maintaining an appropriate activity level for German Shepherds.
Breed	German Shepherds are known for their high energy levels and are considered an active breed.
Training	Proper training and mental stimulation can help manage and direct the activity level of a German Shepherd.
Environment	The living environment and available space can impact a German Shepherd’s activity level.
Diet	Proper nutrition and a balanced diet can support a German Shepherd’s energy levels.
Temperature	Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can influence the activity level of German Shepherds.
Genetics	The genetic predisposition of a German Shepherd can contribute to its activity level.
Daily Routine	The daily routine, including feeding, exercise, and rest, can affect a German Shepherd’s overall activity level.

Genetics & Health Conditions

The German Shepherd is a very healthy breed. However, there are some genetic health issues that can affect the weight of your dog. Some examples include:

Hip Dysplasia: This condition causes pain and stiffness in the hip joints, which will cause your dog to move less than they normally would.

The weight gain associated with this condition can be significant and lead to health issues like arthritis later on in life if not treated properly.

Elbow Dysplasia: A similar issue as Hip Dysplasia is Elbow Dysplasia, where the elbow joints are affected by arthritis or injury.

Again, it will cause your German Shepherd puppy or adult dog to move less than he or she normally would which means more calories being consumed because they’re not burning them off through exercise (like running around outside!)

When do German Shepherds put their ears up? It’s a common question among dog owners. Explore our guide on German Shepherd ear development to understand the stages and factors that influence the adorable perk-up process. Your 14-week-old German Shepherd’s ears will surely capture your heart!

Metabolism

When it comes to metabolism, German Shepherds are a medium-sized breed. They have an average metabolism which means they require a moderate amount of energy intake and expenditure.

As with other breeds, the dog’s metabolism can vary depending on its physical condition (e.g., age), size (height/weight) and exercise level. The components that contribute most to your dog’s daily energy needs include:

activity level
age
gender (male or female)

Stress & Emotional Behavior

Stress and emotional behavior can have a significant impact on your dog’s weight. If your German Shepherd is experiencing stress, they may eat more or less than usual.

This is normal and nothing to worry about as long as the dog maintains a healthy weight and lifestyle overall.

If you notice that your puppy has gained or lost too much weight over time, it could be a sign of an underlying medical condition such as pancreatitis or Addison’s disease (which causes low blood sugar).

You should visit the vet if you notice any changes in their health after eating because this could be an indicator of an underlying medical issue that needs addressing immediately by a doctor

Diet & Exercise

It is important to know how much exercise a German Shepherd needs and how much food it needs to have. A puppy should be able to run around, play, and have fun in order for it to develop properly.

It is recommended that you take your puppy on long walks everyday so that they can get the exercise they need for their growth.

It’s also important that you feed your puppy the right amount of food so that it doesn’t become overweight or underweight which can lead to health problems later on.

When feeding an adult dog make sure not give them too many treats because this could lead them into obesity which can cause other problems with their health as well like diabetes or arthritis among others things

How can you tell if your German Shepherd is happy? Our article on recognizing signs of happiness in your GSD offers practical tips and insights. Understanding your 14-week-old German Shepherd’s emotions is crucial for creating a strong bond and ensuring their well-being.

Eating Habits, Feeding Frequency and Portion Size

Feeding frequency and amount depends on your puppy’s age. When you first get a pup, it’s okay to feed it more frequently than you would later on.

The same goes for the amounts; at first, you could give them up to four cups of food each day.

As they grow older, however, this amount can be decreased gradually until they’re eating only twice a day by the time they’re five months old.

Intestinal Parasites or Worms

Intestinal parasites or worms are common in puppies and can cause weight loss.

Intestinal worms are often ingested by the mother dog during pregnancy, and then passed on to the puppies when they’re born.

Puppies often don’t show symptoms of intestinal worms until they are about four weeks old, but the worms could be infecting them for a few weeks prior. Symptoms of intestinal worms include:

Weight loss

Diarrhea
Vomiting
Anemia (low red blood cell count)

Dehydration (fluid loss from tissues)

Training a German Shepherd not to attack is essential for responsible ownership. Explore our guide on preventing aggression in German Shepherds to discover effective techniques and expert advice. Start early with your 14-week-old German Shepherd to foster a well-behaved and balanced canine companion.

The Dog Is In Heat or Pregnant (For Female Dogs)

If you notice that your female dog is putting on weight, it is possible that she may be pregnant. One of the signs of pregnancy in dogs is gaining weight.

If this happens to your dog and you do not intend to breed her, it’s important to get her spayed immediately.

Spaying a female dog before their first heat will prevent them from going into heat at all and making any unwanted babies!

Weight Gain Due to Overeating!

Puppy weight gain is important, but you should avoid overfeeding your puppy. So how much food should you feed a 14-weeks old German Shepherd?

Size and Age of Your Puppy

We have already learned that puppies grow at different rates. A pup’s weight will increase according to its age: the bigger it gets, the more calories it needs to consume in order to keep growing.

The first few weeks: At this age, your puppy is eating everything and anything! They need nutrients from milk or formula because their bodies haven’t started producing enough digestive enzymes yet; if they don’t get enough nutrients during these early days of development – they can have serious health issues later on (such as heart disease).

That’s why it’s important not only for them but also for their owners’ sanity that we make sure every meal counts!

Factors	Description
Caloric Intake	Consuming more calories than the body needs can lead to weight gain.
Portion Control	Lack of portion control can result in overeating, leading to weight gain.
Food Type	High-calorie or unhealthy food choices can contribute to weight gain when consumed excessively.
Feeding Schedule	Irregular or frequent feeding can disrupt the body’s natural hunger and satiety cues, leading to overeating.
Emotional Eating	Using food as a coping mechanism for emotional stress or boredom can result in overeating and subsequent weight gain.
Lack of Exercise	Insufficient physical activity can contribute to a calorie surplus and weight gain when combined with overeating.
Slow Metabolism	Some individuals may have a naturally slower metabolism, making them more prone to weight gain from overeating.
Brand Influence	Certain brands may offer highly palatable and calorie-dense foods that can lead to overeating if not controlled.
Behavioral Factors	Habitual patterns, such as mindless eating or eating out of boredom, can contribute to weight gain from overeating.
Health Conditions	Underlying medical conditions or medications may affect appetite regulation and contribute to overeating and weight gain.

Conclusion

It’s important to note that not all dogs will grow at the same rate. You should always consult a veterinarian for specific advice about your dog’s weight.

If you’re concerned about your dog’s diet or appearance, see if you can get in touch with someone who has experience in this area and ask for their opinion!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about German Shepherd growth and weight:

Q: How much should a German Shepherd puppy weigh at 14 weeks?

A: The weight of a 14-week-old German Shepherd puppy can vary, but on average, they may weigh between 20 to 30 pounds. However, individual growth rates can differ.

Q: When do German Shepherds reach their full size?

A: German Shepherds typically reach their full size and physical maturity between 18 to 24 months of age. However, it’s important to note that their growth may vary depending on genetics, nutrition, and overall health.

Q: How can I ensure healthy growth for my German Shepherd puppy?

A: To promote healthy growth, provide your German Shepherd puppy with a balanced diet formulated for their specific needs. Regular veterinary check-ups, exercise, and mental stimulation are also crucial for their overall well-being.

Q: Is there a growth chart for German Shepherds I can refer to?

A: Yes, there are various growth charts available that provide general guidelines for German Shepherd growth. These charts can help you track your dog’s progress and ensure they are within a healthy weight range.

Q: What factors can influence a German Shepherd’s growth rate?

A: Several factors can affect a German Shepherd’s growth rate, including genetics, nutrition, exercise, and overall health. Providing proper care, a balanced diet, and a stimulating environment can contribute to healthy growth and development.

Dr. Hellen James (Vet)

I’m Dr. Hellen James, I’ve spent my career working with dogs, and I’ve seen first-hand how important it is to understand the individual needs of each breed. I want to share my knowledge of dog breeds with you so that you can make informed decisions about which dog will be best for your household and lifestyle.