Bringing home a German Shepherd puppy is exciting, emotional, and—if you are honest—a little overwhelming. One week your puppy looks compact and clumsy, and the next their legs seem longer, their paws bigger, and their body completely different. Collars stop fitting. Ears rise, fall, and rise again. Many first-time owners quietly ask themselves if this pace of change is normal.
Concerns usually follow quickly. Is my puppy growing too fast or too slow? Should they look bigger by now? Are they too thin, too heavy, or just awkward? These questions are common, especially with a large working breed known for dramatic growth phases. This is where a German Shepherd puppy growth chart becomes useful—not as a rulebook, but as a reference that brings perspective and reassurance.
Having raised and closely observed multiple German Shepherd puppies over the years, one thing becomes clear: growth is rarely linear. Puppies grow in spurts, pause, and then surge again. Comparing littermates often shows surprising differences, even when care and nutrition are similar. Understanding this pattern helps reduce unnecessary worry and prevents overcorrecting with food or supplements.
This guide will walk you through German Shepherd puppy development week by week and month by month, explaining what physical changes typically occur, which variations are normal, and when growth patterns may warrant attention. Use it as a calming reference point—not a checklist—to better understand your puppy’s journey from tiny newcomer to confident young dog.
German Shepherd Puppy Growth at a Glance
- 8 weeks: ~7–9 kg
- 3 months: ~10–15 kg
- 6 months: ~20–30 kg
- 12 months: ~30–40 kg (males), ~22–32 kg (females)
Note: These are average ranges. Healthy puppies may fall above or below them.
Quick German Shepherd Puppy Growth Summary
- Birth to 2 weeks: Rapid early development; puppies are fully dependent and gain weight steadily
- 3–4 weeks: Noticeable increase in size; legs begin to strengthen and posture improves
- 6–8 weeks: Growth accelerates; body lengthens and proportions start changing
- 2–3 months: Visible height increase; paws often appear oversized compared to the body
- 3–6 months: Fastest growth phase; legs stretch first, followed by chest and muscle development
- 6–9 months: Growth rate slows; body begins filling out rather than getting taller
- 9–12 months: Near adult height reached; muscle mass and structure continue developing
- Typical adult weight (male): ~30–40 kg
- Typical adult weight (female): ~22–32 kg
- Important note: Healthy German Shepherd puppies may naturally fall above or below these averages based on genetics, nutrition, and overall development
Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Growth Stages
1. Neonatal to Early Puppy Stage (Birth–8 Weeks)
During this stage, growth is rapid but subtle in appearance. The body develops before structure becomes obvious. Bones are soft, muscles are undeveloped, and coordination is limited. Most changes happen internally as the nervous system and basic motor skills begin forming.
Owners commonly notice how quickly puppies change in a short span—eyes opening, attempts at walking, and early social behaviors. First-time owners often worry that a puppy looks fragile, unsteady, or smaller than expected for the breed.
This is normal. At this age, German Shepherd puppies are not meant to look strong or athletic. Awkward movement, round bellies, and uneven posture are part of early development.
A common feeding mistake at this stage is assuming that visible size reflects future adult size. Trying to “boost” growth through early overfeeding or supplements should be avoided, as it can interfere with natural skeletal development.
2. Rapid Structural Growth Phase (2–6 Months)
This is the most dramatic growth period. Legs lengthen quickly, the chest begins to widen, and the puppy often looks tall and lanky. Bone growth outpaces muscle development, which can make puppies appear thin or poorly balanced.
Owners frequently notice sudden changes from week to week—collars tightening, limbs looking long, and paws seeming oversized. This often leads to concern that the puppy is underweight or not filling out properly.
What is normal here is uneven growth. German Shepherd puppies grow in spurts, not in smooth progression. Height usually comes before width, and coordination improves gradually.
A common mistake during this phase is increasing food portions too aggressively in response to a “skinny” appearance. Overfeeding during rapid skeletal growth can place unnecessary stress on developing joints and should be avoided.
3. Adolescent Growth Phase (6–12 Months)
Growth slows compared to earlier months, but development continues in a less obvious way. Height increases taper off, while muscle tone, chest depth, and overall structure begin to form. Hormonal changes also influence behavior and physical appearance.
Owners often notice that their puppy looks awkward again—neither a puppy nor an adult. Energy levels fluctuate, and the body may seem out of proportion for short periods. Concerns commonly revolve around whether growth has stalled too early.
This phase is normal and transitional. Many German Shepherds reach near-adult height during this time but still lack adult muscle mass and maturity.
A frequent mistake is assuming the puppy is “done growing” and switching too early to adult routines, whether in feeding or physical expectations. Growth plates are still developing, and patience remains important.
4. Full Maturation Phase (12–24 Months)
During full maturation, visible growth slows significantly. The body fills out rather than getting taller. Muscles strengthen, the chest broadens, and overall proportions become balanced. This is when the breed’s characteristic power and presence fully emerge.
Owners may feel uncertain when changes appear minimal, wondering if something is wrong or if their dog will ever look fully grown. Others worry their dog looks lean compared to adult German Shepherds they see elsewhere.
This is normal. German Shepherds mature slowly, and full physical development often continues well into the second year.
A common mistake at this stage is pushing intense exercise or demanding physical work too early, believing growth is complete. Avoiding excessive strain allows joints and muscles to finish developing safely.
German Shepherd Puppy Growth Chart (Birth to 12 Weeks)
The first twelve weeks of a German Shepherd puppy’s life lay the foundation for everything that follows—bone strength, digestion, immunity, and long-term growth patterns. During this stage, consistency in nutrition, warmth, and care matters far more than hitting exact numbers. Early growth should be viewed as a general trend, not a test your puppy must pass each week.
German Shepherd Puppy Weight Chart (Week-by-Week)
|
Age |
Average Weight Range |
| Birth |
0.4 – 0.6 kg |
|
1 week |
0.7 – 0.9 kg |
| 2 weeks |
1.1 – 1.4 kg |
|
3 weeks |
1.8 – 2.3 kg |
| 4 weeks |
2.5 – 3.6 kg |
|
5 weeks |
3.6 – 4.5 kg |
| 6 weeks |
4.5 – 5.9 kg |
|
7 weeks |
5.9 – 7.3 kg |
| 8 weeks |
7.3 – 9.1 kg |
| 9 weeks |
8.6 – 10.9 kg |
|
10 weeks |
10.0 – 12.7 kg |
| 11 weeks |
11.3 – 14.5 kg |
| 12 weeks |
12.7 – 16.3 kg |
Ranges reflect healthy averages; individual puppies may fall outside them and still be developing normally.
What’s Normal During Early Growth
In the early weeks, puppies typically show steady upward growth rather than smooth, identical gains each week. Short pauses or slower periods often align with developmental changes rather than problems.
As puppies transition from nursing to solid food, temporary plateaus are common. The digestive system is adjusting, and energy is being redirected toward learning, movement, and environmental adaptation rather than pure weight gain.
Litter size plays a major role in early growth patterns. Puppies from larger litters may gain more gradually, while those from smaller litters often appear heavier early on. These differences usually even out over time.
Early growth becomes concerning when a puppy consistently fails to gain over multiple weeks, shows visible weakness, struggles to nurse or eat, or appears lethargic compared to littermates. In such cases, veterinary guidance is important to rule out nutritional, parasitic, or congenital issues rather than attempting home adjustments.
Month-by-Month German Shepherd Puppy Growth (3–12 Months)
3 Months Old German Shepherd Puppy Growth
At around three months, a German Shepherd puppy typically weighs 10–15 kg. Growth is clearly visible now, with noticeable increases in height and length rather than bulk.
Owners often observe a strong appetite, high curiosity, and bursts of playful energy followed by deep sleep. The body may look slim, with long legs and a narrow chest, which sometimes causes concern about whether the puppy is underdeveloped.
This appearance is normal. At this stage, bones are growing faster than muscles. Rather than trying to “fill out” the puppy, owners should focus on consistent feeding routines and gentle training. Comparing your puppy to others can be misleading, as genetics and early litter conditions strongly influence how a puppy looks at this age.
4 Month Old German Shepherd Weight Expectations
By four months, most German Shepherd puppies fall in the 15–20 kg range. Growth spurts may happen suddenly, making changes feel dramatic over short periods.
Owners often notice increased hunger, chewing behavior due to teething, and a puppy that seems constantly active. It is common to worry that the puppy looks too lean or that appetite seems excessive.
What is normal here is imbalance. Height and limb length often surge before the chest and muscle catch up. Appetite fluctuations are also expected during growth spurts. Avoid adjusting portions based on comparison with other puppies, as even littermates can look very different at this stage.
5 to 6 Months – Rapid Growth & Body Changes
Between five and six months, the average weight typically ranges from 20–30 kg. This is one of the fastest and most uneven growth phases.
Owners frequently notice oversized paws, long legs, and a body that looks stretched or awkward. Energy levels may spike, and behavior can feel more challenging as confidence increases.
Many worry that growth is happening too quickly or that the puppy appears clumsy and uncoordinated. This phase is structurally demanding for the body, but it is expected. Growth occurs in spurts, not smooth lines. Comparing puppies at this age often creates unnecessary anxiety because timing of spurts varies widely between individuals.
7 to 9 Months – The Adolescent ‘Awkward Phase’
From seven to nine months, German Shepherds usually weigh around 25–35 kg. Height gains slow, while the body begins adjusting to its new frame.
Owners often describe this period as confusing. The puppy may look too tall, too thin, or oddly proportioned. Appetite may stabilize, but behavior can become more independent, testing boundaries and patience.
This phase worries many owners who feel their dog should look more “adult” by now. In reality, adolescence is marked by uneven muscle development and temporary loss of coordination. Comparing your puppy to mature dogs or social media images is particularly misleading during this stage.
10 to 12 Months – Near Adult Size
By ten to twelve months, most German Shepherds reach 30–40 kg, approaching their adult size, though not full maturity.
Owners usually notice a calmer energy pattern, improved coordination, and a more balanced silhouette, even if the dog still looks lean. Concerns often shift toward whether growth has stopped too early or whether the dog will fill out more.
This is normal. While height is largely established, muscle mass and chest depth continue developing well beyond the first year. Comparing puppies of the same age can still be inaccurate, as full physical maturity in German Shepherds extends into the second year.
At this stage, patience matters more than comparison. Focus on steady routines, appropriate exercise, and allowing the body to mature at its own pace.
Male vs Female German Shepherd Puppy Growth
Female German Shepherd Growth Pattern
Female German Shepherds typically develop a slightly finer frame and reach physical maturity earlier than males. Their growth tends to be more streamlined, with height and structure stabilizing sooner, followed by gradual muscle development. Females often appear more balanced at a younger age, which can give the impression that they are “done growing” earlier.
Owners commonly notice that females settle into adult-like proportions sooner, both physically and behaviorally. This earlier maturity often leads to concerns that a female puppy is smaller than expected or not as strong as a male of the same age.
What is normal is that females are naturally built lighter and more compact. Earlier maturation does not indicate weaker bones or reduced capability. In many cases, females reach physical and mental steadiness sooner, which can be an advantage for training and daily routines.
A common misconception is that smaller size equals poorer health or lower working ability. In reality, a well-developed female German Shepherd can be just as healthy, athletic, and capable as a male, simply within a different structural frame.
Male German Shepherd Growth Pattern
Male German Shepherds generally have a broader frame and a longer growth timeline. While they may grow taller early on, males often continue adding muscle mass, chest width, and overall substance well into later adolescence and early adulthood.
Owners frequently notice that male puppies look awkward for longer periods—tall, narrow, and unfinished in appearance. This extended development can lead to concerns that growth is delayed or uneven.
This is normal for males. Their bodies prioritize height and skeletal structure first, with muscle and bulk filling in later. Because of this, males often appear to mature more slowly, even though they are following a healthy growth pattern.
A common misconception is that bigger always means stronger or healthier. Rapid size gain does not equal better development. What matters more is controlled growth that allows joints and muscles to strengthen properly over time. Males that are allowed to mature gradually often develop better long-term structure and soundness.
Key Takeaway on Sex-Based Growth Differences
Females usually mature earlier and stabilize sooner, while males continue filling out for a longer period. These differences are rooted in genetics and hormones, not in care quality or health. Comparing male and female puppies directly often leads to unnecessary worry. Each follows a natural growth curve that should be evaluated on its own terms rather than against the opposite sex.
Working Line vs Show Line German Shepherd Growth
Czech & Working Line German Shepherd Growth Differences
Czech, DDR, and other working-line German Shepherds are bred primarily for performance, endurance, and functional strength. Their growth patterns reflect these goals. Puppies from working lines typically develop a leaner frame, tighter muscle tone, and a more athletic outline rather than a heavy or bulky appearance.
Owners often notice that working-line puppies look slimmer during growth, especially through adolescence. The chest may appear narrower, the waist more defined, and overall body mass slower to build compared to show-line dogs. This frequently raises concerns that the puppy is underweight or not growing “enough.”
This is normal and healthy for working lines. Their bodies prioritize efficient muscle development, joint stability, and stamina over visual bulk. Muscle mass builds gradually and becomes more apparent as coordination and strength improve. A lean appearance during growth supports agility, speed, and long-term soundness rather than indicating poor nutrition.
A common mistake is trying to make a working-line puppy look heavier to match show-line examples. Overfeeding or pushing for rapid size gain can compromise joint health and reduce the athletic qualities these dogs are bred for.
Show Line German Shepherd Growth Characteristics
Show-line German Shepherds are bred with an emphasis on appearance, structure, and breed-standard presentation. Their growth often includes a broader chest, heavier bone, and more visible mass during development. Puppies may appear fuller at earlier ages, particularly through the mid-growth months.
Owners commonly observe that show-line puppies “fill out” sooner, developing width and substance alongside height. This can create the impression that they are growing faster or are more mature compared to working-line dogs of the same age.
This pattern is also normal. Show-line growth reflects selective breeding for outline and presence rather than endurance-driven efficiency. Muscle and body mass may be more visible earlier, though full maturity still takes time.
A misconception is that heavier or thicker puppies are inherently healthier or better developed. In reality, both lines can be equally healthy when growth is appropriate for their genetic purpose. The key is aligning expectations with breeding goals rather than comparing across lines.
Understanding Line-Based Growth Differences
Working-line German Shepherds grow to be lean, agile, and performance-focused, while show-line German Shepherds develop more substance and visual presence. These differences are intentional and rooted in breeding priorities, not in feeding practices or care quality. Evaluating growth within the context of lineage helps owners make better decisions and avoid unnecessary worry.
How Big Will My German Shepherd Puppy Get?
Why Early Puppy Weight Is a Poor Predictor
Predicting the adult size of a German Shepherd puppy is challenging, even for experienced breeders and veterinarians. While many owners hope for a clear formula or early indicator, growth in this breed is influenced by multiple variables that do not unfold at the same pace for every dog.
The Role of Genetics in Adult Size
Genetics play the most significant role. The size, structure, and growth history of both parents—and often grandparents shape a puppy’s potential far more than any single measurement taken during early life. Even within the same litter, puppies can mature into noticeably different adult sizes.
Why Growth Happens in Spurts
Parental size provides a general range rather than a precise outcome. A puppy born to larger parents may still mature into a moderate-sized adult, while a smaller-looking puppy can experience later growth spurts that change expectations entirely. Growth curves are individual, not uniform, and German Shepherds are known for uneven development phases.
Early puppy weight is one of the least reliable predictors of adult size. Puppies grow in bursts, pause, and then surge again, especially during the first year. Rapid early growth does not guarantee a larger adult dog, and slower early growth does not mean a smaller final size. Much of adult structure is determined during later stages when muscle mass, chest width, and overall balance develop.
Setting Realistic Size Expectations
For owners, the most realistic expectation is to focus on healthy, steady development rather than a specific end size. A well-cared-for German Shepherd will reach a size appropriate for their genetics, regardless of early fluctuations. Using growth charts as references—not predictions—helps maintain perspective and reduces unnecessary concern throughout the puppy’s development.
How to Track German Shepherd Puppy Growth Correctly
How to Weigh a German Shepherd Puppy at Home
- Choose a consistent time of day
Weigh your puppy at the same time each week, ideally before a meal. Consistency matters more than the exact timing. - Use a stable, accurate scale
A digital bathroom scale works well for most puppies. Place it on a flat, hard surface to avoid inaccurate readings. - Weigh yourself first
Step onto the scale alone and note the number. - Weigh yourself holding the puppy
Hold your puppy securely and step back onto the scale. - Calculate the difference
Subtract your own weight from the combined weight to determine your puppy’s weight. - Record the result
Write the number down in a notebook or tracking app so you can observe trends over time rather than focusing on a single reading. - Stay calm and neutral
Treat weighing as a routine check, not a test. Minor fluctuations are normal and expected.
How Often You Should Track Weight
Weekly tracking is sufficient for monitoring healthy growth in German Shepherd puppies. Growth occurs in trends, not daily changes, and meaningful patterns only become clear over time.
Daily weighing often creates unnecessary anxiety. Small day-to-day variations can be caused by hydration, recent meals, or bowel movements and do not reflect real growth. Focusing on daily numbers can lead owners to overreact, adjust feeding too quickly, or assume problems where none exist.
A weekly schedule provides enough data to confirm steady development while allowing natural fluctuations to balance out. If a puppy shows a consistent lack of gain over multiple weeks or appears unwell, that is the appropriate time to consult a veterinarian rather than increasing weighing frequency.
Body Condition vs Weight Charts (What Matters More)
Why Weight Charts Don’t Tell the Full Story
Weight charts provide reference points, but they do not tell the full story of a growing German Shepherd puppy. Body condition reflects how well a puppy is developing in real life, taking into account structure, muscle tone, and overall health rather than a single number.
Visual Signs of Healthy Growth
A healthy puppy should have a visible waist when viewed from above, with the body narrowing slightly behind the ribcage. From the side, the abdomen should show a gentle upward tuck rather than hanging straight down. These proportions indicate balanced growth rather than excess weight.
Ribs should be easy to feel with light pressure but not sharply visible. If ribs are completely hidden under thick fat, the puppy may be carrying unnecessary weight. If they are overly prominent, intake or health may need review. Feeling, not counting, ribs gives a more accurate picture than comparing numbers to a chart.
Movement Quality as a Growth Indicator
Movement quality is another key indicator. A well-conditioned puppy moves freely, with smooth strides and good coordination for their age. Stiffness, reluctance to move, or heavy pounding steps can signal imbalance even if weight appears “normal” on paper.
Energy Levels and Recovery Time
Overall energy and recovery matter as well. Healthy puppies show enthusiasm for play, recover quickly after activity, and settle into rest comfortably. Consistent lethargy, discomfort, or visible strain suggests that growth needs closer attention.
Weight charts should be used as guides, not goals. Observing body condition allows owners to respond to their puppy’s individual needs and supports long-term joint health and sound development.
Feeding and Growth in German Shepherd Puppies
How Diet Influences Growth Rate
Nutrition plays a direct role in how a German Shepherd puppy grows, but more is not better. Growth rate is influenced by the balance of nutrients rather than sheer calorie intake. A diet that is too rich can push a puppy to grow faster than their bones and joints are ready to support.
Why Excess Calories and Imbalanced Nutrition Harm Growth
Protein is often misunderstood. Adequate protein supports muscle development and tissue repair, but excessive protein does not cause a puppy to grow taller or stronger on its own. Growth problems are more commonly linked to excess calories and imbalanced minerals than to protein levels.
The Importance of Large-Breed Puppy Food
Calcium is another frequent source of confusion. German Shepherd puppies cannot regulate calcium intake efficiently during growth. Adding calcium supplements or feeding diets with inappropriate mineral balance can interfere with normal bone development and increase the risk of skeletal issues. This is why large-breed puppy formulas are designed with controlled calcium and phosphorus levels.
Large-breed puppy food supports steady, controlled growth rather than rapid size gain. These diets focus on appropriate energy density and mineral balance, helping puppies develop strong joints and structure over time instead of pushing early bulk.
Practical Feeding Tips for Healthy Development
Feed according to body condition, not appetite alone. German Shepherd puppies often act hungry even when their needs are met. Adjust portions based on visible condition and energy rather than frequent begging.
Stick to a consistent feeding schedule. Regular meals support digestion and make it easier to notice changes in appetite that may signal growth spurts or health concerns.
Avoid supplementing without veterinary guidance. Adding calcium, vitamins, or growth boosters can disrupt carefully balanced nutrition and do more harm than good.
Resist the urge to “fatten up” a lean-looking puppy. A slim, athletic appearance during growth is normal and healthier for developing joints than carrying excess weight.
Regular check-ins with a veterinarian help ensure that growth remains on track and that diet adjustments are made based on development, not comparison with other puppies or online charts.
When to Worry About German Shepherd Puppy Growth
Most variation in growth is normal for German Shepherd puppies, and differences in size or shape alone are rarely a cause for concern. Worry becomes appropriate when changes affect your puppy’s health, comfort, or daily functioning rather than when they simply fall above or below a chart range. Observing behavior, movement, and overall condition provides far more reliable insight than comparing numbers.
Growth Red Flags That Need Veterinary Attention
- Ongoing or unexplained weight loss despite a consistent feeding routine
- Persistent lethargy or lack of interest in play, interaction, or food
- Limping, stiffness, or reluctance to move, especially if it worsens over time
- Difficulty standing, sitting, or rising that is not linked to temporary fatigue
- Noticeable pain or vocalization during normal movement or handling
- Poor coat condition, including excessive dullness, thinning, or delayed coat development
- Digestive issues such as chronic diarrhea, vomiting, or failure to tolerate food changes
- Delayed development compared to the puppy’s own past progress rather than littermates
If any of these signs persist, veterinary evaluation is the appropriate next step. Growth charts can provide context, but they cannot diagnose health problems. Early assessment allows underlying issues—nutritional, orthopedic, parasitic, or metabolic—to be addressed before they impact long-term development.
Common Growth Myths About German Shepherd Puppies
Myth: Bigger puppies are healthier
A heavier puppy is not automatically a healthier one. Excess size can come from fat rather than muscle or bone strength. Health is better judged by body condition, movement, and energy levels.
Myth: Faster growth means stronger bones
Rapid growth places stress on developing joints and bones. Bones need time to mature alongside muscles and ligaments. Forcing growth increases long-term orthopedic risk.
Myth: All puppies should follow the same growth chart
Growth charts are reference tools, not strict rules. Genetics, lineage, and growth timing vary widely. Expecting identical growth leads to overfeeding and unnecessary concern.
Why these myths are harmful
Chasing size or speed often results in joint strain and poor body balance. Steady, controlled growth supports healthier structure and long-term soundness.
Final Thoughts on German Shepherd Puppy Growth
German Shepherd puppy growth charts are best used as reference tools, not targets to chase. Every puppy follows an individual growth pattern shaped by genetics, lineage, and timing. Small deviations from charts are normal and rarely meaningful on their own.
The most reliable indicators of healthy development are body condition, movement quality, energy levels, and overall comfort—not exact numbers on a scale. Observing how your puppy eats, moves, rests, and recovers provides clearer insight than constant comparison.
Focusing on steady care, balanced nutrition, and patience supports long-term joint health and sound structure. When growth is viewed as a gradual process rather than a race, puppies are more likely to mature into strong, healthy adult German Shepherds.
Disclaimer: Growth charts are general guidelines. Always consult a veterinarian for individual growth or health concerns.
FAQs
1. How fast do German Shepherd puppies grow?
Growth happens in spurts rather than a steady line. Puppies may grow quickly for a few weeks, pause, and then surge again. This uneven pattern is normal and does not indicate a problem when overall health and energy remain good.
2. Why does my puppy look thin even though they eat well?
During growth phases, bone length often increases before muscle fills in. This can make puppies appear lean or awkward temporarily. As long as ribs are not overly visible and energy is normal, this stage is expected.
3. When do German Shepherd puppies stop growing?
Most reach near-adult height by the end of the first year, but filling out continues longer. Muscle mass, chest depth, and overall balance often develop well into the second year.
4. Is it normal for ears to go up and down during growth?
Yes. Ear position often changes as the body grows and calcium is redirected to skeletal development. Fluctuating ears during teething and rapid growth are common and usually resolve naturally.
5. Should I adjust food if growth seems slow?
Not immediately. Short slowdowns are normal during development. Sudden increases in food can cause imbalance. If growth stalls over several weeks or is paired with low energy, veterinary advice is appropriate.
6. Why does my puppy look bigger or smaller than others the same age?
Genetics, lineage, litter size, and growth timing vary widely. Comparing puppies of the same age is rarely accurate and often causes unnecessary worry.
7. Can overfeeding help my puppy grow stronger?
No. Excess calories do not create stronger bones and can stress developing joints. Controlled, balanced nutrition supports healthier long-term development than rapid size gain.
8. When should I be concerned about uneven growth?
Concern is warranted if uneven growth is accompanied by limping, stiffness, pain, or consistent lethargy. Visual awkwardness alone is normal and usually resolves as development continues.
9. Do male and female puppies grow differently?
Yes. Females often mature earlier and stabilize sooner, while males tend to fill out over a longer period. These differences are normal and reflect natural growth patterns rather than health issues.
