In addition to what we discussed in the previous article about correct weight, some are also confused about what their dog should actually weigh on the scale. The average person seems to think the German Shepherd Dog is a giant breed and should weight close to or over 100 pounds. The fact is that the GSD is not supposed to weight that much, and especially females should not even be close to that. When you look at the standard for size (height and weight) the breed should weight between 48 and 88 pounds.
However there are many factors that go into what your dog may weigh. While good breeders strive to produce dogs of standard size, sometimes flukes happen and we end up with dogs that are taller or shorter than the desired height. If you end up with a dog that is very tall, then he may also weigh more than the desired weight mentioned in the standard. Also, the dog’s body type can factor into his weight. Some dogs are tall, thin and lanky while others are larger in bone, more substantial and taller. Just like with humans, each dog is different and you should not worry if your dog does not weigh the same as other dogs of the same age and breed.
For some reason, some people think it “cool” when their dog is huge and weighs over a hundred pounds. They brag about this and it almost seems like they feel their dog is better because of their excessive weight. In reality people should be proud of their normal size dogs, they should brag about their dogs that are within the standard. We are talking about German Shepherd Dogs here, not Mastiffs or Saint Bernards. The GSD body frame and structure is meant for a medium to large size dog, it is not intended to carry one hundred pounds (or more) of weight. Excessive size will also hinder a GSD's ability to work, compete and possibility even perform daily activities.
While you will sometimes end up with oversized dogs from well bred lines and good breeders, when a breeder is routinely producing huge dogs it should raise a red flag for you. If a breeder is purposely breeding for oversized dogs, they are probably overlooking other more important factors such as health and temperament. Remember to do your homework before buying a puppy from a breeder. Here are some questions that you will want to ask any breeder you are considering purchasing a puppy from - "Eight questions to ask a breeder".
The most important thing to remember is to make sure your dog is in good weight for his body. For help determining if your GSD is of proper weight you may want to take a moment to read this article – What does a German Shepherd Dog in correct weight look like?
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