Before weaning vs. after weaning
Prior to weaning, German Shepherd puppies get most of their nutrition from their mother’s milk. By the time our puppies are ready to go home, they are fully weaned and eating solid food. From that point on, your puppy depends on you to provide a nutritionally balanced diet that supports healthy growth and development.
Puppies have small stomachs (like human babies), so they do best with smaller meals more often—especially in the early months.
Why a balanced diet matters (especially for German Shepherd puppies)
German Shepherd puppies grow rapidly, and many reach about half their adult body weight by five to six months of age. Because they grow so fast, feeding routines matter. It’s unwise to overfeed at this stage in an attempt to maximize growth. Overfeeding can contribute to problems in skeletal development in large-breed puppies.
Puppies need more energy than adults of the same size—often two to four times as much. They also need higher protein with the right amino acids, and appropriate minerals for bone and tooth development. Since their stomach capacity is limited, meal frequency and diet quality are key.
Supplements: usually not needed
High-quality growth diets are formulated to meet puppy needs without guesswork. For a normal, healthy German Shepherd puppy, there’s usually no need for supplements—and in some cases, supplements can be harmful. If you’re considering a supplement, consult your veterinarian.
Our basic feeding routine
- Up to ~6 months: feed 3 meals per day.
- 6 months to ~14 months: reduce to 2 meals per day.
- ~14 months and up: transition to an adult diet (if body condition and growth are on track).
Important: Every puppy is an individual. Some need a little more, some a little less. Your puppy’s condition is your best guide.
How much should I feed? (Gunbil guideline)
Use the schedule below as a starting point. Adjust based on your puppy’s metabolism, activity level, and body condition.
| Age | Meals per day | Amount per meal |
|---|---|---|
| 8–16 weeks | 3 | ½ to 1 cup of puppy food |
| 16 weeks–9 months | 3 | 1 to 1½ to 1¾ cups per meal |
| 9 months–adult | 2 | 2½ cups per meal |
Feeding time rule: Give your puppy about 10–15 minutes to eat at each meal. After that, discard uneaten food.
Keep your puppy lean during the rapid growth phase
During the 4–8 month period (rapid growth phase), a puppy should be kept lean—but not thin. Use this simple check:
- You should be able to feel the rib cage and backbone, but not clearly see them.
- Looking down from above, there should be a slight indentation between the end of the rib cage and the hip bones.
- Weigh your puppy regularly and adjust portions to keep growth steady and healthy.
Bowls, water, and “normal” indoor thirst
- Your puppy should have their own food and water bowls, kept clean and separate from family dishes.
- Provide fresh water daily.
- If your puppy is excessively thirsty or urinating unusually often, consult your veterinarian.
Note: When a puppy moves from an outdoor kennel environment into a warmer house, they may pant and drink more at first. This is common and usually improves as they adjust over a few days.
Questions about feeding our puppies?
If you want help dialing in portions, meal frequency, or choosing a puppy food that fits your goals, call or message us anytime.