Why is my German Shepherd puppy not gaining weight despite eating?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 3 months and 20 days old | 15 lbs
My German Shepherd puppy is 18 weeks old. Since I’ve got him he hasn’t gained weight. He eats and stays hydrated. I don’t know if there’s something wrong or if it’s just because he’s a growing puppy, and plays a lot.
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on December 21st, 2017
German Shepherds are lanky dogs, especially when they are puppies. Make sure you are feeding him enough and that he is dewormed regularly. If Boe is still abnormaly thin as an adult, then I would worry about something else going on. I would recommend to feed the Royal Canin German Shepherd Puppy Formula. This is a nice diet with the right calories for a growing puppy. Please post again if you have any further questions!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on September 3rd, 2019
The most common reasons for a pet not to gain weight are parasites in the intestines or an inappropriate diet. Additionally, German Shepherds tend to be a lanky breed. I recommend to take a look at her parents. If they are thin and lanky, she will likely be as well. At her age, most growth is related to height so it's normal to be thin. She will start filling out and putting on muscle after 12 months of age. Have Storm examined by the vet and checked for parasites. Also make sure you are feeding an appropriate diet and the appropriate amount. She needs to eat a large breed puppy food. The brand I recommend the most is Royal Canin German Shepherd Puppy. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on August 25th, 2018
Some German shepherd dogs just are not very big. You can feed her 3 times a day. Feed good quality puppy food for medium to large sized dogs or specifically for German Shepherd dogs. She should gain weight over time.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on August 7th, 2018
Feed her a good quality puppy food for German Shepherd dogs. Feed her several times daily, small amounts at a time and more often. Warm up her food, it may make it more attractive. If she still does not gain weight have your vet check her for exocrine pancreas insufficiency. Maybe your vet can recommend a good food for her to gain weight.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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