Adopting a 4-month-old German Shepherd dog (GSD) is challenging because he is too young and energetic. So how to give your little pal the best care?
Start by exploring your pet’s behaviors, diet requirements, health concerns, and training methods. Then, apply what you research to raising your pet.
This article will give you a comprehensive guide on taking care of your little pal. Let’s read on and offer him what he needs!
4-Month-Old German Shepherd Characteristics
Your pet is working his way to his juvenile time. Hence, he needs an optimal environment to grow.
Besides, the puppy has some strange behaviors and specific requirements for his diet and health. Do not ignore anything since each factor is equally important.
Behavior
Your dog is four months into his juvenile period and may show some undesirable behaviors often.
When your pet reaches this stage, there are a few things to keep in mind.
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Sleeping
Your puppy may sleep for up to 18 hours every day, depending on the environment. If he gets lots of exercise throughout the day, he should be able to sleep more at night.
You may notice changes in behavior, such as excessive barking or sadness if your dog isn’t getting enough sleep.
If this problem arises, call your vet to find solutions to help your pet get the rest they require.
- Your dog should get enough sleep (Link)
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Biting feet or hands
Most GSDs will bite/ nip feet and hands at an early age when playing. If you have never raised dogs before, this issue may be frustrating.
Even so, there is nothing to worry about. Some tips can help you correct your pet’s behavior.
To begin with, never yell at your pet if he nips or bites you while you are playing. Your angry expression may make him scared, and it will only aggravate the situation.
Instead, ignore him for a moment to show him that biting is not tolerable. When he bites you, stand still and say “no” firmly.
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Barking
When they come across anything new, these puppies may bark loudly. This issue is quite common among pet owners.
Barking against strange things is normal because your pet is suspicious and unfamiliar with them. Do not mistake this behavior with aggression.
Excessive barking at unexpected objects may become a significant problem for your pet. If you don’t correct him immediately, it will get worse.
- It is normal for the dog to bark at strange things (Link)
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Chewing
Young puppies chew on objects to relieve the discomfort of their growing teeth. This behavior also aids in the removal of any remaining baby teeth.
However, you should not make it a habit because it can significantly harm your property and valuables over time.
Make sure any furnishings or other materials with marks are out of your puppy’s reach at all times. This tip will prevent him from chewing on things he shouldn’t be biting.
You may also give him some chew toys. A rubber ball is a good idea. Otherwise, you can go for bone-shaped chew toys.
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Exercises
A four-month-old GSD is still young. He will spend most of his time playing with their siblings.
These dogs require a lot of activity so that they don’t get bored. It is advisable to give them two-hour exercises a day.
Physical development
These dogs grow at a fast pace at month four. Males will have a shoulder height of 11 to 14 inches, and females will be about 10 to 12 inches.
The dogs have most likely gained another ten pounds, increasing about one pound every three days.
Males may weigh between 35 and 40 pounds, which is close to 50% of their mature weight. Females follow closely behind, weighing between 31 and 35 pounds.
In this stage, the dogs grow adult teeth to replace the puppy ones. Hence, they will keep chewing things. This habit will last for around another four months.
- The puppy is growing at a fast pace (Link)
Diet
A GSD this young is developing quickly and needs a constant diet of high-quality kibble or homemade food to keep their calorie intake stable. The diets should supply them with the energy they require.
Try to feed your pet an all-natural diet of healthful meats, vegetables, and fruits if at all feasible.
Make sure you’re providing him with the right foods. Avoid feeding him any unhealthy meals and limit the number of fatty snacks.
Because of their size, GSDs are vulnerable to health issues. Obesity can raise their risk of developing illnesses, including diabetes, arthritis, and even cancer.
Try to feed your puppy two cups of ordinary puppy food three times each day. Make sure you stick to a consistent schedule.
Health
At this stage, a GSD should be healthy and developing rapidly. Monthly measurements are necessary to ensure they are in accordance with their weight and height for their age.
The dogs should have had their first two vaccinations by now. At 16 to 18 weeks, give them their third batch of vaccinations, which includes rabies and DHPP if they haven’t before.
GSDs should be in excellent shape at this time if you give them a lean, nutritious diet and keep them active.
There is no need to be afraid of any serious diseases at this age. Most major ailments do not arise until the age of five.
If you want to be more careful, you can have a DNA test to check any particular disease, such as degenerative myelopathy.
You may also check their medical records and bloodline to see if there are any signs of potential health problems.
Even if the dogs seem to be in good health, you should constantly be on the watch for any potential problems. Many signs might signify that your pet is unwell.
- Health is a serious issue (Link)
How To Take Care Of A 4-Month-Old German Shepherd?
Aside from the characteristics we have shared, you should be attentive to other caring tips as well.
Grooming
For a 4-month puppy, grooming is essential. You should groom your pet every two to three weeks. If he gets muddy, you can groom more.
Starting grooming your dog with no hair is as simple as brushing them with a cloth. Since he is still a bit sensitive, try to be gentle.
Your pup will grow up entirely in a few months, and the necessary grooming frequency will change.
It’s critical to get in the habit of grooming now so that when he begins to shed, he will still look well-groomed.
You can learn more tips about grooming your pet via this video. 
Feeding
You should arrange a feeding schedule for a 4-month-old GSD so that he knows when to anticipate his meals.
Vets advise feeding your little dog numerous times a day, generally three times. Also, choose foods with essential nutrients to feed him.
Extra tips
Here are some helpful tips for caring for your puppy:
- Give your puppy a comfortable dog kennel as well as a cozy blanket for them to rest in.
- Ensure that they have access to fresh water at all times.
- To stay on track, keep a monthly record of their height and weight.
- Check to see whether they’ve had their 16 to 18-week vaccines.
- Continue to work on biting inhibition, loyalty, and sociability with them.
- Allow them no interaction with any stray dogs in the area.
- Note extra tips for your pet (Link)
How To Train A 4-Month-Old German Shepherd?
Is it too soon to start training a four-month-old GSD? No, it’s not. You can start with simple commands, such as “stay” or “sit.”
Waiting until they’re older to train them for more complicated tasks like biting or barking is smart.
This puppy is highly protective of his owner. Hence, it’s essential to train him as soon as possible.
First, teach your pet not to bark at strangers who stop by. You can ring the doorbell and let him stay calm before leaving without anyone coming.
Because your dog is still growing, keeping the training sessions brief would be best.
Young dogs are less attentive than older pets and can quickly become distracted. As a result, focus on only one dog at once.
For this age range, training is essential. It’ll be difficult at first, but the dogs will soon recognize your command, and everything will go smoothly after that.
- Train your pet as soon as possible (Link)
Conclusion
With a 4-month-old German Shepherd, you’ll undoubtedly be busy all the time. Adopting a puppy requires a lot of knowledge, time, and effort.
However, your pet will give you a lot of joy and love. Spending time with him can wipe away your stress and pressure.
Hopefully, the guide in this post can make things easier for you. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. Thank you for reading!
