German Shepherd

Question
My son just bought a German Shepherd that is 5 1/2 months old.  He is already 26 inches tall at the shoulders and weighs 63 lbs.  This seems very large considering his age.....is this normal?

Answer
Yes, I think German Shepherds shoot up to near their adult height by that age.  Check the ends of the leg bones.  If they are still much knobbier than an adult's, the growth plates are still open and it is still growing.  If not, do not expect much more growth.

You may find this link interesting even if it differ from what I said,   http://jn.nutrition.org/cgi/content/full/134/8/2027S

You should be feeding an all life stages food now. Switching to an adult chow for the larger breeds at 4 months, slows growth and helps develop sturdier joints.

Your dog definitely should be narrower at the waist than the hips and chest. You should be able to easily feel the ribs, but not see them. Each dog is different. Standard recommendations are a good place to start, but each dog must have its food and exercise adjusted to its individual needs. Here is a link to a good illustrated guide, http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx