5 month old shepherd pup

Question
How many cups per meal should i feed my shepherd pup. hes about 55 lbs.

Answer
I usually feed our puppies 3-4 cups.  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

Overweight seldom is a problem with Shepherds.  Often they won't eat enough to maintain ideal body condition as in that link.  If yours insists on its ribs showing a little, leave well enough alone.