How old do dogs grow up to? Ultimate Guide

How old our pets grow is something that will be very personal and sometimes, your trusted veterinarian is the one who can help you determine it the most. Its growth will vary by race, whether it is mixed or crossed, among other factors.

However, Waggys in this article will share valuable information that can help us better understand this process while giving us an idea of ​​how to take it and help them. I invite you to continue reading and discover the stages of growth in dogs, the factors involved, some of the breeds that generally do not grow much, among other topics. Let's get to it!

Growth stages in dogs

Our pets go through several stages of growth throughout their lives and each of them has different characteristics. Would you like to know what they are?

Puppy

This stage ranges from approximately 0 to 6 months and in it, puppies experience rapid growth. They require a specialized puppy diet, regular veterinary care, socialization, and basic training.

Adolescence

In previous articles we had mentioned this stage, it ranges from 6 to 18 months and is where their growth slows but they can still experience changes in their behavior. It is a crucial moment for the continuity of training and attention to your health.

Young adult

This stage goes from the first 1 to 7 years as they reach physical and sexual maturity. They require a balanced diet and regular exercise. Veterinary care focuses on maintaining health and preventing long-term problems.

Mature adult

Dogs aged 7 to 10 years enter the mature adult stage, and needs can change. It is important to monitor health and adjust diet and activity level as necessary.

Senior

Dogs over 10 years old require special care, including an adapted diet, more frequent veterinary checkups, and adjustments in physical activity. They may experience changes in health, and providing a comfortable environment and additional support is essential.

How old do dogs grow up to?

Growth and when dogs reach their adult size varies depending on the breed and size of the dog. In general, most dogs reach their adult size between 9 months and 2 years of age. However, some larger breeds can continue to grow and develop up to 2 or 3 years old, and even longer in some cases.

• In mini size around 3 months, as they have already reached almost half their adult size, they will begin to grow more slowly.
• In medium size this slowing occurs at approximately 4-6 months.
• The large ones, around 6 months.

Factors involved in the growth of a dog

The growth of our pets will be influenced by various factors, some of them may be the following:

Genetics

Genetics is a fundamental factor in the growth of a dog. Breed, ancestry, and individual genes largely determine a dog's size and growth rate.

Nutrition

Proper nutrition is essential for the healthy growth of a dog. Puppies require a balanced, nutrient-rich diet to develop strong bones, muscles, and a robust immune system.

To complement their diet and continue nourishing them, we recommend incorporating our Waggy's puppy treats and even our oils for dogs into their diet, which contain CBD for dogs in their formula. This helps a lot to level out the levels of stress and anxiety in dogs . not being able to eat foods you like. In addition, one of its other ingredients is Omega 3 for dogs , a necessary and essential component for the development of the puppy.

You can also try the barf diet

Age

A dog's growth varies throughout its life. Puppies grow rapidly during their first few months of life, and then the rate of growth tends to slow as they age. The growth rate can also vary depending on the breed.

Exercise

Regular exercise is important for muscle and bone development. Physical activity also contributes to maintaining a healthy weight, which is essential for proper growth.

Veterinary care

Regular visits to the vet are crucial to ensuring a dog is growing healthily. Veterinary checks allow health or nutrition problems to be detected in time.

Gender

In some breeds, the dog's gender can influence its size. For example, in many breeds, males tend to be larger than females.

Small dog breeds that do not grow

Small breed dogs that do not undergo significant growth are appreciated for their compact dimensions and irresistible charm. These breeds include the Chihuahua, the Pomeranian and the Pug. These small dogs are not only ideal for small spaces, but they are also often very affectionate and adaptable, making them charming companions for those looking for the company of a furry friend without the commitment of dealing with pronounced growth.

Get to know other types of breeds: brachycephalic dogs , mini toy dogs and hypoallergenic dogs

How do you know if a dog is going to be big or small?

• Race is one of the most significant indicators. Researching the breed of the dog will give you information about its typical size. However, please note that there may be individual variations.
• If the dog has a pedigree (a genealogical record), you can review it to obtain information about the size of its parents and ancestors.
• If possible, looking at the size of the dog's parents can offer a good idea of ​​what to expect. However, keep in mind that genetics can be complex, and results may vary.
• In the first few months of life, you can get clues about future size by looking at the puppy's weight and comparing it to the breed's growth charts. Some breeds grow rapidly in the first few months and then slow down, while others have more steady growth.
• Your veterinarian can provide valuable information about the dog's growth. Through physical examinations and their experience, they can offer estimates based on the puppy's health and development.

Signs that a dog has stopped growing

• When a dog has stopped growing, its weight tends to stabilize. If you notice that your dog's weight remains constant for several weeks, it is likely that he has reached his adult size.
• The proportion of the dog's body may change as it stops growing. The limbs and head may appear more proportionate in relation to the overall body.
• Young dogs are often more active and energetic during their growth phase. If you notice that your dog is becoming calmer and less playful, it could be a sign that he has stopped growing.
• In dogs that have not been spayed or neutered, the development of secondary sexual characteristics, such as head shape or musculature, may indicate that they have reached sexual maturity and therefore their adult size.

Relationship between diet and the growth of a dog

Diet plays a crucial role in the healthy growth of a dog, as it provides essential nutrients necessary for bone, muscle and overall development. A balanced diet rich in high-quality proteins, vitamins and minerals is essential for the development of strong bones, muscle tissues and a robust immune system. It is important to adapt the diet to the specific needs of each stage of the dog's life, making sure to provide the correct amount of food to avoid weight problems and ensure optimal growth. Avoid giving homemade dog biscuits and/or dog ice cream

External factors that affect canine growth

Environment and Space

The environment a dog lives in can affect its development. A large, stimulating space can promote exercise and exploration, contributing to muscle development and general well-being.

Exercise

The amount and type of exercise a dog receives can affect its physical development. Regular exercise is essential for muscle strengthening, cardiovascular health and maintaining an adequate weight.

Socialization

Interaction with other dogs, animals, and people is crucial to a dog's social and emotional development. Proper socialization can influence your behavior and how you relate to your environment.

Sleep quality

Adequate rest is essential for healthy development. A quiet, comfortable sleeping environment contributes to a dog's physical and emotional well-being.

Stress levels

Chronic stress can have negative effects on a dog's growth and overall health. A calm environment and consistent routines can help reduce stress.

How do you know if a dog has growth problems? Signs

Identifying growth problems in a dog may require careful observation and attention to various signs. Persistent limping, difficulty maintaining balance, or signs of pain when moving are warning signs that could be related to problems in skeletal or muscle development. Likewise, a disproportionate physical appearance, such as limbs that are too short or a head that is significantly larger in relation to the body, could indicate irregularities in growth. Changes in appetite, unexplained weight loss, or unusual behaviors could be additional signs of health problems that affect development. For any concerns, it is crucial to seek the care of a veterinarian, who can perform medical and radiographic evaluations to identify and address potential growth problems early.

Conclusion

As a conclusion to this blog we want to highlight that most dogs stop growing in terms of height around 12 to 18 months of age, although some larger breeds can continue growing up to 2 years of age. However, growth in terms of muscle development and maturity can continue beyond that period. It is important to remember that there are variations between breeds and sizes, so it is always advisable to consult with the veterinarian for specific information about the growth of a particular dog.