When Do Labs Stop Growing
When do Labrador Retriever puppies stop growing?
This breed of dogs is so cute that we simply cannot resist. The Labrador Retriever is a loyal, intelligent dog, easy to train, energetic and very active, so he needs space to move.
The size of the Labrador retriever.
According to the standard set for the Labrador breed, the height of an adult male can be anywhere from 22.5 inches to 24.5 inches tall and weigh between 65 to 80 pounds. A female is usually between 21.5 inches to 23.5 inches tall and weighs around 55 to 70 pounds. Like the hunting dog they are, the Labrador Retriever needs a strong constitution with good muscle structure.
A few common questions about labs are, "When will my Labrador puppy stop growing?" and “Is my Labrador growing properly?” These are concerns for most new puppy parents. There is no ‘exact’ time frame. However, most Labradors are considered fully grown around the age of eighteen months. According to the various experts, this is the age your dog may engage in more strenuous physical activities.
Effects of Spaying and Neutering
If you spay or neuter a Labrador Retriever before the puppy reaches puberty, say before seven to eight months, rather than after puberty, the dog will probably grow bigger than the usual standards for the breed. When this process is done at an early stage of development, it leads to a softer bone structure, narrower chest, and cranium. This is because, just like in any other creature, sex hormones; estrogen and testosterone, play an important role in the development of an adult dog. The growth plates of a dog close later when they are neutered or spayed during early development.
Other factors that can affect the growth of a Labrador
Labradors are a highly active, energetic breed that requires much exercise. In order for a Labrador pup to grow into his full potential, they need daily walks, good training and other opportunities to play and run. If you don’t have time to keep your Labrador Retriever active, it will most likely put a negative effect on their demeanor, as well as their growth.
On the other hand, if you have time to train and play with your Labrador, then your puppy will mature at a healthy rate of growth. This breed is intelligent and willing to work, which is why they are often chosen to work with the disabled, the blind, for security or for hunting. However, an untrained Labrador Retriever can be a disaster. Remember that he is big, strong, spirited and needs to know his limits.
Other factors
Although the coat is short, the Labrador shed a lot of hair. If you thought the Labrador Retriever was a low maintenance dog, this is probably not the dog for you. Labradors require a daily regime of exercise, which would not be the best option for people who don't have an outdoor space to allow such exercise or a least a nearby park. If you live in a small apartment and wants to own a Labrador, it might be better to adopt an adult dog instead of an active puppy.
In short, most Labradors will be fully grown adults by their first birthday, and by their second birthday, they will stop growing completely.
Try not to worry too much about a puppy’s growth, also try not to weigh them too often unless your vet has recommended it. Try to enjoy and love your puppy for what he is, small or large.
