27/07/2026
🐾 Puppy Growth Plates – Protecting Your Growing Puppy 🐾
One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming a puppy’s bones are as strong as an adult dog’s. They’re not.
As puppies grow, the ends of their long bones contain areas of soft cartilage called growth plates. These are where new bone is produced, allowing the legs to lengthen as your puppy matures.
Because growth plates are softer than fully developed bone, they are also the weakest part of the skeleton and can be injured more easily.
📍 Where are growth plates?
Growth plates are found near many of the major joints, including the:
• Shoulders
• Elbows
• Wrists
• Hips
• Knees (stifles)
• Hocks (ankles)
An injury to one of these areas while your puppy is still growing can affect how the limb develops.
⏰ When do they close?
Every puppy develops at a different rate, but as a general guide:
🐶 Small breeds: around 6–8 months
🐶 Medium breeds: around 8–12 months
🐶 Large breeds: around 12–18 months
🐶 Giant breeds: up to 18–24 months
Until these growth plates have fully closed, they remain more vulnerable to injury.
🐕 Helping your puppy grow safely
Puppies should absolutely play, explore and enjoy being puppies. However, it’s wise to avoid activities that place repeated stress on developing joints.
Some simple ways to help protect them include:
✔ Avoid repetitive jumping from vehicles, furniture or high decks.
✔ Don’t take young puppies on long runs or bike rides.
✔ Keep play on non-slip surfaces where possible.
✔ Supervise rough play with much larger dogs.
✔ Feed a balanced diet suitable for your puppy’s expected adult size and maintain a healthy body condition.
✔ Leave demanding sports such as agility, flyball and dock diving until your veterinarian confirms your puppy is physically mature.
🚩 Signs something may be wrong
If your puppy suddenly becomes lame after playing, is reluctant to put weight on a leg, has swelling around a joint, or seems painful when touched, don’t assume they’ll “walk it off.”
Early veterinary assessment is important. Prompt treatment gives the best chance of a full recovery and reduces the risk of long-term problems.
❤️ A little care now goes a long way
Allowing your puppy to enjoy a happy, active childhood while avoiding unnecessary high-impact activities can help support healthy bone and joint development.
Every puppy is different, so if you’re ever unsure whether an activity is appropriate for your dog’s age or breed, speak with your veterinarian.
Growing up only happens once—help them build the strongest foundation possible. 🐾
