18/01/2026
Nyttig lesning for nye valpe-eiere!
These X-rays are a powerful reminder that health tested parents are only the beginning, not the end, of responsible puppy rearing
Good breeders work hard to stack the odds in a puppy’s favour hip scores, elbow scores, sound structure, sensible pairings, good maternal care, early neurological stimulation, and appropriate early exercise. All of that matters.
But once a puppy leaves the breeder, the responsibility fully transfers to the new owner, and what happens next can have a lifelong impact on joints, soundness, and overall wellbeing.
Hip and elbow problems are not caused by genetics alone. Environmental factors during growth play a huge role, including:
• Excessive or forced exercise
• Repetitive ball throwing or long walks too young
• Slippery floors that cause repeated micro-trauma
• Stairs and jumping before joints are ready
• Insufficient rest and quality sleep
• Carrying extra weight during growth
Diet is another major piece of the puzzle. Puppies need:
• A balanced, appropriate growth diet
• Correct calcium and phosphorus levels
• Steady, controlled growth not rapid weight gain
• Treats and extras used sensibly, not generously
More food does not equal better growth. Slow, steady development protects joints far better than pushing size or speed.
Early rearing sets the foundation, but good care must continue consistently. Puppies need time to sleep, time to rest their bodies, and freedom to move naturally rather than being exercised for the owner’s schedule.
Puppies don’t come with reinforced joints. Their bones are soft, their growth plates are open, and damage done early often doesn’t show until months or even years later.
Good breeding gives puppies the best possible start.
Good ownership is what protects that start.
Raising a sound dog is a long game patience now pays dividends for life 💛