How a dog grows
By a dog's growth we mean here the phase running from birth to the beginning of adulthood.
During growth, the factors that change are bone size (and therefore the dog's height), its weight, and in particular its muscle and fat mass. The way it feeds also changes, moving from milk while the puppy is nursing to a meat-based diet.
The easiest factor to measure in order to follow your puppy's growth is weight. Weighing a dog is simpler than taking its measurements regularly.
Weigh your dog regularly while it grows
If you want to do things properly and keep an eye on its growth, it is important to check your dog's weight regularly. While it is growing, we suggest weighing it about once a week. Once it is an adult, we suggest checking its weight once a month, to make sure it stays at its ideal weight.
Remember that keeping your dog's weight under control helps limit the risks that come with being overweight, such as bone and joint disorders.
Not all dogs finish growing at the same age
Large dogs take longer to reach their adult height and weight than small ones.
Small dogs will have finished growing at around 12 months, whereas for the largest dogs you will have to wait 24 months.
A dog does not grow at a steady rate
A dog does not gain as much weight in its first days of life as it does in the middle or at the end of its growth.
In general, a puppy gains weight fastest when it reaches two thirds of its adult weight.
Here again, this depends heavily on the breed. For a small dog this peak growth rate comes at around 4 months, whereas for a very large dog it comes closer to 7 or 8 months.
Food, a key factor
Where a dog's weight is concerned, food naturally plays a major part. The simplest way to control energy intake is to feed your dog good-quality, premium kibble. You can read our advice on the best food for your dog and also use our kibble ration calculator to work out how much to give your dog.
A specific diet for puppies
A puppy's diet must differ from an adult dog's.
In terms of form, the food must suit the dog's jaw and build.
In terms of nutritional composition, puppies need more protein. Animal protein should be preferred over plant protein, as it is of better quality and therefore better absorbed.
A puppy also needs a good intake of calcium and vitamins.
All of these nutritional needs are covered if you use premium kibble suited to your dog's weight and age. There is therefore no need to add vitamin and mineral supplements if you use good-quality kibble.
Exercise for puppies
Exercise is advisable throughout a dog's life, but during the growth period it is very important, especially for large dogs, to avoid rough games, strenuous exercise and jumping, so as not to cause skeletal problems.
As a general rule, exercise should also be avoided around mealtimes, both before and after, to reduce the risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus.