If you’ve recently brought home a Labrador Retriever puppy, you might be wondering when they’ll stop growing. Labrador Retrievers are a large, active breed, and understanding their growth stages is important for both first-time owners and experienced dog lovers.
In this article, we’ll answer the common question: When do Labrador Retrievers stop growing?
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When Do Labrador Retrievers Stop Growing in Size?
Labrador Retrievers usually stop growing in height by around 12 months. This means that by the time your Labrador is one year old, they will have reached their full height and length. However, that doesn’t mean they’re done developing.
While their height is pretty much set by the first year, Labradors can continue to gain muscle mass and weight for a few more months. Most Labradors will reach their full physical maturity by 18 months to 2 years.
At What Age Do Labrador Puppies Reach Their Full Height?
Labrador puppies generally reach their full height by the age of 12 months. At this point, they won’t grow any taller. But just because they’re done growing vertically doesn’t mean they’re finished maturing!
They’ll still be filling out with muscle and weight during the following months. If you have a female Labrador, she might stop growing a little earlier than a male Labrador, as female dogs tend to mature faster.
Do Labradors Continue to Gain Weight After They Stop Growing in Height?
Yes, Labrador Retrievers do continue to gain weight after they stop growing in height. While their bones stop growing after 12 months, their muscles will keep developing until they’re around 18 months to 2 years old.
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This means that even if your Labrador isn’t getting taller, you may still see them become heavier and more muscular as they mature. You can expect a healthy adult male Labrador to weigh between 65 to 80 pounds, while females generally weigh between 55 to 70 pounds.
How Can You Tell if Your Labrador Is Fully Grown?
You can tell your Labrador is fully grown when:
- Height: They won’t grow taller after 12 months.
- Muscle Tone: By 18 months, they will have developed their full muscle mass.
- Behavior: They may calm down and stop acting so “puppy-like” around 18 months, as they mature into adults.
- Weight: Their weight will stabilize, and you won’t see big changes in size.
By around 2 years old, most Labradors will have reached their full physical maturity. At this point, they will have grown both in size and strength and will be ready to lead an active adult life.
Is There Anything That Can Affect a Labrador’s Growth?
Several factors can influence a Labrador’s growth:
- Diet: A balanced, nutritious diet is important for healthy growth. Make sure your Labrador is eating a high-quality dog food with the right nutrients to support their bones and muscles.
- Exercise: While too much exercise can strain a puppy’s growing bones, proper and moderate activity can help your Labrador grow strong and healthy.
- Genetics: Genetics plays a big role in your Labrador’s growth rate. Some Labradors may grow a bit faster or slower depending on their lineage.
- Health Issues: Any health problems can affect your Labrador’s growth. If you’re concerned about your dog’s development, be sure to check with your vet for advice and guidance.
Conclusion
Labrador Retrievers typically stop growing in height by 12 months, but they may continue to fill out with muscle and weight until they’re about 18 months to 2 years old. Every Labrador grows at their own pace, but by the time your dog is 2 years old, they’ll have reached their full physical maturity.
Being aware of these growth milestones can help you ensure that your Labrador is growing up healthy and strong. Keep providing them with proper care, nutrition, and exercise, and you’ll be able to enjoy your Labrador as a happy, adult dog!
FAQ
How can I tell how big my Labrador will get?
To estimate how big your Labrador will get, you can look at their age, current size, and compare it to growth charts for the breed. Generally, puppies double their weight at around 4 months and reach their full size by 1 to 2 years old. You can also ask your vet for a more accurate prediction based on their growth.
At what age is a lab full grown?
A Labrador is usually fully grown by around 1.5 to 2 years of age. While they may reach their adult height earlier, their muscle development and overall body maturity continue to develop until they’re about 2 years old.
At what age do Labradors calm down?
Labradors typically start to calm down around 2 to 3 years old. While they may still have bursts of energy, they generally become less hyperactive as they mature and settle into adulthood.
