how long is a dog a puppy

how long is a dog a puppy

1 month ago 48
Nature

A dog is generally considered a puppy from birth until about 12 to 24 months of age, with the exact timing depending largely on the dog's breed and size.

  • Small breeds typically reach adulthood and stop being puppies between 9 to 12 months old. They mature faster physically and emotionally
  • Medium breeds usually become adults around 12 months of age
  • Large breeds can take longer, often between 18 to 24 months to fully mature physically, emotionally, and socially
  • Giant breeds may take up to 24 months or even longer to reach full maturity

Puppyhood ends when the dog reaches several milestones:

  • Sexual maturity, often around 6 to 8 months
  • Physical maturity, when bones have fully developed and the dog reaches its adult size (varies by breed)
  • Emotional and social maturity, which can take up to 2 years

In summary, while some dogs stop being puppies as early as one year old, many, especially larger breeds, remain puppies until about two years of age

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