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