How big will she get?

Question
We have a 12 week old Golden Retriever.  She is really big.  Right now she weighs 27 pounds.  (she has gained 12 lbs in the last three weeks)  She is about 17.5 inches at the shoulders.  She is not fat at all - in fact maybe a little on the thin side - and very very energetic.  If I hadn't gotten her from a reputable breeder and met her when she was 2 days old I would say she is much older.  Her mother is on the small size and her father is an average sized male.  Is she going to be a giant?  Could it be the food we are feeding her?  (Pro-Plan large breed puppy food).  I am a little worried about how this might affect her hips?   What are your thoughts?


Answer
That may be a little on the large size, but I would concentrate on keeping her in good body condition.  The Pro Plan puppy chow is fine for now. Switching to an adult chow for the larger breeds at 4 months, slows growth and helps develop sturdier joints.

Your dog definitely should be narrower at the waist than the hips and chest. You should be able to easily feel the ribs, but not see them. Each dog is different. Standard recommendations are a good place to start, but each dog must have its food and exercise adjusted to its individual needs. Here is a link to a good illustrated guide, http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx

Dogs vary in how fast they grow, http://jn.nutrition.org/cgi/content/full/134/8/2027S