Fractured puppy

Question
Hi, i have a 7 month old male chocolate lab. He had fractured his left hind leg joint when he was 5 months old. Although it was plastered and cured a month later, even today he limps for about 15 minutes when he gets up after a nap.But after some time he is ok running and jumping. Is it going to be a permanent problem or can i help him by giving him exercise and if so what type of exercise is to be given? Also he is 22 inches at the shoulder and 62 lbs. Is it the normal height and weight for his age? Thank you very much.


Answer
Your questions might be better directed to your vet.  Unfortunately some of them are not active enough about weight problems.  Your dog sounds like a big boy.  Fast growth and over weight from too much of a too rich diet isn't good for any young large breed.  If you are still feeding an puppy chow, you would be better to switch to an adult one now.  Make the switch over a week to avoid digestive upsets.  The best adult chow should be the adult version of what you are feeding now.  Evaluate the dog using http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx  If it is too heavy, cut back a little and adjust as needed.  He may still be growing enough that he may not need to lose weight, just fat.  Avoid supplements unless the vet prescribes them.  In most cases, they do more harm than good, interfering with the body's ability to use what it needs.  

Discourage running and jumping.  Walking and swimming are good, although you don't want to push the dog beyond its comfort level.