Growth/Feeding

Question
Hi. I have a 9 month male lab retriever. I have been feeding him adult food since he was 6 months. My pup seems like he has stopped growing. Everyone alway's ask me IS THAT ALL HE IS GOING TO GROW COS HE LOOKS short? So my question is the same. Is he done growing because I thought labs were some what bigger. Also  I feed him 3 cups a day..Is that right? Thank you Sara

Answer
Hi Sara,

I can't say how much bigger your dog will or won't get, you didn't say what is his current height and weight.

I can't say if you are feeding your dog the correct amount of food, since you didn't say what you're feeding him. By switching to adult dog food early, it delays reaching adult size giving more time to develop sturdy joints. That's a good thing, as the breed is prone to develop hip dysplasia. Your dog may make up for early slow growth by continuing to grow more later.

Does he look too skinny? Dogs that are at a normal weight will have an hourglass appearance when viewed from above. If your dog is too thin he will have a very narrowed waist and protruding rib cage, and you might be able to see his spine. You should be able to easily feel the ribs, but not see them. Here is a link to a good illustrated weight guide:

http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx

Within any breed there are plenty of dogs who are not "breed standard", this means it's possible for your dog to be slightly smaller than you expected.
The American Kennel Club says an adult male Labrador Retriever should stand 21 to 24 inches at the shoulder and weighs 55 to 80 pounds.

Your dog will continue to grow, and "fill out" into his second year. In his second year, his body shape will change becoming broader at the chest.

Keep in mind your dog isn't an adult yet, and he may still be growing because of his adult diet. If your dog's size or growth rate is a big cause for concern, you should have him examined by your vet.

Best of luck,
Patti