Our puppies grow up so fast. One moment we are holding them in our arms and the next minute, they’re all grown up. But, which age does a puppy become an adult?
Every Puppy is Different
Every puppy, and dog, is unique. If your puppy is not as mature as other puppies his age, don’t take this as a ‘bad’ thing. Some puppies just mature sooner than others. For the most part, you can consider your puppy an adult at around 1-2 years old.
Emotional Maturity
Emotional maturity basically means… when does the puppy start acting like an adult dog instead of a wild puppy? Well, this varies significantly based on environment, breed and other factors. German Shepherds, for example, often mature later emotionally than a Corgi puppy.
Switching Food
This is a common question Canine Nutritionists and Behaviorists are asked. When can I switch my puppy from puppy food to regular food? If you have a small breed dog, they can be switched as early as 9 months of age. Medium breeds can begin eating adult dog food at about one year of age. Large breed dogs should wait a little bit longer to transition– about 1 year and 3 months old.
Large breed dogs take longer to adjust to adult dog food because their bodies are still growing when small breed dogs are ready to transition.
I Don’t Know My Dog’s Age
If you aren’t sure of your dog’s age, you can ask your veterinarian. Your veterinarian is able to determine approximately how old your puppy is.
I own an extremely boisterous, playful and frankly MAD chocolate Lab. To the question, ‘When does your puppy stop being a puppy?’ I would, in my case, suggest NEVER. Still, his antics keep my blogs topped up so hey ho.