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Is my 6-month Golden Retriever puppy's growth normal for his age?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | unneutered | 6 months and 6 days old | 49.604 lbs

My 6 month puppy height is not growing and he is a pure golden retriever and his height is 17 inches

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on December 21st, 2018

He still has plenty of time to grow. He may not be fully grown until after 12 months of age. There is some thought that early neutering can decrease total growth potential. If you are concerned that he is not growing appropriately, I would recommend that you have Bran examined by his veterinarian. The vet will evaluate his diet and do an exam to see if there is something we can change to help him meet his full growth potential. But, just like in humans, there is no magic treatment to make them taller!
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 3rd, 2019

    Hello. This all sounds very normal & Bran is growing well. If you are feeding him a good large breed puppy food, he will reach his maximum height & weight over the next 6-12 months. He will be mature at about 18 months of age. You do not want a large breed dog to grow too quickly or be too heavy to soon because of the mechanics behind hip & elbow dysplasia, a common problem in Goldens. The slower he grows & the longer it takes for Bran to reach his mature height & weight, the better off he will be in adulthood. He looks like a beautiful puppy! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 17th, 2018

    You really shouldn't have to give supplements to your puppy for proper growth. You should give a high quality food instead, that will allow for proper growth. His height will fluctuate as he grows and since he is a large breed dog he will have growth spurts periodically. I would not worry about his height and focus on his body condition score for now. Here is a website link with information on how to determine body condition score in growing puppies. http://www.mabcr.org/template/upload_files/PuppyBodyCondChart.pdf
    Best wishes with your puppy Bran. I am sure he is just fine and growing like a normal puppy should! Take care.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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