I saw the most adorable Saint Bernard puppies today, and I almost brought one home! But wisdom prevailed since I don’t a large yard this breed needs. My experience made me think, though, about how a puppy’s size is an important consideration when we adopt a dog because we may prefer a large, medium or small dog, and its size determines how much space it needs inside and outside and how much food it eats. Use weight and height predictor tips as you choose the best dog for your family.
Genetics
Purebred dogs usually follow general breed guidelines for weight and height. Mixed-breed dogs are not as easy to predict, though. If you’re considering a mutt, see if you can find the breed of one of the parents, particularly the mother since her size has a bigger effect on your dog’s stature than the father.
Paw Size
Check out the puppy’s paws for a clue at how big it will grow. Large paws typically indicate a large dog unless it has smaller-than-normal feet.
Skin
How much loose skin does the puppy have? It will have to grow into that skin, which is an indicator of its eventual size. The only exception are loose-skinned dogs like bloodhounds, Neapolitan mastiffs or shar-peis.
Growth Plates
A puppy’s size at six months of age is a good determination of its adult size. Dogs will be 75 percent of their full-grown height when they reach their six-month birthday, and they usually reach adult size when their growth plates close between 12 and 18 months.
We can’t always accurately know how heavy or tall a puppy will be when it’s full-grown. However, use these tips as you choose a dog that’s the right size for your needs and preferences. Happy dog shopping!
