The worst part about trying to pinpoint when a puppy is full grown is that there is no 100% across-the-board, correct answer. Every single puppy is different, as are humans, and growing is different for each of them. However, there are some solid, very general guidelines one can go by to have an idea of when your pup is all grown up.
General Timelines
It is important to remember that small dogs grow much faster than larger breeds. Some large breeds can take up to two years to reach their full, adult size. Pekingese or Pugs can reach their full size by about nine months. A good general rule of thumb is that a puppy reaches his or her maximum size in the twelve to eighteen month range. Again, this can vary from breed to breed and dog to dog. By the end of two years, you should have yourself a full grown dog.
Size
Generally, a puppys size develops a bit faster than the rest of him. Check the web, your local library, or your veterinarian office for information on the expected full size of your puppy. These should only be used as very general guidelines. Often the most lovable pups can be the runts of the litter and never reach the full expected size.
Other Physical Developments
A lot of puppies will have a fully developed skeletal structure before their internal workings are fully developed. The brain as well as other vital organs like the lungs and heart will be well behind the skeletal structure in terms of development. This means that rough horseplay and physically taxing medical treatments should be delayed until you know for sure that your puppy is fully grown. For example, your veterinarian may recommend waiting to spay, neuter, or breed the puppy. Always listen to your vet, as he or she can monitor that internal development. Though one should never hit or physically punish a puppy, these things can be especially dangerous and even deadly in this delicate time of growth.
Maturity
Maturity is an even bigger variable in puppy growth. Some dogs are very hyper and immature for most of their adult lives. Some puppies grow out of the childish antics quickly. Watch for little signs. For example, if your puppy used to tear about your favorite shoes if you left them on the ground and he has totally moved away from that habit, you might have a maturing puppy on your hands. Check with your veterinarian for maturing advice on your specific breed.
Training
One does not have to wait until a puppy has grown up completely to start training! In fact, training should begin as soon as the puppy is mobile, which is typically around three to three and a half weeks. This applies to potty training as well as leash or kennel training. Just be careful you are not causing your puppy undue anxiety or stress by putting too much on him at once. Be aware of his body language as well as his general demeanor. Remember to have patience with your puppy and enjoy every moment of their development.
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