Do you mean growth plates? :-) This is the leading edge of bone growth and formation for length of bone in a young dog/puppy, tho bone is constantly reformed and replaced thru life. These are easily damaged by trauma until the long bones stop growing. Growth plates close around the time of maturity, which varies by breed. In toy breeds, they are usually closed by 8-9 months, in giant breeds they may not be closed until 18-24 months of age. Therefor the recommendation to restrict high jumping and forced exercise until the growth plates have closed. This doesnt mean your puppy cant be a puppy and run and play and enjoy life (his muscles need to develop, as does his mind), just to use common sense and not do more than he can handle.
Vilma Briggs (Kistner) Mt. Gilead, OH U-UD Mocha Java Slurp, UDX, HIC, TT Ch. Brighteye Expresso Bean, UD, NDD, TT U-CDX Our Little Buddy, UD, NA, TT Thirdtym's A Charm, CGC and Ted
