Hi Cheryl, The term is actually Growth Plates:-) It is the end of the bones during the phase of growth. In the Berner they usually close between 10-11 months and after this age the dog will not grow any taller. The bones are not fully hardened off until about two years of age. They are cartilagenous and can be injured and it is during the rapid growth phase of four to eight months that we would most likely see evidence of Osteo Chondrosis Dessicans (sp) which can be caused by an inherited predisposition or accident. This is a divot or tear in this material which then inhibits proper function of the joint causing the puppy pain.
Sensible management of the growing dog will help prevent injury and supporting your dog on his descent from your truck continues to be a good idea:-) He might still need a boost up but soon he should be able to jump up on his own. Rose T.
