I’m feeling a bit lost here and hope someone can help me figure this out. My puppy, Max, has been acting a bit off lately, and I’m starting to worry if it’s something to do with his bones. He’s just over 4 months old, and I noticed that he’s not as energetic as he used to be. Normally he loves our morning walks, but today he just sort of sat there, almost like he was hesitant to move. I tried lightly touching his legs, and he didn’t seem to flinch or show pain, but it’s really unlike him to be so still. He used to bounce around everywhere! I’m starting to wonder if there’s something wrong with his growth or if he’s had a little fall I didn’t see. Has anyone else experienced something similar? Should I be rushing him to the vet, or am I overreacting a bit?
I completely understand why you're worried about your puppy's bone development. This is an important part of their growth, and it's great that you're being proactive.
Puppies grow rapidly, and several factors can influence healthy bone development. Genetics play a big role, but diet and exercise are also crucial. Give your puppy a balanced diet that's appropriate for their age and breed size, as over-supplementing with calcium or other nutrients can lead to bone issues. Also, ensure your puppy is exercising regularly but not excessively — too much running or jumping can put undue strain on developing bones.
Look out for signs like limping, difficulty standing up, or any unusual lumps or bowing of the legs, as these could indicate developmental concerns such as hip dysplasia or rickets. If you notice these signs, it's important to get a professional evaluation.
In the meantime, make sure your puppy has a comfortable place to rest and play on surfaces that aren’t too hard. This can help avoid stress injuries.
I'd recommend booking a video consult with one of our Dial A Vet specialists to discuss your puppy's growth in more detail. They can provide personalized advice and reassurance to help your puppy grow strong and healthy.
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