What is an accurate guess for growth plate closure in dogs?

Question

I have a 5 1/2 month old Miniature Australian Shepherd.

I was wondering when I should x-ray her to check for growth plate closure before we start strenuous agility training.

Answer 1

She is way to young to do "strenuous" agility training.  You don't need to x ray her, her plates will close between 9 and 12 months.  There is so much foundation training you can be doing now, but no jumps off the floor!  Find a puppy agility class in your area, you'll learn how to handle and she will learn the obstacles by working everything on the ground, a plank for a dog-walk, a table flat on the ground, open weave poles, there is so much you can do.

So have fun.  She can't compete in most venues before 15 months, 18 months is better for a "baby dog".  You'll have many years competing together, so build a good foundation now.

All the best to you both!

Answer 2

I think these websites may answer your question for you....

http://www.agilityability.com/growth_pla...

http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/article...

http://life.familyeducation.com/dogs/exe...

http://www.marithymegoldens.com/dogs_and...

Answer 3

It's generally around one years for small dogs, 1.5 to 2 years for larger dogs.   I was told by my agility trainer not to do weaves of jumps with my miniature schnauzer until he was one year old.  You can use the next 6 months to work on your flat work and obedience training.

If you want an expert opinion, I believe your vet can take x-rays that will tell you the stage of the growth plates.