The period of physical maturation in Golden Retrievers typically concludes before their second birthday. While growth rates vary among individual dogs, the majority reach their full height and length by around 12-18 months of age. Further development beyond this point primarily involves muscle mass and overall body condition.
Understanding the growth timeline is crucial for responsible pet ownership. It allows owners to provide appropriate nutrition, exercise, and training during formative stages. Recognizing when skeletal development is largely complete also informs decisions regarding strenuous activities, minimizing the risk of joint problems later in life.