Stunted Growth in Dogs

If your puppy stops growing, it can be cause for concern. While some dogs just grow differently than others due to their breed, others may have a medical condition which can be treated. Reasons which may cause your dog to stop growing include:

• Genetics
• Portosystemic/liver shunt
• Malnutrition
• Internal parasites

There are several reasons why your dog may suddenly stop growing. Always take into consideration your dog's age and breed first, and if they are still falling behind, there may be something else going on.

Genetics

Due to their genetic makeup, different breeds can mature at different rates. Larger breeds tend to mature at slower rates than smaller ones, often taking a year or longer to grow into their full adult body. There are also certain breeds who may carry genetic markers for conditions that appear as stunted growth, such as pituitary dwarfism in German Shepherds.  

Portosystemic shunt 

Usually a congenital condition, a portosystemic shunt is when the blood vessel that normally takes blood into the liver for cleaning bypasses it and returns the blood directly to the circulatory system. When the blood does not have a chance to be detoxified in the liver, toxins and nutrients normally processed by the liver go right back into the body, causing symptoms such as stunted growth, poor muscle development, and abnormal behavior like head pressing or circling. Some dogs may show symptoms as puppies, while other dogs may manifest symptoms as they age. In some cases, a portosystemic shunt may develop as a result of progressive liver dysfunction.

Malnutrition

In order to fully mature, puppies need the proper nutrition that helps muscles and bones grow. If they don't get the right amounts of certain nutrients and protein, their growing can be affected. Finding the right puppy food to feed your puppy based on their breed and nutrition requirements is key to ensuring your dog grows properly.

Internal Parasites

Internal parasites feed off of the nutrients inside their host's body, essentially eating what the host needs to grow. This can cause weakness, lethargy, and stunted growth. Parasites that can cause stunted growth include roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms.

If your dog has stopped growing and has not reached the breed’s standard weight and height, it is time to take him to a veterinarian for a check-up. Your veterinarian will want to know your dog’s history, and will conduct a full physical examination. Be sure to relate your dog's symptoms, any medications they may be taking, their current diet, if you have any other pets in the household, and anything they have recently been exposed to, such as new places or animals.

Likely, your veterinarian will discuss the proper nutrition for your puppy, and may suggest a change in their diet to ensure they're consuming the right levels of proteins and calories they need to grow. Your dog's breed will certainly be a factor, as will any genetic issues that may be present.

For a portosystemic/liver shunt, your veterinarian may conduct a complete blood count (CBC), serum chemistries, urinalysis, and bile acid test in order to evaluate any abnormal findings. They may also order additional testing to help pinpoint a diagnosis of a portosystemic/liver shunt, such as an ultrasound, CT scan, portography, MRI, and laparotomy. Your dog may also be prescribed antibiotics or probiotics in order to alter the bacterial population in the intestines to promote healthy bacteria. A portosystemic shunt may be able to be repaired surgically, but that will depend on the location. 

Internal parasites can be diagnosed through a fecal examination done by your veterinarian, and can be easily treated with anti-parasitic medications that include oral pills and chews, injections or topical treatments.

Ensuring your puppy receives the proper nutrition as they grow can prevent most cases of stunted growth. There are several varieties of puppy food formulated for different breeds that can help guide you, but always consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions.

Preventing internal parasites can be accomplished through regular administration of anti-parasitic medications which are generally given throughout a dog's lifetime. Monthly topical treatments, and oral pills or chews, are the most popular ways pet parents can protect their dogs from these invaders. Routine testing with your veterinarian during check-ups is encouraged.

Since portosystemic shunts are usually a congenital condition, you cannot prevent it from occurring. There are, however, certain breeds that are predisposed to this condition, such as Yorkshire Terriers, Cairn Terriers, Maltese, Labrador Retrievers, and Old English Sheepdogs.

Treatment for your dog's stunted growth depends on the medical condition your dog is experiencing. For instance, eradicating intestinal parasites can range anywhere from $20 to $50. On average, the cost for diagnosing and surgically treating your dog with a portosystemic shunt ligation is $3000.