Just curious :D

At what age do you think dogs reach their peak? Do you think it may be dependent on the breed ? larger dogs generally live shorter lives? whether they are male or female? whether they are with other pets for company and socialisation? On the diet they are fed? What factors do you believe contribute to a dog attaining it's best fitness levels?

Jacqueline :)

It does depend on breed and to some extend on the sex. Conversely the larger dogs mature later, in truth some never make it, going from puppy hood to old age and toy dogs often mature before their 1st birthday.

In my breed, Elkhounds, most males mature at about 3 although some appear mature as puppies and are past their best before they are 3, don't know why but it may be in the genes although litter brothers can be very different, it may be in the upbringing. All mine have been at least 3 before they mature. In my experience the bitches seem to grow up a bit quicker. So the answer to your question is I have no idea.