Question:
: At four months my JRT is already (when he stands still enough to measure) 14in at the withers. How much more will he continue to grow? I'm not interested in breeding him but would like to be able to register him with the JRTCA and participate in Trials.
: His mom was 14" and dad 13" both registered and are handsom animals themselves. He is an above average puppy in every way and a stand out at group puppy play time, i'm just curious if i've adopted a Great Dane by mistake.
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Hi Joe,
The breed standard goes from 10-15", and that is the limit for sanctioned events at trials. Some shows have unsanctioned events for tall dogs, which I've seen affectionately called "outlaw" events. (And "shorty" or "puddin" events for those under 10".)
That is one big boy you've got there, but I'd just sit tight and see what happens. A couple I know has a male shot up fast like your male, but his growth slowed considerably, and he topped out at 14 7/8". It is possible that he's just had an early growth spurt and may not have another.
I would also suggest, since you want to be active with him, getting into agility after you complete an obedience course or two and he's older. The all-breed agility organziations don't care if he goes over breed standard, and he'll be classed with dogs of a similar size of different breeds. As long as he is fit and healthy, he can compete. It's a great sport, and a tall, athletic JRT would be great in the 16" jump height class.
He sounds like a great pup, even if he does aspire to be a Dane! :)
Have fun!
Heather
