Consequences of too much exercise too young ...

This is a sad but true story of one of the owners at my canine club.

They joined our advanced education group with a magnificent GSD who was just over 6 months old, an age where most other canines at the club are only just graduating out of puppy school into beginners education. Clearly a dog who had alot of contact with her owners. Puppy was from good breeders, perfect health check and clear of all the health problems that the breed is prone to. A gorgeous girl.

My instructor had apparently had several discussions with them concerning their girl’s general lifestyle but they didn’t take heed.
As the dog was very voluntary and always on the ball, they would take her for long walks in order “to tire her out”. We’re talking about 3-4 hour walks the weekends !
What they should have been doing was working her mentally, not physically.

The girl started to show unlevel gaits during lessons at around 1 year old and my instructor warned the owners to seek veterinary advice - thing they belittled and ignored.
They eventually went to consult as the girl was getting worse.
Today at around 18 months old, she must go through heavy joint surgery on all 4 legs. I think my instructor was talking about hip replacement surgery plus other. This poor girl is condemned at what should be the start of her active life.  

Please please look after your puppies.
The 5 minute exercise per month of age rule is to remind you of the difference between physical tiring and mental tiring. Our canine friends are always so eager to please, we must look out for them.
Please give them time to mature physically whilst you occupy them mentally.

That's awful  Poor pup, owners are obviously very ignorant to not listen to advice!
I'm keeping an eye on a new pup near me, American Staffie/ Bully out for it's 1st walk last week, seems to be out a long time for it's age!! Saw them today with pup & older staffie which needs more exercise so concerned! Only got my hands on him once, think owner knows I want to pup nap