It's important to note that the term "puppy" is not just used for young dogs. It can also be used for small dogs, regardless of their age. For example, a small adult dog may be called a "puppy" even though they are not technically a young dog.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between puppies and dogs:
| Characteristic | Puppy | Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Age | Less than 1 year old | 1 year old or older |
| Size | Smaller | Larger |
| Behavior | More playful and energetic | More sedate and calm |
| Training | Easier to train | More difficult to train |
| Care | Requires more care and attention | Requires less care and attention |
Ultimately, the best way to determine if a dog is a puppy or a dog is to look at their age. If they are less than 1 year old, they are a puppy. If they are 1 year old or older, they are a dog.