WESTERN Bulldogs forward Josh Dunkley has signed a two-year contract extension, tying him to the club until the end of the 2019 season.

Dunkley capped a dream debut season by playing in last year's premiership and earning a NAB AFL Rising Star nomination, but he has managed just four games in 2017 as he recovers from a shoulder injury.

A mid-sized forward who can also play in the midfield, Dunkley has even been used as a makeshift ruckman this season and is seen as a key signing for the Bulldogs.

"Josh has made an impressive start to his AFL career and we’re thrilled to see him extend his contract with the club," list manager Jason McCartney said.

"His development in such a short time at the Bulldogs has been terrific, and clearly his upside is enormous for such a young player.

"It was disappointing to see him suffer an injury earlier this season, however we’re excited about what the future holds for him."

Dunkley was taken with pick No.25 in the 2015 NAB AFL Draft after Sydney chose not to match the Bulldogs bid for the son of Andrew Dunkley, who played 217 games for the Swans.

The 19-year-old, who was the youngest member of the 2016 premiership team, joins Bailey Williams, Kieran Collins, Clay Smith and Marcus Adams in recently committing to the club.

Recent draftees Tim English, Patrick Lipinski and Lewis Young have also signed contract extensions since arriving at the club.