Hi guys I have a lab pup I didn't get from a breeder but saw what I was told was the parents but now he's 5 months old he seems tiny to me, just wanted opinions from people who have labs or has a similar age pup to compare. It doesn't really matter just been very curious about it regardless of whether he's a full bred or not he's a fab pup and brilliant with my little boy! Thanks guys!
Hi and welcome to the forum. Unfortunately it’s against the rules to ask if a dog is pedigree or not based on photos, but your boy looks lovely either way. You can get DNA tests for a reasonable price if you’re interested, although how accurate they are I’m not sure; I’m going to get one for my little foster dog just for fun. The thing that concerns me from your picture is his front legs and feet; hopefully it’s just the angle of the photo but they look strange. Have you had a vet give him a thorough examination? If they really do look like they do in the photo, with the foot so flat, I would want to have a specialist take a look.
Hey sorry I didn't realise that, but thanks very much for your reply! Yes the vet has seen his feet a few weeks ago but didn't seem concerned that's what made me think he's not a lab, will get it checked out again! Thanks
Some Labs are smaller than others, but it’s hard to judge the size from a pic. I’m glad your vet isn’t concerned about his feet and legs, they do look like they’re bending awkwardly. Do you have any pics where he’s standing?
Hi and welcome!! Sweet little chap you have there, but I agree, I would have the vet have another look at his front legs. There is such a thing as dwarfism in Labradors - mostly dogs who inherit this condition have no health issues at all, they just have shorter legs than most other labs!
Hello from me and Joy, seven months old and also quite small and dainty. We met both her parents who were also on the small side, infact her father was slightly smaller than her mother. Joy was the smallest surviving pup in a litter of nine (sadly a smaller one died) and she's without doubt the littlest lab I've ever had but she's a real sweetiepie, just like yours sounds and she can still (just) sit on my knee, which is lovely.
Would you have any pics of yours? I contacted the guy I bought her off and he says he doesn't think he's full bred as he kept a pup and is also small, he's just so lab like with personality and looks only the short legs that makes me think he's crossed! Thinking of doing a DNA on him out of curiosity lol
I'll definitely bring him back I was assuming it was maybe from walking on concrete alot as he doesn't seem to have any pain at all might be worth an x Ray tho, I seen something on another group easty westy I think it was called
I thought it could be from walking a lot on concrete maybe as a pup, I'll attach pic now not great as he never stays still lol
It looks like the dew claw is nearly touching the ground? That’s not normal; dogs should walk on their toes with that joint above. It may or may not be causing him pain (dogs are masterful at masking pain) but even if not, it’s likely to cause joint problems later on if not addressed. Even if my regular vet was unconcerned, I still think I would be asking for a referral to a specialist. Do let us know what they say.
I agree with @snowbunny that a specialist visit may be in order, just to make sure he's not in pain and can get treatment early if there's something to be done to make his life going forward active and pain-free. However, having said that, if he's happy and pain-free and gets the medical all-clear, then I'd simply put it aside and enjoy your pup. The parents may not be who you think (or at least the 'daddy'). I had a foster puppy once who was given to me at 4 weeks old as a Rottweiler and he certainly LOOKED like a Rottweiler at such a young age. As he grew and developed, however, it became very obvious that he was a mix, most probably with basset hound. He had a very similar set to his ears and long nose as your pups, as well as the legs. He turned out to be a gorgeous and healthy, happy boy... and very unique. It's not every day that you see a bassweiler.
Basset Hounds have a type of congenital dwarfism that results in short, curved legs. Very similar looking to Cliona’s boy. If it’s the same thing then there’s not much you can do about it, other than love him to bits and give him an awesome life, both of which I’m sure you’re already doing
