HELP! I have chosen the runt of litter...

[cntrygrl]

Hey guys! I am new to the site and am seeking some help! I am getting a GSD at the end of next month. While doing research and thinking about what I want I have decided to get a male pup. The breeder stated that he has noticed that several of the puppies are seeming to have more drives than others (they are only 3 weeks now and bred for their working ability). I am wanting a GSD who will be active but not so driven that he will be too much for me to handle.
When I was observing the puppies I fell in love with the runt of the group. When I picked him up he looked and me and nuzzled up on my chest and fell asleep. Needless to say I fell for and chose him in those 30 sec. I had the choice between him and is brother, who is 3X larger than he is. I asked the breeder if he felt as though the runt had any health problems, and he stated no. The breeder told me that he has made much progress in the last few weeks and was afraid he wasn't going to make it at one time due to his small size. The pups have not been checked with a vet yet but will be receiving their first shots. I also noticed that his back legs were more forward that the other male. Not sure if it is because he is still much smaller than the others (looks like he is a week behind them). He does walk around like the others but not as savy as them yet. So what I am asking is has anyone had experience with runts and does this sound normal for GSD runts? Do they take longer to show growth and are they stunted? Should I be worried with my decision? Any responses about runts would help me out tremendously! I have attached the one pic I have, he is on the left and his big brother is on the right. Thanks in advance!

[carmspack]

hello, do not choose a dog at this age . The breeder should not let you or anyone else choose a dog at this age. How can they make the right matches at this time so early in development.
Carmen
Carmspack Working German Shepherd Dogs

[sagelfn]

I agree with Carmen. It is way too soon to match puppies. I have not heard of a good breeder letting people see puppies this young (3wks) either, too much risk to the litter.

You might want to check this thread out Things to look for in a 'Responsible' Breeder

I only have experience with 2 runt dogs. 1 dog a lab had numerous health issues and died at 5 months of a seizure. A Border Collie now 3yrs old on the small end of the standard but is a typical insane energy dog.

[sddeadeye]

I had a runt Aussie at one time. He ended up growing to average Aussie size weighing in at just over 50 pounds at his one-year-old vet checkup. He did have fear aggression issues, but I don't know if that was linked to being a runt, genetics, or just being separated from mom too early.

[Courtney]

I also agree it seems odd a breeder is letting puppies be "picked" at only 3 weeks. I have no idea how commone GSD litters are that have runts. The litter ours came from did not have one. I would say proceed w/ caution. I'm sure others will chime in on the health outlook of runts.

[s14roller]

While I agree about breeders should be choosing them for you (or let you choose if there are 2 that would fit what you are looking for) the runt issue isn't much of a concern IMO.

My breeder had stated that the runts usually turn out just as large/strong as the others.

[DWP]

Breeder behavior or major health issues aside, the runt of the litter is something I am not concerned with. Our older girl was the "runt". She has been absolutely the greatest. Besides, there is something to be said for the late bloomers.

If the pup is healthy, I wouldn't worry.

[GSDBESTK9]

I'm surprised they are letting you choose your puppy, specially at this young age. No responsible breeder would do that. Sorry!

Before taking the "runt" home I would require a full health check, there could be something wrong with his heart and thus why he is much smaller. If he checks out ok, then I would not worry, he will eventually catch up.

[carmspack]

the runt brought out the best in the OP , brought out her caring nuturing side . She picked him up and he fell asleep on her , bam, a connection .
Now if you were to not visit again for 3 weeks and the dogs are up and mobile and dynamic , showing more of their true colours than that "runt" may be the independent one, the shy one, the aggressive one, the one that you don't want .
The runt may develop just fine and be lost in the crowd , or there may be something wrong which prevents him from competing at the milk bar , which will have an effect for a lifetime.
If the runt is the one in your picture facing away , then I am wondering what is going on . All the pups have been able to orient themselves to dog pile - may be too cool for the pups so they are huddling or piling for warmth. The pup on the right hand of the picture is heading to the pile. The other dog is going the wrong way , so is he lacking in something very very basic to early pup behaviour and survival ?

Carmen
Carmspack Working German Shepherd Dogs

[GSDBESTK9]

Have you checked to see if these dogs are OFA'ed and what their temperaments and nerves are like??? I would definitely be concern about that! Good luck!