[msdorian2]

I have a 13 week old mix puppy who weights about 8 pounds. His mother looked to be a small chocolate lab. I am trying to figure out what he might be mixed with. I would appreciate any suggestions.

[Suki303]

Honestly, he is much too young to know for sure. A dog doesn't physically mature until 6-9 months of age. By age 2 they will be classified as fully grown. But if I had to take a shot in the dark, I'd say he has some German Shepard in him. His face is narrow and tail curves upward, so thats what makes me think of that breed first. The brindle coloring is throwing me for a loop, but honestly, he could just be a mix of multiple breeds that you'll never know about.

Knowing the breed though isn't all that necessary, unless people are constantly asking you what he is. They only way knowing would help is so that you can get a feel for his personality and breed instincts. All shepards are very intelligent, but have a habit of being nippers. Starting discipline early is crucial if you want a happy, well balanced dog. While puppies are cute and adorable, don't forget about manners. Its okay to wrestle and play with them, but make sure they know that their teeth should not be used in excess. Biting is cute in puppies, but unwanted in adult dogs. He will not be some little lap rat when he gets older, so teaching him that biting is not expectable is needed now.

Good luck, and enjoy your baby boy!