Puppy Critique Please - Page 2

There is no way to tell what he will become based on appearance at 8 weeks nor can you tell about his mental state at adulthood.  What is known is that just like humans and all other mammals our adolescent experiences, food quality and quanity, and a safe and enriched environment are paramount in reaching peak mental and physical performance as an adult.  You can't buy an 8 week old puppy that is a champion but you can buy an 8 week old puppy and raise him to be a champion.  There is no shortage of great dogs just a shortage of great owners.

I am not an expert on conformation, but for what it's worth I like what I see. 

Ramage, thanks.

 

I LOVE his angles.  He looks like he may be a bit straight in the front, but he's not perfectly lined up with the camera.  That bend of stifle is beautiful.  I really dislike seeing puppies straight in the rear at this age, as our breed tends to "lose" angles, rather than gain them.

He's a little sickle hocked right now because of that rear, but my experience is that a lot of puppies are.  Should grow out of that as those angles balance.  Would like to see a longer croup.  Also a bit flat right now.  I bet by 6 months his croup will be a bit steep.  Tailset looks a bit high.  BEAUTIFUL wither.  Hope he keeps it.  Working lines far too often have flat withers, and that lends to "moving down hill" at the trot, so the dog is falling on the forehand.

Pasterns look a bit weak right now, but at 8 weeks, it's not something I'd be terribly concerned with.  Good depth of chest, I MIGHT want a bit more forechest, but again, camera angle...can't really see what he's got.  Looks like he has a fine head and strong underjaw.  Any pics of him from the front so we can see ear and eye set?

Overall a very nice puppy :)

Yes, strong lower jaw for sure. One of the first things I noticed about him. Thank you, Xeph, for exactly what I was looking for- a critique;-). 

Here are some more pics of him. He's the one sitting up. 
   

He looks like he has a good, straight back, a good muzzle and head, and nice dark eyes with a strong expression. I bet he will favor his daddy in looks!

Now where is my fluffy guy?

Fuzzy went home, Tiff. :-(

Thanks. 

Well... glad he found a home, even if it wasn't mine!

Best of luck with this little guy. He is cute too!!

Really he's pretty terminally cute;  eye catching;  like his overall look however, he does have a straight front shoulder.  Doubt that will develop.  But dang cute.  Nan

Thanks for the input, Nan. I *think* I know what you mean about his shoulder...