Expert: Nicole - 12/3/2008

Question
I recently got a beautiful Basset.  The breeder told me it was 10 months.  The vet tells me its at least 1 1/2 yrs to 3 yrs of age.  Its breeders word vs. vets.  I'm going to take him for a second opinion, but are is there anyway to determine the actual age of my "pup"?  (hes 30 lbs)

Answer
Hi Sean...

Did the breeder give you a reason that he/she was selling a 10 month old 'puppy'?  That's way over the norm for selling.  A lot of breeders will sell dogs they've used for breeding purposes...is the dog neutered?

Your vet is guessing his age based on his physical characteristics and his teeth.

http://www.geocities.com/petsburgh/Zoo/1224/canineteeth.html

Dogs are typically as tall as they will be by 12 months of age (save mini's or giants).  Your guy should top out at no more than 15" if he was well bred.  Measure from the floor to his shoulder (whithers) and see how tall he is.  If he's under 15" there's a good chance the breeder is correct.  If he's at or over, there's a good chance the vet is correct.

He also may have developed a more adult 'look' to his face.  Do you think he looks like an adult dog or does he still have a bit of puppy in him?

If you'd like, you can send me some photos at nicole@boxerdogplanet.com

If the breeder has a website you can send me that as well.