Labrador Retriever Puppy growth

Question
QUESTION: My 15 week old Lab's hind legs are longer than her front. At this age will that most likely be the way she'll end up or with more growth the front legs will catch up? The "father" was taller than the "mother". The breeder was notified in case he'd like to know for future breeding.

ANSWER: That sounds strange.  I am glad you informed the breeder.  What were you told?  Has the vet said anything.  If not, if you are in soon for shots, ask.  I am wondering if it is from too much of too rich of a diet.  

You should be feeding a puppy chow now, and nothing else. Switching to an adult chow for the larger breeds at 4 months, slows growth and helps develop sturdier joints.

Your dog definitely should be narrower at the waist than the hips and chest. You should be able to easily feel the ribs, but not see them. Each dog is different. Standard recommendations are a good place to start, but each dog must have its food and exercise adjusted to its individual needs. Here is a link to a good illustrated guide, http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx

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QUESTION: I feed her Eukenuba Puppy large breed. She's ideal size according to Puppy Chow chart. Isn't that supposed to be top of the line food? Is it most likely she'll even out within the next month or so?

Answer
I have seen hundreds of lab puppies at that age and don't remember any with the hind legs longer, nor do I remember anything from my training or reading.  That leaves me with nothing to base an opinion about her growing out of it.  You need to discuss it with your vet.  

Dog foods are very controversial.  I think much of what I read is marketing hype.  Eukanuba is a good brand, but there are those that insist you must feed the more expensive brands.  I have seen large scale good results feeding Eukanuba.  There are those that would look at its ingredients, and condemn it.  None of them have given me any proof behind their opinions when I have asked them too.  I would rather trust the service dog schools with their professionally managed, large, successful programs that are feeding Eukanuba and other common brands with excellent results, than the critics of such foods.  I highly doubt her diet has anything to do with it, unless you have been over feeding her.  I would keep her lean, andswitch her to the adult version of the same formula when you run low on the puppy chow.