Puppy Characteristics...

Puppies often have characteristics that do not last beyond early puppyhood. Eye color often changes from blue to its adult color as the puppy matures. The coat color may change: Kerry Blue Terrier puppies have black coats at birth and change to blue with maturity, and Dalmatians are white and gain their spots with age. The ear shape will also often change, especially with erect-eared breeds such as the German Shepherd Dog which have soft ears at birth, but the cartilage strengthens with age. It is not uncommon for puppies to have their ears cropped or straightened, tails docked, or in the case of the Chow Chow, to have their eyefolds stitched back so that they can see. Many of these are done in accordance with breed standards for many Kennel Clubs. Some countries like Italy have banned this practice as an act of animal cruelty.