Owner Unprepared for the Puppy Labrador Gives Birth To: ‘Came as a Shock’

An Ontario-based dog breeder had a delightful surprise when his latest litter of puppies were born. Expecting a standard set of red Labradors, he was met with a stunning surprise: a black and tan marked puppy.

Albert Bos, who has been breeding Labradors since 2020 under the name Bos Kennel, specializes in CKC-registered purebred yellow Labradors, which are often dark red in color.

But despite his extensive experience breeding dogs, nothing could have prepared him for this unexpected genetic twist.

“My initial reaction was surprise! Many questions went through my head about what I had previously learned concerning genetics,” Bos told Newsweek. “Here are some thoughts that went through my head: ‘Is this a black lab?’ ‘I know labs can sometimes throw different colors from their gene pool.’ ‘Maybe it’s a Labrador with rare genetic markings from a recessive gene.’ ‘Wait, those look like Rottweiler markings.'”

Explaining more about dog genetics, the website for VCA Animal Hospitals said: “When dogs breed, the mother and father each randomly contribute one allele from each locus, giving each allele a 50% chance of being passed on to the pups. One of the alleles at each locus is dominant and determines the traits, like coat color, portrayed in the dog.”

While the site added: “Despite the huge variety in coat color, there are only two basic pigments that determine the color of canines: eumelanin (black) and phaeomelanin (red).”

The mother of the litter, Kacey, a red Labrador, was bred with another purebred red Labrador male, whom Bos had used multiple times before. Bos also ensured Kacey was supervised throughout her heat cycle, making an outside sire highly unlikely. Seeking answers, he reached out to other breeders.

“I contacted multiple other breeders who I know personally. Some said this was impossible, others sent helpful articles about purebred Labradors with Rottweiler markings, saying it was possible and it was a sign of great breeding and strong bloodlines,” Bos said.

The rare puppy was born on February 28 at midnight, and while he has generated immense interest from prospective owners, he does not yet have a home. “I have received many inquiries from families who are interested in him. He does not have a home lined up just yet. Picking times happen at six weeks.”

Bos prioritizes responsible breeding and ensuring that all puppies are placed in the best possible homes. “At Bos Kennel, we have new owners go through a screening process, ensuring they are ready for the costs and responsibilities of a puppy. This also ensures each puppy will live an amazing life, be loved, and receive the appropriate care.”

To better understand the genetics behind this rare pup, Bos has ordered a genetic test. “Because of his rarity, I have ordered a genetic test and will be sending that in for specialists to look at, just to be sure. Regardless of his genetic code, color, and breed, he will be receiving loads of love and care. He is full of life and so beautiful,” he said.

Bos shared the unexpected puppy on Instagram. In the caption, Bos said: “Well this came as a shock.” The video has already been viewed over 1 million times since being shared last week, and people have shared their reactions.

Viewer @chelseygillespie22 said: “These markings are rare but are definitely possible within labs! I’m so jealous, but a unique and gorgeous dog he will be!”

While viewer @loribrown_, commented: “Congratulations, what a wonderful surprise and a proud mama.”

Some reactions were mixed, with some criticizing the breeding process. “I received a 50/50 reaction. Hundreds of people sent hate comments about backyard breeding, inbreeding, etc,” Bos said. “We at Bos Kennel go through many lengths and spend a lot of money to ensure the health and well-being of our dogs.”