Top/backlines: Can they level with age?
 

i've found very limited discussions on this with google, etc, so I figured I'd give PBC a go!

I've heard a few varying opinions.. one is that you look at them at 8 weeks, and then not again until they're mature, because there are so many changes in that time. Well, i've been worried about Indie's backline for a bit, because she's developed a roach over her loin.. and though the standard calls for a slight rise over the loin, as opposed to a table top, I think it might be a bit too much.

So.. opinions, photos, etc on your experience with the mysterious puppy topline are much appreciated!

Indie @ 8 weeks:
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/a...idestack-1.jpg
Indie @ 14 weeks
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/a...e/100_3878.jpg

and at her BIS novice puppy win against no competition. She wasn't standing right.. but when she's just standing, this is how she stands:
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/a...10_JfF4s-M.jpg

Dont worry about it. If you pulled her legs back, it would look fine, some dogs have a longer stack, as long as her back legs are still straight up an down and the roach is normal

Puppies seem to grow at the back and then the front catches up which is why a lot of prople say not to worry about them getting a bit out of proportion as they grow.

Can we get some natural pics of her?

I really doubt it'll stick w/ her... Moto grew legs, body, legs, body for awhile. Now that he's 5 months he grows evenly all around.

here are two natural stacks of hers:
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/a...e/100_3262.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/a...e/100_3259.jpg

Best I could get yet, and she's leaning into the leash. :/

MJ had such high rears and a roach back as a pup, I wanted to cry. She evened out at about 10 months of age.

4 paws, that's how I've been feeling! like, NO WAY can this dog have such a horrible topline.. lol. I just need reassurance that there's still a good chance it will go away. It doesn't help that all her siblings have flat toplines, and one is taking BIS puppy after BIS puppy! I know that with her awkward topline, she's not going to do as well in puppy classes, but the experience is helping us both out tremendously. Thanks to all for the replies!

The first natural pic doesn't look as bad as her stacked photos. I'm betting it'll even out as she ages

Star has an arch in his back. Back and front higher than middle