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Originally Posted by BamaFan121s  What if the stillborn was the smallest, would that one have been the runt, or would the smallest remaining be the runt? I think that is what she was asking. 
Personally, I don't know what to tell you because I don't agree with the use of the term 'runt' as others do. I never thought of the 'runt' as being the smallest, but more like pup that may be developmentally behind the others and constantly struggling to try to keep up. You're smallest could be perfectly healthy and fine, but IMO to refer to them as the 'runt' automatically makes it sound like they are inferior to the others in the litter.  |
I agree the runt may not necessarily be the smallest. The smallest at birth can end up being the largest adult for that litter. I don't think that there is always a runt. If the litter is well bred than all should be close enough in size and strength that none stand out as being a runt. I can't say that I've ever had a runt though I have a one week old gal that is currently 3 oz. smaller than her brothers. She's just as strong as they are and will not let them push her off her teat. She's no runt.