A birth defect is something that you should know for your own peace of mind..get a vet to check the puppy out and see if its something you can work with emotionally and financially. I myself have a puppy of 4 mo. with only three legs. She's has more energy than my 11 mo old pup and has more spunk in her trot...she out runs everyone and has a great personality...she's in great health and I believe that we all want a healthy puppy to love and enjoy.