The abandoned puppy was found on his own in the woods before being taken in by new owners. Now they can't believe the dog's little secret...

08:05, Thu, Jan 1, 2026 Updated: 08:05, Thu, Jan 1, 2026

Cute golden Retriever puppy holds a bowl in his mouth in summer at the park

Luckily the dog was given a new home (stock file) (Image: Getty)

After finding a four-week-old puppy in the woods, the new owner couldn't quite believe what happened next. 

Assuming the multicoloured, blue-eyed pup was just part-Catahoula, it was until a DNA test actually discovered something a little more about the "healthy but alone" dog.

Now sharing a post on Reddit, under the handle u/lifeishowisit, the social media user shared pictures of the adorable dog, followed by a screenshot of his unusual and unexpected DNA results.

The person said: "Results for puppy found in the woods at 4 weeks old. We found this puppy in the woods, healthy but alone at 4 weeks old (vet estimate). I definitely wondered if he was part Catahoula for a while.

"Now he is almost 10 weeks old and we have the results (last slide)! I did not expect the results to include only two breeds!"

The latest news from around the world Invalid email

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

It turns out the puppy is not a Catahoula, in fact, the DNA shows he is a mix between a miniature/MAS-type Australian shepherd and a beagle.

According to Orchard Road Animal Hospital, vets generally believe that mixed breeds are resilient to genetic diseases and may live longer. But this all depends on good breeding and health screenings which can reduce issues in pure breeds.

But it's worth noting all canines, regardless of breed, can still face health risks. Certain breeds are prone to specific disorders, so research is important if considering a purebred, though mixed breeds can also inherit those risks.

Not knowing a rescue dog's health history shouldn't put anyone off adoption as shelters often provide veterinary care with many growing up healthy.

Before adopting a rescue dog, you must be prepared for an adjustment period which requires patience to watch the dog's true personality emerge over weeks or months.

Prepare your home with a quiet, safe space, supplies (food, bowls, bed, crate, toys), and dog-proof hazards. Ask the rescue about the dog's history, health, and behaviors, and plan for training, routine, and gradual introductions to people and pets.

Since the post was shared, it racked up nearly 1,000 upvotes and dozens of comments.

One wrote: "[He] looks exactly what I would imagine that mix would look like. Effing cute."

While another added: "This is my childhood dream dog! What a cutie! Really a perfect looking little dog. Thank you for saving them from the woods!"

A third praised: "What an incredible cutey! With two purebred parents, I'm guessing he came from an accidental litter at a puppy mill and got dumped." And a fourth commented: "Adorable! What a lucky find."