Hi scooby4, the tumors looked like big pieces of califlower coming out from the inside of his ears. The surgeries would take them out but they would be right back within weeks. They would quickly grow to about the size of a ping-pong ball, and there would be many little ones starting to grow around this big one. Yes we found out in the end it was cancer. These local vets did several tests for cancer, but would always say it wasnt.

I got my boys from a very reputable breeder with champion bloodlines out of Minneapolis. He had all his dogs vet checked and had all his papers to prove it. The older labs father was a 4 time field champion and died peacefully of old age as did their mother. He said he had'nt heard of anyone else having problems with their dogs...but that was just his word. I'm greatful for every minute I've had with my dogs though, they are(were) the best natured, well mannered beautiful dogs I've ever known...but I have to wonder why both of mine have had such problems. I have to figure also that labs have been soooo over bred as with most pure bred dogs have been!

It doesnt bother him to have his hips rubbed, and he's showing no pain at this time...but it's probably too early yet. I'm having him checked by a vet hospital this time!

Thanks for all your replies, and I'll keep you informed on what I find out.