Labrador Breeders: How To Select A Good One

Finding a reputable Labrador Retriever breeder can be challenging, but it’s worth it because you’re assured a happy and healthy Labrador puppy.

Five important tips to follow before choosing a breeder include:

Schedule an appointment with the Lab breeder

Responsible Labrador breeders are always willing to engage in an interview with people who are interested in acquiring a Lab puppy. Inexperienced or irresponsible dog breeders on the other hand, typically focus on selling as many puppies as they can without worrying whether they’re going to a good home or not. During the appointment, you and the breeder will be able to exchange questions and clear any doubts that you may have.

Ask questions about Labradors

Labrador breeders with a good reputation are open to any questions, as they have nothing to hide. Some important questions to ask during your visit include;

• Are you familiar with the Lab puppies’ ancestry?


• Were the parents screened for genetic health conditions such as hip dysplasia before being bred?


• Are there any health problems associated with the specific line of Labradors?


• Have there been any recent outbreaks of Parvovirus or other contagious diseases in the facility?


• Have puppies been born with any undesirable characteristics in the past?

Get a tour of the Labrador breeding facility

While you’re at the breeding facility, you should also ask for a tour of the place. Scan the environment for cleanliness and ensure that the dogs are all treated humanely. After all, you don’t want to support Lab puppy mills or irresponsible breeders. You may also want to ask things like; how much exercise do the dogs get, what type of food are they fed, and do the puppies receive any sort of training? 

Inquire about veterinary care

The ideal age to start housing Lab puppies is around 8 weeks old. By this time, they can get their first vaccination and deworming, but some breeders wait until 8 or 9 weeks of age to do this. It’s important to ask the breeder what the puppies have already received as far as veterinary care goes so that you know what to expect next. You can also ask to see medical records to confirm that the parents and puppies are up to date on vaccines, deworming, etc.

Ask about Labrador paper work

Each breeder has their own policies in regards to selling a Labrador puppy, which is why you should ask to see a contract before making a decision. Some breeders have a no return policy, while others make a lifetime commitment to the puppies that they breed. Certain breeders will also cover medical costs in the event that the puppy becomes ill during the first 2 weeks (or whatever the time frame) of being in his or her new home.

If the Labrador puppies are not yet registered with the AKC, the breeder must also provide you with the proper information so that you can register your dog at a later time. Without the AKC certification, you have no proof that your dog is in fact a purebred Labrador Retriever. 

My little dog – a heartbeat at my feet. ~Edith Wharton

 

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