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Finding a Responsible BreederLook,
Listen and Learn
Read about
Labrador Retrievers. Labradors are wonderful
dogs, but this breed is not for everyone. Consider
the space,
companionship and exercise needs of the breed. Review
the description of Labradors on the AKC website. Be
familiar with the characteristic of the breed. Learn about
the health problems associated with Labradors. Some
health conditions are inherited and others are not. Contact Labrador Retriever Clubs, local kennel clubs, the AKC breeder referral page, or veterinarians in your area for referrals. Most reputable breeders do not advertise in the newspaper. Visit with breeders and their dogs. Their dogs should seem happy, healthy and well cared for. Responsible breeders provide adequate space for their dogs including safe indoor and outdoor areas. Some or all of their dogs will be in the house for at least part of the day. Responsible breeder usually have some older retired dogs and a few young "hopefuls" living with them. Typically, you will be able to meet grandparents, aunts, siblings, and cousins of the puppies you are considering. Ask
questions
Ask the breeder questions about their involvement with the breed. Responsible breeders are knowledgeable about Labrador Retrievers. These breeders usually participate in dog shows, obedience training, field work, and/or breed rescue. Ask about the
goals of their breeding programs. Look for a breeder
that focuses on quality rather than quantity, and gives something back
to the breed. The primary goal of ethical breeding programs
is
the betterment of the breed, not a monetary profit. When a
financial profit is the primary goal, the choices and decisions made by
these puppy producers are often not in the best interest of their dogs,
their puppies, and/or the Labrador breed. Ask how many
breeding females they have, how often their females are bred, and how
many litters the breeder has in a year. Look for a
breeder that is
concerned about the health and well-being of their females and
puppies. Generally, responsible breeders will have between 1
and
6 females of reproductive age and plan up to 4 litters a
year.
The females have up to 4 litters in their lifetime. Most of their
litters are planned with the hope of keeping at least one
puppy from each litter. Ask to see
the pedigrees and health clearances of the sire and dam.
Hip, elbow, and eye
clearances are recommended for
Labradors. OFA and CERF clearances can be verified on
line.
Currently, heart clearance is optional for Labradors. Ask if the puppy will be sold with papers from the American Kennel Club or the Canadian Kennel Club. Not all canine registration organization are equal! Alternative registration organizations, such as the Continental Kennel Club, are not utilized by responsible, reputable Lab breeders. The American Kennel Club is still the "gold standard" of canine registries in the USA. The AKC is primarily a registration organization. However, this organization also encourages sound breeding practices by establishing the breed standard, promoting a variety of dog events, providing information to potential breeders and prospective dog owners, requiring DNA testing of frequently used stud dogs, and investigating reports of substandard kennel conditions. Ask the breeder where their puppies are raised, and how they care for their puppies. Puppies require appropriate veterinary care, a clean safe environment, good quality food, room to exercise, toys to play with, and lots of human interaction. The puppies raised by responsible breeders are well cared for and properly socialized. Ask the
breeder about their puppy selection procedure. Look
for a breeder that will help you select the puppy with the energy
level, temperament, and characteristics that will meet your
expectations. Ask the
breeder about their return policy if you can't keep your dog.
You may be required to
return the dog to the breeder if you
are unable to keep the your dog. Ask what will happen
to a
dog that is returned. Ask if you will receive a refund
if the dog is sold to a new owner.
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