DEDICATED BREEDERS

Working with a responsible breeder is the first, and often most critical, step in finding a cuddly new addition to your family. This is very important as your breeder can be an invaluable resource to you and your family as your puppy grows into the loving family member you've been looking for. As with all milestone decisions, it is important to do your research before selecting a breeder. While not an exclusive list, below are some key items to consider when looking for a reputable breeder to work with. 

• Research the breed standard. Reputable breeders should be dedicated to producing healthy dogs that meet the standards for the breed. Click here to learn more about the breed standard for Labrador Retrievers.
• Ask about health screening and genetic testing. Health screenings and genetic tests can be utilized to confirm that a dog is free from certain health conditions or defects. While it doesn't guarantee that a dog won't produce that defect in its offspring, it certainly improves those chances.
• Meet the breeder. The easiest way to learn if a breeder is a good fit for your family is to meet them in person (or via zoom). This gives you a chance to not only get to know them but to see how they raise their own dogs and the environment your puppy will be born into.
• Ask Questions. A reputable breeder should be willing to answer any and all questions you may have. 
• Meet the parents. The best way to know and understand how your puppy may grow is to meet the dam and/or sire for your puppy. Although please keep in mind that some breeders use external sires, and therefore, meeting the sire is not always possible. However, the dam for your puppy should be available on-site. 
• Breeder expectations. Reputable breeders will want to know just as much about you and the home you will be welcoming your new puppy into as you do about them. Expect to answer questions regarding your plans for training, the environment you plan to provide, other pets/animals in the home, etc.
• Contracts. When working with a reputable breeder you should expect to enter into a contractual commitment which will include the basics about your puppy as well as a return-to breeder clause.