Choosing Good Labrador Breeders

Due to the fact that Labradors are such a popular dog choice, there is a high demand for Labrador breeders. Thus, there are plenty of breeders that you will likely be able to choose from.

That being said, not all Labrador breeders are interested in providing you with a healthy, quality Lab puppy. Some breeders are only in it to make money. These breeders are typically known as “backyard breeders” and should be avoided at all costs.

To help you distinguish the good from the bad, the best place to look for a list of Labrador breeders is:

• Online at your national kennel club
• Online a the Labrador Retriever club of your nation

The following is what you need to find out about Labrador breeders, despite where you locate them:

• Check if the Labrador breeder is registered with the national kennel club or Labrador Retriever club. If they are not registered what is there reason? Cost is a poor answer and is a good indication that the breeder is only interested in making a buck and doesn’t care about the breed.
• Ask to see the parents of the liter if they are there
• Find out the size of the liter. If there is less than the original liter present, where are the others? Have they been sold or did they die?
• Find out how long the people have been Labrador breeders
• Find out how many Labrador liters they have every year
• Check for a guarantee. If you can not register your Labrador, or if it becomes seriously ill within a year can you return it, receive a refund or rebate?
• Find out the liter’s medical history. All puppies should have been checked by the Vet and have health certificates.
• Request the pedigree. Find out the background of the Labrador litter. Check for hereditary health defects including hip and elbow dysplasia.
• Find out if the Labrador will come with a complete and signed Breeders Certificate that includes a pedigree and 3 – 4 generations.

Other facts you need to take into account when dealing with a Labrador breeder include:

• Is the breeder answering questions to your satisfaction? Do the Labrador dogs appear happy?
• Do the Labrador puppies seem healthy?
• Is the premise and are the Labrador’s clean?
• Do the Labs parents look like the breed standard?
• Do the breeders only breed Labradors? If not, why not?
• Is the breeder asking you questions about your dog experience, your lifestyle, and the reason you are interested in Labradors?

You need to feel comfortable with the breeder you choose. There is no point in saving money by buying a puppy from Labrador breeders that don’t have the breed’s best interest in mind. You need to buy a dog that is healthy and happy. Don’t settle for anything less.