We wish you good luck in finding the breeder and puppy that is best suited for your family. We have listed some questions that you may want to ask the breeder of your puppy before you make your selection.

Questions to ask a breeder.

• Do both parents have a hip / elbow clearances from the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) these should be done after 2 years of age. Some breeders will do a preliminary x-ray which should be redone at 2 years.
• Do both parents have current eye clearances from an Ophthalmologist or CERF certificate (Canine Eye Registry Foundation)? This must be re-done every year.
• How often is the dam bred?
• How did you choose the sire (father)?
• What are you currently involved in with your dogs? Conformation, Field, Obedience, Hunting
• Are there AKC titled dogs (the initials: CH, OTCH, CD, JH, WC... before or after the names) the dogs pedigree?
• When I visit your home will I be able to see the parent of this litter?
• At what age will you be sending the puppy’s home (Puppies should not be taken from the mother or litter mates until at least 7 weeks of age.
• How have the puppies been socialized?
• What advice can you give me on selecting the right puppy for my family? They should be able to help you in regards to the puppy’s temperament and activity level.
• What type of health care has the puppies received i.e. shots, worming, dew claws?
• What clubs / organizations do you belong to that are Labrador related?

When visiting at the breeders:

• Do the puppies seem healthy, with no discharge from eyes or nose, no loose stools, no foul smelling ears? Are their coats soft, full and clean? Do they seem to be well socialized?
• Do you feel comfortable with this person? If not, keep looking!

How big will the dog get?
How old will he be before he acts like an adult dog?
How protective will the dog be?
How often will the dog need to be groomed?
How does he get along with other animals?
How long can he be left alone at home?
How much exercise does the dog need?
What are the best training methods for this dog?
What possible health problems might this dog develop?