Questions you might want to ask yourself
before you bring home a new family member

This list has been complied of questions that many of our club members found themselves asking before they brought home a new family member. We hope that it is helpful to you in your search for a new family member. Within each question we have provided links to articles and information to assist you in your research of the Labrador Retriever. We hope you find this helpful.

• Am I ready to take full responsibility for this dog and all its needs for the next 10-15 years?

• Are pets permitted where I live?

• After a bit of research (vet, vaccinations, spaying / neutering), training, supplies, food), can I afford a dog right now?

• Having learned all that I can about the Labrador Retriever, and knowing the pros and cons of owning one am I still committed to getting one?

• After learning a bit about the developing Labrador, do I have a place where I can put my dog so that he is not tempted to become destructive? Is my yard fenced?

• Do I have the time to obedience train a dog right now?

• Is there anyone in the house who doesn't like, doesn't want, is afraid of, or allergic to dogs? I have made ________________ arrangements for this person.

• What expectations do I have for this dog? i.e. family pet, field training, hunting, Showing etc? (Sharing this with the breeder will help them know the type of puppy you are looking for.)

• Who in the family will be the primary caregiver? (It should not be left up to children to care for an animal on their own.)

• Do I know where my dog will stay while I am on vacation?

• Due to my schedule, how long will my dog be left alone each day? Is that good for the dog?

• Knowing that some litters are spoken for well in advance, am I willing to wait for a well-bred puppy? Should I consider rescue?