To acquire a healthy, purebred Labrador puppy, it is essential to plan ahead. In this post, we will outline 8 steps to help you ensure that you are purchasing a healthy Labrador puppy. Many new puppy buyers may not be aware of potential issues when selecting a litter of puppies from their neighbor or a local newspaper. Therefore, it is crucial to be cautious and informed as you embark on this exciting journey! It is important to plan ahead because reputable breeders often have waiting lists for their puppies. If a litter of puppies remains unsold at eight weeks old, it may be a red flag. Therefore, it is advised to plan well in advance, preferably six to twelve months before you intend to bring your puppy home. The structured approach outlined below is aimed at assisting individuals with no connections in the dog breeding community in finding the right Labrador puppy. Before you begin your search, make sure to assess if you are ready for the responsibilities of owning a Labrador. The first step is to determine the type of Labrador you desire. Labradors in different countries are typically divided into two categories: those bred for show or as pets, and those bred for working as gundogs. These two strains, known as working type and show type in the UK and field type and bench type in the USA, have distinct characteristics. Understanding the differences between these types is crucial in selecting the right Labrador for you. After deciding on the type of Labrador you prefer, the next step is to find a reputable breeder. Developing contacts within the dog breeding community is essential for finding a breeder who meets your criteria.
Step 2: Locate reputable Labrador breeders If you’re still unsure about the benefits of finding a reputable breeder, take some time to read our article titled “The Proper Way to Purchase a Labrador.” This article discusses various places and methods to buy puppies and outlines the advantages and disadvantages of each option. While finding a reputable breeder may not be as simple as visiting a pet store, the effort put into it is certainly worthwhile. A good starting point is to check with your local Labrador breed club, as they can connect you with experienced breeders. It’s important to conduct further research to ensure the breeders meet your standards. Step 3: Reach out to Labrador breeders Create a list of contacts before contacting breeders via phone or email. Inform them that you found them on the Kennel Club website and are interested in purchasing a pedigree Labrador puppy. Specify whether you’re interested in a working or show type. Prepare a separate list to record information about available litters. When contacting breeders, ask important questions such as the availability of puppies, recent matings, and recommendations for litters or stud dogs. Remember that good breeders often have their puppies reserved before they are born, so inquire about recent matings. Step 4: Search for a litter The initial breeders you contact may not be the right fit for various reasons, such as the unavailability of puppies or not meeting your criteria. However, they may provide you with more leads to add to your list. Compile a list of several litters that you can investigate and narrow down. One effective method to find litters is to identify a reputable stud dog and track down the female dogs he has mated with recently. Step 5: Verify credentials It’s crucial to personally verify the credentials of a litter. A pedigree alone does not guarantee much. Check and confirm the temperament, health, and abilities of the litter. Temperament is especially important, as it influences the behavior of the adult dog. Health credentials must be confirmed through certificates, and abilities should align with your goals for the dog, whether it’s for competition or working purposes. Step 6: Choosing a litter Selecting a litter can be challenging, especially if there are multiple options that meet your criteria. Carefully review credentials and eliminate any litters that do not meet all three criteria. Consider the reputation of the breeder to further narrow down your choice.
How friendly and supportive is the breeder? Will she be there for you if you encounter any problems with your puppy? Has she offered to take the puppy back at any point if needed? If the answer is yes to all of these questions, then you’ve hit the jackpot with that litter. Trustworthiness is key when choosing a breeder. Consider the environment in which the puppies are raised. A breeder with many dogs may keep her pups in an outdoor kennel, but they should still have plenty of interaction with the family. It’s crucial to be selective and follow guidelines on how to identify a good breeder versus a bad one to ensure your puppy’s health and temperament are well taken care of. When deciding on the gender of your puppy, consider personal preferences rather than generalizations. Both male and female Labradors have their own characteristics and care needs. It’s important to be aware of the differences and choose wisely based on your lifestyle and priorities. Lastly, choosing your puppy is an exciting step. Bringing along someone experienced with choosing puppies can be helpful, or rely on the breeder for guidance. Even if there’s a choice, predicting a puppy’s future temperament or appearance accurately can be challenging. It’s essential to have your vet check your new puppy shortly after bringing them home to ensure their health and wellbeing. Make sure to gather all necessary information and guidance to make the best choice for your new furry friend.
You can click on the provided link to learn more about the initial days with your new puppy. Remember to also join our online forum for assistance and encouragement as you navigate life with your adorable new furry friend! If you appreciate Pippa’s writing, you should check out her bestselling book, the Happy Puppy Handbook, which is now available in many countries besides the UK.
