Before You Buy A Labrador...
Make Sure They Are Right For
You!!
   Every day, thousands of Labrador Retrievers are
euthanized in shelters across the country.  Most of the
time, these Labradors were 'gifts' or an impulse buy.  
Over time, they just become unwanted mouths to feed
and are eventually dropped off at the local shelter.  
Labradors dig, chew, jump, beg, bark, and SHED!!!  Of
course, they are dogs.  Before you decide if the
Labrador is the right dog for you, please visit my articles
page, then decide.          
   Labradors, like any pet, take time and money.  Labs
are a family oriented dog and prefer to be with their
humans at all times.  They don't do well locked in a
kennel or shoved in the back yard and forgotten about.  
They don't do well with owners who can't keep up with
their active lifestyle.  They don't do well with those
owners who prefer everything in its right place, clean,
and tidy all the time (tails and shedding take care of
that!!).  Be prepared to vacuum at least twice a week,
because, they do SHED!  
   Be prepared to attend an obedience class with your
Lab, so it won't become unruly and a bad canine
citizen.  Obedience classes can also help relieve some
of their energy.  Most Labs like to have a job to do.  Any
job, they will enjoy!  But, be warned.  If you don't give
them a job, they are likely to find one by digging up your
lovely landscaped yard!!!
   I believe the Labrador to be the best friend I could
ever ask for.  But they are not for everyone!  Please read
my articles page and do some extensive research on the
Labrador before you buy!
  There are many 'breeders' out there that are trying to make
a quick buck.... Don't be fooled!  A reputable breeder is
always active in a dog sport, whether it be in obedience,
conformation, agility, hunt tests, field trials, tracking, or any
combination of these sports.  Reputable breeders also do
health testing and certification by OFA, CERF, Optigen,
AVCO, OVC and a host of others.  Having Prelim's are NOT
enough..... Make sure the Sire and Dam have FINALS from
OFA.  Breeding stock cannot have a final certificate issued
from OFA until they are 24 months old.  Please, please do
your research before settling on a breeder!!!