| 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!!! |
