Why breed? Why not just rescue or shelter? Why do your dogs cost so much?
We believe in making dogs that are of the highest quality in temperament and health. A dog from the Humane Society or rescue will end up costing about $100-$200, will have no papers, health record or any other predictability of temperament. If adopting is what you seek, that is certainly fine, those dogs definitely need loving homes.
The period of early socialization is also very important. Young pups need to be exposed to a lot of new experiences, and this helps them deal with stress and new situations throughout their life. Ever hear someone say about their dog, “He was abused as a pup/before we got him/etc?” A lot of those dogs were just never socialized at the right time period and have a lifelong difficulty coping. As a rule of thumb, you generally get what you pay for so don't be afraid to consider all angles when purchasing a pup.
If you are looking for a lifetime friend that has an even temperament, health clearances, and is easy and willing to train, and born with a strong retrieving instinct, then be sure to research and purchase from a reputable breeder.
Over the 10-15 year life of your pup you will spend the same amount of money for food, heartworm/shots, training, perhaps hunting trips, dog supplies (crates, toys, etc.). Get the dog you want initially and you will be better off.
Our dogs are purposely bred infrequently. We are not trying to be a puppy mill to make a business. We breed one litter at a time for love of these wonderful loyal dogs.
What are OFA and or PennHip?
OFA is an organization that evaluates and records various health clearances. In Labradors, radiographs taken after 2 years of age evaluate hip and elbow conformation to help breeders select stock that minimizes the arthritis that occurs due to hip and elbow dysplasia. PennHip is a measurement based evaluation of the laxity of the hip joint. Both are good ways to screen breeding stock.
OFA also now certifies eye exams to provide clearances for heritiable eye problems. This replaces the older CERF exams.
What are EIC and CNM?
EIC and CNM are two inherited genetic diseases. EIC or Exercised Induced Collapse is a muscle disorder would cause a dog to collapse after a period of heavy exercise, while CNM or Centronuclear Myopathy is disease where the muscles of the Labrador do not develop properly and as the pup ages it will begin to stumble and fall when trying to walk. There are also difficulties in swallowing since the muscles in the esophagus are affected. This is a terrible lifelong disease.
Fortunately genetic testing has been discovered that allows a good breeder to check for these diseases to prevent any affected pups from being born. Dogs can be clear, carriers, or affected of these diseases. Being a carrier DOES NOT cause any problems, unless the dog is to be used for breeding, in which case it must be bred to a genetically clear mate.
Silver Labradors?
We do not breed Silver Labradors, and screen our stock genetically to make sure this gene is not present. There is much controversy over if this color truly came from purebred Labs, or if there were other breeds intermixed. If you are interested this site has a good summary: http://www.labbies.com/silver.htm