Tips For Locating Responsible And Reputable AKC Lab Breeders

By Jose Wilson


If you have decided to introduce a new puppy into your family, you have several choices. You can visit the local animal shelter, take a free puppy from a friend, buy one from a private owner, or purchase a purebred dog from a professional breeder. When you have your heart set on a pure blooded Labrador, your next step is to find reputable and ethical AKC lab breeders.

The American Kennel Club website is one of the easiest ways to get information about specific breeds. On this site, you can research animal traits and characteristics, join clubs, and find out what special events are planned in your area. You will no find recommendations for individual breeders however. The kennel club doesn't provide that. The site does have links to help you find what you need.

Some people who run kennels also have full time jobs outside them. If no one answers the phone when you try to contact a breeder, it doesn't necessarily mean they are unreliable. You may initiate contact over the phone or by email, but you can't commit to purchase an animal without seeing the facilities. You will have no idea what kind of conditions your puppy was living under otherwise.

If a breeder doesn't want you to tour the kennels, or tries to steer you away from certain areas, you should see a big, red flag. There should be no problem with you having free access to the public areas. The puppies should be happy to see the breeder and act in an energetic and friendly way. There should be no animals looking underfed or sick.

Any reputable breeder is going to be something of an expert on the dogs she handles. It's not unusual for purebred dogs to inherit diseases and health conditions. If you haven't already researched this information, you need to ask the breeder about it, and about the genetic background of the puppy you are interested in. You can also ask if the parents are available for you to see.

Reputable breeders are protective of the puppies they have for sale. Many require new owners to sign contracts agreeing to relinquish a puppy to the breeder if they are not able to care for the dog, or aren't caring for it properly. A good breeder can judge whether or not a buyer is a good match for the puppy they want.

The AKC does inspections of kennels periodically, and if they find offenses, a breeder can be fined and penalized by losing their privileges. When an inspector is especially concerned she will contact law enforcement. You can find out if the breeder you are working with has had issues with the club by visiting the AKC's website.

Introducing a puppy into a family unit should be fun, challenging, and rewarding. Starting off on the right foot is essential. Before you ever bring a dog home, you need to make sure the breeder isn't hiding a puppy mill behind a bogus AKC certification. In case you do find this, contacting the club immediately is critical.




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