If he is considering maybe rescuing an older dog, that would be far different than a puppy or young dog, particularly with Labs. Encourage him, if you can, to give her a stuffed Lab, with a note attached that says "redeem for a real dog, when we meet the right one!" For years I kept a "baby bunnie certificate" that Paul gave me that was good for one "baby hatchling bunny as soon as we have a house with a yard." It was, of course, finally redeemed for a certain Miss Hoppy!