We're Buying from a Breeder

[Roxyluvsme13]

Hmm...Well, I think a good reputable breeder would feed a good quality dog food, the puppies will have been to the vet quite a few times, and...you should be allowed to see the parents. Oh, and the place should be REALLY clean. Hope that helps

[buttercup132]

I see exactly where your coming from . Plus shelters don't know that they are purebred like the one here http://www.petfinder.org/pet.cgi?ac...l=Dog&preview=1
The very last one says Labrador Retriver! It's no way purebred look at that tail for one! Theres nothing wrong from buying from a breeder if they are good. Oh and Kay she already stated in her first post she wants a show breed lab because she likes the stockier type and they are less hyper then feild bred Labs(you might want to read the whole post!) As for looking for a breeder I will try and find you one I own TONS of the dog Canada magazines they ones they come out with that are packed with info and breeders.

[Karen]

Warning signs of a bad breeder:

A bad breeder won't let you meet the parents

A bad breeder won't let you see where the puppies live and play

A bad breeder won't ask for a spay/neuter contract signed as you do not plan on showing the dog

A bad breeder won't ask you to return the pup to them if something happens and you can no longer care for it

A bad breeder won't ask you questions about your time, ability to care for the dog, etc. A good breeder may ask so many questions you'll feel uncomfortable.

A bad breeder won't ask you about previous dog experience, patience, experience training, etc.

A bad breeder won't offer to show you that the parents are certified for hips, eyes, etc. A good breeder wouldn't think twice about it.

I congratulate you for being open to a shelter dog if one comes available that doesn't say it's unsuitable for a home with a child. Keep looking everywhere, and the right pup - from wherever it comes - will find you, and you, it.

Just because a dog is purebred doesn't guarantee its temperament, of course. Do ask to meet the parents, at least the mom should be available. Do "test" the pup for shyness or any other potential problems.

No one here thinks you are a bad person for looking for a responsible breeder, just keep in mind it may take quite a while to find one with pups to sell you, and that it will be expensive.

And remember, Labs are puppies for a LONG time. Your daughter will have to learn that anything left on the floor will be destroyed by puppy teeth - is she prepared for that?

[Crazy-Cat-Lover]

The only thing my daughter cherishes is her Pooh Bear stuffies! She NEVER lets them out of her site. The puppy will have lots of his own toys to play with and I will teach my daughter not to give puppy her toys. Whats hers are hers and what the puppies are the puppies. She has a pretty good understanding that puppies like to rip up toys - her Aunties dog Chester has demonstrated for her! She is really good with dogs and knows simple commands - she is so cute!

Thank you everyone that gave me such great information. Now I understand what to look for. I know what a BYB is and how they *operate*, I just didnt know a whole lot about reputable breeders. Here are all of the websites of the Lab breeders in BC...

Terrarust

Cedarbrae

Duckndogs

Gainspride

Hobocreek

Jandor

Rivers Edge

Shoremarks

Traynors

Tristar

I forgot to mention that money is not an issue for me. What is the normal price for a lab puppy? I have seen some for $300 and others for $1000+.