How to Pick a Lab Puppy

Great swimmers, loyal, friendly companions and great hunters are all words used to describe Labrador retrievers. If you are looking for a dog that will be good with children and easy to get along with, consider getting a Lab puppy. Choosing the perfect Lab puppy for you and your family may seem like an easy task, but you need to be careful. Remember you will be keeping this dog in your family for as many as 15 years. It is best to check the temperament and heredity of a Lab puppy before bringing it home.

Instructions

    • 1
      A good breeder will keep the puppies socialized around humans and dogs.

      Choose a reputable breeder. A reputable breeder will have health records for the puppies, specialize in only one or two dog breeds and have references from past clients available. The puppies handled by a reputable breeder will be well socialized. Their dew claws will be removed, and they will have their first shots. A reputable breeder will not allow you to take the puppy before it is seven weeks old.

    • 2
      Watch out for behavioral signals early.

      Watch the entire litter of Labrador puppies. Be wary of shy or aggressive puppies. It is best to avoid personality defects that will clash with your lifestyle. Try to choose a Lab puppy that is friendly and not overly hyper.

    • 3
      Choose a Lab puppy that seems friendly.

      Watch the litter to see if any puppies are biting and clawing. Choose a puppy that does not bite and claw excessively.

    • 4

      Inquire about the health records of the dam and sire. Ask the breeder for the health certificates and vet records of the parents of the Lab puppy. The vet records and health certificates will provide you with information about any genetic disorders or temperament problems. It is best to pass up the puppy if disorders such as epilepsy, progressive retinal atrophy or hip dysplasia are on the health records. These are hereditary disorders, and there is a very high chance that the puppy will develop them.

    • 5
      Make sure you have a very healthy Lab puppy before officially buying it.

      Check the puppy on the spot for any signs of illness. The Lab puppy should have a damp nose, clear eyes with no discharge, and clean, smooth fur. Check the gums of the puppy by gently lifting its lips. The gums should not be white or pale pink, which can be a sign of intestinal worms.