Can any of you tell me how you go about finding a good lab breeder?

[ilovetofu]

Just wondering where to start??

You could find a local gundog trainer and ask for recommendations - you'll probably be wanting his (or her) advice later, so you might as well build up a rapport with a good one now.

Even if you don't plan to work your dog, gun dog breeds really benefit from the right sort of training. It exercises their minds and tires them out while slowly turning them into civilised members of the household.

Thats an excellent idea thanks! @GrumpyMiddleAgedWoman

Thanks @feliciabirthgiver

Oh gosh @dreamingofbedtime that sounds like a nightmare!

@dreamingofbedtime consider a labrador rehome group, like Labrador Rescue UK? People often surrender their dogs for all sorts of reasons (family circumstances etc) and the rehoming organisations can often give you a better idea of the dog's temperament and suitability for you.

Thanks @StrictlyNameChangin

Whereabouts are you?

A friend of mine has a working lab from High House Labradors in Staveley.

We are in the south east @adaline
Is Staveley near Cumbria?

Yes, just outside of Kendal :)

Thinking about it, you could join a gundog page on FB and ask for opinions.

@Whatelsecouldibecalled thanks for pointing me in the direction of topgun labs. Had a good chat with them

When I was looking for a working golden retriever (because I wanted to do obedience as I had with my first Golden in the 90's) I joined a working golden ret Facebook group - I lurked and then carefully joined in - let it be known that I was looking for a pup in my area, that I wanted a bitch and was planning to do obedience. I made it clear I was planning for the future not looking for a pup right then.

I was messaged by someone who works her dogs, had three generations of bitches, only had a litter when she wanted a bitch puppy for herself. She was planning on breeding in 12 months time, asked to be Facebook friends so she could get to know me and see if I was the right person for her dogs

12 months later the litter was born, I was third on her list for bitches (after herself and the stud dog owner). Both parents winning field dogs, all my bitch's siblings are working dogs. The reason I was allowed to get on the list was because the breeder felt I could give the dog a stimulating life even though she wouldn't be doing field work. I wanted a dog from someone breeding to get their own working puppy because I knew they would be very picky about the heath and temperament of both sire and bitch. My bitch is 2.5 now and just what I wanted, doing well in obedience, loves her walks but happy to curl up after that.

A good breeder will NOT be keen to sell you a pup, they will give you a grilling, you will get on a waiting list but might not get a pup at the end of it if not enough are born.

ATM I've got two rescues on the sofa with me and the golden is crashed out in her bed. I'm all for rescues and you might find one that's perfect so yes, keep an open mind, consider why you might want a puppy rather than rescue etc. There are good reasons for both choices imo.

Good luck !

Has anyone warned you about the hair yet?

I am not particularly house proud but have, brushed ddog and vacuumed twice today and i am still sitting here looking at clumps of black hair on my carpet. They shed constantly, and twice a year have major moult that go on for weeks!!!!

You have been warned!! (Still love a lab!)

Ha! Thanks @BrokenWing yes its been mentioned once or twice 🤣

Thanks @Catsrus thats really helpful advice!