Breeding Philosophy
We started breeding Labrador Retrievers as a hobby in 1995, catering mainly to the pet market. I was an active pheasant hunter and had several yellows, who I thought at the time were good hunters. In 1998, I started training with a group of folks who had done field trials in the past and were now playing the hunt test game, and quickly learned the difference between a “dog that had a good time out hunting” and a well trained dog. I got hooked and immediately started improving our breeding lines to reflect a solid hunting background, while maintaining the size and fantastic temperament labs are known for.
I started running hunt tests and closely screening future breeding stock not only for hip, eyes and elbow dysplasia, but any other genetic defects that could harm the breed if allowed to continue unchecked. We watched other dogs in competition and inquired of their habits and energy levels as pups, and sought out the stud dogs that best complimented our girls.
Today, we maintain the highest standard of selective breeding based on temperament, size, natural hunting ability and energy level to end up with pups that will fit in their new homes as competitors, hunters and, most importantly, the family pet. We spend countless hours socializing the pups as a litter and individually in a family environment.
Around 4 weeks of age, we wean them from mom and start their next stage of development, being introduced to lots of toys and testing their sea legs. At 5 weeks, clipped pigeons are introduced and from that point on, are thrown in the whelping box several times a week. Many will never see a bird in their new homes, but the excitement this creates for retrieving and chasing will do them good regardless of their future, and those wanting a hunting dog will be able to develop that desire with ease. All pups start spending time separated from the litter, and once back in the whelping box have a crate to get used to.
By day 49, they are ready to be with their new owners. They will have been wormed twice, vaccinated and vet inspected at 6 weeks, as well as dew claws removed at day 2. They will also have spent a lot of time playing with the kids and being exposed to normal household noises and occurrences. It’s a lot of hard work, but the countless compliments, numerous referrals and repeat business keep us going, adding new pedigree lines to our stock annually. Please feel free to contact us with any specific questions you may have.