Labrador Retriever Club of the Chesapeake
Litter Listings
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Please read the following before proceeding to our Puppy
& Older Dogs pages:

The Labrador Retriever Club of the Chesapeake makes no warranties, expressed or
implied as to the condition of any dog being offered for sale, standards or practices of
any breeders, the quality of their animals, or the accuracy of any information contained
within this article.

The Labrador Retriever Club of the Chesapeake does not endorse, recommend or
guarantee any kennel, breeder, or dog listed herein.

Before Buying a Puppy

A dog is for life, think twice before buying a puppy.  Here are some things to think about before buying a
puppy.

Too many puppies and dogs end up in shelters because the buyer didn't think before he bought or it wasn't
a good match breed vs owner.

Don't hurry. Think before you buy. A puppy is for life 12 - 15 years commitment. Be sure that all members of
the family want a puppy or dog. If just one doesn't want one right now then the time isn't right.

Read more than one book, don't base your whole understanding of a breed on one generic description.
Read books on puppy raising and dog training. Narrow your breed choice to only one or two breeds that fit
your life style.

See the breed in person to see what the puppy will look like as an adult. Contact the National Breed Club
through the American Kennel Club. Basic information on the breed is available through their website or
through the club Secretary. Ask to be refereed to a local club representative who can answer all your
questions.

Attend local dog shows or performance events in which the breed participates. This will give you a good
idea of the puppy as an adult. Be honest with the breeder you contact about your level of knowledge on the
breed, puppies, and dogs. Before calling the breeder make a list of the questions you want to ask
Inform the breeder if you are ready to buy, have changed your mind, or still researching.

If you are not ready for a puppy but would prefer an older dog, some breeders have dogs that they are
looking to place or consider breed rescue.

Review your lifestyle before choosing a breed. Most pure breed dogs were bred for a "purpose". Please be
sure that you are aware of what they were bred for, what their habits will be, grooming, exercise required,
and health problems. Be sure to ask the breeder about the specific questions about their breed.
Ask yourself the following questions:

Do I want small or large, what is the space I have available for this puppy when it becomes an adult.

Coat Type for shedding:  If you have allergies stay away from long coated dogs. Choose a short coated
breed.

Grooming:  What type of coat do you have the time for grooming or the expense of sending the puppy to the
groomer.

Activity Level:  How active is your lifestyle? Are you a couch potato and want a dog that likes to cuddle.  Or
are you active and want a dog to go hiking?

Temperament:  Are you looking for a friendly dog or a protective dog? Or a combination of both.

Stay clear of Pet Shops, they are NOT breeders. They have NO experience with breeds and will not be able
to give you breed specific information. The health of the puppies from pet shops should be questioned.  

Do not buy a puppy at first sight. Beware of impulse shopping.  It is always better to think about it for 24
hours before you make the commitment.

Final and most important will you have time for this puppy? This puppy will have to go to obedience school.
Are you available to put this time into the puppy? You will get out of your puppy what you put into it.

We all want Canine Good Citizens.