LABRADORS MAKE EXCELLENT FAMILY DOGS

BUT understanding the large amount of time that puppy training takes, selecting a puppy that is a good match for your situation,

proper socialization and correct training is the key to having a great family dog.


When looking up Labrador information I am sure you are a little confused. There are field lines, there are show lines (also referred to as “English” style), there are hunt test lines and there are Back Yard Bred (BYB) lines. Each of these have their own general attributes.

  • Field lines are bred to run AKC Field Trials. They need lots of energy, great noses, super high drive to locate downed birds and are hard wired to retrieve them. These dogs are actually larger, lankier and have the higher ears and longer muzzles (noses). They are not the prettiest, but if you want a hard driven hunting dog for water fowl that is what you should get. Field dogs normally do not look like what a Labrador should.

  • Show lines are bred to be family companions, show dogs and sometimes service or therapy dogs. They have less energy and a lower desire to retrieve. They are shorter, stockier and have a more chiseled head. These are what Labradors should look like, and most do like to retrieve, but they are not hard hitting field dogs.

  • Hunt Test Lines may be a combination of Field and Show lines. They compete in AKC Hunt Tests, which are much easier to win than Field Trials. These dogs can have a combination of looks and hunting drive. Some Hunt Test Breeders also compete in dog shows but some do not. These puppies should be understood and carefully selected for a families needs.

  • Backyard Bred (BYB) lines are usually a mix of field, show and other BYB lines. They are whatever Labradors the breeder can purchase and breed together to make money. This includes the “silver” breeders (silver is not an acceptable color). Sometimes they do not have health clearances, and sometime they are not raised in the breeders home, but they can have attributes that are all over the board. Extreme caution should be taken.

All Labradors can want to chew heavily between 4 months and 8 months of age when their adult teeth are coming in. As long as your Labrador puppy is provided plenty of safe items for them to chew on, and they are crated when you are not watching them, you will find that this is not an issue.

All of our puppies are evaluated before offering them to their new prospective families. Once a good match is made, the training process can begin to mold your puppy into a loving and well trained family pet. I provide articles on training, bonding and general problem solving as well as exercises to do with your new puppy. I encourage you to contact us at any time with any questions or concerns for the lifetime of your Labrador Retriever. 

We produce Labrador puppies that are loving, loyal and easy to train. They love kids, get along well with other dogs and are used to cats (we have two). There can still be differences in puppies however, so we must understand your families energy level and expectations. Though the final decision on which Labrador puppy you select is yours, I hope that you will take our advice to heart.