How to Identify a Back Yard Breeder

If you are beginning your search for a new lab puppy it is crucial you find a breeder dedicated to the health and well being of the breed. Many times you'll hear about "Back Yard Breeders" but what does that mean and how does that differ from a reputable breeder? Let's take a look.

Reputable Breeder:

1. Performs all genetic and health testing recommended by the breed's parent club. For labrador retrievers, this includes testing for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, annual eye exams, annual cardiac exams, and DNA genetic testing for exercise induced collapse, D Locus (dilute), centronuclear myopathy, and prcd-PRA. They will happily, and proudly, provide proof through OFA Certificates.

2. Only has one or two dog breeds they work with.

3. Has only a few litters per year and oftentimes has an extensive waiting list.

4. Screens potential buyers through puppy questionnaires.

5. Requires contracts and purchase agreements.

6. Will require an owner give their dog back if they find themselves unable to care for it, no matter how old the dog is.

7. Participate in breed-related activities. This could be conformation shows, hunt tests, therapy work, or other titling such as canine good citizen and scent work.

8. Breeds their dogs at appropriate ages and retires them in young adulthood. A breeding female should not be a litter factory!

Back Yard Breeder:

1. Has minimal, if any, health testing on their breeding dogs. Testing costs a lot of money and back yard breeders don't want to lose any profit.

2. Has frequent litters available, perhaps breeding multiple different dog breeds.

3. Reluctant or unable to share pedigree charts and OFA certificates.

4. Does not screen potential buyers nor require a contract for purchase.

5. Breed's dilute colors not recognized by the AKC. These include silver, charcoal, and champagne labs.

6. Sends puppies to their new homes before 8 weeks of age.

Many times I hear that well-bred dogs are just too expensive, but choosing an ethical breeder minimizes risks, like that $12,000 bilateral hip dysplasia surgery. On average reputable breeders spend more than $10,000 on each dog in their program by the time health clearances and titling are done. By choosing a reputable breeder you are helping preserve the labrador retriever and making the statement that animal welfare is more important to you than breeding for profit. I think I can safely say, on behalf of all reputable breeders, if you can't afford a well-bred dog please contact your local rescue!

Adopt OR shop, but do so responsibly.