Does the puppy appear Healthy?

A good healthy puppy will have clear, shiny eyes that are free from discharge. Its coat will be glossy with a minimum of flaking skin. It should be alert and playful. How about its litter mates and the dam? Look around at others in the litter, all should appear healthy and well fed. It is also wise to consider the cleanliness of the puppy’s surroundings. Look around for any fecal matter that may not have been removed yet. Is the stool well formed or sloppy? A clean environment and robust family of dogs are very good signs.

How is the mother’s temperament?

If the sire and the dam are present, how do they behave? A surprising amount of behavior is inherited. Also, the puppies’ environments have a great deal to do with their personalities. The parents may be one of the best indications of the future temperament of your new puppy.

Have the parents’ hips been radiographed (x-rayed)?

Hip dysplasia is a potentially crippling abnormality of the hip joint formation that, unfortunately, does occur in the Labrador Retriever. While there are several factors involved in hip dysplasia, it is well known that it is at least partly inherited. It may take several years for the painful arthritis associated with hip dysplasia to become apparent, but the hips can be checked by x-ray examination before breeding. Making sure that both parents, and as many of their relatives as possible, are radiographed free of hip dysplasia will help you to avoid this sad condition.

Have the parents had their eyes examined?

Unfortunately again, some Labradors may have inherited eye defects that could lead to vision loss. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a disease in which blindness will gradually develop. Subtle changes in the appearance of the retina (part of the inside of the eye) can indicate that tendency. Retinal Dysplasia is generally a non-progressive eye disease that causes varying degrees of poor eyesight, but rarely total blindness. Juvenile Cataracts are spots of abnormal coloration deep within the lens. They generally do not effect vision and are non-progressive. Only veterinarians with special training (ophthalmologists) and special interest in eye diseases can give an authoritative opinion on the health of the eyes of you puppy’s parents.

Does this puppy have show, field hunting or obedience potential?

Even with outstanding pedigrees, not every puppy will have the qualities sought after in the show ring, field, or obedience ring. If you’re not sure, ask other breeders for opinions and advice. Check the pedigrees for the blending of lines that will produce the best possible animal. Members of the Shawnee Mission Labrador Retriever Club will be happy to assist you in these areas.