Choosing a Puppy

Tips for making an Informed Decision

There are many theories about selecting the Labrador puppy that is best for you and your family. Don’t imagine there is one golden rule but rather identify things that will improve your chances of getting the puppy you want. Hopefully these ideas will get you on the right track.

Don’t rush the process

Make sure you will have the time to care for the pup when they come home – they’re still babies!

Look at a couple of litters. Don’t buy the first pup you see. Visit the litter when they are around 4 weeks of age. Any earlier and they all look alike – loveable little slugs!

Talk with the breeder about your needs and let them help you make the choice.

Be realistic & observant

Know what sort of dog you are looking for. If you are looking for a friend who will lie under your feet while you read the Saturday papers then the liveliest and bounciest little pup of the litter might not be for you!

Look at the mother and watch how she interacts with the puppies and you. Whilst she may be protective of her puppies she should not show any aggression to visitors.

Use a responsible breeder

Look at the kennel and the breeders. What condition have the pups been kept in and how do the breeders interact with the puppies and their other dogs?

Find a breeder who spends quality time socialising the litter.

Ensure your puppy is vet checked and comes with the Dogs Victoria certificate of pedigree.

What you should expect from the person who sells you a puppy:

When purchasing a puppy from a Dogs Victoria breeder, you should always check that their membership with Dogs Victoria is current.  Members of this organisation sign up to its Code of Practice for the breeding and welfare of puppies, and it also confirms that they are able to provide you with registration papers for your new purebred puppy.

Click here to search the Breeder Registration for Minamere Labradors (this is an external link) and other responsible breeders.

A responsible breeder will supply you with the following information to help ensure that your puppy has a good start in life:

  • Evidence that your puppy has been microchipped and instructions on how you can update this record.
  • A vaccination certificate which shows vaccinations given, when the next ones are due, and evidence of the puppy’s age. It is against Dogs Victoria’s Code of Practice to sell a puppy under eight weeks of age. 
  • ANKC Certificate of Pedigree (papers) – puppy is usually on the limited register if it is going to be a pet.
  • When it was treated for worms and how often it needs to be treated in the future.
  • A feeding guide. 
  • Information on the puppy’s likely nature, temperament, size and care requirements. 
  • Details of any hereditary diseases or health problems which are known to affect the breed. 
  • Information on responsible pet ownership, in particular care and welfare of the puppy, the time and facilities required for proper management (socialisation, exercise, adequate fencing, sufficient space and proper shelter). 

If you need any further information you can contact us by calling Jane on 03 52503194 or emailing janeparsons@bigpond.com.