Choosing a Labradoodle Breeder

Labradoodles have become very popular in the last few years for good reason. The Labradoodle is very intelligent, highly trainable and has a low to non-shedding - low allergy coat. Because of its popularity, there has been a ground swell of breeders advertising Labradoolde puppies.

Being a cross between a Poodle and a Labrador Retriever, you would think that almost anyone can breed Labradoodles. It really isn't that simple. Reputable breeders have spent considerable time and money in selecting only the finest breeding stock from various lines to produce the healthiest, happiest and most intelligent puppies.

Some things you need to do when evaluating a Labradoodle breeder:

1. Ask questions! Lots of them. If a breeder becomes agitated or dances around a question, you may want to keep looking.

2. Ask about the Labradoodle breed in general and see what they tell you? How does it stack up with your own research on the breed? (you did research didn't you?)

3. What type of health testing has been done on the puppies and the breeding stock? Can they provide veterinarian name to verify results and types of tests? Have the Labradoodle puppies had any vaccinations yet?

4. Ask for several references and be sure to check them out.

5. Ask about a written health guarantee for the puppy and what type of policy the have regarding problems that may arise. How long is the guarantee good for? What kind of support does the breeder offer after the sale? Can you call them?

6. Can you visit the facility? Some Labradoodle breeders have policies about seeing the puppies before a certain age, but can you see puppies from other litters, the parents or kennel facilities? Are the facilities clean and adequate for the well being of the dogs?

7. What type of socialization has the puppy been exposed to? Has it been around other pets, children etc?

8. What type of canine related organizations does the Labaradoolde breeder belong to?

9. Are the parents registered and can the puppies be registered?

10. Will you have to agree in the purchase contract to any kind of spaying or neutering of the Labradoodle puppy?

11. Does the breeder require a large non-refundable deposit? (Can be a warning sign)

12. What type of diet have the Labradoodle puppies been fed so far?

13. A good Labradoodle breeder will almost always ask you questions or have you fill out some type of application. If they truely love the animals, they will also have concerns as to what type of future the puppy may have.This is a good thing if a breeder asks you questions.

I hope this helps you in your search for a Labradoodle puppy and breeder.