What is DNA certification?

The AKC requires that any stud that sires 3 or more litters in a year or 7 or more litters in his lifetime to have a DNA sample coded and on file with them.  This procedure provides a means of verifying that the pups really are sired by him.

Red River Retrievers

Healthy, happy Labs—from our home to yours

 

Statistics indicate that 1 in 11 Labs has hip dysplasia, which is lower than many other large breeds.  The traditional belief is that hip dysplasia is genetic, but the most current research indicates similar incidence of dysplasia among offspring of affected and non-affected parents.  The best way to reduce the risk of hip dysplasia for your dog is to provide them with healthy food and moderate exercise to prevent obesity and injury.  The Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA) certifies the hips and elbows of canines through a 5-vet panel review of x-rays from your dog.  As our dogs reach the required 2 years of age we are having them screened and certified.  Charlie is already certified “good”.  None of our dogs, nor their offspring, show any sign of hip problems.

American Labs are taller and more athletic, bred for sport as well as pets.  English Labs are stockier, shorter, with blockier-shaped heads.  Both variations have excellent temperaments.  We breed only American Labs.

Yes. Within the Labrador retriever breed there are many variations in appearance, including varying shades of yellow, from almost white to classic yellow, to fox red, chocolate, and black.  The nose and eye color can also vary from light to dark.  There can be any combination of colors within a litter (but not multi-colored), depending on the genetic background of the parents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes.  All our dogs are AKC registered, meaning their pedigree is on file with the American Kennel Club, and they can be verified as pure-bred Labrador Retrievers. 

Are your dogs AKC registered?

Is it normal to breed two different colored parents together?

What is the difference between American and English Labs?

Should I be concerned about hip dysplasia?

Before bringing your puppy home, make sure to have on hand the supplies you will need, such as puppy food, food and water dishes, a collar and leash, and a mid-sized crate.

Puppies usually pass a lonely night their first night away from their litter mates.  It is normal for the puppy to whine through the night, even up to a few nights.  It is also normal for the pup to show little to no appetite for the first few days.  The stress of the new transition can also cause diarrhea.  This is no cause for worry.  To help your pup feel more at home, it helps to bring a blanket or towel, and allow it to mingle with the mother or other pups, to take home the familiar scent.  Sometimes a quiet radio and a nightlight also help.  You can add a little canned food to entice your puppy to eat if he doesn’t eat well the first few days, but we recommend hand-feeding, which promotes trust.   Click here for more info on training your puppy. 

How can I help my new puppy adjust to his new home?

What is CERF?

What is line breeding and is it acceptable?

CERF is the organization that certifies that a dog’s eyes are free from retinal dysplasia.  A veterinary opthamologist checks the dogs eyes and files are kept on record annually.

Line breeding is the common and accepted practice of breeding dogs together within the bloodline to promote desirable traits in the breed.  For more information visit this article on the AKC website.