Labrador Pup - What physical features do I look for when selecting a pup?

Question

We have 4 males to choose from. Apart from the obvious features of having 4 legs, 2 ears..........................for all you comedians out there

Answer 1

you want good angulation in the rear,, correct shoulder lay back,, scissors bite, read the "standard" for labs at AKC.ORG.... ps,, if you went to a reputable breeder,,, they would show you the differences between pet quality and show quality pups,, they would also point out to you the positives and negatives of each pups conformation.. and they usually would not let you pick a pup they would match the temperament of the pup to your temperament, lifestyle etc..

Answer 2

Well it depends what you want the dog for!! If it just a general pet go for a good natured pup, the one that most excited to see you!! If you have plans to show ur dog then make sure that it is Kennel Club registered. Have a Kennel club registered dog is also a good idea any why as you can check if there is a family history of bad backs or other medical problems which could cost you a small fortune in vet bills. If you plan to go shooting with ur Labrador, then make sure the dog doesn't shy easily the key trick is a good one as mentioned by the other guy!! A good strong build is another key factor if you wish to shoot or show with it.

Answer 3

ok firstly when picking -select from a breeder who is reputable and they will help you pick the BEST for your purpose, show/breeding, pet, hunting???

a reputable breeder will have shown the parents to PROVE they were worthy of being bred in the first place.

look at the dogs at play, if you have kids do not pick the most dominant dog, do not pick the most submissive dog.
then interact with the 2 other pups ( have the dominant one and the submissive one removed so you are only picking from 2)
look over their legs for straightness, see which is the smarter about retreiving toys and which one you think is the better pup on the whole.

Answer 4

The Labrador is a strongly built, medium-sized, short-coupled, dog possessing a sound, athletic, well-balanced conformation that enables it to function as a retrieving gun dog; the substance and soundness to hunt waterfowl or upland game for long hours under difficult conditions; the character and quality to win in the show ring; and the temperament to be a family companion. Physical features and mental characteristics should denote a dog bred to perform as an efficient Retriever of game with a stable temperament suitable for a variety of pursuits beyond the hunting environment.

The most distinguishing characteristics of the Labrador Retriever are its short, dense, weather resistant coat; an "otter" tail; a clean-cut head with broad back skull and moderate stop; powerful jaws; and its "kind," friendly eyes, expressing character, intelligence and good temperament.

Answer 5

You not only need to look at physical, but temperament...

Physically, you want a nice blocky head and squared off rear-side. Also, make sure you look at both the sire and dam, because they are a good indication of how this puppy will look when it's older.

With temperament, it depends on what you're looking for personally - If you want a rambunctious, energetic dog, then look for the one in the bunch that's always playing and the last to poop-out. If you want a quiet dog, look for the one that keeps to itself and doesn't stir things up with the group.

Answer 6

A puppy should be clean,with no discharges from eyes,ears etc,confident but not overly confident,not to fat or thin.You should also check breeders surroundings on where the pups were raised.Ask about worming,feeding etc.Alot of the time your drawn to one certain pup and you know thats the dog for you.I had to pick my dog from a litter of 10 and it was hard but he stood out,and he was mine.Good luck.

Answer 7

If the breeder is experienced, they should be able to assess which puppy will suit you and your family. It really depends on you & your experience & what the main purpose of owning the puppy is;
do you want it purely as a pet? To do obedience with? to show?
Here are 2 sites which should help:

http://www.labradorforums.co.uk/breederselection.html
http://www.labradorforums.co.uk/puppyguide.html
and another one which some breeders use:
http://www.gsdhelpline.com/puptest.htm

Answer 8

My dog was a showdog and they looked for how the hips were placed. Personality is the key though. If the dog is going to be in a home with kids, look for an outgoing personlaity, playfullness and how easy you can keep them inline. I hope I have helped.

Answer 9

Well you need to look for clean eyes, Nice coat, and definitely not messy bottom. You also want a coat that is a solid one color because if it isn't than it is not a lab. Also no runny nose, a wet nose but not runny!

Answer 10

you want a strong built...nice square head like shape and a good back line and a good stand. You also want to make sure they can walk good and are just in really good shape. Good Luck. oh adn also if your gonna breed him make sure that area is well devoloped.