Buying a Labrador
A new puppy is an exciting acquisition for your family.
There are many things to take into account when purchasing a new pup, the main one being the compatibility of your family with the puppy.
When choosing your puppy, it is of the utmost importance that it be healthy.
Please read on for some handy hints when checking its overall health.
- Firstly, a Labrador puppy must be cuddly and round from the very first instance.
He should be well proportioned too.
If he looks like a little porker, then that is a great sign! Conversely, if the Lab puppy is thin or if the ribs are visible, then this is a sign that he is either malnourished or sick.
- Labrador pups should have soft, luxurious fur.
Poor skin condition could be hiding beneath, so check thoroughly.
Bald patches or scars are signs of skin problems.
- It is important to examine a puppy's bottom on your initial visit.
This area can reveal many symptoms of its health.
A healthy puppy should have a clean bottom.
Diarrhea is an indication of illness or poor health.
White specks like rice around its bottom is another sign of poor health.
This is a warning that tapeworm and fleas are infesting the poor puppy.
Interestingly, the eating of fleas, can result in tapeworm.
So bottom inspection is a must.
- Inspect the eyes.
Stay away from pups which have red eyes or any discharge or weeping.
The eyes should be clear, shiny and inquisitive.
- The Lab pup should have bright pink gums and make sure his mouth is even and his jaws are aligned.
- Movement observation.
Healthy pups tumble around and waddle without signs of lameness.
- Check out the ears.
If you observe any discharge, inflammation or fleas, take it as a warning.
Observe him to make sure he isn't excessively shaking his head or scratching his ears.
Finding the right breeder makes choosing a puppy a lot easier.
Word of mouth is the best way of finding a first-class breeder.
Before purchase, check with the breeder if it's OK to have an independent veterinarian inspection.
Again, a reputable breeder won't have any problem with this and an independent check-up will give you complete peace of mind.
One final factor to consider when purchasing a Labrador pup is the price.
If it is too low, chances are you are not getting a bargain but more likely buying a puppy that is either misrepresented in his breeding or ill.
So for a full bred Labrador expect to pay approx AU$500 - $1200.
All the best in your new venture.
There are many things to take into account when purchasing a new pup, the main one being the compatibility of your family with the puppy.
When choosing your puppy, it is of the utmost importance that it be healthy.
Please read on for some handy hints when checking its overall health.
- Firstly, a Labrador puppy must be cuddly and round from the very first instance.
He should be well proportioned too.
If he looks like a little porker, then that is a great sign! Conversely, if the Lab puppy is thin or if the ribs are visible, then this is a sign that he is either malnourished or sick.
- Labrador pups should have soft, luxurious fur.
Poor skin condition could be hiding beneath, so check thoroughly.
Bald patches or scars are signs of skin problems.
- It is important to examine a puppy's bottom on your initial visit.
This area can reveal many symptoms of its health.
A healthy puppy should have a clean bottom.
Diarrhea is an indication of illness or poor health.
White specks like rice around its bottom is another sign of poor health.
This is a warning that tapeworm and fleas are infesting the poor puppy.
Interestingly, the eating of fleas, can result in tapeworm.
So bottom inspection is a must.
- Inspect the eyes.
Stay away from pups which have red eyes or any discharge or weeping.
The eyes should be clear, shiny and inquisitive.
- The Lab pup should have bright pink gums and make sure his mouth is even and his jaws are aligned.
- Movement observation.
Healthy pups tumble around and waddle without signs of lameness.
- Check out the ears.
If you observe any discharge, inflammation or fleas, take it as a warning.
Observe him to make sure he isn't excessively shaking his head or scratching his ears.
Finding the right breeder makes choosing a puppy a lot easier.
Word of mouth is the best way of finding a first-class breeder.
Before purchase, check with the breeder if it's OK to have an independent veterinarian inspection.
Again, a reputable breeder won't have any problem with this and an independent check-up will give you complete peace of mind.
One final factor to consider when purchasing a Labrador pup is the price.
If it is too low, chances are you are not getting a bargain but more likely buying a puppy that is either misrepresented in his breeding or ill.
So for a full bred Labrador expect to pay approx AU$500 - $1200.
All the best in your new venture.
