By Alden & Jennifer Little

As we slide into another duck hunting season, many of you are realizing how great it would be to have a great hunting retriever. Although it may be too late for this season, buying now can pay off tremendously for next year. Christmas time offers a great opportunity to purchase good quality pups. But don't let holiday excitement interfere with what is truly a very serious purchase. It will require some re-search on your part which will give you a better understanding of the processes involved in producing fine litters of pups.

It is also no secret that Labrador retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in America and beyond. This says a lot for the breed as far as trainability and temperament. However, it also opens the door for many people to cash in on the popularity by breeding and selling litters of pups without much knowledge or forethought. This can actually hurt the integrity of the breed. Being selective and doing your homework will make the whole experience better for all involved. Look at the purchase of a new pup as a companion you may have for years to come, as well as an investment. If you are considering buying a pup for a child, be prepared to teach the child how to properly take care of a dog; or in most cases, be prepared to take care of the bulk of the responsibility yourself.

When choosing where you will buy your pup, only look for reputable breeders. References and referrals go along way in this process. Stay away from what you know are commonly called "puppy mills." After you have chosen a breeder, don't be afraid to ask questions. Ask to see the sire and dam, their proof of registration and pedigrees, and where the puppies are kept. This area should be clean (aside from the occasional puppy accident) and well ventilated. Hold the puppies up and smell the puppies. Naturally, pups will have that distinctive puppy smell, which is okay. But a strong unpleasant smell, such as the urine/ammonia or feces odor, most likely signals a not-so-clean environment. Also ask what kind of food they are eating (it should be a puppy specific formula). It is best to continue with the same food, only gradually making a change if necessary. This will prevent any digestion problems. Ask for shot records and a general health guarantee. After you have gone through all of this, go with your gut instinct. You'll know when you have found the dog for you.

Meeting a puppy's basic needs at home ahead of time will make the homecoming a pleasant experience. Adequate shelter, whether inside, outside, or in the garage, should be planned in advance. You will be responsible for supplying food and water, love, exercise, socialization, training, and the overall safe environment needed for a healthy pup. Let the whole family be a part of the process. After all, this will be a new member of your family.

CHOOSING A NAME: Like most people, you probably put a lot of thought into the registered name and call name of your new pup. It is very important that the dog become very familiar with his or her name. Make sure to call the name frequently during playtime and when greeting him. It won't take long before he recognizes the word as an address to himself and will respond with enthusiasm. Try not to choose a name that too closely resembles the sound of a command you will use in the future. For example: "Lil" and "Heel", "Mack" and "Back", or "Kit and "Sit." It may not seem vital now, but it could cause confusion for a dog during more formal training whether for obedience or for the field.

COLLAR BREAKING: the first time you pace a collar on a puppy, they will probably resist and try desperately to pull it off. Not to worry. as long as you have purchased a comfortable fabric collar that is well-fitted, and not too heavy, the pup will grow accustomed to it very quickly. Make sure to buy one with graduated sizes for growth, but not so big that you have a loose end dangling around his neck.

LEASH BREAKING: Only after he is content with a collar should you introduce a leash. Relatively speaking, we do not intend for you to use a heavy leash like you would for a grown dog. A simple cord or thin rope will do just fine. Use something inexpensive and keep plenty of it around. All you need to do is attach the 10-15 ft "leash" to the collar and let him drag it around for a while. Be sure to keep a close eye on him during this phase because he will undoubtedly tangle himself in and around anything in his path. Never let him get caught in a dangerous or frightening situation while on leash. and never use it to "tie up" the dog. Everything in teaching should be positive. Keep in mind that you are only introducing the leash as a tool; as an extension of you. Once the puppy is comfortable with it, you will start using the leash to control his movements even encouraging him to walk with you and establish boundaries.

Whether your intention is to use your dog for hunting and field work or as an obedient friend, these early steps will help form a proper foundation for a sound and well-adjusted dog.

As always, your questions and comments are welcome. Contact us at either our home office (334) 366-4732 or at our kennel office (205) 755-6508. You may also contact us through our website www.tru-line-retrievers.com.

Have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!