I really want to learn more about conformation. It was recommended to me that I get in contact with a breeder whose lines I liked and see if I could tag along and help out - while learning. I've heard really terrific things about this breeder, from other reputable breeders. First, I already contacted the specific breeder I'm talking about, to ask about her co-own contracts. The first time she didn't answer, I emailed again (like 2-3 weeks later) and she responded with a very short, non-informational message and I replied again and the third time she gave me some valuable info. So, I emailed her (WAY later) about if it would be possible for me to go with to some shows and help out. So far I've gotten no response and I emailed her April 23. Should I try calling, email again or look elsewhere?

Do you have a Labrador retriever club in your area? They can be very helpful and may be able to answer your questions or point you in the right direction.

The Huron River Retriever Club is huge in Michigan. You might want to start there.

Do you have a Labrador retriever club in your area? They can be very helpful and may be able to answer your questions or point you in the right direction.

I do :) I have contacted several of the breeders from there, heard back from most. With summer coming though, I know everyone is really busy. The lady that just responded to my Working Certificate email (from the club website) was one of the breeders that did not respond to my original email. I don't want to badger anyone but I do want them to know that I'm serious. Plus, I'm kind of looking for someone that wants someone to come along to learn. I don't want to obligate anyone into taking me. One of the breeders I talked to that was out-of-state said she would be flattered if someone approached her about something like this, I'm hoping to find someone in my area that feels the same way :)

I would suggest you go to shows in your area and watch and learn. Mingle with the breeders. Ask questions. But don't approach them if they are getting ready to go in the ring.

Good luck.

Can you join the club and start attending events? Emails to busy breeders who show alot can fall by the wayside. I remember when I was looking for the pup that would be Grace, I had communicated with a breeder I liked, but she rarely responded. I had met her briefly but still wasn't making an impact. I had a long time club member that knew her introduce me and that helped a little. Later on a different club member gave me a personal reference and finally this breeder started responding to me. I ended up not getting a pup from her anyway, but it goes to show that it's hard sometimes.

The easiest way I found to make some headway, is by joining a club and working with the members.

I would perhaps contact her again just to make sure she got your last e-mail, or tell her that you were planning on attending the "such-and-such" specialty show and ask if she will be there so you can meet.

I have gotten soooo many mentors through my involvement in my local lab club, it has been a truly amazing experience. Not all lab clubs are this newbie-oriented, though. I would definitely second Jen's idea to join and get involved. Volunteer in any way you can so that people see that you're really serious about wanting to do this. Sometimes, it can be easy to seem "too good to be true" over e-mail, so some breeders could be wary... Just a couple of thoughts?

And volunteering at events is pretty easy. You don't have to know anything about showing, how dog shows run, or anything like that. I sold programs, helped take down the tents at the end of the show, carry coolers of cold drinks to judges...then there is alot of down time to watch the event, talk to current club members, ask questions, just to make sure they know who you are. It's truly amazing how invaluable that can be to getting your foot in the door.

Fallon, there are a ton of shows in your area coming up.

There is a show this weekend in Midland, many HRLRC members are at the Miami Valley Lab specialty in OH right now, there is a triple cluster the 23, 24, 25 (Holland, Grand Rapids, and Kalamazoo KC's) in Kalamazoo, Mt. Pleasant's KC is June 7.....

PM who you contacted and I can tell you what to expect. The HRLRC peeps are busy, and are naturally wary about newbies in the sport. You gotta pay your dues, so to speak. I can give you an idea of some of the personalities though. Are you going to compete in Rally or agility with your boys this year? Get out there and introduce yourself. If you come to Mt. Pleasant, I can show you around the logistics of the show atmosphere if you want.

Thank you everyone for your responses and help!! Particularly for the stories that come from experience, I really appreciate it! :)

Dani - I sent you a PM :)