I cant seem to find any breeders though the internet in Las Vegas<NV Any one know or maybe help me find a directory somehow?. thanks.

Why not adopt a rescue, Ernie?

I know MISS LISA runs the LVLR (Las Vegas Lab Rescue) and she may be able to help you in that respect.

Unless you're looking for a show dog, consider adoption, as there's a lot of unwanted puppies out there.

First of all, Welcome to the board! Its great to have another Vegas member.. as there are only TWO of us, and Vegas is pretty big!

Secondly, very well said, Jason.

Ernie.. I am from Vegas- and as Jason said.. I run LVLR - There are plenty of dogs out there needing homes. I don't know any breeders by name.. but I know there are a lot of BYBs.( :nono: ) I bought my choco girl from one 3 years ago- and lost touch with them.

If you are not going to show- please consider adopting one in need. I could potentially have three within the next few days.

If you are going to show, or set on one from a breeder- I'm sure a lot of people on here can direct you to reputable breeders within the region. :)

Good luck, with whatever you choose!

I'll look into this thanks! Real quick question about that. I will be a first time dog owner. Wont it be easier to get a full breed pup, then an older rescue dog. Just curious since I have never owned a dog. Im still doing research. Thanks again

A lot of times, Ernie, by rescuing a pup, you'll be getting one that's already housetrained, through the biting stage, no longer chewing stuff, etc.

It's a noble thing to do, and if I could afford another pup, I'd do it in a heartbeat.

I am glad you are considering both options! :)

Honestly as a first time dog owner.. an older rescue dog (4-6) might be BETTER. Housetrained/obedience trained.. that sort of thing. With a puppy you will have ALL the work from the get go. I rescued Heidi when she was 4 and Kali when she was 2- they were already housebroken and trained and knew basic commands. With Pebbles, I had to go through the potty training, the chewing of EVERYTHING, all the typical lab puppy stuff. Honestly, I can't say I would NEVER get a puppy again.. but let me tell you, rescuing an older (but still YOUNG) lab was WAY easier!! AND I saved their lives. :) Double plus.

Also.. since you ARE a first time dog owner.. if you can, go check out the Tips to Owning a Lab section on my website (www.lasvegaslabradorrescue.com). It will give you a good idea of what to expect out of the labrador breed.

:D Any other questions.. I'd be GLAD to answer!

I will definatly consider it. When I get in the stages of looking for a pup. I will give you a call. Thanks. :)

Thank YOU! :) Hope to hear from you soon!

WOOHOO, another Vegas member! Ernie, be sure to check out the Las Vegas Lab Fest in the Event section. You'll most likely have a lab by then and you'll definitely have to attend! Not to worry though, Lisa will *so* hook you up :tup: She (and many other fabulous people on this board :D ) hooked us up a month ago with a 7 month-old pup and we couldn't be more pleased!!

We've had a lab and other dogs all of my life, but my first 8 week-old puppy was when I was 18. I seriously wanted to take her back within that first week (that goodness it wasn't a human baby!) due to everything Lisa mentioned above, but I kept her and she'll be 12 years old next week. I bought her from a reputable breeder here. Last year we got another puppy from the same breeder and she'll be 1 next week. If you are curious about speaking with a reputable breeder (they're not a BYB), I could maybe speak with them about your situation.

Not to scare (or insult) you, but in all honesty, they may not even consider selling you a pup since you've never owned a dog. Reputable breeders are pretty picky about who they sell a pup to and usually have no problem telling someone no. Our breeder had to tell at least 2 people no last year when we got our pup. One lady brought her grandchildren who she babysat for all day during the week. 2 of her grandkids did well with the puppies, but one of the kids was screaming her head off bloody murder and climbed up on the back of the couch to get away from the puppies that weren't even nibbling or climbing on her. The other person who was told no, said something off to the breeder (I wasn't present for that one) about training practices and where the puppy would be kept (outside) for most of the day. Both of these situations were given a quick: Sorry, but we don't think you'll be a good match for one of our puppies!

But of course, maybe these breeders could be fabulous mentors for you! I know I called them at least 3 times a week for two months when I was 18 with my first pup. Usually, I was just told to take a deep breath, count to 10, start over with the command/training I was trying to do at the time, and call them back when I needed to, LOL!! They are really great people!

Hey there! How funny that you replied. I JUST read your story on Lisa's website. Your dogs are really cute! Im not afraid of adopting. Are mixed labs as freindly as pure breds. Im a little concerned if they are mixed with dogs such as pit bulls because of how they are. but other than that. I will definatly consider adopting. Thanks for posting.

Mixed labs can definately be just as affectionate- likewise you could end up wtih a purebred that is aloof and not affectionate. Its hard not to stereotype dogs by breeding but they are individuals.

My lab mix is a dream- just as loving and cuddly as my purebred.

(and yes... she came from Lisa, too! ;) )

There are lots of purebred dogs looking for homes out there too... My purebred lab, Tyson, was adopted as was my mix, Rylie.

"Make adoption your first option! ;) "

Welcome!! Copper, our lab/golden mix was adopted and is the sweetest, gentlest dog I've ever met. I didn't want to go through all the work of a puppy and got Copper at 3 years of age. I don't regret one single thing about it and would adopt again in a minute. It will do your heart good to know you are giving a rescue dog a great home. :)

I can't begin to echo the advice you have already heard here...

That said, if you are stuck on wanting a PB pup from a breeder, please research how much work a puppy is, especially a lab.

They are SO very immature during the first few years even though they are a smart breed. I wonder why so many are given up on? Just this reason.

I just rescued a 4 month old lab pup in March and have a 6 month old pup as well. It's amazing, the rescue is much better behaved then my first pup, although lacking the commands/training the first one knows. I think rescued dogs just know you are their guardian angel and something comes out of them :harp:

Good luck! -BBD

I agree with Big Ben's Dad. I trained smaller, "normal" dogs when I was a kid (through basic and intermediate obedience) and I still had a hard time with a year and a half old lab. I was for sure there was something I was doing wrong. He was CHEWING EVERYTHING! The remote, a cell phone, MY GLASSES.....but it was just a puppy things, and labs are still puppies at that age.

I refuse to get a puppy. I can't deal with 2 years of pooping (big dogs make big poop, and my younger, Beau, is PB and almost 90lbs (with only about 5lbs he doesn't need!)), peeing, chewing, scratching, counter surfing, trash hunting, cat litter eating (oops, I forgot, he still does that) and all of the various other forms of destruction they come up with.

I just adopted my second older lab, a mix, probably part golden retriever? This is the most psychtic, playful dog I've ever met in my life. He went from cowering in the corner of a cage to jumping TWO FEET in the air everytime I go to throw a tennis ball. Labs aren't like some breeds that get boring when they get older. They are so active and so playful. And if you're new to owning a dog and aren't ready for the imminent destruction of a puppy, an older lab is perfect for you.

If it helps, when I was looking I looked for something in the 1 1/2-2 year range. Beau was a little younger, about 15 months, and Sammy a little older (my golden mix) at about 3 years.

You are getting wonderful advice on here ErnieV- they are all right. My black and yellow are mixed breeds, and they are just as sweet as my purebred. :)

Please let me know when you are ready, I can get some info from you, then just take our time looking for one that meets your wants and needs! :)

My 2 are mixes as well. We think maybe with Chow simply because their tails curl back up over their back and their tongues ar speckles pink and black. But they are the most people friendly dogs I've ever met.

I remember we rescued these 2 from the Morgan County Humane society when they were 8 weeks old. When they were 7 months old, we took a short vacation and left them at home. I remember never being so incredibly tired in all my life. When asked for my recommendations, I always tell people that are new Lab owners start with an adult. Many remain puppyish even at 4-5 years old. Most have no troubles bonding with a new owner if the owner is willing to do their part in the bonding experience (i.e. quality one-on-one time).

Lab pups are VERY energetic and smart and to keep them out of trouble you definitely have to have lots of time to spend with them. A tired puppy is a good puppy; a well rested puppy :goodbad:

So many end up in shelters
a) because the breed is so popular and
b) because many owners can't or aren't willing to put the time and effort into training to teach a 90# pup proper manners.

I say 90# because when they are 10 or 20# if they don't mind you can just pick them up and make them behave but usually by the time they are 1 year old they are full grown in size and that's when most people can no longer pick them up ;-) Being jumped on by a 20# pup may seem cute but being jumped on by a 90# pup that hasn't been trained is no fun at all.

Mine are now about 3 1/2 years old. When they go to puppy heaven, our next dogs will be adopted as adults.

Thanks everybody. My home and myself are not ready just yet to bring one home. I have to fix up my back yard and Might be getting a new job so I have to see how it all plays out. Then I will see if it is possible. I dont want to just get a Lab, then realize that I cant do the things neccesary to keep it happy. But when I do get a dog, It will definatly be a Lab. Thanks again for all you help.

They are the BEST dogs. Now that I know them and understand them more, I don't want anything else. (And they're even better when they hit about 2 and stop chewing!! lol)

Mixed labs can definately be just as affectionate- likewise you could end up wtih a purebred that is aloof and not affectionate. Its hard not to stereotype dogs by breeding but they are individuals.

My lab mix is a dream- just as loving and cuddly as my purebred.

(and yes... she came from Lisa, too! ;) )Ditto what Heather said. Ciara (adopted mix) is sooooo loving - she likes to snuggle, cuddle, and just be petted. She seeks us out for attention.

Zoe (PB) can be pretty aloof sometimes - I sometimes think of her as a "cat-dog". She'll walk right up to me and as I go to pet her, she'll turn away and walk off. At other times, she can't get enough attention and scratchies, but it's usually on her terms.

You can breed for temperment but certainly not individual personality, LOL!

I was going to ask, what happened to the other lab you were supposed to adopt last summer?

The Lab I was gonna get last summer from my wifes freind went to one of her co workers. She really wanted it and at the time, I was still undecided about labs. And my wife was a little worried about carpet pooping. (shes over that now LOL). But ive been doing research on the lab breed and Im sold on them. I need a nice fun loving lab, since I have a 3 year old. The pup got a good home so im happy for that. So when my home is ready, I will bring home a cute lab im sure =)

Since im getting such great responses. maybe you all can enlighten me bout Pure bred vs Mis lab health issues. Ive heard that pure bred are registered and will usually have better health issues (most of the time) than mixed breeds. How do you all feel about this issue. I might post this in the health section. Thanks again.

Ernie... I have to put my 2 cents in here... labs have been so overbred that many of the PB lines can have issues appearing. Tyson came from reputable PB breeder (the 1st owners paid $900 for him), I adopted him at 9 months and at 13 months he was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called exercise induced collapse... Completely new to their lines as I have contacted the breeder... he also has digestive issues, etc. Still he's my boy and I could NOT trade him for anthing else...

To me, generally speaking, mixed breeds have better health because they get the best traits/genetics from each parent. It's called hybrid vigor.

Jake the border collie is 9 and has had no major health issues, even being rejected from momma at 4 wks and coming home with me that early. Rylie (although only 10 months) also has no major issues... This is not to say that ALL mixes are problem free but IMO you have better odds...

Just to jump on the older dog bandwagon for a bit... There is currently an owner surrender PB black lab (5 yo female) at my local shelter- given up by their owner because they were moving and could only take one dog. To give you an idea of the information that you can get on an older dog that would unknown on a puppy:

She is great with kids, great with dogs, great with cats, has a pedigree, is registered, retrieves, swims, runs, plays, is quiet (no barking in her kennel) AND is so housebroken she won't even potty in her kennel at the shelter.

A dog similar to this is SO easy to introduce to your life, and with very little upset. It would be your dream transition. :)

I know you'll find the best match when the time is right. I applaud you for doing your research! :D

We have a 3 yr old daughter and adopted a 5 year old Lab girl, Amy, from our local Lab Rescue. She is THE BEST!!! She is sweet, housetrained, just perfect! We did not want to go through the puppy stage with a toddler - one baby is enough for us (LOL). Lab puppies can be a little rough and like to chew and bite (playing of course), so keep that in mind too! We saved a lab mix pup and that dog was so adorable, but bit like crazy! Those tiny teeth were super sharp. He was about 6 months old and we pulled him from death row. Anyway, after seeing a lab pup in action, we knew an adult was the way to go for us! :)
It wouldn't do any harm to go meet some older labbies!! :) :)

Good luck!

Heather's right about mixed breeds being heartier. Just the way it usually is. Soybean brought up a good point about puppy teeth! My kids at the time were 4 and almost 2 and had lots of scratches. Lots of freaking out by them too, but they got used to it. Still if they run around the house like madmen then I have to put Bodie on a down stay as he tries to join their fun the way he knows...by being mouthy. My 2 year old doesn't appreciate it! :)
Lisa has 3 possibly coming to her...I'm in love with the yellow. Lisa, can you show him? Oh, that's right. You said you aren't quite ready. When you are, this board is amazing with their rescues, so it will be the place to come for sure!
Welcome!

I'll look into this thanks! Real quick question about that. I will be a first time dog owner. Wont it be easier to get a full breed pup, then an older rescue dog. Just curious since I have never owned a dog. Im still doing research. Thanks again

I know a breeder in Las Vegas. Let me know if you want to get in touch with them.

Thanks again! Everyone. I really enjoy looking at this site. alot of info. Are older labs good with kids? or is it an easier transition when they are pups? Last question I PROMISE!

Thanks again! Everyone. I really enjoy looking at this site. alot of info. Are older labs good with kids? or is it an easier transition when they are pups? Last question I PROMISE!

It all depends on the dog!!
If you have children, be sure to make that a MUST on your search. You may want to make the "introduction" (of children and dog) slowly at first, until you see for sure they will get along. :)

To me, generally speaking, mixed breeds have better health because they get the best traits/genetics from each parent. It's called hybrid vigor.

i completely agree. i have a PB lab that we got from a friend that could no longer keep her and we've been in the vet several times for things i hadn't given a second thought to. i also have a mutt of some sort and he is incredibly healthy and hardly reacts to anything at all.

as for how they are with kids. i would actually prefer to go with an older one that was raised with kids or been around them and knows to mind there manners with them. if you get a puppy, there may be dominace issues as the pup gets older and that could be a definate problem.

I agree! You can guess how an older dog will react, but you have no idea what a puppy will grow in to!

My original lab (he's younger, bigger, and I had him first so I'm not sure if he's big brother or little brother lol) is the BEST wish kids. Handles my 2 year old neighbor like a PRO. Not sure about Sampson yet, only on day 15 with him, thats one of those things yet to try. I NEVER worry about Beau in Petsmart or anything like that. Kids can sneak up behind us and throw their arms around him, and he just stands there for them, but as soon as they take a half step away.....KISSSSSSSSS! lol Juicy lab kisses that leave kids squealing!

The thing I loved about going through a lab rescue was that I could list everything on my application that was a MUST for my family.
My main priority was my little girl, I wanted her to be safe and loved by our new dog. We also had other stipulations (so to speak) that he/she be house trained, calm, good with other pets, and have a gentle nature. The rescue we went through showed us ONLY the dogs that she had that would fit our family. She had cute little puppies and younger adults, but she knew what we wanted and only allowed us to meet the candidates that met our qualifications. THANK GOODNESS! We could have been swept away by a "young pup!"
Just look at this:


http://www.candleacscents.com/images/LisaandAmy1.jpg

We could not be happier!!! We are so blessed with our lab! We rescued her in December. She will be six years old the 19th of this month. She is so very lively! She loves to swim, fetch, run and jump!!! She is also very calm in our home with our little girl. She sleeps right by her bed side every night....almost like to protect her. If our little girl comes to our room because of a bad dream, Amy follows right behind.

Please do not discount a rescue! Good luck~ :)

Thanks everyone!

Here's a question for you...Has your 3-year-old ever been around dogs? Just in case your child might be afraid of dogs or that he/she knows how to act around and treat a dog nicely - you know, not pulling on tails, ears, skin, etc.