Merlin’s Magic Words

Mike June 8th, 2008

Hey out there in cyber-space.   Another breeding season is over and we placed 23 chunky pups with their new owners.   From breeding three females the last week of February and into March to the special feedings, the blessed events and the raising of the sausages it was all worth it.   We sent off our last pup on the 7th of June and the joy these folks had on their faces was worth the wait.   Four months of hard work ensures that my breeding stock are the best kept dogs on the planet.   We’re finishing up on the kennel with new lighting and fans along with bug zappers and electric forced air heat.  One of our pups went in trade to a contractor who will be helping me with some of the more complicated needs for the kennel.  I have to explain to visitors that the supposed “guest house” is in actuality the kennel/pump house and yes, one of these days we hope our home looks as good.  We have not increased our rates for our pups since we started  breeding our Chocolate Labs and may have to raise our rates in the future.  I have always said that I am more interested in my pups owners having less money and more time to spend with the pup.  But the reality is that my costs are going up.(Pet food by 20%, Vet bills by 50%, Licensing by 20%, Fuel by 75%, and the list goes on and on.  Materials for the kennel are up as well and I can only guess what the shipping bill is going to be when I send a pup off to the Mid-West.

I have had a number of folks telling me that my pups are way under valued and that I should be charging a whole lot more for these guys.  I know that pups are going for $800 to $1,200 out in California and on the East Coast but I don’t think a whole lot more is in the best interest of my future adoptees. I think 20% would still be a good value for the pups new families.  If I was to charge $400 and $500 respectively for males and females with the parents hips having been certified, I think most folks would feel they were still getting a good deal.  When people tell me what they paid for the choking hazards that they are carrying around I know that these new rates can’t be out of line for a “real” dog.  Not that I have a problem with people who live with a miniature what-ever, it’s just that I’m more in tune with a dog that can be a companion, and friend than with a Shit-sue that can squeak and look good in a baby carriage.  So these are my thoughts on the cost of pups in the future and only time will tell.

• Breeding
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Mike April 21st, 2008

Seems like a lot of folks are looking for a good family dog.  There a number of reasons why a labrador retriever is the excellent choise.  The first is that these dogs are very social animals.  They become part of the family in every sense of the word.  They want to be with the family all the time, but are willing to wait for your return if they can’t come with you.  I love the ease with which these dogs can be trained.  From potty training to high end hunting skills, these dogs can learn it all with the proper handling that their owners can give with love.  If you must admolish these guys, never use your hand or foot.  A roll of newspaper slapped on your hand will be enough in most cases to make them aware that they have made an error and they will do anything to make you happy.  Their love is unconditional.  It is always best to train these guys one on one with as little other stimulation present as possible.  Trying to train your pup around other dogs is not going to work.  Try to get them alone and  paying attention before the training comences.  And lastly,  have fun.  You can learn a lot from your pup and what makes him or her tick…   Remember, you are training the dog, not vis-versa.  Enjoy.  

• Training
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