Our Black Labrador is now 15months old and we will be seeking a stud dog for her. We have had her hip score, elbow score and eyes tested with all very encouraging scores. How do we go about looking for a suitable stud dog in the Essex and surrounding counties area? Is it best to ask the kennel club for this information or go back to the breeder where Jane came from?
From Katherine

Hi Katherine,
Well done on getting the tests done! Unless you know the individuals in Jane's pedigree well, your best bet is to ask her breeder for advice on which line is likely to give you the best result. At least you have plenty of time as you won't want to mate her before she's 2 years old. Good luck! :)

It`s lovely to see some one getting all the tests done and taking there time finding a suitable dog! well done and good luck

ASSUming your bitches breeder was a responsible one, then that would be your best route. if they weren't, you must question why they bred her initially.Remember, no matter how good your health checks, it doesn't neccesarily mean your bitch is of good enough quality to merit breeding from.
good luck whatever.

Hi, have you thought about joining the Lab club/s, there is a parent club and many regional ones. You could also visit shows in your locality, see the dogs and speak to the owners/breeders there. The best dogs are usually shown at Championship shows, you can find where/when on the kennel club web site. As she is a maiden bitch find a very experienced breeder/stud dog. Congratulations on her health tests results. It goes without saying that you want a stud dog with a low hip score, ideally total under 10, but up to 15/16 is reckoned to be ok.

Katherine
if you intend keeping a puppy do you want another black labrador or a yellow one because all this is important in choosing a stud dog, if the breeder is responsable they should be able to help. is she bred on working lines or show line because not many people mix the two i am trying to help, you are being very sensible getting all the tests done etc. so go to the breeder if not one of the best Lab kennels in the country is surrey Leospring Labradors mrs j venturie rose 01428 643474 hope this helps

Dave