RSS Feed
|
Beware the boastful breeder, those who loudly proclaim themselves as the best in the country, the pinnacle of excellence in the world of Labrador retrievers. It’s essential to approach such bold claims with a discerning eye and a cautious heart. Investigate and be wary; often, these individuals operate with inflated pricing and sprinkle their narratives with self-proclaimed expert opinions. The Labrador community is not just a collective of dog enthusiasts; it is a large and vast family—a tapestry woven with threads of friendship, shared experiences, and mutual dedication to the breed. In this expansive network, you will find kindred spirits passionate about their dogs and committed to the welfare of Labradors everywhere. This is a community where genuine dedication shines through, where breeders and owners alike strive for excellence not just for personal gain, but for the love of the breed. Contrast this with the lone rogue, a bitter breeder who stands apart, self-isolated in their claims of being the best. They may boast of their accomplishments, but one must question their involvement in the community. What clubs do they belong to? Do they actively participate in shows where camaraderie flourishes? Are they generous enough to donate to the cause that supports the breed they claim to cherish? Those who are truly dedicated to their craft often involve their entire families in this journey. You will find them at specialty shows, not just as participants but as a family unit, with children eagerly engaging in pee wee or junior handling activities. Their presence enriches the experience, fostering a spirit of teamwork and shared passion. Amid this web of connections, it is crucial to beware of those lurking in the shadows, offering advice and making false claims that can lead one astray. Their words may create a false sense of security, and false information that is intriguing but lacks truth and substance. True dedication to the breed and the community is built on trust, shared values, and the commitment to uphold integrity. Does this person have respect from their peers? In your quest for a Labrador, seek out those who are not only passionate about their dogs but are also deeply rooted in the community. Look for breeders who celebrate the journey with peers, friends and family, who contribute to the betterment of the breed, and who stay engaged in the vibrant world of Labrador retrievers. In doing so, you will not only find a wonderful companion but also become part of a supportive network that champions the spirit of friendship and dedication to the breed.    I'll try not to overdo with words… (it's hard, I know lol) Our annual trip to Potomac was a bit rocky, but such is the nature of adventures we embark upon. The hopes of us making it there early Monday morning to set up and participate in the puppy match were definitely wishful thinking! Bruceton Mills must be the breakdown capital of the country for dog show people, as Grant spent all day Monday helping a fellow show family, who found themselves stranded along the interstate due to vehicle problems. This is nothing new; he has rescued someone each year for the past three years… lol. However, through these trials, we are reminded of the profound strength of friendship and the bonds that unite us. It’s these very moments that showcase the dedication we have not just to our passion for dogs, but to each other as well. At any rate, we were set up very late Monday night and arose to rush and set up our candle and soap booth. Of course, one of my soap containers collapsed onto the parking lot while I was trying to set up before we had to show that morning… :’( Then there was the wind, the rain, and the child that started to itch with hives… hmmm, am I missing anything else? lol. A huge thank you to Lisa Allen and Patricia Conte for the Benadryl! Sanora was in a constant state of sleepy and hyper, but it certainly didn’t hinder her performance with Rumor in the Top 20 Gala performance! Her spirit, much like the love we share as a community, fueled her determination to shine. Thank you, Tammy Farrington, for allowing Sanora to also use your pretty girl Nelly for the Pee Wee competition! For those that claim to have singlehanded glory at the tip of the spear of the Labrador breeding and show world, that would truly be false. This journey is a family affair, intertwined with friendship and love that transcends the competition. It’s wonderful to see children participating alongside their parents, whole families, spouses, partners, and friends from all over the country and world each year. The camaraderie we experience is unparalleled and reminds us of the power of unity in our passions. The Fairfax Pines crew shined brightly, and we were in the ribbons each day. We are still trying to get my chocolate boys to think the ring is a fun place, but with the encouragement of friends, I have faith we will get there. 😊 So many beautiful dogs at this show is just overwhelming, each one representing the hard work and dedication of their owners. Congratulations to all the competitors and winners! May you all have safe travels home. And remember, if you get hung up somewhere, call Grant—he’s always ready to lend a helping hand! lol lol lol 😃 In our breeding program, every choice we make regarding our studs is the result of extensive research, careful analysis, and heartfelt consideration. We understand that breeding is not merely about producing a "yellow" litter; it is a profound commitment to the future of our beloved breed. Each stud is selected not just for their physical attributes, but for their lineage, temperament, and the promise they hold for the puppies who will carry their legacy into the world.
We do not offer guarantees on the use of any stud in our plans—life has a way of unfolding in unexpected ways. Breeding involves a multitude of factors, requiring the collaboration of skilled hands and nurturing hearts. It truly takes a small village, along with a sprinkle of luck, to ensure that everything flows smoothly. This intricate journey is often not shared with our puppy families, and we believe that it is best left unspoken. We cherish the bond of love and trust between us and the families who welcome our puppies into their homes. It’s crucial to understand that we appreciate the passion and enthusiasm of our puppy families, but we also ask for respect regarding our breeding decisions. For instance, when a family suggested breeding Dune to a girl who is his half-sister, we felt it was important to gently remind them that our expertise and experience guide our choices. We have a vision of producing not only healthy and beautiful puppies but also ensuring that each one possesses a wonderful temperament—a promise we make to every family that chooses to welcome one of our dogs into their lives. Ultimately, the essence of a good dog transcends color; it lies in their spirit, their joy, and the love they bring into our lives. As stewards of this wonderful breed, we strive to create not just dogs, but companions who will enrich the lives of their families and embody the values of loyalty, affection, and integrity. Together, we can celebrate the promise of each new litter, filled with hope, love, and the potential to bring countless moments of joy to families everywhere. You know what they say about the best-laid plans... well, while the plan can always be adjusted, the goal remains steadfast and unwavering. This is especially true in the world of breeding, where love and promise intertwine to create something truly remarkable. As we navigate a few changes in our breeding strategy regarding Dune, I want to clarify that Dune is NOT retired. However, we do have three girls here who are closely related to him, which adds an extra layer of complexity to our decisions. Certainly, the possibility of welcoming a puppy from these three girls could be a compelling option for families. When it comes to breeding, we consider a multitude of factors—temperament, health, conformation, and so much more. Each of these elements plays a vital role in ensuring that the promise of a healthy, beautiful puppy is fulfilled. If we do choose to explore an alternate stud dog, there are countless considerations that families might not be aware of. Breeding is not just a science; it’s an intricate dance of nature and nurture. What if Dune's sperm count were to decrease unexpectedly? Or what if, on the day of breeding, he simply wasn’t feeling up to the task? (We all know he has a thing for chocolates lol ! Just kidding!) Anyway, a breeding plan is indeed a plan, but plans can evolve and change as we learn and adapt. We dedicate countless hours to researching, analyzing, and striving to identify the best possible pairings. This dedication has often resulted in Grant driving through the night, clocking in 16-hour journeys, calling in our vet on a Sunday to perform a surgical breeding—a process that led to the joyful arrival of our Rocco litter, which includes Rumor, Rocky, Taylor, and their eight siblings. In this intricate tapestry of breeding, things can and do happen. When shipping is involved, we place our trust in FedEx, our vet, the stud owner, and the semen extender to ensure the semen remains viable and ready for its purpose. Each of these components is a vital part of the puzzle, all working harmoniously toward the shared goal of producing the very best. As we navigate these sometimes-turbulent waters, we hope that families understand and trust us with these last-minute decisions. Because at the heart of it all, we are united by a common purpose—the promise of bringing love and joy into the lives of families through our beloved dogs. A future that is filled with wagging tails and happy hearts, is a goal worth striving for!   Who missed the Mark?... lol well not many...
I would like to address the comments in this post as so many have just now noticed our yellow puppy with the mismark on her side. We have 2 beautiful puppies in our litters that are a little unique! I think our yellow puppy girl with the "mismark" is, if not the nicest girl, one of the nicest girls in our litter of 15! Her beauty, bone, conformation and balance with her affectionate nature truly are captivating. (She has a home... and a very special home in her future). We also have a chocolate boy who boasts a tiny white chest spot. This charming fellow is not only one of the most handsome in the litter but also has a distinct personality that captivates everyone he meets. His beauty is undeniable, again our choices will be so difficult with both of these litters... And as Paul Harvey would say... Here is the rest of the story... Bolo White Marks & Mismarks Who is Bolo.. well he is a very special dog... In 1916, the Labrador Club was formed in England, marked by the collaborative efforts of influential figures like Lord Knutsford of the esteemed Munden Kennel line and Lady Lorna, Countess Howe of the renowned Banchory Labradors. This historical backdrop sets the stage for a breed that has captured the hearts of many. Some chocolate labs can trace their lineage back to FC Banchory Night Light, a remarkable black dog born in 1932 in England, whose legacy is intertwined with the love and passion that breeders have for the Labrador Retriever. Night Light descends from the illustrious line of Dual Ch. Banchory Bolo (1915), a pioneer who not only showcased the beauty of the breed but also carried the chocolate gene from Buccleuch Avon. Notably, Sh. Ch. Banchory Bolo was known for a unique trait—white hairs under the feet, affectionately termed Bolo pads. English Dual Champion Banchory Bolo (1915 – 1927) was the first dog to earn a dual championship by winning both a bench championship and a Field Trial Championship in England. This remarkable achievement highlights the dedication and love that breeders have poured into the Labrador breed. Many of today’s Labradors carry Bolo’s legacy, and it’s fascinating to note that most breeder-judges are aware of the marks and overlook them. As an interesting aside, not only did many of Bolo’s pups carry the mark, but every litter he produced was celebrated for bringing forth either a Field Champion or a Show Champion, a promise of excellence that continues to inspire. Bolo’s journey was not without its challenges, and his tough start in life is a compelling narrative I will link his story at the end of this post. Unique and interesting mismarks have occurred from time to time throughout the rich history of the purebred Labrador Retriever. The origins of these mismarks remain a topic of intrigue—whether they stem from recessive genes passed down through generations or result from spontaneous mutations remains uncertain, yet many adore the character and charm of these unique markings. Bolo Marks: white spots on the toes or feet, named for their resemblance to bolo tie tips. Bolo marks are considered acceptable within the breed standard and are a charming feature that many find endearing. Other white marks include small white spots on the chest, resembling a tuxedo bib. Tuxedo markings are the most common, appearing in 20-30% of Labradors. They can range from a tiny dot to a patch covering much of the chest and underside, creating a striking appearance that captures the eye and heart alike. The story of Bolo: http://www.chavalabs.com/banchory-bolo/ See insights and ads Boost post All reactions: 2020 My dearest Duke… oh gosh…. Did I just make a post about Dumb Happy boys??? 😢 … Duke my first Royal Gent if you followed me from the start.. you know he was my first boy "my first labrador" …. I worked full time at West Virginia University and bought my first show puppy… he was the most spectacular boy ever – seriously! The show scene really missed out! But oh well.. …. I loved him… I carried him … literally for 6 months he never touched a stair… I didn’t want him to exert himself, so he also rode in the bottom of our first granddaughters stroller as we went for walks… he was very spoiled… When he was 8 months old he hit the road and showed a while with a handler, traveling all over.. to Oklahoma and then ending his show route in Morgantown WV where I waited to see him perform after months on the road… of course I had to stay out of sight… as he was a mommas boy… as I peered from afar the judge was getting ready to examine him… and what did Dukie do? Well he hit the ground and rolled over for a tummy scratch… ohhhh Duke! When he saw me it was enough… he ran to me.. and he never left again… Duke and my next boy Thor grew up together… they were a sight to behold… brutes… they had a tussle once and I took Duke to the vet… the vet said who bit him, I said his brother Thor… the vet said… you have a lab that is bigger than Duke???!!!??!! Lol he was fine of course … I am not sure why I am rambling… I should just say it out loud that Duke passed from cancer… such devastating news… and so unbelievably sad.. as I remember all of our adventures.. I was his first mom… but we retired Duke to a wonderful lady named “Margo” a couple years ago… Margo lived near the sea and wanted a boy to fill a lonely spot in her life.. and I remember the first time speaking to her on the phone… and we both cried.. she had been talking to me about Duke for some time… I don’t know really how.. we let him go… but Margo truly was sent from heaven and no doubt Duke became her everything, and she became his everything… so many photos and videos, he was a star in her town.. loved by all.. Duke had lots of walks by the ocean .. he loved the water... so he was certainly in his glory and lived his best life ❤ I had a strange feeling this week… something just unexplainable… so I messaged Margo… she of course is beyond devastated… Margo .. just such a wonderful Lady and Duke lit up when he saw her and they had many wonderful adventures… So, Thank you Margo for loving our boy just as much as we loved him… Sorry for the scattered tribute.. 😢 😢 😢 Wait for me at the edge of the woods, by the cool stream you loved so much… I'll meet you there.. on the other side of the rainbow bridge... it's not just for dogs ya know.. we will be together and play and swim… and I can't wait to see you again .. I Love you Dukie, give my mom a smooch please!!! ... I know you will... 😢 ❤ “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” ~ Luke 23:43 As my waiting list seems to be mostly families only wanting boys.. I thought I would give my thoughts on benefits of girls! Sorry, this is a bit long.. The Benefits of Choosing a Female Puppy When it comes to the world of puppies, one undeniable truth emerges: females tend to mature much faster than their male counterparts. This rapid maturity is not just a matter of age; it often translates into greater intelligence and a heightened sense of intuition. In the realm of canine companionship, females stand out as the embodiment of love and nurturing. They possess a unique ability to bond deeply with their families, showcasing a gentle demeanor that makes them exceptional. Females are often characterized by their calm and gentle nature, making them more adaptable, getting along wonderfully with other animals, children, and even strangers. Now, let’s address a common concern among potential dog owners: the heat cycle. It’s understandable to feel a bit anxious about this aspect of female dogs; however, the reality is quite reassuring. In my experience, we have some female dogs that show zero signs of being in heat. Typically, female dogs experience a heat cycle every 6-7 months, but it’s essential to note that some may not have their first heat cycle until they reach 12-14 months of age. We recommend families wait till females are 18-24 months old before spaying. Many families worry about the potential challenges associated with heat cycles and often opt for a male puppy instead. Yet, in truth, heat cycles are generally not a significant issue. Yes, you must be diligent about keeping your girl away from males during this time, but the heat cycle itself usually comes and goes with minimal disruption—often proving to be just a minor inconvenience in the grand scheme of pet ownership. I am a lover of my boys... I describe them as "dumb and happy" lol But I will tell you some of my greatest dogs have been girls... I could walk through a forest with Hazel and Gert and I will tell you, they would fight to the death for me... they never left my side... sure my boys stick to me (I usually have treats in my pocket) lol , but I'm not sure any of them would put up a fight for me.. Dune himself has ran back to the house if a deer or turkey popped out from behind a thicket.. however, my girl Daisy chased a large black bear lingering behind our garage.. Gypsy was always in my vehicle and would wait patiently no matter how long I took in the store.. and quite literally the best girl of all Molly .. never on a leash, she canoed Lake Champlain with me, hiked in Maine, Montana, Vermont, Canada... all over... she was never on a leash... she was truly my best friend ever... so don't be quick to pick a boy for convenience... girls with their intelligence, nurturing nature, and ability to form deep lasting bonds, can become invaluable members of your family too. Labrador Retriever Club of Piedmont, Specialty show! 🏡 🏔️ 🌲 Day 1 - run down under respected judges Heidi Herman ( Sweepstakes) and Marion Daniel
Day 2 under respected Judges Susan Patterson (sweepstakes) and Jennifer Stotts Tess and Boulder placed in their sweeps and regular classes Denver won his Bred By Puppy class Secret placed in her sweeps class and won her regular class Rocky blew me away with showing off enough to get Reserve Winners Dog!!! Stone got Select in the breed ring 🙌🖤  Tess & Boulder #dontworryaboutthelittlemark Rumor #17 in the Country! - Top 20 Presentation at the Gala will be in April 2025 at the Potomac.2/5/2025 Well we are certainly more than humbled and honored to be noticed in the Top 20 of the best Labradors in the Country! Fairfax Pines Rumor Has It “Rumor” is our first Bred by Grand Champion, and we could not be more proud of all three of our Wiscoy Rocco keepers – Thank you Jill!! Rocco was 11 years old at the time and we had a litter of 11! Although, Rumor being the most animated of our keepers both on the farm and in the Ring! I have cursed him more than praised him as he is truly a clown at home and always getting into mischief! The top 20 was not even really in our sights, although beating 2 particular dogs were lol IYKYK … as we took Rumor out in May this year it was totally unexpected for him to take Breed at the Miami Valley Labrador Club Specialty… then his coat exploded, literally!!! Someone, said hey you guys are on the board with points… you need to take him to a few more shows… well he was bald until the Fall .. so we waited and headed out in September where he won in the Breed ring 5 more times from September to December… It is nice to be able to succeed despite someone saying you got lucky to win Breed once.. “that is your once in a lifetime win” .. and then for us to come in 19 places higher than them in the rankings (Rumor #17 in the Country).. and to win breed again and again 5 more times, under some of the most prestigious Labrador breeder judges in the country… but I am never one to gloat… but here we are… The best day of our year to me… was being pulled out of the line up with our nemesis… here in old West By God (WV) its called a backyard brawl atmosphere… ya know when we are up against PITT (fans yelling Eat Sh*t Pitt… do our fans really do that?? Lol) 🍻 and then in the final seconds the Mountaineers pull off an undeniable win… and then we que Country Roads… It was certainly a great day to be Rumor and Mountaineer that day… 💛💙💛💙 Que Country Roads… See you at the Gala! *Oh and a huge Thank you to Tammy Farrington who showed Rumor in the ring to! #mybolognahasafirstname #21aintsobad     |
Tammy Jo BoudreauSharing the love of Labradors <3 Archives
April 2025
Categories |
