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 Understanding the Role of Sexual Hormones in Labrador Development Sexual hormones play a pivotal role in the overall development and health of Labradors. These hormones are not just a biological aspect; they are essential for the proper maturation of various physical structures. By removing these hormones, you significantly increase the risk of your dog developing serious health problems later in life, which can adversely affect their overall wellness. This hormonal influence is also believed to contribute to what many refer to as the “American Labrador” look, a distinct physical variation that has emerged over time. The Importance of Hormones in Growth Labradors require these hormones to facilitate the development of critical physical attributes, including their jaw structure, hips, elbows, and overall bone density, encompassing the head, legs, and ribs. Additionally, these hormones are crucial for the gradual dropping of their chest, an important characteristic of the breed. It is essential to note that Labradors do not reach their full physical maturity until they are between 18 to 24 months old. This developmental phase encompasses various aspects, including height, weight, bone growth, and the maturity of hormones, which collectively contribute to their health and wellness. Hormones are the drivers of natural growth in the body. When it comes to responsible breeding practices, breeders typically certify the hips and elbows of Labradors at the age of two years. The rationale behind the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) checks occurring at 24 months is that this is the age when the growth plates in the joints have closed completely, indicating that the dog has reached its full growth potential. If hormones are removed prematurely, it can lead to improper growth patterns, which may manifest as skeletal issues or other health complications. A Broader Perspective on Health and Wellness From a broader perspective, understanding the role of hormones in canine development is paramount for anyone considering breeding or adopting a Labrador. Ensuring that these animals grow up with their natural hormones intact is not only beneficial for their physical appearance but also vital for their long-term health and wellness. The choices made during the early stages of a Labrador's life can have lasting implications, influencing not just their physical attributes but also their quality of life. In conclusion, the significance of sexual hormones in the development of Labradors cannot be overstated. By allowing these hormones to play their natural role, we support the overall health and wellness of these beloved pets, ensuring they grow into their best selves both physically and emotionally. STUDY 1
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12433723 Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2002 Nov;11(11):1434-40. Endogenous gonadal hormone exposure and bone sarcoma risk. Cooley DM, Beranek BC, Schlittler DL, Glickman NW, Glickman LT, Waters DJ. Source: Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, USA. Abstract Although, experimental and clinical evidence suggest that endogenous sex hormones influence bone sarcoma genesis, the hypothesis has not adequately tested in an appropriate animal model. We conducted a historical cohort study of Rottweiler dogs because they frequently undergo elective gonadectomy and spontaneously develop appendicular bone sarcomas, which mimic the biological behavior of the osteosarcomas that affect children and adolescents. Data were collected by questionnaire from owners of 683 Rottweiler dogs living in North America. To determine whether there was an association between endogenous sex hormones and risk of bone sarcoma, relative risk (RR) of incidence rates and hazard ratios for bone sarcoma were calculated for dogs subdivided on the basis of lifetime gonadal hormone exposure. Bone sarcoma was diagnosed in 12.6% of dogs in this cohort during 71,004 dog-months follow-up. So the Risk for bone sarcoma was significantly influenced by age at gonadectomy. The male and female dogs that underwent gonadectomy before 1 year of age had an approximate one in four lifetime risk for bone sarcoma and were significantly more likely to develop bone sarcoma than dogs that were sexually intact [RR +/-95% CI = 3.8 (1.5-9.2) for males; RR +/-95% CI = 3.1 (1.1-8.3) for females]. Chi(2) test for trend showed a highly significant inverse dose-response relationship between duration of lifetime gonadal exposure and incidence rate of bone sarcoma (P = 0.008 for males, P = 0.006 for females). This association was independent of adult height or body weight. We conclude that the subset of Rottweiler dogs that undergo early gonadectomy represent a unique, highly accessible target population to further study the gene:environment interactions that determine bone sarcoma risk and to test whether interventions can inhibit the spontaneous development of bone sarcoma. STUDY 2 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11202221 J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab. 2000;13 Suppl 6:1439-55. Estrogen, bone, growth and sex: a sea change in conventional wisdom. Grumbach MM. Source Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco 94143-0434, USA. [email protected] Abstract The discovery of a man with a homozygous mutation in the estrogen receptor alpha gene, which results in estrogen-receptor alpha resistance, and of males and females with autosomal recessive mutations in the CYP19 gene encoding aromatase, which leads to a failure to synthesize estrogens, has challenged conventional wisdom about the ‘unimportant’ role of estrogen in the male. For example, in the male, estrogen (not androgen) derived from direct testicular secretion (approximately 20%) and from extragonadal aromatization of testosterone and androstenedione (approximately 80%), is the critical sex hormone in the pubertal growth spurt, skeletal maturation, accrual of peak bone mass, and the maintenance of bone mass in the adult. Estrogen stimulates chondrogenesis in the epiphyseal growth plate increasing pubertal linear growth. At puberty, estrogen promotes skeletal maturation and the gradual, progressive closure of the epiphyseal growth plate, possibly as a consequence of both estrogen-induced vascular and osteoblastic invasion and the termination of chondrogenesis. In addition, during puberty and into the third decade, estrogen has an anabolic effect on the osteoblast and an apoptotic effect on the osteoclast, increasing bone mineral acquisition in axial and appendicular bone. In the adult, estrogen is important in maintaining the constancy of bone mass through its effects on remodeling and bone turnover. Establishing a role for estrogen does not exclude a direct action of testosterone on bone in the human male (especially on cortical bone), but this action is less characterized than thought in the past and is relatively minor in comparison with the major effect of estrogen in the male. STUDY 3 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15577502 Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2004 Dec;(429):301-5. Canine ovariohysterectomy and orchiectomy increases the prevalence of ACL injury. Slauterbeck JR, Pankratz K, Xu KT, Bozeman SC, Hardy DM. Source Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, 3601 4th St., 4A136, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA. [email protected] Abstract To determine whether canine ovariohysterectomy or orchiectomy affects the prevalence of anterior cruciate ligament injury, we compared injury rates of anterior cruciate ligaments of animals that had gonadectomy and animals that were sexually intact as a function of gender, breed, or size. Records of 3218 dogs treated in one orthopaedic veterinary practice during a 2-year period, retrospectively reviewed. Anterior cruciate ligament injury, diagnosed by a history of acute hind limb lameness and by positive anterior drawer test, was confirmed at the time of surgery. The prevalence of anterior cruciate ligament rupture in all dogs was 3.48%. However, females that had ovariohysterectomy and males that had orchiectomy had a significantly higher prevalence of anterior cruciate ligament rupture than the sexually intact dogs. Larger dogs had an increased prevalence of anterior cruciate ligament injury compared with smaller or medium-sized dogs, with the increased rupture rates for sterilized animals holding across breeds and sizes. Thus. sterilization of either gender increased the prevalence of anterior cruciate ligament injury, suggesting a potential effect of gonadal gender on prevalence of injury of this ligament. STUDY 4 http://avmajournals.avma.org/doi/abs/10.2460/javma.2004.224.380 Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association February 1, 2004, Vol. 224, No. 3, Pages 380-387 doi: 10.2460/javma.2004.224.380 Long-term risks and benefits of early-age gonadectomy in dogs C. Victor Spain, DVM, PhD Janet M. Scarlett, DVM, PhD Katherine A. Houpt, VMD, PhD, DACVB Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853. (Spain, Scarlett); Present address: Philadelphia Department of Public Health, Division of Disease Control, 500 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19146. (Spain); Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853. (Houpt) Objective — To evaluate the long-term risks and benefits of early-age gonadectomy, compared with traditional- age gonadectomy, among dogs adopted from a large animal shelter. Design — Retrospective cohort study. Animals — 1,842 dogs. Procedure — Dogs underwent gonadectomy and adopted from an animal shelter before 1 year of age; follow-up was available for as long as 11 years after surgery. Adopters completed a questionnaire about their dogs’ behavior and medical history. When possible, the dogs’ veterinary records were reviewed. Associations between the occurrence of 56 medical and behavioral conditions and dogs’ age at gonadectomy were evaluated. Results — Among female dogs, early-age gonadectomy associated with increased rate of cystitis and decreasing age at gonadectomy associated with increased rate of urinary incontinence. Among male and female dogs with early-age gonadectomy, hip dysplasia, noise phobias, and sexual behaviors get an increment, whereas obesity, separation anxiety, escaping behaviors, inappropriate elimination when frightened, and relinquishment for any reason were decreased. Our Labradors: A Passionate Endeavor Rooted in Care At Fairfax Pines, our commitment to breeding and raising Labradors is driven by a deep-rooted passion for the breed and an unwavering care for their well-being. Unlike many commercial breeders, we operate without the influence of financial backers who might prioritize profit over the animals’ needs. This independence allows us to make decisions purely focused on what is best for our dogs, ensuring that every aspect of their lives is attended to with genuine compassion. We take immense pride in our organic approach to success. Our journey began in the scenic mountains, where we, often playfully referred to as hillbillies, dedicated ourselves to the noble pursuit of breeding the healthiest and happiest Labradors. Our philosophy is simple: dogs come first. We prioritize their comfort and happiness above all else. This commitment is reflected in our practices, such as retiring dogs early when they have fulfilled their potential, just like we did with Primo, who was retired a mere year after competing in Westminster. This decision underscores our dedication to their well-being, demonstrating that our focus is not merely on accolades but on nurturing our dogs through a loving and supportive environment. We believe in fostering a community around our Labradors. To this end, we actively encourage visits and host yearly puppy reunions, allowing families to connect with their dogs and with each other. Our approach is not only economical, making our prices a fraction of what you might find elsewhere, but it also emphasizes the quality and integrity of our breeding process. We stand firm in our conviction that our champions are recognized based on merit, earning accolades from esteemed breeder judges at specialty shows rather than through political connections or financial influence. In fact, our achievements speak for themselves. Over the past two years, we have had the honor of being invited to Westminster through our participation in the Owner Handler Classes, a testament to the quality we strive for in our breeding program. When you see an $8 to $10k price tag on a puppy from other breeders, it is crucial to understand that much of this cost is often inflated to compensate for show backers and other associated fees. It is mind boggling that families have this amount to invest in a puppy in the first place.. We pride ourselves on competing at specialties and consistently achieving success, which has placed us among the top 20 in the country. We are proud to offer our puppies at a reasonable price, one that reflects our dedication to loving families who are genuinely seeking the best for their future puppy. Our aim is to make quality Labradors accessible to those who share our passion and commitment to their care and happiness. In essence, our Labradors are not just a business; they are a heartfelt pursuit of excellence, where every dog is treated with the love and respect, they deserve. 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 |
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