INFORMATION & FAQ’s

The terms "English Labrador Retriever" and "American Labrador Retriever" are often used to describe two distinct lines or types within the Labrador Retriever breed. While both types share a common ancestry, they have developed certain differences in terms of appearance, temperament, and purpose. ​ English Labrador Retriever: Appearance: English Labs are known for their blockier, stockier build, with a broader head, shorter legs, and a more robust body. They often have a thick neck and a distinctive otter-like tail. Temperament: English Labs are typically characterized as having a calmer, mellow demeanor. They are known for being gentle, easygoing, and well-suited to family life. Their temperament makes them excellent companions, both in the home and outdoors. Purpose: English Labs are often associated with being show dogs or family pets. While they still possess the retrieving instincts and intelligence of the breed, they may have a more relaxed energy compared to their American counterparts. ​ American Labrador Retriever: Appearance: American Labs are often more athletic and have a taller, leaner build. They may have a narrower head, longer legs, and a more streamlined body. Their tail is usually straighter compared to the otter tail of the English Lab. Temperament: American Labs are known for their high energy levels, enthusiasm, and drive. They can be more hyperactive and may require additional exercise and mental stimulation. Some American Labs are selected for field trials and hunting due to their agility and stamina. Purpose: American Labs are often bred with a focus on fieldwork, such as hunting and competitive field trials. They excel in activities that require endurance, agility, and a strong work ethic. ​ It's important to note that these descriptions provide generalizations, and there can be considerable variation within each type. Additionally, both English and American Labs share the same breed standard set by kennel clubs, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC), which recognizes Labrador Retrievers as a single breed regardless of the type. ​ When choosing a Labrador Retriever, it's essential to consider your lifestyle, preferences, and intended activities to determine which type might be the best fit for you. Whether English or American, Labs are known for their intelligence, trainability, and friendly nature.

The English Lab is considered a medium to large dog breed. They stand between 21.5 and 22.5 inches high and can weigh between 60 and 80 lbs. Male Labradors are normally heavier than female Labradors.

The English Lab has a single coat which is short, stiff and dense. It is weather resistant, which comes from their heritage as working dogs. These dogs shed a lot and are therefore not the breed for those with allergies. Grooming can help.

Labrador dogs are known for being one of the most gentle dogs and one of the least-aggressive dogs. These pups are friendly and have one of the sweetest natures! They are also adaptable and sociable, which is what makes the Labrador breed so popular. Because they are so good-natured, they can make great playmates for children and are very loyal to their family. They have been known to come to their owners rescue and are fearless. ​ English Labs are quite active dogs and are best suited to an active family. They love their people and can get on very well with other animals in the home too. They do need training and socialization, as do all dogs, but their intelligence makes this extremely easy! Providing you can give them lots of love and attention, the English Lab is an excellent dog to have in the home and is even ideal as a first pet or for those with no experience with dogs.

The most common coat colors for the English Labrador Retriever are black, chocolate and yellow, all of which are accepted by the AKC in the breed standard. They can also be a silver color, but Silver Labradors are quite uncommon. ​ Your Labrador should never be bi or tri-colored and should be one solid color.

Dr. W. Jean Dodd's vaccination protocol is now being adopted by ALL 27 North American veterinary schools. I highly recommend that you read this. VACCINATION NEWS FLASH I would like to make you aware that all 27 veterinary schools in North America are in the process of changing their protocols for vaccinating dogs and cats. Some of this information will present an ethical & economic challenge to vets, and there will be skeptics. Some organizations have come up with a political compromise suggesting vaccinations every 3 years to appease those who fear loss of income vs. those concerned about potential side effects. Politics, traditions, or the doctor's economic well being should not be a factor in medical decision. NEW PRINCIPLES OF IMMUNOLOGY "Dogs immune systems mature fully at 6 months. If a modified live virus vaccine is given after 6 months of age, it produces an immunity which is good for the life of the pet (ie: canine distemper,parvo, feline distemper). If another MLV vaccine is given a year later, the antibodies from the first vaccine neutralize the antigens of the second vaccine and there is little or no effect. The titer is not "boosted" nor are more memory cells induced." Not only are annual boosters for parvo and distemper unnecessary, they subject the pet to potential risks of allergic reactions and immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia. "There is no scientific documentation to back up label claims for annual administration of MLV vaccines." Puppies receive antibodies through their mother’s milk. This natural protection can last 8‐14weeks. Puppies should NOT be vaccinated at LESS than 8 weeks. Maternal immunity will neutralize the vaccine and little protection (0‐38%) will be produced. Vaccination at 6 weeks will, however, delay the timing of the first highly effective vaccine. Vaccinations given 2 weeks apart suppress rather than stimulate the immune system. A series of vaccinations is given starting at 8 weeks and given 3‐4 weeks apart up to 16 weeks of age. Another vaccination given sometime after 6 months of age (usually at 1 year 4mo) will provide lifetime immunity. There are two types of vaccines currently available to veterinarians: modified‐live vaccines and inactivated ("killed") vaccines. Immunization Schedules There is a great deal of controversy and confusion surrounding the appropriate immunization schedule, especially with the availability of modified‐live vaccines and breeders who have experienced postvaccinal problems when using some of these vaccines. It is also important to not begin a vaccination program while maternal antibodies are still active and present in the puppy from the mother's colostrum. The maternal antibodies identify the vaccines as infectious organisms and destroy them before they can stimulate an immune response. Many breeders and owners have sought a safer immunization program. Modified Live Vaccines (MLV) Modified‐live vaccines contain a weakened strain of the disease causing agent. Weakening of the agent is typically accomplished by chemical means or by genetic engineering. These vaccines replicate within the host, thus increasing the amount of material available for provoking an immune response without inducing clinical illness. This provocation primes the immune system to mount a vigorous response if the disease causing agent is ever introduced to the animal. Further, the immunity provided by a modified‐ live vaccine develops rather swiftly and since they mimic infection with the actual disease agent, it provides the best immune response. Inactivated Vaccines (Killed) Inactivated vaccines contain killed disease causing agents. Since the agent is killed, it is much more stable and has a longer shelf life, there is no possibility that they will revert to a virulent form, and they never spread from the vaccinated host to other animals. They are also safe for use in pregnant animals (a developing fetus may be susceptible to damage by some of the disease agents, even though attenuated, present in modified‐live vaccines). Although more than a single dose of vaccine is always required and the duration of immunity is generally shorter, inactivated vaccines are regaining importance in this age of retrovirus and herpesvirus infections and concern about the safety of genetically modified microorganisms. Inactivated vaccines available for use in dogs include rabies, canine parvovirus, canine coronavirus, etc. W. Jean Dodds, DVM HEMOPET 938 Stanford Street Santa Monica, CA 90403 310/ 828‐4804 fax: 310/ 828‐8251 Note: This schedule is the one I recommend and should not be interpreted to mean that other protocols recommended by a veterinarian would be less satisfactory. It's a matter of professional judgment and choice. For breeds or families of dogs susceptible to or affected with immune dysfunction, immune‐ mediated disease, immune‐reactions associated with vaccinations, or autoimmune endocrine disease (e.g., thyroiditis, Addison's or Cushing's disease, diabetes, etc.) the above protocol is recommended. After 1 year, annually measure serum antibody titers against specific canine infectious agents such as distemper and parvovirus. This is especially recommended for animals previously experiencing adverse vaccine reactions or breeds at higher risk for such reactions (e.g., Weimaraner, Akita, American Eskimo, Great Dane). Another alternative to booster vaccinations is homeopathic nosodes. This option is considered an unconventional treatment that has not been scientifically proven to be efficacious. One controlled parvovirus nosode study did not adequately protect puppies under challenged conditions. However, data from Europe and clinical experience in North America support its use. If veterinarians choose to use homeopathic nosodes, their clients should be provided with an appropriate disclaimer and written informed consent should be obtained. I use only killed 3 year rabies vaccine for adults and give it separated from other vaccines by 3‐4 weeks. In some states, they may be able to give titer test result in lieu of booster. I do NOT use Bordetella, corona virus, leptospirosis or Lyme vaccines unless these diseases are endemic in the local area pr specific kennel. Furthermore, the currently licensed leptospira bacterins do not contain the serovars causing the majority of clinical leptospirosis today. I do NOT recommend vaccinating bitches during estrus, pregnancy or lactation. W. Jean Dodds, DVM

Please read this excellent article done Dr. Carmen Battaglia Read Here

No. Grace Ridge Farm has a non-refundable policy once a a puppy has been bought. There is only one exception to this policy, and that has to do with any potential failed medical examinations of your puppy at your veterinarian office within the first 3 days of arriving at your home. One of the things that set us apart is that ALL of our puppies here at Grace Ridge Farm have been thoroughly examined by our own veterinarian before before the selection of your puppy. We have found that this process eliminates any disappoint for your family in the process. Only once a puppy has been returned to us upon failing an exam will a refund be issued. Below is more information concerning the health examination process: Initial Health Exam - In order for the health warranty to be valid, the purchaser agrees to have the puppy examined by a veterinarian within 3 working days of the transfer. If at that time the puppy is diagnosed with an existing medical problem, the puppy may be returned for a full refund. If requested by the Breeder, the purchaser must provide the Breeder with an evaluation from a second veterinarian of the Breeder’s choice at the Breeder’s expense prior to any payment. Grace Ridge Farm must be informed IMMEDIATELY of the initial vet examination by email at graceridgefarmllc@gmail.com. If we do not receive notice of vet examination, all guarantees are no longer valid. If the buyer’s vet establishes a major problem with the puppy upon initial examination, which would identify any genetic illness, then the buyer should initiate a claim for the puppy. At the buyer’s expense, the buyer should return the puppy to the seller if the seller requests so to be done. There is a certain protocol for this, please contact our office immediately. We strive to make your puppy buying experience the best of the best and we want to deliver you the highest level of customer service in the Labrador World. Due to Parvo virus and Kennel Cough running rampant at Veterinarian Offices, local Pet Stores , and Road Side Rest Areas around the country, Grace Ridge Farm is not liable for this disease.