About Our Program
Patriot Labrador Retrievers goal is to produce healthy AKC Labrador Retriever puppies who are versatile; whether it’s upland, waterfowl, service, search & rescue, scent detection, active companion or more, we’re confident that with proper training, our puppies have the ability to excel in any direction.
As a small hobby breeder, each of our litters are carefully planned and bred with purpose. We start with quality Labrador Retriever genetics, focusing on health, natural ability, intelligence, trainability, and a gentle temperament. A dog who is a pleasure to have in your home and able to excel in the field.
Up to three puppies from each litter are selected to begin foundation training to be Service Dogs for Veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), or Military Sexual Trauma (MST). Depending on training program needs, puppies are then donated to non-profit organizations where they are paired with qualified Veterans in need of a Service Dog.
Understanding pedigrees, genetics, overall health, environment, and temperament of our breeding dogs allows us to improve the Labrador Retriever breed and provide happy, healthy puppies to our Veterans and puppy families.
Not every Labrador Retriever puppy is destined to be a Service Dog. Our screening process allows us to determine which puppies have the qualities we seek to enter a service dog training program. Once our service candidates are selected, at around 7 weeks of age, we place the remainder of the puppies into loving pet home at 8 weeks.
* You do not need to be a Veteran to be eligible for one of our puppies *
Why a Labrador Retriever?
We choose the Labrador Retriever because of their versatility. They are as comfortable working in the field as they are lounging around the home. Not only do labs have natural hunt ability, they have amazing scent detection abilities making them well suited for search & rescue, medical alert, service work, as well as loyal companions. Labs are sweet, gentle, outgoing, loveable and social dogs. They get along well with other dogs and pets; they love kids and tend to bond with the whole family.
It's evident why the Labrador Retriever was voted the most popular breed by AKC every year between 1991-2022,
for a total of 31 years straight.
Happy, Healthy Bloodline
Due to irresponsible breeding, it's common for labs to be affected by genetic conditions. Unfortunately, many of these preventable conditions are painful and reduce the lifespan of the dog while causing financial and emotional hardship on the owners. Breeding responsibly ensures our puppies are given the best possible start in life. Here at Patriot Labs, we go above and beyond recommended Labrador health testing.
Our breeding dogs are evaluated and certified by the University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program (PennHIP) and/or the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) for hips, elbows, eyes, advanced cardiac, dentition, thyroid, and patella, prior to breeding.
We promise your puppy will never be affected by any known Labrador Retriever genetic condition.
Happy Clients & Lifelong Relationships
As with any major decision, it is important to do your research before selecting the breed of dog that best matches your lifestyle.
Equally important is your choice of a responsible breeder.
