Quote:
Originally Posted by ward
Do you really need to spend $1500 to get a really well bred Lab ?
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I use to think that way. But, my chocolate lab which I purchased from a back yard breeder ended having bad hip dysplasia. He loved to hunt but we had to limit the time in field and use pain killers after hunting. As he got older he slowed down quick. He had a lot of pain and it was tough on him and the family. Had to purchase another pup early as he got older for increased hunting time. He did live till 12 though which was good. I will now only buy from a breeder that has hip certified parents. To me it is worth the extra when you consider the vet bills and medicine when they do have problems, and the piece of mind. They are loved family members. $1,000 to $1,500 seems to be where most are priced now for the reputable breeders. I seen one breeder of pet stock at $2,400 and they have a waiting list so that tells you where the market is heading.