Dogster advocates for adopting before shopping. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here.
America’s favorite dog is the Labrador Retriever, best known for its companionability and loyalty. The Lab is the icon of the family pet, a dependable breed that can bring a home together. Many people turn to the Lab as a potential dog breed, and the demand is always sky-high, so there are a lot of breeders selling puppies.
When looking to purchase a Lab puppy from a breeder, it’s crucial to find a legitimate, no-nonsense breeder with real experience in canine breeding. If you’re in the Massachusetts and New England area, there are quite a few reputable breeders from which you can choose. Here are the best Labrador Retriever breeders in Massachusetts:
The 8 Labrador Retriever Breeders Near Me in Massachusetts
1. Pachecho Kennels
- Raynham, Massachusetts
With over 40 years of breeding experience, the Pachecho Kennels produce high-quality AKC Labrador Retrievers and Vizslas. Their breeding facility is on their 10-acre home property, nestled in Raynham, Massachusetts. All dogs are checked for any genetic conditions and health problems. They breed chocolate, black, and yellow labs, keeping true to the breed’s standards. Pachecho Kennels takes pride in their hard work and have developed an outstanding reputation as Labrador and Vizsla breeders.
2. Willow Wind Labradors
- Granby, Massachusetts
Willow Wind Labradors is a reputable and well-known breeder in Granby, MA. Starting with their first litter in 1997, Willow Wind Labradors has years of experience in breeding Labs. They prioritize vetting for genetic health issues and puppy socialization, which are both crucial aspects in breeding healthy puppies. The puppies are all AKC Labrador Retrievers, but they mainly specialize in companion and family pets. Willow Wind Labs is a great breeder option for a family dog, especially families with multiple children.
3. Handy Hill Labradors
- Acushnet, Massachusetts
Handy Hill Labradors is a private breeder in Acushnet, MA. They specialize in ethical breeding practices, which put health and temperament first. Their labs compete in conformation shows, maintaining the breed’s physical standards as well. The AKC-certified pups are raised in-house and spend a lot of time around people, so socialization happens almost immediately. Handy Hill Labs is another great option for people looking for a companion or family pet, but they can also be competition show dogs.
4. Mountain Side Labradors
- Ashby, Massachusetts
Mountain Side Labradors is a Lab breeder that specializes in both the American and English types of Labrador Retrievers. Located in Ashby, Massachusetts, the owners fell in love with the breed and opened its doors as breeders in 2009. Whether you’re looking for a more hunting/field Labrador (American) or a companion/show dog (English), Mountain Side Labs tests all dogs for potential health and temperament issues.
5. Millstone Kennel
- Assonet, Massachusetts
Millstone Kennel started their breeding establishment in 2014, selectively breeding and testing for genetic conditions. They produce high-quality AKC Labrador puppies with outstanding genes and temperaments. The puppies can also compete in conformation shows and adhere to breed standards, which is an important aspect for dog showers. Being raised in-home, the puppies at Millstone are constantly around humans and are ready to become household and family pets.
6. Excalibur Labradors
- Acushnet, Massachusetts
Excalibur Labradors have been breeding Labradors for over 15 years, located in Acushnet, Massachusetts. They specialize in yellow, black, and chocolate AKC Labrador colors, keeping true to the breed’s core colors. Their English-type Labrador Retrievers and Bernese dogs are selectively bred to avoid health conditions, ensuring their puppies are as healthy as possible. Excalibur puppies are socialized frequently and right away, so they’re able to transition into most families and homes.
7. Dunrovin Farm Labrador Retrievers
- Halifax, Massachusetts
Don’t be fooled by the pet-store feel of Dunrovin Farms, as they’ve been breeding AKC-quality puppies since 1987. With years of experience and selectively breeding to avoid genetic conditions, the Labradors from Dunrovin Farms are premium and high-quality puppies. They also sell puppies that have gone through some basic obedience training, making it much easier for first-time dog owners and families.
8. Silver Brook Labs
- Ludlow, Massachusetts
Silver Brook Labs is a reputable breeder of English-type Labrador Retrievers, located in Ludlow, MA. Silver Brook Labs are always screened for various health conditions, as well as any temperament issues, before being available for purchase. The puppies are frequently handled and socialized, so they’re ready for companionship or working environments. Their 14-acre property is the ideal location for breeding. Their puppies are exposed to different elements and experiences, which is important for potential service dogs.
Summary
While more options can be a good situation, the high popularity has also increased the backyard breeding market. Backyard-bred dogs can inherit a slew of health problems and genetic conditions due to a lack of understanding of canine genetics. Instead of looking for the cheapest puppy, concentrate on finding a breeder that takes genetics into account when breeding.
Featured Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock
