

Our Breeding Program
Combining being able to understand the impact of service dogs first hand, upholding the highest standards for breeding, and being a Certified Professional Dog Trainer creates a unique trifecta that sets Mission Ready Retrievers apart from the rest. Research supports breeders being able to work with litters in a way to impact them positively the rest of the dog’s life. From conception to their permanent duty station, the puppy’s mental, physical, and emotional development is of highest priority. We follow socialization protocols that include early neurological stimulation and early sensory introduction.
Mission Ready Retrievers is dedicated to producing well-balanced, confident canine citizens who seek enrichment and have a head start with what it takes to be above the rest.

Raised by a training and behavior professional
I am a certified, professional dog trainer and an internationally certified Service Dog Coach. I am involved in many dog sports, to include nosework, dock diving, and rally. I also recently started in the world of conformation showing. So, while my primary goal is producing sound service dog candidates, I also have a working knowledge of many other aspects of the “dog world.”

Not a mass, kennel operation
All of our litters are born in my home; we are not a kennel-based operation. I strongly believe this gives the puppies another leg-up when transitioning to their new homes

Anticipated Costs
The average cost of an ethically and purposefully bred Labrador Retriever is currently $3,500-4,000. When looking at service and therapy dog prospects, that price is often higher. And while I believe ethical breeders deserve to make a profit, for me, finding my puppies outstanding homes outweighs making a higher profit. So, while my price is slightly below average, I am more selective when approving homes. Puppies placed around 10 weeks of age are $3,000. Discounts available for Veterans and/or First Responders looking for Service Dog or Therapy/Facility Dog Prospect with approved training plan.
Health and Temperament Standards
In order for dogs to be considered for our breeding program, they must undergo extensive health and temperament testing to ensure our program’s viability. We utilize OFA, The Orthopedic Foundation of Animals, to prescreen potential parents. “[Their] mission is to promote the health and welfare of companion animals through a reduction in the incidence of genetic disease.” We also conduct genetic testing to mitigate potential chronic diseases. While the health of our dogs is a top priority, when breeding for service and therapy prospects, temperament is equally as vital. We work to select parents who have produced working service or therapy dogs and have excellent dispositions.

Sleeping black Labrador mother with 3-week old yellow Labrador puppy sleeping on her muzzle

Blonde woman laying in the grass with young, black retriever, kissing him on the forehead
All puppies are sold with “limited” AKC registration and under a contract. The contract includes an 18 month health warranty against heritable traits such as hip and elbow dysplasia and requires the puppy/dog to be returned to me if you can no longer keep them for any reason. Puppies are evaluated by our veterinarian at 8-weeks, microchipped, and head to their new homes with age appropriate vaccinations/deworming.