Frequently asked questions

Puppies & pricing

How much are your puppies?

Puppies run $3,500 to $5,500 depending on the dam's and stud's pedigree — the full breakdown is on the pricing page.

What do your puppies come with?

AKC registration, a microchip, deworming, and their first set of shots. Every pup also goes home with a toy and a blanket that smells like their litter.

Why do prices vary between litters?

Price depends on the pedigree of the mother and father. Litters from our imported, fully English lines with full AKC registration available sit at the higher end of the range.

Does the price change over time?

Prices can shift with the economy, but we always try to keep them fair and reasonable for our families. The price you're quoted when you reserve is the one we honor.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept cash, Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, cashier's checks, credit cards, Apple Pay and Cash App. Deposits and payments are arranged directly with us.

Are males and females priced differently?

Pricing is set by the pairing, not the sex of the puppy. Call or text and we'll tell you exactly what a pup from a given litter costs.

What colors do your puppies come in?

We raise yellow, black and chocolate English Labradors, and some pairings can produce champagne. Each litter's expected colors are listed on the available puppies page.

Do you have puppies available right now?

Our current puppies and open litters are always on the available puppies page. It's updated as pups are reserved, so call or text to confirm who is still looking for a home.

How big will my English Lab get?

Our adult girls range from about 55 to 81 pounds, and English Labs tend to be stockier than American Labs. Your puppy's adult size will fall close to its parents'.

Do you donate any of the proceeds?

Yes. With each litter we donate a portion of the proceeds to charities close to our hearts. It's our way of sharing the joy these dogs bring us.

Reserving & deposits

How do I reserve a puppy?

Call or text (919) 899-8917, or email us, and tell us a little about your family and what you're hoping for. A deposit holds your spot. Our waiting list fills quickly, so the earlier you reach out the better.

How much is the deposit?

A $500 deposit holds your place in line for a current or upcoming litter. The deposit goes toward the price of your puppy.

Is the deposit refundable?

No. The $500 deposit is non-refundable, because holding your spot means turning other families away. If something comes up, talk to us and we'll do our best to help.

How does the waiting list work?

Families are placed in the order their deposits come in. As the puppies grow, we pick in that order, with our guidance on temperament to help you choose.

Can I pick my own puppy?

Yes. We watch every puppy's temperament closely and help you choose the one who fits your home, needs and preferences. Most families find our input on personality as helpful as the photos.

How do I pay the balance?

The remaining balance is due before or at pickup, using any of the payment methods we accept. We'll confirm the exact amount and timing when you reserve.

Can I reserve from out of state?

Absolutely. Many of our families live out of state and reserve by phone, then we arrange ground or air transport. You'll get photos and updates as your puppy grows.

Is there any cost to ask questions first?

None at all. There's no cost and no pressure in starting the conversation — we answer every call and text ourselves.

What do you want to know about my family?

Tell us about your home, kids, other pets, yard and schedule, and what you're hoping for in a Lab. It helps us match the right puppy to your life.

How far ahead should I get on the list?

As early as you can. Our litters often fill before the puppies are born, so reaching out a few months ahead gives you the best choice.

Health & genetics

What health testing do the parents have?

All of our dogs are AKC registered with completed genetic testing. Many have had hips and elbows evaluated by the OFA, are cleared by parentage, or are currently under evaluation. Genetics and pedigrees are available on request.

What does genetic testing check for?

A Labrador genetic panel screens for inherited conditions such as exercise-induced collapse (EIC), centronuclear myopathy (CNM), progressive retinal atrophy (PRA-prcd) and others. It also confirms coat color genetics.

What does OFA hips and elbows mean?

The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals reviews X-rays of a dog's hips and elbows and rates them. It's the standard way to reduce the risk of dysplasia in a breeding program.

What does cleared by parentage mean?

When both of a dog's parents are tested clear for a genetic condition, the dog is clear by parentage and can't carry it. It's a recognized way to confirm genetic health.

Can I see the parents' test results?

Yes. Genetics and pedigrees are available on request, and several of our girls have their Embark results linked on the Our Dogs page.

Are your puppies seen by a vet?

Your puppy goes home microchipped, dewormed and with their first set of shots. Ask us about the vet records that come with your pup.

What shots will my puppy have?

Your puppy will have their first set of shots before going home. Your vet will continue the puppy vaccine series over the following weeks.

Is my puppy microchipped?

Yes, every puppy is microchipped before going home. Remember to register the chip in your name so your pup can always find their way back to you.

Do you offer a health guarantee?

Call or text us and we'll walk you through exactly what's covered for your puppy. We stay a phone call away for the rest of your dog's life.

Are English Labs healthy dogs?

Labradors are a sturdy breed, and health testing the parents is the best way to stack the odds in your favor. Keeping your Lab lean and active matters just as much once they're home.

Registration & paperwork

Are your puppies AKC registered?

Yes. Every puppy comes with AKC registration, and all of our breeding dogs are AKC registered.

Do you offer full registration?

Only on a limited basis. We protect our bloodlines and the breed, following the guidance of our mentors in this.

What's the difference between limited and full AKC registration?

Limited registration means your dog is AKC registered but its puppies can't be registered. Full registration allows breeding and showing, and is offered only on a limited basis at the higher end of the price range.

Which litters offer full registration?

Full AKC registration is available on some of our litters, including Mila's, Aśka Willow's and Karmen's. Details are on the pricing page.

Can I see the pedigree?

Yes, pedigrees are available on request for every pairing. Just ask when you call or text.

Can I show my puppy?

Show prospects are possible from the right litter, usually with full registration. Tell us you're interested in showing and we'll help you find the right fit.

What paperwork comes with my puppy?

Your puppy goes home with AKC registration and microchip details, plus the parents' genetics and pedigree on request. We'll go over everything at pickup.

Visits, pickup & transport

Where are you located?

Archer Lodge, North Carolina — in Johnston County, just east of Raleigh. Families visit us from across the Triangle and from out of state; visits are by appointment.

What is your address?

We're on Archer Lodge Rd, Clayton, NC 27527. We share exact directions when you book a visit.

Can I visit before I reserve?

Yes, visits are by appointment so the puppies keep their routine. Call or text (919) 899-8917 to set a time.

Why are visits by appointment only?

Young puppies need calm, predictable days to grow and stay healthy. Scheduling visits also means we can give your family our full attention.

Can you get a puppy to us out of state?

Yes. Ground transport is $2 per mile round trip from us, and air transport runs $850 to $2,000 depending on the flight and distance. We'll talk it through and plan whatever is safest for your puppy.

How does ground transport work?

We drive your puppy to you, hand to hand, at $2 per mile round trip from us. It's the gentlest option for longer trips within driving distance.

How does air transport work?

We arrange the flight together, based on the route and distance, and it runs $850 to $2,000. We've flown puppies to families as far as Denver.

Which areas do you serve?

Families come from Clayton, Raleigh, Garner, Smithfield, Wake Forest, Cary, Durham and all over North Carolina. With ground and air transport, we place puppies anywhere in the US.

How far is Archer Lodge from Raleigh?

About 20 to 30 minutes' drive east of downtown Raleigh, in Johnston County near Clayton.

What should I bring to pickup?

Bring a collar and leash, a crate or secure carrier for the car, and towels in case of an upset tummy. We'll send your pup home with a toy and a blanket that smells like their litter.

Can someone else pick up my puppy for me?

Yes, just let us know ahead of time who is coming. We'll confirm the details with you before pickup day.

Our dogs & the English Lab

Are your dogs English or American type?

English. Blocky heads, thick coats and calm temperaments, including imports from our trusted partners in Serbia and Poland.

What's the difference between an English and American Lab?

English Labs are typically stockier, with blockier heads, thicker coats and a calmer, steadier temperament. American Labs tend to be taller, leaner and higher-energy, bred more for field work.

Are your dogs kennel dogs?

No. Our dogs are part of our family, playing with our kids and relaxing at home right alongside us. Puppies grow up in the middle of family life, not in a kennel run.

How long have you been breeding?

Our journey began in 2019 when we brought home our first Labrador, Gracie. What started with Gracie and Duke has grown into a thoughtfully developed program built on love, care and intention.

Who are your dams?

Our girls include Bailey Girl, Mila Bear, Lana Del Rey and Aśka Willow. You can meet each of them on the Our Dogs page.

Where do your imported dogs come from?

Several of our dogs come from trusted partners in Serbia and Poland. They bring true English type into our lines.

Are English Labs good with kids?

Yes — every one of our dogs is raised around our children and their friends. English Labs are known for a gentle, patient temperament that suits family life.

Are English Labs good hunting dogs?

They can be. Whether you want a hunting partner, a show prospect or a cuddly family companion, we'll help you pick the pup with the right drive.

Life with your new puppy

How do I prepare my home for a puppy?

Set up a crate, pick up anything chewable, block off stairs and secure cords and trash cans. Our puppy guides include a full checklist.

Are your puppies crate trained?

We start crate introduction before your puppy goes home, so the crate already feels familiar. Keep it up with short, positive crate sessions from the first night.

What food should I feed my puppy?

Keep your puppy on the food we've been using for the first couple of weeks to avoid an upset stomach. Ask us at pickup and we'll share exactly what they've been eating.

How much exercise does a Lab puppy need?

Short play sessions and gentle walks are plenty while their joints are growing. Avoid long runs and repetitive jumping until your vet says their growth plates have closed.

When should I start training?

Right away. Labs are eager to please and learn quickly, so start with their name, sit and potty routines in the first week.

How do I potty train a Lab puppy?

Take your puppy out after every meal, nap and play session, and praise them the moment they go. Consistency and a regular schedule do most of the work.

Do Labs shed a lot?

Yes. English Labs have a thick double coat and shed year-round, more heavily in spring and fall. Regular brushing keeps it under control.

How long do Labradors live?

Most Labradors live around 10 to 12 years. Keeping them at a healthy weight is one of the best ways to add good years.

Can I call you after I bring my puppy home?

Please do. We stay a phone call away for the rest of your dog's life and love hearing how our pups are doing.

How do I help my puppy through the first night?

Place the crate near your bed, use the blanket that smells like their litter, and expect a few wake-ups. Calm reassurance and a quick potty break usually settle them.

Are Labs good for first-time dog owners?

Yes. Labs are friendly, forgiving and easy to train, which makes them one of the best breeds for first-time owners.

Are Labs good with other pets?

Generally, yes. Labs are social dogs, and introducing them to other pets calmly and early helps them settle in.

Do Labs need a fenced yard?

A fence helps, but it isn't required. Plenty of Labs thrive with daily walks, play and a good routine.

How much does a Lab cost to keep each year?

Expect to budget for quality food, vet visits, preventatives, grooming supplies and toys. Your vet can help you plan for your area.

When should I spay or neuter my Lab?

Talk to your vet. Many now recommend waiting until a large-breed dog has finished growing.

How do I socialize my Lab puppy?

Introduce your puppy to new people, sounds, surfaces and calm dogs a little at a time. Keep every experience short and positive, and follow your vet's advice on when it's safe to visit public places.

Should I get puppy insurance?

Many families find it worth it for peace of mind, especially in the first year. Compare a few plans and enroll early, before any conditions come up.

How often should I groom my Lab?

Brush your Lab once or twice a week, and more during shedding season. Bathe only when needed, and keep nails trimmed and ears clean and dry.

Can my Lab puppy swim?

Most Labs love water, but introduce it slowly in calm, shallow spots. Always supervise swimming and rinse off chlorine or lake water afterward.

Stud service & co-breeding

Do you offer stud service?

Yes, to approved females with AKC registration and completed genetic testing. See the stud service page for what we ask and who's available.

Which studs are available?

Our available studs include Victor, Moose, Sir Knox and Nolan Jacob. Pedigrees are available on request.

What do you require from a female for stud service?

Your female needs to be AKC registered with completed genetic testing. We'll talk through her health and history before booking.

How do I book stud service?

Call or text (919) 899-8917 with your female's registration and testing details. We'll confirm she's a good match and plan timing with you.

Do you offer co-breeding?

Reach out and tell us what you have in mind. We're happy to talk it through.

Still have a question? Call or text us anytime →