Frequently Asked Questions

Take a moment to explore this page, where we’ve gathered answers to the most frequently asked questions about bringing home a Tailwind Labrador puppy.

FAQ

HOW MUCH DOES A TAILWIND PUPPY COST?

Our puppies start at $3,000, which reflects the average cost for well-bred Labrador Retrievers in our region and aligns with other ethical breeders. This price may vary slightly from litter to litter depending on stud fees and other unexpected expenses that arise during the breeding and whelping process. Every one of our Dams undergoes rigorous health testing to ensure we’re producing puppies of the highest quality—healthy, sound, and true to the breed standard. We do everything we can to keep costs manageable for our puppy families, because this isn’t about profit for us. Breeding is a passion, a privilege, and a labor of love that brings joy to our home and to yours.

ARE YOUR DOGS HEALTH TESTED?

At Tailwind Labradors, the health and integrity of our breeding program are non-negotiable. Every Dam undergoes extensive health testing before any breeding takes place. This includes genetic screening through certified laboratories, hip and elbow x-rays reviewed and graded by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), and a full cardiac evaluation via echocardiogram performed by a board-certified Canine Cardiologist after one year of age. We also prioritize eye health with routine visits to a Canine Ophthalmologist, in addition to annual veterinary exams.


Only dogs who pass all of these evaluations are included in our breeding program—no exceptions. We hold the same high standards for the Sires we choose to breed with, requiring stud owners to provide full documentation and meet these health benchmarks before any pairing is considered. This rigorous process ensures that every Tailwind puppy is given the healthiest possible start, backed by generations of thoughtful, ethical breeding.

WHAT IS INCLUDED WITH A PUPPY PURCHASE?

  • Eligibility & Application for Limited AKC Registration
  • Microchip
  • Up to Date Veterinary Care Including Age-Appropriate Vaccinations & De-Wormings
  • Jump Start on Crate Training
  • 30 Day Free Trial Health Insurance
  • Lifetime Guarantee on Genetic Health Guarantee
  • Documents Including:
  • Copy of Bill of Sale
  • Copy of Pedigree


REGISTER YOUR PUP WITH AKC HERE

If you’d like to register your puppy online, you’re welcome to use the link provided by clicking here. To help us recognize and celebrate the puppies we’ve raised, we kindly ask that all Tailwind puppies include “Tailwind” as the first word in their AKC registered name. This small gesture allows us to follow their journeys, cheer them on in their accomplishments, and stay connected as they grow and thrive.


If you have any questions about the registration process or naming guidelines, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always happy to help.

ARE THESE ENGLISH LABRADORS?

 

A common question that often arises when discussing Labradors is whether there are different types or variations of the breed. The answer is that there is only one true Labrador breed, defined by the "Labrador Breed Standard." However, within this breed, there have been different variations bred to meet the specific needs of owners and the dog's intended purpose.


For instance, the "English" Labrador, now commonly referred to as "Show/Confirmation" dogs, are known for their stockier build, "blocky" head, shorter legs, dense coat, and wide, otter-like tail. On the other hand, the "American" Labrador, often referred to as "Working" or "Field" dogs, typically has a lighter, longer bone structure, a narrower head, and a more elongated nose and muzzle.


These variations are the result of different genetics and bloodlines, each with distinct goals in mind. At Tailwind Labradors, we focus on producing dogs that were previously known as "English" or "Show/Confirmation" types. Our primary focus is on breeding puppies with exceptional temperaments, health, and trainability.


DO YOUR PUPPIES COME WITH A HEALTH GUARANTEE?

 

Yes! Every Tailwind Labrador puppy is guaranteed for life against being affected by a carefully screened list of genetic diseases and abnormalities. These include:

Centronuclear Myopathy, Exercise-Induced Collapse, Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration, Retinal Dysplasia/Oculoskeletal Dysplasia 1, Skeletal Dysplasia 2, Stargardt Disease, and the D Locus (Dilute) gene.


Please note: this guarantee does not apply to carrier status. Carriers are not affected by these conditions and remain healthy throughout their lives. Carrier status is only relevant in breeding decisions, and we take great care to ensure it does not impact the health or well-being of your puppy.

 

ARE YOUR PUPPIES ELIGIBLE FOR AKC REGISTRATION?

All of our puppies are eligible for AKC Limited Registration, and we strongly encourage families to complete the registration process. Limited Registration preserves the integrity of the breed while still giving owners full access to AKC programs, events, and valuable resources. It also ensures your puppy’s pedigree is officially recorded and recognized, providing lifelong documentation of their lineage and supporting responsible breeding practices.

IMPORTANT QUESTIONS TO ASK BREEDERS BEFORE COMMITTING TO A PUPPY


Sadly, not all breeders operate with the best interests of their dogs in mind. In today’s market, it’s more important than ever to ask thoughtful questions and seek honest, transparent answers. A responsible breeder will welcome your curiosity and be proud to share their practices.


Breeding Decisions

Ask about the specific breeding pair. Why were these dogs chosen? A knowledgeable breeder will explain their choices based on health, temperament, conformation, and genetic compatibility—not convenience or trend.


Socialization Practices

Inquire about how the puppies are introduced to people, other animals, and everyday environments. Early, intentional socialization helps shape confident, well-adjusted dogs. A good breeder will expose puppies to a variety of sights, sounds, and experiences before they go home.


Return Policy

What happens if life changes and you’re no longer able to keep the dog? Ethical breeders have a clear return policy and will always take their puppies back—no judgment, no hesitation. Their priority is the lifelong welfare of every dog they produce.


Health Testing

Ask for details about health screenings. A responsible breeder performs thorough evaluations—genetic testing, orthopedic assessments, cardiac and ophthalmologic exams—and only breeds dogs who meet strict health criteria. This reflects a commitment to the long-term well-being of the breed.


Choosing a breeder who prioritizes health, ethics, and transparency ensures you’re not just getting a puppy—you’re joining a community that values integrity, compassion, and lifelong support.

 

DO I GET TO PICK MY OWN PUPPY?

 

At 7–8 weeks of age, our puppies are thoughtfully matched with their new families based primarily on temperament and the unique needs or preferences of each household. During this time, our veterinarian conducts a full health evaluation to ensure every puppy is thriving and free of concerns before final placements are made.


As dedicated breeders, our mission goes beyond placing puppies—we’re deeply committed to preserving and improving the Labrador Retriever breed. This age range allows us to carefully assess each puppy’s structure, personality, and potential, helping us determine which individuals may be retained to strengthen our program and carry forward the Tailwind legacy.


We understand that preferences like gender, color, and activity level matter to families, and we do our best to honor those requests. However, our priority will always be the long-term health, temperament, and quality of the breed. Every match is made with care, intention, and a deep respect for both the puppy’s future and the family’s journey ahead.

DO TAILWIND DOGS LIVE INSIDE YOUR HOME?

Yes - At Tailwind Labradors, our dogs aren’t just part of a breeding program—they’re cherished members of our family. They live inside our home, share in our daily routines, and are woven into the rhythm of our lives. This close connection allows us to know each dog’s personality deeply and authentically, which is essential when selecting the right stud pairings. Understanding their temperaments, quirks, and strengths helps us make thoughtful, intentional matches that honor both the breed and the individual dog.

WHAT IS "ENS"?

At Tailwind Labradors, we believe in giving every puppy the best possible start—and that begins as early as day 3 of life. ENS is a simple yet powerful series of exercises performed daily from days 3 to 16. These gentle maneuvers are designed to “wake up” the puppy’s neurological system during a critical window of development, helping them build resilience and adaptability from the very beginning.


Research has shown that puppies exposed to ENS experience a range of lifelong benefits, including:


•  Improved cardiovascular performance (stronger heart rates)

•  Stronger adrenal function and better stress tolerance

•  Increased resistance to disease

•  Enhanced problem-solving skills and exploratory behavior


These exercises take just a few moments each day, but the impact is lasting. Puppies who receive ENS tend to be more confident, curious, and well-adjusted compared to those who do not.

WHAT IS YOUR SPAY/NEUTER RECOMMENDATION

If you choose to spay/neuter we recommend doing so between 18–24 months. Allowing your dog to fully mature before the procedure can be beneficial because it supports healthier physical development, especially in larger breeds, and gives their hormones time to develop naturally, which can positively influence long‑term health and behavior.