Kellner Labradors

“What sets us apart from other breeders: 1. We perform both PENNHip and OFA hips evaluations on our breeding dogs. I have a great article from ESPN of all places that describes the importance of both. Additionally, we donate puppies to certain service organizations, and they desire PENNHip since it is a better indicator of hip health. We only breed non carriers of the standard genetic screenings for labradors. 2. Our introductions, exposures and assessments are very extensive and varied. We perform Early Neurological Stimulation, Early Scent Introduction, sound and texture exposures, Confidence and Drive assessments (9 times between 4 and 8 weeks), modified Volhard, and a basic service dog assessment. • Typical sound exposures: music, various television sounds, traffic sounds, loud metal sounds, sudden loud noises, dogs, cars, mowers, blowers, loud children, forest sounds, horns honking, air compressor. • Typical walking surface exposures: wood, tile, linoleum, smooth concrete, rough concrete, gravel, metal, uneven surface, stairs, carpet, grass, woods, stall mats, smooth plastic, mulch, water. • Confidence and Drive Assessments: Starting at four weeks and then every half week until eight weeks of age, we perform a Confidence and Drive 'test' similar to the US Customs and Border Control Program. The protocol is provided to us by PENNVet, one of the organizations we donate puppies to. These tests are videoed, and the puppies are ranked for their confidence and drive. • Modified Volhard: We utilize the basics of the Volhard Puppy Assessment and modify a few of the exercises. We do allow people the puppies have met before, but do not allow one of our family members to do the handling. We do the assessments on site in a location with limited distractions that the puppies have been in before but have not spent any amount of time in. • Service Dog Training Assessment and Apptitude: This assessment is provided to us from Smoky Mountain Service Dogs to assist in puppy selection for their organization. ”