At Empress Labradors, we plan each litter with intention and purpose — always with the future of our bloodline and the breed in mind. As a preservation breeder, our focus is on advancing the Labrador Retriever through thoughtful, responsible breeding practices that honor the breed standard and promote health, intelligence, and sound temperament. We are committed to producing dogs with predictable characteristics, robust health, and strong minds. Every breeding decision we make is a careful blend of art and science. We stay current with emerging health testing protocols, study pedigrees in depth, and pay close attention to genetic traits that impact the long-term well-being of the breed. Each litter represents years of accumulated knowledge, experience, and dedication — all aimed at preserving and bettering the Labrador Retriever for generations to come.  

We want to give the dogs we breed the best success in whatever venue and a long, healthy life along with being a loving member of your family.

The Truth About “English vs. American” Labradors The term “English vs. American” Labrador is often misused—and it’s something that concerns many reputable breeders. At the end of the day, a Labrador is a Labrador.

Unfortunately, the breed has been overbred by individuals who lack a true passion for preserving quality—neglecting full health testing, temperament, and the breed standard.

There is only one official AKC breed standard, yet after more than 30 years in the breed, I’ve seen countless personal interpretations of what people think a Labrador should be.

At Empress Labradors, we choose to stay true to the AKC guidelines, and as a result, we’ve produced generations of dual-purpose Labradors—dogs that not only excel in performance and structure, but also make outstanding companions.

We are deeply committed to breeding well-rounded, healthy, and versatile dogs with wonderful temperaments. Our focus is always on what’s best for the future of the breed, and for the families who welcome our puppies into their homes.

We’re proud to say that we produce some of the best family Labradors you’ll find—raised with intention, knowledge, and love. 

What height are our Labradors? 

At the withers for a dog (male) is 22½ to 24½ inches; for a bitch (female) is 21½ to 23½ inches

What colors are Labradors?

Labradors truly only come in three colors and they are black, yellow (shading from white to fox red color) and chocolate. 

Please do not fall for any marketing terms stating “silver, white, or fox red” at the end of the day your AKC papers will only say black, yellow, or chocolate. 

Do your homework

If you’re considering bringing a puppy into your home — someone who will likely be part of your family for 10+ years — there are important things to consider:

 

• Choose a breeder who cares more about quality than quantity.

• Find a breeder who has produced AKC champions, with their kennel prefix showing up in the pedigrees of the sire and/or dam. (For example: Empress)

• Visit their websites to find health testing on each individual dog that you could be getting a puppy from. Or visit www.OFA.org and search the parents AKC registered name to find that info. 

Read potential reviews but please do remember that as much as we try very hard to please everyone for some reason the breeder is always blamed for things that have happened after a healthy vet check puppy has left their facility. 

Why is this important when “you don’t want a “show” dog and just a pet.”

Here’s why it still matters — even if you “just want a pet”:

1. Health & Longevity
Reputable breeders who breed to the AKC standard and do complete health testing are minimizing the risk of hereditary diseases and genetic disorders. That means:
• Fewer vet bills over the life of your dog
• A longer, healthier life for your pet
• Less chance of heartache from early or unexpected health problems

2. Temperament
When breeders carefully select breeding pairs, they’re not just choosing for looks — they’re choosing for stable, predictable temperaments. That’s vital for:
• Families with kids
• Multi-pet households
• First-time dog owners

3. Predictability
Staying true to the breed standard means you’ll know what you’re getting:
• Size, coat type, grooming needs
• Energy level and exercise requirements
• Behavior tendencies
That makes it much easier to find a dog that truly fits your lifestyle.

4. Ethical Practices
Reputable breeders:
• Don’t overbreed
• Socialize puppies from birth
• Provide proper early care and vetting
• Offer lifelong support and take dogs back if needed
This helps break the cycle of backyard breeding and dogs ending up in shelters. 

Well I can’t afford that price for your dogs or I can find one cheaper!  

"I understand that the price of a well-bred dog from a reputable breeder can feel high — and it’s true, you can find dogs cheaper elsewhere. But here’s the honest reality: when you buy a dog based on price alone, especially from less responsible sources, you may be setting yourself up for heartbreak and financial stress down the road. Dogs from unreputable breeders or 'backyard breeders' often haven’t had any health testing or thoughtful breeding practices. That can lead to a range of lifelong problems — from chronic skin issues and severe allergies to joint disorders and even major organ failure. These issues aren’t just hard on your wallet — they’re incredibly hard on the dog. So while a responsibly bred puppy may cost more up front, you're investing in decades of health, stability, and support. Reputable breeders stand behind their dogs, screen for genetic conditions, and do everything they can to give both the puppy and the new owner the best start.

If that’s out of reach financially right now, my advice is to wait, save, and plan. A dog is a 10–15 year commitment, and you deserve to start that journey with the best chance for success — and your future dog deserves that too." 

Pricing for Puppies, aAdolescents and Retired Dogs

🐾 8–12 Weeks Old — $3,700

Our youngest puppies are placed in their new homes at 8–12 weeks of age. At this stage, they’ve had age-appropriate vaccinations, been dewormed, started on heartworm/flea/tick prevention, and are well-socialized to begin life with your family.

 

As a breeder I always keep what I think is the best of the best out of litter structure wise and fitting in to that AKC standard that we discussed earlier. Sometimes after they grow up the puppy is not what we hoped for showing purposes so we then find those families that don’t want to do the puppy stages. There is nothing wrong with these adolescents when we look for new loving homes. (Pricing above is by age) When we have adolescents available they are first posted on our Facebook page at Empress Labradors Homestead with their date of birth so you quickly figure out the price. 

As difficult it is we do place retired dogs after they have been altered (spayed or neutered) we know that we can’t give them the grand life that they deserve with a loving family that can put them on a pedestal with undivided attention. 

Puppy developmental and socializing. 

We do something called Neurological Stimulation at the young age of 3 days old till 2 weeks old. Check out this link for more info from AKC. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeding/breeder-puppy-socialization-early-neurological-stimulation/

I have found this to be a great developmental stage for growing puppies and know we have smarter puppies because of it.   

The key to ensuring that your puppy will quickly become a happy, well-adjusted family member. For the first 4 weeks, litters are raised in our home in our living room adjacent to our kitchen with an abundance of attention and handling. Our puppies spend the first four weeks in a whelping box decorated with colorful mobiles and toys are changed out as they reach various stages.

After 4-5 weeks, they move to an indoor area that is 10 by 10 feet, has access to a 25 by 30 feet outdoor area that includes a jungle gym, a tunnel and lots of toys that are changed out regularly. Training starts when puppies are 4-5 weeks old which includes table stacking so they get used to standing.

We evaluate the puppies at 6 and 8 weeks. Our puppies do go home at 8 weeks of age.  At that time we find that they are ready to leave the nest and start their next chapter in their lives.

Deposit and waiting list information

A $500.00 non-refundable deposit is required to get put on my waiting list.  What does non-refundable mean ? If a puppy of color or sex is NOT born to your wants, your deposit is then carried over to the next litter that would have the color and sex you prefer.

Just because you have a deposit with us doesn't mean it locks in any type of pricing. Puppy pricing can go up at anytime. We all hate inflation and believe it or not it does happen to breeders as well..  

After you have refused 3 puppy offerings your deposit is forfeited.

How to properly make a deposit. 

We accept Zelle, Venmo, or Chase Quick Pay. 

Deposits are put in order when it has been received by date and time. 

If mailing a check please make it out to: Dawn Nacey.

Zelle look for DawnNacey, Venmo look for @Dawn-Nacey (myself with a Yellow Labrador), Once in Zelle or Venmo there is a NOTE section.

Please manually type the following so that your deposit isn’t returned. 

        1.) Your email address & phone number with area code.

        2.) First choice color/sex and second   choice color/sex.

        3.) Lastly, that you understand that this deposit is NON-refundable 

Puppy color, sexes and Timeframes.

Wishing I had a crystal ball but don't - Breeders have no control over your timeframe of wanting a puppy along with no control of how many of what color or sexes are born, hence why I ask for a couple different options when placing your deposit. 

Having a second choice of color and/or sex which of course could increase your chances of getting a puppy from a particular litter if your first choice is not available. Please keep in mind that most of my puppies are sold BEFORE they are born. 

Scenario #1:  If you are 3rd on my waiting list for a yellow male and only 2 yellow males are born then either your second choice sex or color comes into consideration, and IF you don't have a second option then your deposit gets carried over to the next litter. 

Scenario #2: If you are 3rd on the waiting list for yellow males and there are 5 yellow males born then on pick up day the two families that have deposits before you get to pick their puppy before you.

Puppy visitations 

At 5 weeks old, we host a puppy play date - this simply a time for you to visit and interact with the entire litter. Please note: you will not be picking out your puppy at this time. Final selections are made at pick-up day. The play date is a great opportunity to see how the puppies are developing and to enjoy some outdoor playtime with them. Since this event is usually held outside, please dress appropriately for the weather. No visitations are allowed before 5 weeks of old. We look forward to seeing you then!

Kennel visitation prior to sending a deposit. 

I do not allow regular visitations merely because of spreading disease that can easily do harm to very young or older dogs and my time. 

I spend tons of time training and exercising with the dogs. If we had visitors all the time, that would shorten our time doing what we love. 

If you are interested in an older puppy/dog that is available a deposit is required before visitation. If you do not fall in love with the puppy/dog I will refund your entire deposit.

Required supplements need to be purchased before puppy/dog pick up day.

To assure your puppy gets off to the right start, they have been enjoying NuVet Plus every day as a treat (they love the taste). Continuing this daily regimen is the easiest and best way to keep your pup on the path to perfect health! Please order the wafers and place on auto ship so that your puppy’s gut stays healthy during stressful changes throughout their lifetime. 

These products are not found online, at stores, or your veterinarian. 

For your convenience, order directly from the manufacturer by calling 800-474-7044 and using Order Code: 19387, or ordering online at www.nuvet.com/19387

These are to dog beds we recommend please click on the link to order.

Kuranda Dog Beds

Puppy pick up is 8 weeks old. 

You get to pick your puppy by when your deposit has been received date and time stamp. 

If you need your puppy to stay past scheduled pick up day boarding fee per day is $20.00. 

AKC limited registration

All of our companion puppies are sold on  limited registration which means that they are not being sold for breeding purposes.  The difference between pet quality and show quality is not usually obvious to the inexperienced eye.  The Limited Registration is a tool offered by the American Kennel Club for responsible breeders to protect their breeding programs and their puppies. The only difference between Limited registration and Full registration is that Limited registration prevents dogs from being shown in conformation and any offspring they produce may not be registered with the American Kennel Club.

Vaccines

Depending on the age of your puppy, it will have at least its first puppy vaccination around 7 weeks of age. We will provide you with a detailed vaccination and worming protocol to share with your veterinarian. We suggest that you reach out to your veterinarian in regards to their vaccination protocol when you go for your puppy wellness check.

Schedule your puppy appointment once I have communicated a puppy pick up day. Please keep in mind vets are very busy and booked and trying to get an appointment last minute might not happen.

Vet health check with our clinic

Every one of our puppies is examined by an experienced small animal veterinarian before it goes to its new home. This exam includes a full physical, fecal and cardiac check. It’s our goal to send a healthy well socialized puppy to your home!

Worming

Our puppies receive regular preventative deworming to avoid any parasitic issues. This ensures your puppy comes with a settled stomach and dormant issues that could surprise you just after your puppy gets home. We worm them with Pyrantel regularly from 2-7 weeks and then use Panacur at 8-9 weeks before they go home. Once you take your puppy home, we recommend you take a stool sample to your veterinarian on your first visit. Do not be surprised if they still show signs of parasites. Your veterinarian can advise you on a recommended program for future deworming of your puppy.

Microchip

Your puppy with come with a microchip and a lifelong registry through AKC reunite. If by chance you move please let me know your new address so our records can be updated. 

Service or emotional support dogs

With proper training, many Empress Labradors have become service dogs, ESA dogs, and therapy dogs. If you are looking for a dog to train yourself, my puppies and older dogs are priced the same.

 

We have some of the best dogs in world which comes from good breeding and generations of working with our dogs. I believe our dogs do have an on and off switch. If you want to be a couch potato one day and super busy the next day they will be right there by your side with their wagging tail. They want to please you, love you, and be the best companion for you. 

Genetic testing and guarantees 

Empress Labradors does ALL of genetic and health tests that Labradors should have before breeding any litter.  Yearly, I have board certified veterinarians that visit my kennel to check hearts and eyes. 

Whether you are reading this to purchased one of our outstanding puppies/dogs or on this page for educational purposes please do your homework with any breeder before making a deposit or purchase. Labradors should be genetic tested for many tests to insure you as a buyer doesn’t have issues later in your dog’s life. On all our dog’s pages on this website lists all the testing we do and then some. Click on the paw prints logo in the middle of all my dog’s pages and see the testing panel for that dog. 

Visit Orthopedic Foundations for Animals at www.ofa.org to look up four very important tests that every Labrador should have. Heart, hips, elbows and eyes ! Eyes are a yearly check. Some breeders do it once and never do it again, that is not being a responsible breeder. If the breeder you looking at does not have a website or even if they do please double check testing on the link above. All you need is the AKC full registered name of the sire or dam. 

The tests that we do is our best effort to ensure that our puppies are free of common congenital disorders. However, most congenital disorders have a polygenic mode of inheritance, meaning there is multiple gene involvement, making it impossible to determine with certainty that any puppy will be completely free from any disorder. Nutrition, exercise and other conditions will play a role in determining whether the puppy will develop certain disorders as well as help puppies grow into happy, healthy adults. We also encourage every puppy buyer to have their new puppy examined by their veterinarian within 48 hours from the date of purchase. If it is determined that the puppy is not in good general health, with a written veterinarian statement and the puppy returned, the entire purchase price will be refunded. 

Our recommendation for spay and neutering

Twenty to 24 months is the soonest for alteration.  Current research has shown that Labradors need hormones to grow slowly and properly. 

Food recommendations 

Puppies - Royal Canin medium puppy

Adults after 2 years old - Raw food.

Thank You so much for reading our page. It’s a lot to read but we are very passionate about what we do and we want to be an open book for you so that you feel 100% confident about being part of the Empress family. 

Dawn

Page Updated: 9/28/2025