Spirit Labradors is located in South East Idaho . We are surrounded by world class trout fisheries and waterfowl havens. Sandwiched between the North (Henry ’s Fork) and South Forks of the Snake River, we also have numerous small bodies of water as well.
This Upper Snake River Plain area is primarily a farming community and has many huge grain fields. This added to the accessibility of wetlands attracts a wide variety and significant numbers of ducks and geese. Adjacent to us are miles of rolling sagebrush hills with good numbers of Sharptail and Sage Grouse. We also have many Blue Grouse and Gray (Hungarian) Partridge.
Spirit Labradors is a small kennel and we may only have two or three litters of puppies each year. We used to hunt our dogs regularly throughout the season and they had the opportunity of retrieving many different species of waterfowl and upland birds. However, as Alan has gotten into his late 60’s he hunts less.
Our breeding philosophy does not include simply breeding for color (we may have Chocolate or Black Labrador puppies for sale). We believe that qualities of character such as drive, determination, and heart, coupled with a gentle disposition are more important. Any dog we have ever kept or bred must demonstrate three basic qualities: not only must he or she be an excellent hunter with very strong retrieving instincts, but must also be easily trainable as well as a good family pet. We believe that a quality Labrador is one that is pleasing to the eye – having classic Labrador good looks.
We have always been a very active family and that has stayed consistent throughout our retirement as public school educators. We kayak, cross-country ski, fish, bike and love to be around the water. Alan used to be a very active runner and put in lots of miles a week. He and Connie are active hikers and have hiked all over the Tetons as well as Glacier and Grand Teton National Parks. Our dogs have to be athletic and make great companions for joggers, cross country skiers, walkers, etc. They are great with children and kids and when people come to visit. They would not make great guard dogs LOL.
