Frequently Asked Questions

English Labradors are the show or bench type of Labrador Retriever. They are stockier and calmer than their American counterparts, with a blocky head, shorter legs, and a gentle, even-tempered personality that makes them exceptional family companions and therapy dogs. They are bred to a different standard than field or American-type Labs, emphasizing conformation and temperament over drive.

English Labs (also called bench or show type) are broader, heavier, and calmer. They tend to have rounder eyes, a shorter muzzle, and a thicker otter tail. American Labs are leaner, more energetic, and bred for field work. Both are wonderful dogs, but English Labs are generally considered more relaxed and well-suited to family life and indoor living.

Yes. The English Labrador's gentle, even temperament makes them one of the best family breeds in the world. They are patient with children, friendly with other dogs, and adaptable to most living situations. Early socialization, which our ENS program provides, amplifies these qualities from the very start of their lives.

Labradors come in three AKC-recognized colors: yellow, black, and chocolate. We raise all three colors at Patton Premier Labradors. Availability varies by litter, contact us for current and upcoming availability.

Yes. All Patton Premier Labradors puppies are AKC registered and come from champion bloodlines with fully documented pedigrees. You will receive AKC registration paperwork when your puppy goes home.

Absolutely. Every breeding dog in our program is OFA health tested for hips, elbows, eyes, and heart. We also run a full DNA health panel including EIC, CNM, and HNPK. We share all health records openly with our puppy families.

ENS is a research-backed protocol originally developed for military working dogs. Starting in the first week of life, puppies undergo a series of gentle exercises that stimulate the neurological system during a critical developmental window. The result is a puppy that is more confident, less reactive, and more adaptable to new environments and stressors. All of our puppies go through ENS.

Yes. Every Patton Premier Labradors puppy comes with a written 1-year genetic health guarantee covering life-threatening congenital defects. To activate it, your puppy must be seen by a licensed veterinarian within 72 hours of pickup, we ask that you send us a copy of that exam. If a qualifying hereditary condition is diagnosed within the first year and confirmed by a veterinarian, we will provide a replacement puppy of equal value. Our guarantee does not include a refund. Our parents are OFA tested precisely so we can stand behind this with confidence.

Fill out our contact form, email us at pattonpremierlabs@gmail.com, or call us at (704) 807-5276. Tell us a little about your family and what you're looking for, color, sex, timing, and we will reach out within 24 to 48 hours to discuss availability and next steps.

Yes. A $500 non-refundable reservation fee is required to secure your place on the waitlist. It is applied in full toward the total purchase price of your puppy. We accept payment via Cash, Zelle, Venmo, or Good Dog. We walk every family through our placement agreement together before any payment is made, nothing is rushed.

Our puppies are released at 8 weeks old. Families are notified approximately 6 weeks in advance with a 2–3 day pickup window. Pickup is at our home in Charlotte. If you need a little extra time beyond your window, boarding is available at $25 per day starting on day 4. We do not ship puppies.

We currently feed Purina Pro Plan Puppy, 1 cup per feeding, twice daily (6:00 AM and 5:00 PM). Each puppy goes home with a 6-lb bag of the same food and a stainless steel 1-cup scoop so you can keep their routine consistent during the transition. If you choose to switch foods, we recommend doing so gradually over 7–10 days to avoid digestive upset.

Your puppy goes home with a scent blanket (smells like mom and their littermates), a 6-lb bag of Purina Pro Plan Puppy, a stainless steel 1-cup food scoop, a toy, complete vet records, microchip registration information, AKC Limited Registration paperwork, and a written health guarantee. You will also have our personal contact information, we are always available after go-home day.

We do not ship puppies. We primarily serve families in the Charlotte, NC area and surrounding communities including Huntersville, Concord, Mooresville, Kannapolis, Gastonia, Waxhaw, and Rock Hill, SC. If you are located further away, reach out and we will discuss options.

We love connecting with our families. Visit arrangements vary by litter and are coordinated directly with each family. Reach out and we'll discuss what we can arrange.