Dog Update: Saturday morning, we stopped by the Dutch Labrador Association "open day". We had a great time, and are quite convinced that a Labrador is the right dog for us.
It was good to see how other people handled their dogs and how the dogs interacted with each other. No growling or fighting. Every dog I saw was playful and friendly.
We watched obedience and hunting training demonstrations. The latter of which was quite interesting. The communication - by way of whistles, verbal commands, and hand gestures - between dog and owner was impressive to see.
At one of the stands, we listened in as a woman explained the in's and out's of selecting a breeder, and eventually a puppy. We left her stand with forms, booklets, and lot's of useful information. I hope that this week or next we will receive the list with DLA approved breeders.
Near to the end of the day's events, we chatted with an elderly man who, quite proud of the fact that I photographed his dog, said "once a Labrador, always a Labrador". I can't say that I agree with that just yet, but I can definitely understand the sentiment.