We have been successful at retriever competitions for almost 40 years. Woody Thurman of Twin Lakes Kennel, has produced dozens of Master Hunter Labrador retrievers. Despite our incredible success at the field trials, we are most interested in helping our clients to own and handle the world’s best Labrador Retrievers. Our commitment to that goal has never faltered.
Labrador retrievers are the ultimate hunting or gun dogs. Labs win more field trials and earn more hunt test titles than all of the other breeds combined. According to one source, 20 to 25 percent of the Labrador retrievers in this country are used for hunting or field trials and hunt tests.
Hunt tests, sponsored by individual dog clubs and conducted under AKC (American Kennel Club) rules and regulations, are designed to evaluate a dog’s ability to find and retrieve downed birds. Hunt tests are not competitive, meaning the dogs do not compete against each other. Instead, their performance is measured against a standard established by the sponsoring agencies. Labs scoring the necessary points at a given number of tests can earn one of the following AKC titles:
Each level requires more skill. As the dog advances, hunt tests become more difficult. A good retriever must be able to remember the location of downed birds, to locate the downed bird, regardless of terrain, retrieve the bird and gently return it to its handler. The dog must be able to pay attention to its handler at all times and be comfortable with the sound of gunfire. The title, once earned, becomes a part of the dog’s pedigree.
We are very proud of titling more than 200 AKC Master Hunter Labrador Retrievers. Woody has also qualified 47 retrievers at AKC Master Nationals. He has won the Ducks Unlimited Open Championships twice. But we are most proud of…
Every one of the more than eight thousand Labrador Retrievers came with a guarantee against hereditary defects. That is a guarantee you won’t get from a puppy mill or a backyard breeder. During the past thirty-five years at Twin Lakes Kennel, we have searched for the most talented, well rounded, most dominant American field bloodlines. We breed for natural hunting instinct and tractability and those same qualities produce a gentle, loving and obedient family pet.
We really do believe that:
-Woody Thurman
About Woody Thurman: Woody and Judi Thurman of Twin Lakes Kennel have been breeding and training world class Labrador Retrievers for more than 35 years. Twin Lakes Kennel is the number #1 resource for Labrador Retriever puppies. We select from the most dominant American field bloodlines and breed for natural hunting instinct and tractability. Our Labs, both puppies and adults, are out of the top working Labrador Retriever bloodlines in the country. The end results are the most talented, well rounded Labrador Retrievers possible, making them a most desirable family pet.
More than eight thousand (8,000) Labrador Retrievers have been bred and trained during those thirty-five years. During this time, Woody has titled more than 200 AKC Master Hunter Labrador Retrievers. Woody has also qualified 47 retrievers at AKC Master Nationals. He has won the Ducks Unlimited Open Championships twice. In addition, two of his Labs, Drake and Rondy, bred and trained at Twin Lakes Kennel, are in the Master National Hall of Fame.
Our Labrador Retriever puppies are the culmination of a 30 year search for the most talented, well rounded Labrador Retriever possible. We select from the most dominant American field bloodlines and breed for natural hunting instinct and tractability. Our puppies begin a structured socialization program in the litter box and are introduced to birds at six weeks.
All our Labrador Retriever Puppies carry a guarantee against hereditary defects and to have basic retrieving instincts. Parents of all our Labrador Retriever puppies are physically sound with certified hips and eyes. They are out of the top working Labrador Retriever bloodlines in the country.
We guarantee all our Labrador Retriever puppies to be free from hereditary defects.
Call Woody and Judi at (910) 462-3246 for more information.
Discover which breed is the perfect fit for your family and lifestyle
Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are two of the most beloved dog breeds, each known for their friendly and loyal nature. While they share many similarities, subtle differences in appearance, personality, and suitability for different families can help prospective dog owners decide which breed is right for them.
In this comparison, we will look at the key distinctions between a Labrador Retriever vs. Golden Retriever to guide you in making an informed choice.
| KEY FACTORS | Labrador Retriever | Golden Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Energetic, friendly, easy-going, family-oriented | Friendly, loyal, calm, sensitive, good for therapy |
| Appearance | Stocky, muscular, short, dense, water-resistant coat | Lean, graceful, long flowing coat (wavy or straight) |
| Exercise Needs | Very active, enjoys running, swimming, hiking | Energetic but more laid-back, enjoys moderate exercise |
| Grooming | Low-maintenance, occasional brushing | High-maintenance, requires regular brushing and grooming |
| Ideal For | Active families, outdoor adventures | Families seeking a calm, gentle companion |
Labrador Retrievers are known for their energetic, friendly, and easy-going nature. They are often described as happy dogs who love being around people, which makes them excellent family companions. This breed tends to have an outgoing personality, thriving in active households with lots of interaction and playtime. Labradors excel as friendly, family-oriented companions and are not typically used for protective or attack duties.
Golden Retrievers are also friendly and loyal, but they tend to be a bit more reserved and calm compared to their Labrador counterparts. They are well-regarded for their intelligence and sensitivity, often excelling in roles such as therapy and service dogs. Golden Retrievers bond deeply with their families and can be slightly more sensitive to their owners’ emotions.
Labrador Retrievers typically have a stocky, muscular build, giving them a strong and athletic appearance. Their coats are short, dense, and water-resistant, which helps them excel in water activities. Labs come in three colors: black, yellow, and chocolate, each with its own unique look.
In contrast, Golden Retrievers are known for their long, flowing coats, which can be either wavy or straight. Their fur is usually a rich golden shade, varying from light to dark. Golden Retrievers also have a leaner, more graceful build compared to Labs. While their longer coats require more grooming, many owners find their appearance to be particularly striking.
Both breeds require ample exercise to keep them healthy and happy. Labrador Retrievers are very active and enjoy regular physical activity, such as running, swimming, and hiking. Their boundless energy makes them great pets for people who lead an active lifestyle or have large backyards.
Golden Retrievers, while also energetic, tend to be a bit more laid-back than Labs. They enjoy outdoor activities but can often be satisfied with moderate exercise and playtime. For this reason, they are an excellent choice for families with children, especially those who may not be able to offer a high-intensity exercise routine.
Labrador Retrievers have a relatively low-maintenance grooming routine, thanks to their short coat. Regular brushing can help manage shedding, especially during seasonal changes. However, Labs do not require extensive grooming. They are an easy breed to care for in this regard.
Golden Retrievers, on the other hand, need regular grooming to keep their coats looking their best. Their long fur can mat if not brushed frequently, and they tend to shed more than Labs, especially during seasonal shedding periods. While grooming can be a bit more demanding with Golden Retrievers, many owners find the effort worthwhile due to their beautiful appearance.
In the Labrador Retriever vs. Golden Retriever decision, lifestyle and family needs are key. Labradors suit active households that enjoy outdoor adventures and require a high-energy companion.
Golden Retrievers are ideal for families seeking a loyal, gentle companion who enjoys calm evenings as much as outdoor activities. Both breeds are devoted, loving, and adaptable, with differences that help determine the best match for your home.
At Twin Lakes Kennel, we specialize in breeding and training American Labrador Retrievers with superior DNA. With over 45 years of experience, our reputation spans the nation for producing dogs that excel in hunting, competition, and companionship. Our accomplishments include having a show featured on ESPN for three years, multiple dogs in the Hall of Fame, and contributions to life-saving efforts for U.S. Marines in Afghanistan through training IED detection dogs.
While we offer nationwide shipping, we encourage potential buyers to visit Twin Lakes Kennel in person to select their puppy, making sure you find the perfect match. Once chosen, your puppy will be flown to your local airport for pickup. Learn more about our dogs and see how our American field labs with superior DNA can make a great addition to your family.
Limited litters available – reserve your future hunting partner or family friend today!
Limited litters available – reserve your future hunting partner or family friend today!
