My husband and I had Labradors in the past and were looking for a rescue when we found out that Harper had given birth to six pups. We had initially wanted a rescue because, as a veterinary surgeon, I hold strong views about dog breeding. Too often dogs are bred without appropriate health checks, and there is a fine line between breeders who see breeding as a money-making business and those who genuinely care about the health, welfare and genetic diversity of their dogs. We knew both Harper and Teddy, the parents of the litter, and felt ethically comfortable considering one of their puppies. We were confident the pups would be given the highest standard of care. Both Harper and Teddy have excellent temperaments, were fully health-checked, and the breeders were mindful to avoid inbreeding. We had also previously highlighted that if Harper had a litter we would like a pup from her due to her temperament and nature. From the time the puppies opened their eyes—around ten days old—we were welcomed to visit regularly. This not only allowed us to bond with the pups early but also gave us the opportunity to see first hand how they were being raised. Importantly, the breeder matched each pup to the most suitable new owner, a process we fully supported. Martin built a spacious whelping pen inside the house, ensuring the pups were always supervised and cared for around the clock. The environment was kept scrupulously clean, Harper was well looked after and never lost condition, and the puppies were socialised early to household sounds, people, and later, outdoor environments and visits to friends’ homes. Routine healthcare was meticulously followed: the pups were wormed, nails clipped, weighed weekly, and Harper underwent a veterinary check after whelping. Before going to their new homes, each puppy received its first vaccination. The breeders also provided a comprehensive contract safeguarding the puppies’ welfare, including a clause that they would be returned to the breeder if necessary. Each new owner received a detailed welcome pack, and in our case Martin and Eileen personally sat down with us to discuss feeding and puppy care. In summary, these puppies received nothing less than a five-star start in life. As a veterinary surgeon, I only wish every pup could benefit from such excellent care and love. We were fortunate to bring home a healthy, confident, and happy female Labrador who has brought us enormous joy. I firmly believe the way these puppies were raised gave them the very best foundation. Martin and Eileen were wholly committed to their physical and mental wellbeing, setting a shining example of how dog breeding should be done. Well done to Martin, Eileen, and of course Harper—for raising six wonderful, healthy, and confident little Labradors.