A small hobby breeding program that I started in 1984, I only have 1 to 2 litters a year. I got my first registered Labrador in 1983. That same year I won the LOC Cedar Keep Trophy for top Junior Handler in the club by putting a CD and multiple field event wins on my first dog Ruwelli's Lasting Dream Rebel CD. The following year I started to work part time for Oaklea Labradors and was given the opportunity to get a puppy from a litter that year. Hawk became my best buddy and we made our way into the competition world. He became Ch. Oaklea Blackhawk at Maktawae Am/Can CD. Can.CDX.TT. 30 + years later the rest is history!
Located in the heart of Ontario's South Coast close to the Long Point Biosphere where a large population of migratory birds from all over can be found as well as some endangered species of other animals. An ideal location for wonderful waterfowl and upland bird hunting which the dogs love!
I was awarded a Life Membership with the Canadian Kennel Club for being a member for 30 years- also a Life Member of the Labrador Owners Club. I am a CKC Hunt Test & WC Test Judge and Conformation Judge for Labrador Retrievers. I have judged a number of specialty sweepstakes for Labradors as well as other Sporting breeds over the years. I have served on the executive for the LOC and other clubs. Also performing event duties such as Specialty Show secretary, Field Trial & Hunt Test secretaries, Head Ring Steward etc. I have handled a variety of breeds in the show rings to their Championships, Group wins and placements, Best in Shows, and numerous Specialty wins in Canada and the US. The thing I enjoy most though is taking my dogs out duck/goose hunting and watching them do what Labradors were bred to do! Therefore most of my breeding stock are proven hunting dogs as well as show champions. I breed for good looking working dogs that make a great family companion and are happy and healthy.
All of my breeding stock are OVC/OFA clear for hips, elbows and eyes examined by a board certified ophthalmologist, Cardiac Colour Doppler clearance, DNA tested clear of PRA, EIC, CNM,HNPK and clear of the Dilute (silver) gene. Puppies are guaranteed until 26 months of age and go to their new families at 7 to 8 weeks of age with a free trial pet insurance, first set of vaccinations, complete veterinary health check, dewormed, identified with a tattoo, CKC registered, Purina ProPlan Puppy kit which includes some food to get you started, the Maktawae puppy care package and are sold on a non-breeding contract. All puppies are exposed to and have experience with birds before leaving to their new homes. The puppy will be chosen for you based on what I see in day to day assessments of their personalities, characteristics and temperament testing to best match a puppy with your expectations and the environment the puppy will be brought up in. Whether that is a hunting, show, competition or family pet home. Price ranges depending on the breeding.
Potential families will be interviewed prior to any commitment for purchase.
Sometimes a young puppy is not suitable for all families, I do on occasion have older pups, started gundogs or adults available.
Ch. Oaklea Blackhawk At Maktawae Am/Can CD.TT.Can.CDX. "HAWK"
I was proudly featured in Canadian Dog Fancier magazine in April 2015 for their Breeder/Owner/Handler Profile!