The purity of silver Labrador Retrievers remains a heated debate among breeders. While the AKC registers silver Labs as ‘chocolate’ variants (diluted by the ‘dd’ gene), controversy persists about their lineage. Reputable breeders:
✓ DNA test for color genes (bbdd for silver)
✓ Provide AKC papers and health certifications (OFA hips, EIC testing)
✓ Avoid breeding solely for color
Silver Labs can be purebred if bred ethically, but buyers should prioritize health and temperament over rare coat colors. Always verify breeder credentials before purchasing.