Adopting a healthy pet!?!?

Today I will be visiting a chocolate lab that I am considering for adoption. I have an untrained eye, and I am concerned that I do not know how to visually recognize medical problems. How would I recognize hip displaysia or any other medical issues that are common to Labrador Retrievers? I am trying to do my research, so that I do not take on an unhealthy animal. I am adopting from a private party and I know that sometimes they are not 100% honest. I am in need of some practical advice. Thanks.

I work with rescues a lot and I also do private adoptions...Personally I believe in full disclosure. I always tell my adoptors the background and medical history if I have it. I turn over all vet records. I give the new parents a starting supply of food to easy the transition, and at least one toy so they have something familiar. They would also get a topical flea and tick treatment Most of my guys also go to thrier now home with a new collar and leash as well. That's how I do it and by most other people I am very generous with what I do and all of those expenses are out of my pocket. I am NOT 501c3 (non-profit). You should always ask questions such as 1. Why are you adopting out this dog? 2. Has he had any medical problem in the past? I3. Is he current on all vaccines and heartworm treatments? 4. Can I see the vet resord or can you get them for me? 5. Does he have and behaorial issues that I need to work on and what are they? Just remember that even thought he may be healthy now that doesn't mean that there will not be a problem later. Just for example I lost my 17 month old APBT to cancer on )ct4 2006. I research the breed and the breeder. The breeder has NEVER had one case of cancer in 20yrs, but yet my baby died from it. I spent well over $2000.00 trying to save his life and keeping him comfortable. Anything can happen...just be prepared and 100%ready to make that commitment. Good Luckand let me know what happened.

Are you truly adopting this dog from someone that does rescue or are you just getting a dog from someone that is getting rid of their dog? How old is the dog? I would also ask if he is leash & crate trained & make them show you. Just so you understand the dog may be fine today but have HD 2 years from now. Watch him walk away from you & see if he is "off" in the back end. If the dog has been constantly well vetted & kept up on everything, that is a pretty good indication. He should also definately have been neutered - if it is theirs then as a puppy.