We could not recommend Mike Martinez more highly. Our experience with Mike and, ultimately, with our wonderful Labradoodle Luna was not at all what we expected—which makes us even more grateful that we found him.
Our family had black Labs for nearly 20 years, and after recently losing our beloved Lab to brain cancer, we assumed our next dog would be another black Lab. In fact, that is what led me to Mike. After reading his excellent reviews and spending time on his very informative website, I called to ask whether he had any young adult Labs available.
He didn’t, but during that first conversation we began talking about Labradoodles. Mike was extremely knowledgeable and generous with his time, and he encouraged us to keep an open mind. We decided to visit him at his home in Mundelein and meet some of his dogs.
That is how we met Luna.
Luna was six months old, and we connected with her immediately. I never imagined that after so many years of loving Labs I would come home with a Labradoodle, but I am so grateful we were willing to consider something different. Luna is extraordinarily smart, affectionate, curious, and an absolute joy. She has quickly become part of our family, and we couldn’t be happier with her.
Our experience with Mike also made clear why he has been so successful as a breeder for so many years. He is passionate about his dogs and extremely knowledgeable about breeding, genetics, training, and raising healthy, well-adjusted puppies. He is professional and straightforward, but what impressed us most is how personally invested he is in the dogs he raises. His involvement did not end when we drove away with Luna. He has continued to check in with us, answer questions, and offer advice as Luna has settled into our home.
Choosing a new dog after losing one you have loved for many years is an emotional decision. We are very grateful that our search for another black Lab unexpectedly led us to Mike—and to Luna. She is exactly the dog we didn’t know we were looking for.
I highly recommend Mike to anyone looking for a thoughtful, knowledgeable and experienced breeder of Labradors and Labradoodles who genuinely cares about his dogs and the families who bring them home.
Response from the owner:Hi LeAnn and Clyde. Thank you for the great review and kind words. I'm so glad that Luna is working out for you guys and that you are happy with her.. Changing it up to a mini labradoodle from Labradors is a big change, for sure, and I'm so happy you are happy with this "new" type of love! Enjoy her!