First of all I have never purchased a started dog, but, if I was to I would want to see him/her work. I would also want to set up some time with the trainer so the dog can get used to you giving the commands and not someone else. I can not speek about the lab but, some bird dogs can be trained to perfection only to come out being a flop when someone else is giving the command. So I think that it would be best once you decided on which to buy that you can set this time up with them. I feel it would be easier for you and the dog in the long run. That is my 2cents and good luck.