I have two Olde English Bulldogges. GREAT dogs. Love 'em.
I grew up with a yellow Lab, great dog too. Definately recommend the breeder route over a newspaper ad. A reputable breeder should never have to advertise in a paper. Note that there are two blood lines of Labs now. Quite different behaviour between the two. Check it out and ask.
A good book to read is 'Marley and me'