REASONS TO ADOPT A LABRADOR RETRIEVER
- COMPANIONSHIP
Labrador Retrievers are very people-oriented. They will be loyal, loving, and constantly seeking your approval. A Labrador Retriever craves one of the closest companionships possible for a human and dog, and will love you unconditionally. - LOYALTY
Labrador Retrievers are very dedicated to their owners. With the proper training, it is possible to teach your Labrador Retriever anything by positive reinforcement tactics. Labradors are always looking to please you, and will eagerly participate in good behavior if it makes you happy. Also, due to their unsurpassed loyalty, a Labrador will constantly be by your side. This kind of dedication provokes the deepest possible relationship between you and your dog. - PLAYFUL
Labradors are extremely playful, and will thrive off of a healthy amount of playtime. This can be beneficial for you as well! Studies have shown that engaging in playtime with your dog can help reduce stress, as well as improve your overall feeling of well-being. - ENERGETIC
Due to their active temperament, Labradors love to exercise, and will eagerly engage in any activity that is outdoors. Exercising with your dog is a great bonding experience, and will help you stay in shape as well! A fit Labrador Retriever will also love to go hiking, running, or participate in any activity that involves physical exercise. - GENTLE
A good temperament is essential in a dog that you wish to interact with children. Labrador Retrievers have a reputation for being one of the best breeds for a family dog, being very gentle and patient with all family members. A Labrador Retriever can be socialized to interact well with any situation. - GREAT HUNTERS AND RETRIEVERS
Labrador Retrievers were originally bred for their unsurpassed hunting and retrieval instincts. If you wish to have an active, loyal dog to take hunting, Labrador Retrievers are the best breed to choose. If you wish to have a reliable retriever who can be taught to retrieve almost anything, a Labrador Retriever will definitely be ideal. These characteristics, along with a Labrador’s ability to also be a great family pet, make Labradors the most popular breed for dog owners today.
REASONS WHY A LABRADOR MAY NOT BE RIGHT FOR YOU
- EXTREMELY ACTIVE
Labrador Retrievers are extremely energetic, and require constant physical exercise. This is an absolutely essential part of caring for your Labrador Retriever, since a Labrador can easily become overweight. Also, a lack of exercise can lead to hyperactivity, which causes other behavioral problems. If you are not particularly active, or if you do not have the time to give your Labrador daily exercise, it’s not recommended that you adopt a Labrador. - SHEDDING
Due to their double-layered coat, Labrador Retrievers shed constantly. While their shedding is not as severe as some other dogs, it can become quite a nuisance around the house. If you are particularly bothered by excessive dog hair, it may not be ideal for you to own a Labrador Retriever. - MESSY
Labrador Retrievers can be messy. Especially during outdoor playtime, Labradors love to get dirty. This can be an inconvenience, especially when your dog rolls in the mud. Many Labradors are energetic about mealtimes as well, and can make quite a mess around their food and water dishes. If this is something that may bother you, you may want to adopt a less energetic dog. - MEDICAL PROBLEMS
Most purebred dogs are susceptible to inherited genetic disorders, and Labradors are no different. Although the problems that they experience are not as severe as some other breeds, a Labrador affected with joint dysplasia may require expensive surgery, and constant medical care. It’s important to be aware of the possibility that your Labrador may have an inherited disorder, and be prepared to offer veterinary care if this occurs. - NEED FOR CONSTANT ATTENTION
Labrador Retrievers have many emotional requirements to have a good experience in your home. Due to their temperament, Labradors need constant human attention. This can be seen as a positive requirement for some dog owners, but for some people, this is too much of a responsibility. If you wish to have a dog that will be more independent, a Labrador Retriever may not be right for you.
