labrador retrievers

Your Labrador was born to work, being a sporting breed that loves the water and loves to run. Given their unique coats that shed water and their tails that move a large amount of water, their swimming abilities have made them a favorite working hunting dog since the 19th century.

Dogs, unlike human beings, can’t speak up and let you know if they don’t feel well. That’s why, if you’re a conscientious Labrador Retriever owner, you need to know how to read your lab, and sense behavior that is “out of the ordinary” for your specific pet.

The ownership of a Labrador Retriever can be a wonderful addition to your family. Yet like any other ‘new addition,’ either human or animal, a Lab brings with it a whole host of duties and responsibilities.

Everyone knows that the Labrador Retriever is a beautiful, friendly animal; some may not realize, though, that this diverse canine has a rich history and fills many important roles in the lives of their owners.

If you are looking for a new dog to add to your family, consider adopting a Labrador that has been rescued and is looking for a new home.We all know that puppies are soft and cuddly but they do turn into a adult dogs. Here are some good points to consider when it comes to choosing a puppy verses an older dog.

While many dog owners prefer a purebred dog, there are many benefits to owning a mixed breed dog. A great combination is a Labrador and Golden Retriever mix. This new hybrid is called a Golden Labrador, although it is not officially recognized by the AKC.

Dog breeders are easy to find, but qualified dog breeders are an altogether rare group indeed. Once you have decided that you want that perfect little Labrador puppy you’ll need to find a responsible and reputable breeder that raises and specializes in that breed of dog.

In the opinion of this writer.....yes. As the owner of two Labradors under the age of three, I have come to realize that exercise is essential to a happy dog as well as a happy owner. I am part of the 70% of dog owners who believe that my beloved pooches are part of my family. Now that all my children have left the “nest”, trips to the dog park have replaced earlier trips to the playground and more recently, endless trips to sporting events. I no longer discuss SAT scores, the best colleges and curriculums, but have migrated to simpler subjects such as the perfect dog food, the best fetching toys, and the love that I have for the two devoted dogs who love me unconditionally and are always happy to see me....always.

Your Labrador retriever is smart and wants to learn tricks, if for no other reason than to please you. Happy, well-adjusted dogs are the ones who are allowed playtime, romping, running, games and learning to keep their minds and bodies agile. A bored dog will exhibit signs by digging, chewing, wandering off or barking incessantly. It will help everyone in your family, especially your Lab, if you take the time to train them, discipline them and love them in equal measures.

So you want an adorable, cuddly, bouncy, drooling Labrador puppy. Are you sure it has the right temperament for you and your family, and do you know how to tell one delightful little puppy’s personality from another? As a rule, Labradors are less whiney and insecure than other breeds, and not prone to territoriality or possessiveness. They do grow to be quite large however, and will chew (on just about anything) as puppies. They are evenly tempered and great with kids, and will run like crazy when you give them room. If you need a slobbery tennis ball retrieved, this is the breed for you.