Before You Buy A Purebred Labrador Retriever You Should Read This

The labrador retriever is the most popular dog owned throughout the world. Since the 1990's they have been the most popular breed by very large percentages in the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, Poland and New Zealand. Labrador dogs are famous for being used as guide dogs and sniffer dogs for customs. However, before rushing out to buy a purebred labrador there are a few things you might want to consider first.

Breeder. Where you are going to get your dog can be the most important factor of all. A reputable breeder will have had both parents cleared for hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy (often referred to as PRA, this is a disease that leads to blindness). The breeder should have all the necessary clearances from a vet. The biggest advantage of buying from a breeder, apart from normally being able to view both parents, is that if you are after a specific personality, the breeder will able able to provide it. A great example of this is when I bought my black lab. I specifically requested a laid back dog. My black lab Angus is so relaxed and laid back that he won't even retrieve.

Personality. Labradors as a breed are considered very intelligent, loyal and fun. Labradors really enjoy human companionship and can become depressed and bored if left for long periods of time. A great way to overcome this issue is to exercise your dog before you go out so then he can have a pleasant nap while you are gone. (We have a great article on how to deal with the home alone blues.)

Exercise and training. Labradors are considered an energetic breed. Your dog will need regular exercising. An undisciplined labrador can become a very boisterous, overwhelming and naughty adult. As a labrador owner you will need to be prepared to exercise your dog and train them. The advantage with labradors is that they are very quick learners and eager to please. Putting in the hard yards early on will reward you with the world's best dog later on. Labradors can easily become overweight. Your dog is relying on you to keep his pounds down and to not overfeed him. (For further information you might want to read this article on exercising your labrador .)

Needs of dog. Labradors need exercise, companionship and discipline. Labrador puppies can go through a naughty stage like all other pups and can often like to dig holes and chew. These problems usually stop by the 18 month mark. Labradors are retrievers and as such they generally love to play fetch and swim. Sticks, tennis balls and frisbees are all great toys for your lab. The less energetic lab owner can just stand there and throw a ball for hours to exercise the dog. Labradors do really well and enjoy agility classes and dog obedience.

These highly intelligent dogs are very capable of using their brains. Labradors need a firm hand early on and will respond easily and well to obedience. Labradors are easily trained with food and fun rewards. Labradors need plenty of exercise, stimulation, and companionship. The more you put in with these dogs, the more you will get back.

Labradors are well suited to family environments and are generally excellent play mates with children of all ages. Labradors love being part of the family, but care should be taken to ensure that your labrador does not think he is the leader of the pack in your home.

Labradors are a popular breed because they have the potential to be fantastic family dogs. However, a labrador is not born obedient and slim. Your labrador will be the best dog in the world so long as you are prepared to guide him in this direction.