Why buy a Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is a friendly, gentle and intelligent dog that is very people-oriented and enjoys spending time with their human companions. Labs are active and athletic and require daily exercise. Labs can also be stubborn and do require patient training and persistence.
10 Good Reasons to Get a Labrador
1. You want a companion dog.
2. Labradors crave human companionship and love to spend time with their owners.
3. You want a dog to enjoy outside activities such as retrieving, walking and swimming.
4. You want a hunting dog. You want a dog that will be gentle with children.
5. You want a dog that does not require a lot of grooming.
6. You want a dog that loves to have a job; from getting the newspaper to retrieving the ball, to working on basic obedience; a Labrador is happiest when at work.
7. You want a dog that has enthusiasm.
8. You want a dog that is friendly and people oriented.
9. You want a dog that is energetic.
10. You want a dog that is strong and athletic.
10 Reasons Not to Get a Labrador
If you do not like a lot of exercise, it is probably better not to get a Labrador as they are energetic and like to work. Dogs that are not exercised often get frustrated and get in to trouble.
Labradors do shed, even though their coat is short. If you do not want to put up with hair in your home, or do extra vacuuming each week, a Labrador is not for you.
Labradors can be chewers.
Labradors stay puppies a long time. Even though they may look physically mature, they do take longer to mature mentally.
Labradors are at risk for a number of inherited diseases. Most breeds have their share of inherited diseases, and even though a breeder may do all the required testing and certification, there are still no guarantees.
Labradors can be stubborn. You’ll need, patience, persistence and consistency to train your lab.
Labradors are not neat freaks and do enjoy all of life’s mud puddles.
Labradors can become very possessive of their human companions. They really do want to spend every minute of the day with you.
Labradors like to retrieve things, things they are supposed to and things they should not.
Labradors are big. Labradors will range from 55 65 pounds (female) to 80- 90 pounds (male).
What does a Labrador need?
All dogs have certain needs that must be met to ensure their physical and mental health. These needs include:
Appropriate amounts of nutritionally balanced dog food.
Adequate veterinarian care, including immunizations, deworming, dentistry, heart worm prevention and other health care as needed.
Discipline and training for basic manners and obedience.
Daily exercise.
A safe living environment.
Human companionship.
Equipment and supplies
Carrier and / or crate.
Feeding equipment (bowls & dishes).
Collar and leash.
Toys.
More toys (a dog can't have too many toys).