There are few things cuter than a litter of Labrador puppies tumbling over one another to make your acquaintance. It is hard to resist bringing one of those adorable critters home, but a Lab is not the best choice for everyone. Those rough and tumble fur balls will quickly evolve into 60-75 pound rough and tumble dogs with an abundance of energy and a big need for attention. Labrador puppies that do not receive sufficient attention and proper training can become dogs that are destructive and out of control. However, with the proper preparation, a Lab can make the perfect family pet for many families with a personality that is as affectionate as it is loveable. To help you decide whether a Labrador puppy is the right choice for your family, consider the characteristics of this breed.
Friendly and Active
Those two words will sum up the personality and temperament of the large majority of Labrador puppies that you see. This dog has an insatiable zest for life and is nearly always ready to play. He will love everyone in your family, young and old alike, and he will probably welcome anyone into your home with a wagging tail and a happy face. Because of their friendly, easy-going personalities, the Lab is not a particularly effective guard dog, although they can be a watchdog when necessary. Labrador puppies are intelligent and eager to please, although a stubborn streak might make training a bit more challenging. Consistency, a firm hand and plenty of praise is the ideal formula for a Lab that is well trained and obedient.
Water Lovers
Labrador puppies love water as a general rule and it is hard to keep them out of any pool, stream or pond that they encounter. This is an important consideration if you live on property that has water of any kind, since you will want to make sure the pool or pond is inaccessible to your dog unless you are present. The good news is that Labrador puppies do not mind baths in the least, which is a good thing when you consider how much dirt and trouble these curious puppies might find as they explore their new home. This love of water comes from their breeding, since these dogs were originally trained to jump into the icy waters in Canada to help bring the fishermen’s nets to the shore.
Labrador puppies need plenty of time with their owners, and do not take well to being left alone for long periods of time. This is a breed that can become quite destructive if left to their own devices for too long, so crate training is an important component to Lab ownership. Labrador puppies should be introduced to the crate from about the first day that you bring them home from the breeders, and should be kept in that cozy home whenever you are gone or overnight. Make sure that you purchase a crate that will be big enough to grow with your dog, since these tiny pups will grow fast and furious. Some crates will come with a dividing wall so that you can section off a small area for your puppy and expand it as the dog gets bigger.
There are few things more fun than a Labrador puppy and with the proper training and preparation, you will be able to enjoy your Lab for many long, happy years.