Do you want to adopt a Labrador retriever? Before you do, you need to know a few things. These 10 facts, if you prefer, will help you determine if this dog breed is suitable for you and what you can expect.
These are large dogs, reaching 80 pounds and with a life expectancy of 10–12 years. But many Labrador Retrievers can live up to 20 years. You can choose between yellow, brown, and black coat colours.
Without further ado, let’s see…
10 Things You Need To Know About Labrador Retriever
1. Labrador Retrievers Are Friendly Animals
Labrador retrievers are known for their calm and appealing temperament. They love spending time with you, and they will want to play all the time. Of course, you have a job, so you cannot play every single minute. However, it is important to play with them occasionally.
You will have time for that. In simple terms, this is a dog breed that has predispositions to become your new, best friend. Yes, other dog breeds have them as well, but not as many as the Labrador retriever.
2. They Love Water More Than Some People
If you are looking for dogs who love water, this is the breed for you. Labrador retrievers enjoy spending time around and in water. They will swim in a lake, they want to sit in a full bathtub, and they will use any other way to be next to the water.
Swimming is an excellent exercise for these dogs. It will use plenty of their energy (they have a lot of energy but they are heavy as well), and they will need to rest afterward.
3. They Are Patient, A Lot!
A Labrador Retriever is the most patient dog you can see today. They can wait for hours until you arrive at destination, while children are playing with them and even while you are at work. Here we can see another advantage. They love children, and they will enjoy every single moment.
Yes, kids can pull their tails, although you should prevent that. In addition, this dog breed will invent new games and try new things.
4. You Can Train Them In Days
This dog breed is known for its intelligence. You can train him within days, and it is extremely easy. Just keep in mind that they love treats, and you can use this to your advantage. Another reason this dog breed is easy to train is that they want to please their owner.
Thanks to both facts, training is very simple. You can teach your dog all sorts of things, and he will obey you at any given moment.
5. They Have The Perfect Weight
This dog breed is appealing for one more reason. Their weight is just right. They are neither too big nor too small. In other words, they are not small dogs, so you must worry about them constantly. They are not so big that you need help keeping one. In addition, they are great lap dogs.
All of this means that Labrador retrievers have an ideal weight, something most owners appreciate and like.
6. Health Issues Are Rare in Labrador Retrievers
Keep in mind that all dog breeds can get sick. But some can get sick more frequently and from more severe diseases or conditions than others. Labrador retrievers are generally extremely healthy dogs. Elbow issues and hip dysplasia are a bit more common than other conditions.
Other conditions that may occur are heart-related, eye and muscle weakness. Once again, the risk of these conditions is lower than with some other species.
7. Get Used To Shedding
Shedding is one of the biggest issues or drawbacks when it comes to Labrador retrievers. They do have an amazing coat, but it will shed like nothing else at least twice per year. You can expect hairs all over the apartment, especially on the bottom of the walls and the carpets.
If possible, go for hardwood. It will make your life easier during this period. You will need to clean your apartment every single day. It is something all owners must do.
8. Labrador Retrievers Like To Stay Young
Labrador retrievers can be considered young up to age 4. Yes, this means that your dog will run around and play for 4 years, but there is a different side to the story.
It means that you can expect a lot of chewing issues and similar complications. This dog breed likes to stay young, and they will do it longer than other dogs.
9. The Diet Is Complicated And Expensive
The dog breed in question loves to eat. This isn’t a big deal, but they love high-quality food. You should visit your vet and check to see which foods are the best. Regardless of whether you buy dog food or make it at home, your dog needs a complex diet.
This is most commonly found in expensive dog foods. After all, these are energetic dogs that are big and love to eat. Without a proper diet, they can become any of these things.
10. They Are Not Guard Dogs
If you want a guard dog, never get a Labrador retriever. They are completely opposite to a guard dog, and they don’t have a single characteristic that type of dog has.
Labrador retrievers are friendly dogs, and they will want to become friends with all other people and animals. They can even be friends with elephants. not something a guard dog should do.
The Final Word
Labrador retrievers are amazing dogs. They are so polite and friendly that we have a hard time finding dog breeds with the same virtues. Yes, they shed and they love to eat, but they will make up to you as soon as you start playing with your pet.
In a nutshell, they are the best dogs for most people, and they can become your best friends within 24 hours or even less!
Suggested Read 10 Best Dog Breeds for First Time Owners.