Labrador
Retriever
As a breed the Labrador needs no introduction. Probably one of the most famous, popular and widespread breeds in the world, they have been a familiar sight for decades by the sides of heads of state, on advertising and in the ring of honour at Crufts. They were developed in Britain as an all round gundog. As such they still retain the webbed feet and waterproof double coat of their forebears and their greatest joy in life is to go for a swim or to dash off and retrieve something for you. They are valued for superb temperaments and willingness to please which make them as good a family pet as a working companion.
Things To Consider
Before Ownership
Is A Labrador The Right Choice Of Dog For Me? A purebred dog as versatile and talented as the Labrador Retriever attracts many admirers. Whether you are looking for a puppy for a family pet or house companion, a show dog, a field dog, or a competition dog, there are many serious factors you should think about. Do you think you have enough time to devote to your new Labrador? Even a pet Labrador will require considerable time to train. Of course, a field dog or obedience/agility dog will require hours of daily attention and special training. The Labrador is a demanding dog who will want to share his whole life with you, consider your choice carefully.
You can expect a Labrador to live on average between 10 and 12 years though it is very possible that they can go until there are 15. Do you know where you will be in a decade? You have to plan for a Labrador to be part of that picture. It is important to win the lifelong battle against the flab – they are a greedy breed. They are a breed that need a lot of exercise – as a gundog they need the stamina to go all day and keep to their master’s side, always ready to dash off and retrieve.If you are not committed to the welfare and the whole existence of this energetic, purposeful animal, if in the simplest, most basic example, you are not willing to walk your dog daily, despite the weather, do not choose a Labrador as a companion. Ideally, long walks to keep them happy and busy are the best but failing that, some games such as retrieving or finding which occupy their mind and stop them from getting bored are good. A swim, especially in the summer is always appreciated but if it is the sea do remember to rinse them off afterwards so that the salt does not build up in their coat and cause skin problems. Labradors love cars and generally make very good car campanions. They are not a breed which is prone to carsickness and enjoy the stimulation that being in the car brings.
Along with all the factors above, there are the usual problems associated with puppies of any breed, one of these being the damage likely to be sustained by your floors, furniture, flowers etc., What about your freedom? Holidays or weekend trips will have to be planned, when owning a Labrador you have to take all this into serious consideration.
Inoculations, generally these should be started at 8 weeks, telephone your local vet for more information.
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