I have been researching them a lot but would like the opinions of people who own one already. I will be getting female black lab and am ready to deal with the exercise needs and shedding but I am not sure what else I should be worried about. Thank You in advance for any answers.
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I’ve heard they vary in intelligence. Some labs, they are the most clever dogs you’ll know, and some are as dumb as a sack of potatoes.
They are very energetic and can easily knock someone right over. They need a firm but gentle owner.
Labs can also make a huge mess when they eat/drink!
Unless you purchase a puppy from a reputable breeder you run a huge risk of a dog with health and temperament problems. If you do get one that has been well bred (AKC breeders) you MUST take these guys to obediences classes. As lovable as they are, they can be extremely naughty if not well trained.
They are big high energy dogs. A lot of time a big dog is hard to be he dominate around. Try a rescue. Mutts often make the best pets. Also see if there are any lab rescues in your area.
They are very high energy, and can be stubborn. Definately begin training early and establish rules from the start–also make sure she gets plenty of exercise and that you do thoughtful activities to stimulate her mind as well.
If you are buying from a breeder, get one that shows their dogs (and wins) and, most importantly, does extensive health testing. Labs are prone to several genetic health problems, especially joint problems–trust me. I have a Lab that I adopted, who, at 6 years old (mid age for a Lab) is already battling a few joint problems, especially the hips.
The biggest drawback hasn’t been mentioned in detail yet. Aside from lack of smarts in some labs and the shedding issue, the biggest problem (in my opinion) is the problem of hip diplaysia. I had to put my 14 year old lab to sleep due to hip displaysia. Basically, the dog loses control of it’s rear legs. It is a very sad problem to face. And in general, it leads to having to put the dog to sleep.
Having said that, I still think highly of labs and will definitely own another at some point. Good luck.
- Don’t mature until at least 3 years of age. Until then, and after then, they will be bouncy, overly excited, and very hyper.
- Take any food they can find. When they were first used in Newfoundland, they were only fed in the Summer and were forced to find their own food in Winter, and they still keep those traits.
- They don’t get full. They accept any food any time and this can lead to obesity.
- That tail is the perfect height to knock over things
- They are very friendly to everyone and will jump over everyone with muddy paws. This takes quite a long time to get rid of.
- They love to retrieve, this is a good thing, but they will pick up absolutely everything and won’t always give them back to you.
- They also love to chase. They can be walking perfectly next to you on a leash and they see a squirrel or something and they’re off tugging. There’s a lovely park near me with lots of trees and an open space with deer and all sorts. I saw 2 Labs chasing it for like 15 minutes, lagging leads behind them.
Personally, and this is just my opinion, I prefer Golden Retrievers. They aren’t as food obsessed and more mellow, even though they too are hyper. But yeah. That’s just my opinion. Enjoy your new dog. :]
They love eating, All dogs like eating but if you don’t watch it they are prone to getting fat.
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