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The Labrador
Retriever is a remarkable breed and many
responsible breeders have invested great
care in promoting and preserving the breed's
wonderful characteristics. A carefully bred
and raised Labrador is outgoing, happy and
sees every being as his friend.
General breed
characteristics
What to expect when a Labrador joins your
family ...
The
Labrador Retriever is the nation's number
one breed for good reason. The Labrador is
an adaptable, loving, intelligent and
even-tempered dog. A true family companion,
the Labrador integrates himself into every
aspect of the family life with ease and
enthusiasm.
 While the
Labrador is a reasonably low maintenance
dog, please do not underestimate the time
and attention he will require and demand
from you and your family. The breed is
intended to be a companion and helper to his
human family members –
he will not be ignored! To achieve his
fullest potential, your Labrador will need
to be incorporated into your family
activities as a full participant.
Labradors
are intelligent and very trainable and,
accordingly, they will need plenty of
stimulation and exercise. As puppies,
Labradors are very curious and eager
students. Much of the training foundation
can be laid within the first few months
after the puppy joins your family. Your
Labrador will want to please you. He will
work happily for food rewards, but will be
just as eager for words of praise and
encouragement.
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Energy level
...
The Labrador is a puppy until he
reaches approximately two years
of age. As a puppy, the dog is
curious and high energy. A
Labrador puppy should not be
left unsupervised and special
attention should be paid to
training, exercise and play.
As an adult, the Labrador needs
daily attention and exercise,
but you will often find him
stationed at your feet and
willing to simply be close to
you. |
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Grooming and maintenance
...
Labradors are generally
relatively low maintenance.
Their coat is short and dense
and reasonably dirt repellant.
However, when the coat is shed
approximately twice a year, it
will layer your kitchen floor!
Baths are required infrequently
as a well kept coat will repel
dirt. Bathe at six month
intervals or whenever
circumstances require. |
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Retrieving
... is
a passion for the typical
Labrador. Many Labradors will
play retrieving games seemingly
endlessly. The Labrador is very
mouth-oriented and this will
manifest itself as bitiness in
puppyhood and carrying objects
in adulthood. Many adult
Labradors simply cannot resist
carrying their favorite toy
everywhere they go. |
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Lifespan
...
the Labrador generally has a ten
to fifteen year lifespan.
Prospective owners must think
through the anticipated changes
in their life and lifestyle for
that period of time before
adopting a Labrador puppy. |
Each Labrador is a character and each
will find his own way into your heart!
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