Grooming
A Labrador Retriever’s grooming needs are fairly low compared to some other dog breeds.
Brushing: Because a Labrador has short hair, they don’t really need a haircut. However, they do shed a lot twice a year (the spring and fall), and you’ll need to brush them every day during these high-shed times. For more routine maintenance, brush them at least once a week. Consider using a tool like the Furminator to help brush out the undercoat and remove the excess fur.
Bathing: Labs who spend most of their time indoors should be bathed every four to six weeks, using a dog shampoo. You can do this at home or have it done by a professional groomer. For those who get a lot of outdoor time, you should bathe them weekly. Daily rinsing is probably best if your pup’s daily escapades get them a little too dirty.
Ears: Check your Lab’s ears to be sure they’re debris-free. If you notice any swelling or redness, check with your vet; your pup may have an ear infection. Watch our guide for cleaning dog ears if your vet recommends you clean their ears at home
Teeth: You should count on brushing your Labrador’s teeth daily, using a dog toothpaste. If you’re not sure how to brush your pup’s teeth, your vet can teach you. (Watch our how-to video.) It’s also a good idea to get their teeth professionally cleaned once a year by your vet.
Nails: Clip your Lab’s nails every 3-4 weeks or as soon as you hear them clicking on hard surfaces. You can do it at home, but a groomer or your vet can do it, too. It’s a good idea to start trimming your Lab’s nails when they’re a puppy so they get used to it and don’t mind a trim when they’re older.
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Training
Labs are eager to please and intelligent, making them highly trainable. You can begin obedience school with your Labrador puppy between the ages of 7 weeks and 4 months. They can learn the basics such as potty training, obedience commands—sit, stay and come when called—and leash skills. Labs can be leash-pullers and jumpers. To help train dogs more effectively, choose a headcollar to help prevent pulling and provide more control. A certified professional dog trainer can provide more guidance on correcting the issue.
In general, Labs are extremely friendly and do well in most social interactions as long as they are properly socialized. Introduce them slowly and safely to new people, other dogs and animals, nature and public settings as soon as they are vaccinated and your vet gives the “all clear.”
Labradors really shine in advanced training sessions. As a sporting dog, they excel in agility competitions, hunting and other field activities. They also make excellent guide dogs for the blind and visually impaired, bomb- and drug-sniffing dogs, and search-and-rescue dogs.
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Diet
Labs typically do well on a high-quality commercial dog food. Be sure to factor in your dog’s age and choose a formula that fits their stage in life (puppy, adult, senior). While there is no breed-specific standard feeding chart, your veterinarian can help you determine an appropriate feeding schedule and the best amount of food to meet your dog’s unique nutrition needs.
Because Labs are so active and always on the go, they may benefit from a high-protein dog food. As always, consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your Lab’s diet, as they are in the best position to help you pick a great dog food for your pup based on their individual needs.
While treats are often used in training, be sure to limit the amount you dish out on the daily. An overabundance of dog treats, even if your pup is super active, is an easy way for them to pack on the pounds.
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Exercise
It’s safe to say Labs are high-energy dogs. It’s essential for them to have positive outlets to expend all that energy, like running and swimming. Take them for runs around the neighborhood or at the dog park, in addition to regular walks and hikes. At least one hour a day of exercise is ideal. Fair warning: A Labrador’s speed can be challenging to keep up with. A great way to burn off their energy is to enroll them in agility course training or let them swim in a pool, lake or ocean if you have those options nearby.
Speaking of swimming, Labs absolutely love the water—they were, after all, bred to be waterdogs, retrieving fish and fowl. Lab parents should prioritize water-based outings as often as possible to ensure that their pup gets the precious water time they love. Since Labs are natural swimmers, dock diving makes for a fun exercise that will keep them entertained for hours on end.
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Environment
Labs want attention—and lots of it. Their ideal environment is, unsurprisingly, one where they can be smothered with cuddles, hugs and kisses. Because of their amicable attitude, these friendly dogs generally do well with kids and other pets, and they aren’t likely to bark at or be aggressive toward strangers—of course, provided they’ve received proper socialization and training. Having friends over for dinner? Your good-natured Lab is likely to steal the show with their cheerfulness.
Labs are extremely versatile and tend to flourish in many different environments, from urban to rural. In the city, you’ll need to ensure they receive enough physical exercise and mental stimulation. In suburban and rural places, they’ll have more room to run but you should still ensure they are getting their daily exercise. (A game of fetch is always a fun option for retrievers!) Without a doubt, Labs need an equally active pet parent who won’t shy away from going on everyday adventures.
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