Do You Really Know Your Labrador?

Are you planning to get a Labrador? Or do you already have one? Here抯 a guide to help you better understand the qualities of a Labrador...

燘ringing home a new Labrador dog is not an ordinary job. In order for you to provide proper care, it is important that you are well aware of its characteristics, health condition and its daily needs.

Originally bred for retrieving in water environments, Labrador Retrievers are intelligent and energetic dogs thus making them not just lifetime companions but also excellent working dogs. Male Labradors usually weigh 30 to 36 kg while female Labradors weigh 25 to 32 kg based on the AKC. Because of their intelligence and energy, they require regular exercise and training to keep their minds and body busy. They enjoy retrieving a ball, playing in water or swimming, agility training and other activities that involve mental and physical challenge.

They are known as very mellow breed though they tend to bark excessively sometimes especially if they sense danger. They are excellent family dogs and are friendly towards children and other animals. And because of their friendliness towards strangers and very easy going personality, they are not often used as guard dogs. Their inability as guard dogs is replaced with their ability as working dogs because of their good work ethic and good temperaments. Their roles as working dogs often include hunting, tracking and detention.

Prospective buyers must be aware that these dogs should be brought home only until they are eight to ten weeks old. They may live for up to 12 ?13 years but this varies depending on their health condition and lifestyle. Common health concerns of this breed include hip and elbow dysplasia, luxating patella, arthritis, cataracts, hereditary myopathy and deafness. Hip dysplasia and arthritis may occur when a Labrador is overfed and become over weight. They should not be given too much treats and hearty appetites to prevent this disease from affecting your Labrador.

But before you take home these hard working creatures, you must take into consideration your home. As what I have been said earlier, these dogs are friendly so relationship with household members especially the children is not a problem. What you must consider is the size of your house. Since a Labrador may grow into a considerable size and may become excessively energetic, what they need is an adequate space and the privilege to stay outdoors from time to time. They also enjoy socializing with other people and animals as well.

A Labrador possesses many good qualities that抣l make a good household pet however if you think this breed won抰 suit your lifestyle, then don抰 force to get one to avoid problems that could affect both you and your dog.