Written by Ioana Echim


                 While dogs make great companions and friends, they require a level of responsibility that not everyone can achieve. Labradors, in particular, crave human attention and companionship. Some so, even more than they want to be with other dogs. Constantly keeping them tied in the yard, or locked in a basement or garage due to behaviour or housebreaking problems, is not responsible care.

                

If you decide to buy a Labrador Retriever, you have to think at this first:
1. You have to invest the considerable time, money and patience it takes to train the dog to be a good companion
2. You'll make sure the dog gets enough attention and exercise
3. You'll spend the money it takes to provide proper veterinary care
4. You'll accept the trials of Labrador puppy hood (which can last for 2-3 years) and each stage afterward
5. You have to take full responsibility for this dog and all its needs for the next 10-15 years
6. You'll always keep the dog safe
7. You won't hurt it or scream at it when you get angry
8. You'll ask the breeder for more information when you find difficulties
9. Continue to accept responsibility for the dog despite inevitable life changes such as new babies, kids going off to school, moving or returning to work

                 The Labrador Retriever has a very nice "face" and can be a very good companion dog. He can easily adapt to the apartment but he would be happier if you live into a house with a big garden. He loves running and walking in the parks so you have to dedicate more then 2 hours per day walking with him. The Labrador is first and foremost a retriever. This means that they will make every effort to bring you everything not nailed down.
                 The Labrador suffers from major separation anxiety. Because Labradors are very friendly and devoted, they suffer when their people need to leave them behind, even under the best of conditions in their own home with a live-in servant. So, if you buy a golden it will be a disaster for him to live him to another family. You'll have to be sure that you'll never live him whatever will happen in your life.
                 The best sport for a retriever is to retrieve things from the water. If you live near the sea or a big river he will be a very happy dog as long as you go with him to the water.
                 The Labrador makes a terrible watchdog. They like everyone. You can't train a dog to guard a garden or a house. He could jump on the robber of course, and that because he wants to play with him. If you try to train a Labrador for guarding, you'll make a big mistake that will cost you! The retriever won't understand too much of this training and he will have lots of problems in the future.
                 This breed is known for their versatility. They will do their best at any type of work they are offered: from hunting to agility. This puts great responsibility on the Labrador owner to get involved in something. Goldens make their owners feel guilty or at least they should.
                 All retriever breeds are susceptible to joint and bone problems, and eye diseases. Because of overbreeding and poor breeding practices, Golden Retrievers are one of the riskiest breeds of all.

Before you buy a Labrador Retriever you have to answer "yes" to all this questions:
1. Have you read about the history of the Labrador Retriever?
2. Do you know their temperament very well?
3. Do the characteristics of Labradors fit into your life style?
4. Do you have the necessary supplies for a new puppy?
5. Do you think you have enough money to take him to the vet and make all the tests he needs?
6. Will you be able to take time to socialize your new puppy? It's best to get pups when you can take some extended vacation time.
7. Do you have books to help you train with your puppy?
8. If no one will be with the puppy during the day, are you prepared to teach your puppy to spend these hours alone?