The Labrador Retriever is currently the most popular dog in the United States, and for good reason! Labs are incredibly versatile dogs – great with families, hunters, and single owners alike. Many are used as service dogs and guide dogs for the blind. As long as they are purchased from reputable breeders, from a bloodline that would suite each individual’s preference (hunting strain vs show strain, for example), this breed can fit well into many lifestyles. This is not to say that Labs can work for everyone, however. There are a few particulars that a would-be owner should be aware of before acquiring a puppy.
Because Labradors were originally bred as hunting retrievers, they generally have a lot of energy. Furthermore, if the dog is from field lines, expect that energy to be particularly high! Some people are surprised at just how much energy the Labrador has, particularly if it is a young dog. Several long jogs may be required every day, mixed in with some ball or frisbee retrieval. People who are couch potatoes might be better off rescuing an older dog with an already-established calm temperament but even still, all Labs need to have some exercise. It is not fair (even for an older Lab) if they are kept inside all day and not given a daily walk (at very least).
Labs also need mental stimulation in the form of regular training and other activities that encourage them to use their brains. Labradors that are not given these things can sometimes cause trouble around the house out of sheer boredom. Puppies and younger dogs are the normal culprits of these types of mischief, while more mature members of the breed are more considerate of your home and possessions. Either way, however, a Lab should never be kept in a crate or other confined space all day with nothing to do.
One of the breed’s hallmarks is their happy, outgoing personality. Their popularity today has a lot to do with how friendly, sociable and even-tempered the breed is. Many are considered “bomb-proof” meaning that it takes a lot to frighten or shake them. Because of this, they are usually excellent with young children. Most Labs are also great with other dogs – aggression is not often seen. Their paramount temperament is one reason why the Labrador is often recommended for novice owners. 
Despite their friendly temperaments, many young Labs are so boisterous that they require firm, consistent training to keep them from leaping up on people and greeting people rudely. Many also need early leash training because they tend to pull excitedly when out for a walk. Their large size and bulky muscle means that they are very strong dogs – most people agree that trained Labs are much easier to live with than untrained ones! Luckily, training Labradors is generally a breeze! These dogs are very intelligent, have a strong focus, and often love to learn new things. They pick up commands quickly and are almost always ready to practice.
Labs love to retrieve, but they also love just holding objects in their mouths. Carrying things around from room to room is a common pastime, often without even causing damage to the object, as they were bred to have a “soft mouth”. However, some Labs take their oral fixations too far and will chew things up, especially puppies. This should be trained out of them as soon as possible. There are also many Labs who try to take advantage at feeding time, insisting that they are still hungry despite being fed normal rations. When left unchecked, Labs can become overweight quickly!
This breed is not generally a nuisance barker, although most will bark when someone comes to the door. Their large size and often-deep bark is usually enough of a deterrent for a would-be burglar, which is good because the Lab is definitely not a guard dog! This breed is far too trusting of strangers for that type of job, and many would greet an intruder with licks, tail wags and happy greetings! Here at The Academic Hound, we have experience with Labrador Retrievers. If you live in the Austin, TX area and are looking for a dog trainer, give us a call!