Things to consider before getting Labrador
- Labradors, whether Standard or Miniature, are very active dogs who MUST have regular opportunities to vent their high energy and to use their busy minds to do interesting things. Otherwise they will become rambunctious and bored -- which they usually express by destructive chewing. Bored Labradors are famous for chewing through drywall, ripping the stuffing out of sofas, and turning your yard into a moonscape of giant craters.
If you simply want a pet for your family, and don't have the time or inclination to take your dog running or hiking or biking or swimming, or to get involved in weight-pulling, or agility (obstacle course), or advanced obedience, or tracking, or a similar canine activity, I do not recommend these breeds.
- Young Labradors (up to about three years old) can be bulls in a china shop. When they romp and jump, they do so with great vigor, and things can go flying, including people.
If you have small children, or if you or anyone who lives with you is elderly or infirm, I do not recommend Labrador puppies, especially the Standard size. The temptation to play roughly is simply too strong in many young Labradors.
- Many Labradors love everyone, but some have protective instincts toward strangers. All Labradors need extensive exposure to friendly people so they learn to recognize the normal behaviours of "good guys." Then they can recognize the difference when someone acts abnormally. Without careful socialization, they may be suspicious of everyone, which could lead to biting. Some Labradors go in the opposite direction -- without enough socialization, they become fearful of strangers, which can lead to defensive biting.
- Many Labradors, especially the Standard size, will not tolerate another dog of the same sex. Some won't tolerate the opposite sex, either. Many Labradors, both Standard and Miniature, have strong instincts to chase and seize cats and other fleeing creatures. If anything goes wrong in the breeding, socializing, training, handling, or management of these breeds, they are capable of seriously injuring or killing other animals.
- Labradors are not Golden Retrievers. They have an independent mind of their own and are not pushovers to raise and train. They can be manipulative, and many are willful, obstinate, and dominant (they want to be the boss) and will make you prove that you can make them do things. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say.
To teach your Labrador to listen to you, "Respect Training" is mandatory.
- Labradors shed much more than you might think. Their short, coarse hairs come off on your hands when you pet them, and stick tenaciously to your carpeting, upholstery, and clothing. In addition, people with sensitive skin may react adversely to the "pokes" of the harsh hairs.