10 things to know before adopting a Labrador

Are you planning to adopt a Labrador? Here are 10 things you must be aware of before adopting a dog of this amazing breed.

Best companions ever

There is no doubt that this breed is known for its loyalty, devotion and playfulness.

Labradors are known all over the world for their exceptional loyalty, love, affectionate behavior, intelligence and so much more.

Here is all you must know

Potential dog guardian must be aware of these factors before they adopt a Labrador.

1. Love to chew and destroy

Labradors love to chew any and everything in their sight.

It would be a wise decision to puppy-proof your house before you bring home a Labrador pup. If you don't want your cables and other valuables destroyed, keep them in the cupboards and lock the cupboards.

2. Tons of exercise needed

Be ready to make some changes to your daily schedule.

Labradors need a ton of exercise. They are a working dog breed. You need to take your Labrador on walks twice daily, 40 minutes in the morning and 40 mins in the evening.

3. Easy to groom

Labradors are fairly easy to groom.

Labradors being the short haired breed that they are, they are very easy to groom and do not have many grooming needs. Give your lab a good brush once a week to keep the coat healthy. However, brush the teeth everyday.

4. Health issues

There are certain health issues that this breed is prone to

Take extra care of those hip joints. Labradors are prone to hip dysplasia. Check the physical status of the parents if you are adopting from a breeder.

5. Need a ton of attention

Train, train and train

Labradors need a lot of training and discipline. With proper training, they will become the best family members. Without training, they can chew your house down.

6. Fastest runners

Labradors are some of the fastest running dog breeds.

If you have an active lifestyle that involves a lot of hiking, swimming, running, jogging etc, this breed is perfect for you.

7. Great with kids

Make for amazing nannies

If you have a trained Labrador, you need not get a nanny for your kid. Labradors are fiercely protective of young kids and love to play with them.

8. Love swimming

Labs love to swim

Labradors have webbed feet which makes it easier for them to swim. This is why they were used by fishermen to catch fishes in shallow rivers.

9. Playtime is important

Labs are one of the most playful breeds

Labradors love their playtime. They are very social and love to hand out with other dogs. However, be careful and ensure that the other dog accepts your pup before you let him play.

10. Can sniff diseases

From low blood sugar level to cancer, Labradors make great diagnosticians.

If your Lab is showering extra attention on you, constantly checking you at a specific place, it would be wise to get yourself checked by a doctor.

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Hi I am Dr Shruti. I love writing on everything related to dog care. Welcome to your one-stop destination of dog care. Articles focus on dog care, grooming, psychology, training, diseases and everything else dog-related.