Originally from Newfoundland, this very popular dog was bred to jump into the water and haul fishermen's nets ashore. Today, besides being good family pets, Labs are hunting dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, guide dogs and police dogs, used for detecting drugs and bombs.
Instructions
1. Choose a Lab if you want a friendly, loyal and affectionate companion. They're not good watchdogs but will bark if there's a reason.
2. Try a Labrador if you're looking for a good family dog. They're excellent with children.
3. Feel confident in adopting a Lab if you have other pets; they get along well with everyone.
4. Anticipate your adult Lab weighing 60 to 70 lbs. and standing about 23 inches at the shoulder.
5. Expect to pay between $200 and $400 for a good-quality dog.
6. Consider adopting a Lab from a rescue group. Most of these dogs are already housebroken and finished with the chewing stage. There's usually nothing wrong with the dog; the owners didn't research the breed and later discovered that they and the dog were incompatible.
7. Remember that Labs tend to be somewhat stubborn, which means that you must be consistent and patient while training them.
8. Note that Labs are enthusiastic puppies and are sometimes mistakenly thought to be hyperactive. The main reason people give up their Labs is that they're too active.
9. Be prepared to spend a fruitful 10 to 12 years with your Lab, as this is the average life expectancy of a Labrador retriever.
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