What You Need To Know Before Adopting A Labrador

Labrador retrievers are now one of the most common house pets in the world. However, they were first raised as working dogs in Newfoundland and Labrador, a Canadian province near the Atlantic.

Distantly related to the water dogs in Newfoundland, the Labradors were distinct due to their black, smooth coats and smaller size.

Fishers soon became aware of the dogs’ ability to grab lines and nets in the water and bring them back to the shore. Labradors have affection and loveable energy.

Generally, Labradors offer far more advantages than mishaps. They will do more than return a favor as long as you are willing to spend some time with the new addition to your family and make sure they feel safe and loved. One thing is for sure; they are offering loyalty, which creates a bond like no other.

If you are thinking of having a Labrador companion, here is what you need to know.

What do You need to know before adopting a Labrador puppy?

Know their health

 

Ask the breeder lots of questions regarding the health of the puppy’s parents and the puppy itself when selecting a Lab pup. Watch the puppy; the puppy should look healthy and happy. A listless puppy or one appearing to be thin may have some physical ailment or may have a worm situation.

Usually, Labrador puppies are cheerful and enthusiastic; otherwise, behaving may be a sign of poor health or potentially poor temperament. Labradors are not vulnerable to many diseases, but it is best to undergo an initial health screening as well as regular check-ups afterward.

Like many other breeds, Labradors can have a variety of hereditary illnesses. The most common genetic diseases found in Labradors are probably hip dysplasia and a severe eye condition.

Their level of destruction and chewing habit

 

It’sIt’s tough to look at a puppy, and not fall in love immediately, no matter what breed it might be. Labrador puppies are incredibly charming.

A look in their eyes and you will quickly find yourself in a moment of “aww.” Puppies from this breed, however, are known for chewing plants, shoes, and just about everything else they can sink their teeth in. Early-age training is crucial in curving those behaviors.

Tremendously, Labradors love their families. However, combined with an incredible amount of energy, their large size can lead to accidental injuries with small children.

The odds of this being due to aggression are almost nil. Instead, this rare occurrence is usually caused by an innocent, playful desire. Besides, Labradors are known to make a great addition to a family with or without children.

They need space

Labradors need space-plenty of space! Because Labradors are active and big dogs, they need plenty of space to run around and play in.

When running in tight spaces, they can easily knock off vases and household items with their tails. Potty-train dogs are much easier if you have a yard.

If you don’t have space, then you’ll need to regularly take your dog outside to keep him active and happy. To Labradors, the ideal living space is a big clear room with nothing breakable in it.

However, if you live in an apartment, don’t be discouraged. Only make sure to take your Labrador out for exercise and potty breaks as often as possible.

They don’t need too many baths

Most people would be shocked to know that Labrador has two coats. It helps them to be such great swimmers, remain cool in the summer, and retain body heat in the winter. Trust me; you can actually over-bathe them because of the oils naturally present in their undercoat.

Too often, washing can cause dry skin, itchiness, and even flaking. However, check for fleas or ticks, they cause your dog to itch. If you do notice fleas or ticks in the house, it is advisable to call your local flea exterminator.

Their general cost

In the United States, depending on the pedigree, a Labrador puppy will cost between $500 and $1,200. He may also need a set of vaccines and deworming once you get the pup.

This means spending on veterinary services. If instead, you plan to adopt one, the price will be much lower with adoption fees costing between $20 and $250.

Two University of Pennsylvania students have researched and calculated the average cost of raising dogs of different breeds and sizes. In the first year, raising a large dog, like Labrador, costs about $3,239 according to their chart.

Apart from that, they found that a healthy dog’s average lifetime vet bill results in a $12,460 cost. It would be best if you did not ignore your dog’s cost of additional materials and training costs.

They need your time

 

A young pup will need a lot of your time and attention as they grow up. Labrador needs you to feed them, take care of them, potty train them, and house-train. All these allow an owner to spend a lot of time with his dog. Labradors are dogs of a high-energy nature.

Originally they were bred as sports and hunting dogs. Labradors require at least one hour of a daily walk. Canceling exercise can annoy your Labrador and may result in unpleasant and destructive behavior. It would be best if you also taught your Labrador to live a harmonious life with him, free of behavioral problems.

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