How to Raise a Labrador Retriever Puppy

Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds around the globe. Prized for their gentle nature and pleasant dispositions, Labs have found their way into the hearts and homes of owners. Large and intelligent, the Labrador Retriever can be found engaged in nearly every dog sport from hunting to dock diving. Raising a Labrador Retriever puppy is not difficult, although it does take a little time and effort to produce a well-mannered puppy.

Things You'll Need

  • Crate
  • Toys
  • Treats
  • Collar and lead
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase your Labrador puppy from an experienced, reputable breeder. Puppies are typically weaned between the ages of 8 and 10 weeks, and can be taken home at this age. Responsible breeders will have their Labs tested for genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy, which are prevalent conditions in the breed. Ask to see the health clearances on the parents before agreeing to purchase a puppy.

    • 2

      Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to have your puppy evaluated. Your vet will give your pup a complete physical to make sure it is free of illness. Your vet will also administer any necessary vaccinations and worming treatments to keep your puppy healthy.

    • 3

      Start your puppy's housebreaking as soon you get home. Labrador Retrievers are intelligent dogs and, with consistent training, they quickly learn that they should potty outside. Take your puppy to a low-traffic, quiet area of your yard and give it the command to potty. Be sure to take it out upon waking and after meals to avoid accidents indoors.

    • 4

      Fit your Lab puppy with a collar. A collar is necessary to keep identification tags on your puppy, so the sooner the pup gets used to a collar, the better. Attach the lead and allow the puppy to drag it around and get used to the feel of being attached to a leash.

    • 5

      Set up a crate in a quiet area and place your puppy in it for a few minutes at a time to begin crate training. Labrador Retrievers are curious dogs and can easily cause damage if they are left alone uncrated. Place a few toys inside the crate to keep the pup occupied, and reward the puppy with a treat when it lies quietly. Gradually increase the time your puppy is crated until it lies quietly for as long necessary.

    • 6

      Keep your puppy's bowl filled with fresh water at all times and feed it three small meals spaced throughout the day. Labradors are prone to gastric conditions such as bloat, so spacing out meals will encourage it to eat slowly and allow its body time to digest food properly. Feed your puppy a high-quality dog food to help prevent allergies and digestive issues.

    • 7

      Teach your puppy basic obedience skills. Simple commands such as "sit", "lie down", "heel" and "stay" will make your pup a welcomed family companion. Work in 10-minute training sessions to keep your puppy from becoming bored, and always offer a treat as soon as the dog obeys.