Training Tips for a Labrador Puppy

Labradors are not only the most popular breed of dog in America, but Labrador mixed breed dogs are common, too, according to "ASPCA Complete Guide to Dogs." Fortunately, Labradors generally want to please and are trainable all throughout their lives. Puppies are most impressionable when they are between eight to 14 weeks old.

  1. Exercise

    • Labradors were bred to accompany bird hunters all day in the field. They are energetic dogs---even as puppies. They need to have regular exercise every day, which includes 1/2 hour brisk walk and at least three 15 minute playtime sessions. These sessions can include playing with toys, romping in a fenced-in yard or playing with another dog that gets along well with puppies. On the whole, male dogs tolerate puppies better than female dogs, unless she is the mother of the puppies. Playing with a tolerant older dog helps an energetic Labrador puppy learn how to communicate with other dogs.

    Voice Use

    • Puppies pay more attention to high, squeaky voices ("baby talk") than they do to people speaking in a normal tone of voice. Labradors are sensitive to voices---switching to a lower voice when you are displeased is an effective deterrent. Get everyone in the family to use the same command words so this doesn't confuse the puppy. Although taking care of a Labrador puppy can be tiring, don't just shout "No!" at the puppy all of the time. Be sure to also praise when the puppy is doing well. Labradors have good memories of what pleases their people as well as what doesn't.

    Housetraining

    • Just as with human children, it takes months for a Labrador to gain control of the bladder and bowel muscles, but they usually gain control when they are 18 months old. Never rub your Labrador puppy's nose into urine or feces. This does not encourage the puppy to not make a mess there. This action only serves to make a Labrador puppy afraid of you. Labradors grow to have a powerful bite and will bite when they are frightened to defend themselves. The best way to housetrain is through repetition. The puppy will be ready to learn the same day you bring him home. Place him in his toilet area and wait until he squats. When he does, praise verbally. Labrador puppies often walk in small circles, scratch and sniff the floor when they want to urinate or defecate.

    Size

    • Always keep in mind the cuddly Labrador puppy of today will grow to be a large, strong dog by the time he is 10 months old. Stop bad habits from developing while the puppy is still small. Don't let the puppy jump up on people. Food and toys are a great reward to help teach new tricks or behaviors. To encourage good behavior, don't give the reward until the puppy is sitting or standing quietly. Labrador puppies love to dig. Channel that energy by encouraging them to dig in just one particular spot in the yard. Bury treats there to encourage the Labrador to dig there and nowhere else. Labrador adults are strong enough to completely tear up a yard if they do not have a designated area to dig.