How to Train Labrador Dogs

Training a Labrador retriever is an essential part of integrating that dog into the family. Labradors are a working breed. They are good learners, but the other side of that is that they require stimulation and discipline. Training provides part of this, and will only help build the bond between owner and dog. And though it is important to do this from an early age, there is no cutoff age to start training your dog. Though this guide cannot cover every aspect of training, it provides the right basics and mind frame to get you started training.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog treats
  • Toys
  • Balls
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Instructions

    • 1

      Keep your dog well-exercised. Labradors need at least two hours of walking every day. Not only will this tire your dog out, which will mean he is less likely to do unwanted things such as chew furniture and jump on people, but if you train him after a walk he is likely to be calmer. By losing any hyperactive energy, he'll be more receptive to your training.

    • 2

      Use food as a potential reward. Labradors are a particularly food-driven species of dog. Your dog is likely to respond to food as an incentive, especially in the beginning when the commands are new and they are still learning what behavior you expect of them. You can also use the food in a direct fashion. For instance, to encourage your dog to lie down, show him the food and hold it low to the ground, so your dog learns to come down to receive his reward.

    • 3

      Be patient. This is perhaps the most important of all the tips. Your Labrador does not associate words to actions. It can take a lot of time and repetition to make sure your dog learns to connect the sound "sit" to the action of sitting down. Shouting or worse will not speed the process.

    • 4

      Praise and reward the part of the completed action. If you are teaching your Labrador to roll over, for instance, and he gets as far as halfway and on to his back, reward him. Then, as he gets comfortable with repeating that, withhold the reward until the next part of the command is completed.

    • 5

      Correct instantly. Dogs are creatures of habit and Labradors are no exception. As the rewards are a motivation to continue doing the things you ask, so too are corrections essential to prevent bad habits from persisting. If your Labrador pulls on the leash, for example, pull him back immediately and ask him to heel. Again, be patient. If he learns that the correction will always come, eventually the message will sink in that he should heel with you. At the same time, reinforce the desired behavior with rewards.

    • 6

      Take your dog to Labrador training schools. These are great options for many reasons. They allow your dog to socialize as well as behave in the presence of other dogs. They give you a chance to talk to specialist dog trainers who can always advise you with a specific aspect of your dog's behavior. Not only does your dog learn, but you also discover how to train him more effectively at home.