Female Yellow Lab Dog Training Tips

Yellow Labradors are great family pets. Eager to please, energetic and very friendly, they are one of the best breeds to add to your family, especially if you have kids. Yellow Labs are also good hunting dogs; as retrievers, they are revered for their ability to bring in ducks and other waterfowl. Because of their gentle nature and willing-to-please attitude, Labs are one of the easiest breeds to train; however, that does not mean it won't take several weeks or even months to get that perfect dog.

  1. Basic Obedience

    • Basic obedience is essential for a well-rounded dog. With their eager attitude, Labs are easier than most breeds to train to sit, stay, come and lie down. A heavy hand is not needed because this will drive your Lab away rather than have her sitting willingly at your side. They thrive on positive reinforcement. Treats are also recommended.

    Socialize Your Dog

    • Socialize you dog. Labs are friendly animals and usually get along with anyone they meet. However, like all dogs, they like their space and lay "claim" to it. Socializing your Lab to other animals will help her accept other dogs and even cats that come into her environment. Introduce her to other animals one at a time, too many too quickly will overload her and she may try to defend herself by attacking them.

    Kennel or Crate Training

    • Kennel/crate is a useful tool not only for housebreaking puppies, but for training older dogs as well. Crates provide a den-like habitat for dogs, giving them a sense of security. There is also the added safety measure of crating your dog while driving. Our Lab thinks she is a lap dog, so for her safety, and ours, she is crated when in the car.

    Agility

    • Agility classes can be found all over, either through the American Kennel Club website (www.akc.org) or through your local paper. Yellow labs excel at agility due to their energetic nature and willing-to-please attitude

    Play Fetch!

    • Really. She's called a Labrador retriever for a reason. Yellow Labs love to fetch; it is part of who they are. It may take a bit of playing chase before she willingly brings back a ball or stick, but over time, you both will appreciate the exercise it brings.