Is a Lab the Right Choice for you?

You may already know Labrador Retrievers are perfect hunting companions, especially when trained to point. A great assistant for when you’re out in the field, a pointing Lab helps you land more fowl, which you don’t have to retrieve all by yourself. But there is so much more to having a Retriever as a pet than just hunting; they will be your roommate as well.

 
Labrador Retrievers are the best all-around breed, but they might not be for everyone. They are large and bouncy with an enthusiastic attitude toward life. Their cheerful, tail-wagging nature is only emphasized with their steady-temper and dependable attitude. They are trustworthy not only with humans, but with other animals as well, crucial to households considering introducing a Lab puppy already with cats or other dogs.

 
Moreover, for those concerned with the prospect of fur shedding, labs have a short, easy-to-care-for coat. In addition to their pleasant and agreeable nature, Labs are eager to please and very responsive to training, fundamental to them being used as pointer dogs in the first place. But if you are looking to take an inactive role in your dog’s life, perhaps you should consider a different breed.

 
Labs thrive on exercise and athletic activities. The more active they are, the happier they are. And this requires more than a few daily walks around the block. Labs more enjoy long days playing fetch in the park or running free on open land. Adequate activity is apparent and compounds their jubilant nature. And if you own a Lab you don’t actively exercise, he won’t be any more subdued and will express even rowdier and active behavior.

 
If you are considering owning a dog, but want a little more freedom from commitment, consider a toy poodle or a papillon. But if you are committed to providing your dog an active lifestyle full of exercise and aren’t a couch potato, a Lab might be the right choice for you.