Labrador Training

The origin of the Labrador Retriever is not entirely clear. Its ancestors came from Newfoundland and over the years and centuries they were bred to accompany hunters and help retrieving their game. The result is a dog with an excellent sense of smell, plenty of energy, and a very playful nature. The downside of course, is that these can make Labrador training a taxing experience as you try to keep your dog calm and develop basic obedience.

What Labradors Require

These dogs have plenty of energy, and it's important to understand that before you begin Labrador training. Weighing in at anything from 60 to 90 pounds on average, they will live for as long as 12 years and will need at least two lengthy walks every day to keep them active and in shape.

They are a breed who need lots of attention, space to play and energy burning activity to stay happy.

Most dog owners are prepared for this type of commitment, but for some people it might prove too much, and they could simply find a less enthusiastic dog.

For those that fall in love with the "Lab", though, know that your Labrador will make a fantastic family pet and is incredibly tolerant of people, other animals, and almost all forms of positive attention.

The Basics of Labrador Training

Early Labs were bred to work with hunters - helping them rush and retrieve their game. Which means that they will have some of those tendencies (like mouthing and biting) hardwired into their system, especially if they aren't trained at a young age. Ideally, you will channel this behaviour in a way that will protect you and your home, but not put anyone in that home in danger. It is actually quite unusual for a Lab to show openly aggressive behaviour towards people

But if you're committed to having one of these gorgeous pets the easiest solution is to just make sure that you are the "top" dog right from when they are young.

As well as the possibility of biting, another problem you might encounter is separation anxiety, which can set in while they're young and get worse as they get older.

This is another situation where having a strong leadership position over your dog should help reduce their yearning to always be together. Also, while they are young, be sure not to give attention to your puppy before you leave the house, or just after you come back. This will only increase their anxious behaviour.

Early socialisation is something else that all Labradors should experience. Make sure your dog spends time not only with you but with other dogs at a very young age. And also expose your dog to other pets, like a kitten or a bird early on so that they see them as part of the family rather than a hunter's "game" that they need to go and "fetch".

Daily Fixes for Common Problems

An excessive amount of energy and playfulness is one of the most common problems you find in Labradors. This can be handled universally with lots of daily exercise, careful obedience training, and a strong alpha presence in the house.

There are 3 key points which account for almost all Labrador training. If you are unable to put the right amount of time into your new dog, they could easily develop long term behaviour problems.

In general, when they are young, you will find that Labrador training takes a lot of effort and energy on your part. Early on, you'll need to support them for several weeks and expect to see a lot of activity and also anxiousness.

But, if you are consistent, have a firm but fair attitude, and always maintain steady, well defined rules in the household, your Labrador will grow into a strong, loyal family dog that will give very few problems.

To find out more about Labrador problems, training and solutions try http://www.thelabradortrainer.com.

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