Labradors make great pets

Labradors are a breed of dog which makes great pets, due to their loving, loyal and affectionate nature. Common types include black/chocolate Labradors, and golden retrievers, so-called because of their original duties of diving into the waters off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, in the 17th CE, to fetch the fishing nets from trawlers. They cost around £300-£500 to buy, and can prove relatively cheap to look after, living up to the age of 15 (human) years old. These pets become very much a part of the family, and as each dog has its individual tendencies and characteristics, they can prove very difficult to replace. If they are from a good breed, veterinary bills can often be low, as they are rarely sick. Male dogs should be neutered, in order to prevent any scent marking, over zealous sexual behaviour and fighting with other males. They are very active and energetic dogs, and therefore need plenty of exercise - ideally they should be taken for a walk twice a day, as they can become irritable and sometimes destructive if left to their own devices for too long. Labradors are not particularly fussy eaters, and in fact experts recommend that they are given the same types of fresh fruit, vegetables and meats that humans consume, in order to provide the best balanced diet. Many dog foods available commercially include a large proportion of these ingredients, but the key thing to look for when purchasing it is the word ‘fresh’. Dog foods that contain too many waste products, artificial preservatives and processed meats can lead to conditions such as obesity, which can be hard to reverse, especially as the dog gets older. The basic rule of thumb when devising a dog’s diet is not to feed them anything you wouldn’t eat yourself. Their coats are waterproof, and have a natural shine, which can be enhanced through their diet. Grooming is also important in order to keep their coats healthy and looking their best.

Labradors are highly intelligent creatures, who love to play (especially in water due to their backgrounds in the fishing industry), and are easily trained from a young age, which is why so many are used as guide dogs and sniffer dogs. House training is relatively straightforward, and the dogs can be taught where to go to the toilet, and the general ‘house rules’ from a very young age. Elder dogs can also be trained, although it is advisable to do so when they are puppies to ensure best results. Due to their characteristics, Labradors often make superb family pets, and are very child-friendly. As with humans, they crave attention, and very much need to feel loved, and part of the family environment. They are relatively quiet, yet hugely enthusiastic and can provide the family with hours of quality entertainment. They are non-aggressive, kind and eager to please; they certainly aren’t dull, and their boundless energy means they will play for hours on end without getting bored or disinterested. Labradors most certainly are a breed where the phrase ‘man’s best friend’ could never be truer.

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