Is there any more enchanting sight than that of a newly-born labrador puppy snuzzling up to his mother alongside seven or eight siblings?
Who could possibly resist adopting such a delightful little creature… when he’s ready to leave his mother, that is?
Labrador puppies are the most gorgeous of all young animals. They are undoubtedly the most popular of all dog breeds.
Ideal family pet
The labrador is loveable, friendly and highly intelligent; all of which makes him the ideal family pet. This dog loves children and children love him. He is gentle, kind and would never knowingly hurt anyone. He even lives happily alongside the family cat.
First class companion
He is also an excellent working dog. The labrador can be trained to work efficiently as Guide dogs, guard dogs and assistance dogs for the disabled. He is also a first class companion for the owner who enjoys outdoor sports.
It should always be remembered, though, that working dogs need plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation. The odd walk in the park is just not enough.
Bored dogs soon become mischievous dogs prone to developing some very nasty habits, upon which we have no need to expand.
The labrador dog can run like the wind. He can retrieve game when his master goes hunting, shooting and fishing. And he’s great at retrieving balls when playing in the park.
That’s because he is really a Labrador Retriever.
Originated in Newfoundland
Labrador dogs originated in Newfoundland, Canada and are distant relatives of the dogs named after that district.
Because their ancestors lived near lakes, their coats are water-repellant and have plenty of natural oils to prevent them catching cold during Arctic weather conditions.
Three main shades
When scrutinising the ‘labrador puppies for sale’ columns in the local newspaper or pet shop window it is worth bearing in mind that these puppies come in three main shades. So at this early stage it is worth deciding which colour to opt for… a black labrador puppy, a lovely chocolate labrador puppy or the traditional yellow variety.
They’re all adoreable, of course, with their big brown eyes and muscular bodies.
And, amazingly, puppies of all three colours (and various mixtures) can appear in the same litter.
As ever, the choice of puppy should depend not just on the little one’s colour but on how sturdy, sociable and healthy he is.
Watch his diet
Labrador puppies grow up to be labrador dogs. And labrador dogs have a reputation for being rather too fond of their food. So do keep a careful watch on the diet.
Left to his own resources, the average labrador will hunt out food and help himself to anything that smells remotely interesting. Some have been known to raid their owners’ fridges and larders.
In order to prevent him running to fat, this breed of dog really does need to have his diet carefully monitored right through from puppyhood. You don’t want your cute labrador puppy to grown into a fat dog!
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