When it comes to choosing a pet, the breed of dog, or even the cross-breeds of dog can tell you something about the personality, and even the proclivity to certain illnesses, that the dog might be prone to. Unlike with your children, you can pick and choose what the dog will look like, the gender and even the personality traits that you don't want or that you prefer. But, like your children, pets are a full-time, life-time commitment. Granted, most owners don't outlive their pets, but you can count on at least 10 years with your pet and in some cases, up to 20.
One of the most common breeds in American, Canadian and Australian homes is the Labrador retriever, and for good reason. Their temperament tends towards the loyal and loving. They make great family dogs, while theirsize in and of itself, is a deterrent to those who would harm your family or enter your home uninvited. Even with somewhat excessive breeding, their personalities are reliable. They are friendly, affectionate, highly intelligent and come in a variety of colors. You can choose from blonde, chocolate or black.
But, he is also full of energy and takes a long time to outgrow the "puppy" stage. Though they reach their adult size fairly quickly, they will not actually be an "adult" until about age 4. They will always follow you around the house and be begging for attention. Their middle name seems to be "love", while their last name seems to be "mischief". They love to play and if left to their own devices will also chew on anything that is available. They are easily bored, so it'simportant to provide plenty of toys and plenty of play time with the family. And because they are "orally explorative" they also tend to swallow things they shouldn't, like socks or toys, or even bones that can cause an intestinal blockage. It's a good idea to "lab-proof" your home and to teach your children to beware of the other child in the house.
Labs are also slobs. Granted, they are slobs, but adorable none the less slobs. Put their water bowl where you will not mind having a wet floor and if you hate wet kisses, then hold him at bay right after he has to drink. They will leave a trail of slobber from the water bowl to wherever you happen to be. You will also find that they absolutely love water sports. sprinkler or running hose is a challenge to be tackled and if you have apool, he is likely to go swimming with the family. Plan on taking him fishing? Better attend obedience training first so that he will learn to stay when you tell him to. Casting your line will be an invitation to play fetch and he will love every minute of it!
Speaking of obedience training, it is highly recommended. If you are unsure how to train your lab, there are tons of books and videos, but the best way is to take a "puppy class" and learn the basics. You and he will be a lot happier if he understands the concepts of sit, stay, lay down, wait, off and no or leave it. Large dogs can quite easily become unruly, which leads to bad behaviors, which can lead to your not wanting to keep the dog, or even to a law suit if someone is knocked down by your "friendly" dog and cracks theirhead on your sidewalk or steps.
Labs can live in apartments, as long as you take the time to take him out to the park at least once a day and give him a good run. They will fetch a ball until they fall down and their boundless energy requires an outlet. Even if you live in a house with a fenced backyard, unless you spend quality time with this social animal, you will find that left on his own too much he will dig, bark or become destructive out of boredom.
Grooming isn't much of an issue with their short coat, but they do indeed shed quite a bit, so take the time a couple of times a week to brush him. The hair brush won't fall out into your home.
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