Temperament
Temperament is a hallmark of the breed. Labradors have a reputation for being even-tempered and excellent family dogs. They are energetic, fearless and fun-loving and therefore require firm handling from young age. A uncontrolled adult can be problematic. Females tend to be more independent than males and some males require constant companion. Labs have a significant degree of puppy-like energy until they mature at an age of three years. Leash-training early on is recommended to prevent the dog from pulling when full-grown. Labradors love retrieving endlessly and other forms of activity.
Their sense of smell allows them to hone in on a scent and follow the path of its origin. They tend to stay on the scent until found. Labradors love holding objects (even hands or arms) in their mouths with great gentleness. They have a soft feel to the mouth as a result of being bred to retrieve game. Labs can carry an egg in their mouth for an extended period without breaking it! Labs have a tendency to chewing objects but can be trained out of such behavior. They may bark occasionally at strange sounds or movements.
Labradors have a well-known reputation for their huge appetite and some Labs eat digestible and non-food objects alike. They are persuasive and persistent in requesting food so food intake must be carefully administered to avoid obesity and associated health problems.
Their sense of smell allows them to hone in on a scent and follow the path of its origin. They tend to stay on the scent until found. Labradors love holding objects (even hands or arms) in their mouths with great gentleness. They have a soft feel to the mouth as a result of being bred to retrieve game. Labs can carry an egg in their mouth for an extended period without breaking it! Labs have a tendency to chewing objects but can be trained out of such behavior. They may bark occasionally at strange sounds or movements.
Labradors have a well-known reputation for their huge appetite and some Labs eat digestible and non-food objects alike. They are persuasive and persistent in requesting food so food intake must be carefully administered to avoid obesity and associated health problems.
