5 things to know before getting a Labrador as a pet
News Desk | Mar 24, 2025, 14:57 IST
Labrador Retrievers are loving, intelligent, and energetic dogs, but they require proper care and commitment. Before getting one, know that they need daily exercise, consistent training, regular grooming due to shedding, a controlled diet to prevent obesity, and routine vet check-ups for common health issues. Understanding these factors ensures a happy, healthy life for both you and your Labrador.
One of the most popular pet dog people have are the Labrador Retrievers. These are mid to large sized pets that are known for their extremely affectionate, friendly, and energetic nature. They are also very intelligent and so highly trainable, which makes them great companions for families with kids, elderly people, and even for bomb detection squads. However, owning these pet dogs come with a lot of responsibilities too-- especially related to their diet, excercise, and the amount of care they need from their owners. And so, before you plan to have a Labrador as a pet, here we list some important things one should know:
1. Labradors have high energy levels and so need regular exercise
Labrador Retrievers are highly energetic pet dogs and so they need regular exercise to stay active and healthy. These dogs were originally bred as working dogs and for helping hunters, due to their high energy levels. A lack of physical activity can lead to their destructive behaviors, like chewing furniture or excessive barking. And so, owners who have an active lifestyle should have Labradors as their pets as they make ideal companions for them.
2. They have certain training requirements
Labradors are intelligent and friendly, which makes it very easy to train them. But, as owners one should know that the earlier Labradors are trained, the better. While Labrador pups are adorable and cute, they can also be stubborn and excitable at times. And so, getting them traijned early on can help Labs to grow into well-mannered adult pets. Also, one should know that without proper training, Labradors' enthusiasm and size can make them difficult to handle especially in social settings.
3. They have certain grooming needs
Labradors have a dense, water-resistant double coat that sheds all round the year. And so, they need regular brushing to keep their coat clean and healthy, and minimise shedding. Their owners also need to invest in a good-quality vaccum cleaner keep their floors and furniture clean.
Labradors' grooming needs include regular baths, ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care for them to stay healthy.
4. Dietary requirements
Labradors are known for their love of food and this can cause them to become overweight very easily. They have a tendency to overeat, so much so that considering their mischievious nature they can even try to steal food from tables or counters! For them to stay healthy their diet needs to be rich in proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutrients while also controlling their portion sizes. And so, apart from Labradors having a good diet, it also needs to be carefully managed.
5. Health issues commonly seen in Labradors
Labradors are prone to specific genetic health issues like Hip and elbow dysplasia, which can lead to joint pain and mobility problems in the long run. Due to their overeating, Labs are also susceptible to obesity which can lead to heart issues, ear infections, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which can cause vision loss. And so, Labs should have regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and diet and exercise for them to stay healthy.
1. Labradors have high energy levels and so need regular exercise
Labrador Retrievers are highly energetic pet dogs and so they need regular exercise to stay active and healthy. These dogs were originally bred as working dogs and for helping hunters, due to their high energy levels. A lack of physical activity can lead to their destructive behaviors, like chewing furniture or excessive barking. And so, owners who have an active lifestyle should have Labradors as their pets as they make ideal companions for them.
Labrador as a pet
2. They have certain training requirements
Labradors are intelligent and friendly, which makes it very easy to train them. But, as owners one should know that the earlier Labradors are trained, the better. While Labrador pups are adorable and cute, they can also be stubborn and excitable at times. And so, getting them traijned early on can help Labs to grow into well-mannered adult pets. Also, one should know that without proper training, Labradors' enthusiasm and size can make them difficult to handle especially in social settings.
3. They have certain grooming needs
Labradors have a dense, water-resistant double coat that sheds all round the year. And so, they need regular brushing to keep their coat clean and healthy, and minimise shedding. Their owners also need to invest in a good-quality vaccum cleaner keep their floors and furniture clean.
Labradors' grooming needs include regular baths, ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care for them to stay healthy.
4. Dietary requirements
Labradors are known for their love of food and this can cause them to become overweight very easily. They have a tendency to overeat, so much so that considering their mischievious nature they can even try to steal food from tables or counters! For them to stay healthy their diet needs to be rich in proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutrients while also controlling their portion sizes. And so, apart from Labradors having a good diet, it also needs to be carefully managed.
5. Health issues commonly seen in Labradors
Labradors are prone to specific genetic health issues like Hip and elbow dysplasia, which can lead to joint pain and mobility problems in the long run. Due to their overeating, Labs are also susceptible to obesity which can lead to heart issues, ear infections, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which can cause vision loss. And so, Labs should have regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and diet and exercise for them to stay healthy.