Recently I bought a 40 days old Labrador puppy and named it Sweety. She is so cute and intelligent too.
As I was so curious about my Lab, I went through many sites which gave me an idea of what she likes and what she hates etc.
I thought of putting it in a nutshell here.
Before choosing a Labrador check the list of things you want from your dog.
If you would like to have your doggy the following characters then Lab is perfect
Labs are friendly, gentle and intelligent. They are watchdogs and not guard dogs, although some have been known to gaurd (if training is given for that). They are also people oriented dogs who enjoy spending time with their human companions. Labs can also be stubborn, so training requires patience and persistence. Active and athletic, Labs are happiest when they get plenty of vigorous exercise every day. Their love of exercise and hunting instincts may lead them to roam if not confined. In earlier days the original purpose of lab was retrieving fishing nets, so still they have webbed paws.
Labs are delightful, high-spirited, and energetic, and so requires a great deal of exercise. They enjoy family play sessions,
securely leashed walks, swimming, and a safely fenced yard to run and
romp freely. They will do okay in an apartment dwelling provided
they are given sufficient exercise, attention, and stimulation.
NOTE: Without human companionship and daily exercise, Labs often entertain themselves by developing destructive habits such as digging, chewing or Houdini-like escape attempts.
Height : Male : 22-24 inches ; Female : 21 - 23 inches
Weight : Male : 27-34 kg ; Female : 25 - 32 Kg
Diet : A 14 year study covering 48 dogs by food manufacturer Purina showed that
Labradors fed to maintain a lean body shape outlived those fed freely
by around two years, emphasizing the importance of not over-feeding. As for what they eat? and how much should be fed ? always follow the following points
They like to eat, so even if they are not hungry and food is provided they will finish it and still expect more :)
So always make sure to keep a very slight hourglass waist and be fit and light, rather than fat or heavy-set.
Training:
Early socialization and basic obedience are recommended. Labrador is very strong and must be taught not to pull on their leash.
They do not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. Labs needs fairness, firmness, consistency, reward, and respect.
They excel in tracking, police work, search and rescue, agility,
competitive obedience, guide for the blind, and as service dogs for the
disabled.
Stages in Puppy Development - Cesar Millan
Stage 2
Stage 3
Stage 4
To get more information about other breeds
click here
Credits:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/labrador.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labrador_Retriever