Labrador FAQs

Do Labradors shed?

Labradors shed. It's as simple as that. You have to keep on top of your labs coat so that your home doesn't look like the floor of a hairdessers salon.

Labs shed big time twice a year. They lose the old coat and grow a new one. This will have a serious impact on your hoover! And, if you have allergies, get some medication ready.
How much grooming do Labrador retrievers need?

When it comes to grooming, Labradors should be given attention about once every week. This will keep the coat in good condition and decrease extensive shedding. Also bathing every so often is a very good idea, but only when the lab smells bad.

For more information go to labrador retriever grooming

Do Labradors need lots of exercise?

These working dogs love to go swimming, running and pretty much doing anything that involves the fresh air and a bit or exercise. If you live in a small apartment make sure you give your Labrador at least two good walks every day. Labs tend to get depressed without regular outdoor adventure so make sure your ready for all types of weather!

Do they make good guard dogs?

Labradors in general will probably make good alarm dogs in that they will warn when a stranger approaches. If however what you want is a guard dog then a Labrador retriever is not the right breed for you.

What kind of work can Labradors do?

By far the most common use of today's Labradors is as a home companion, a role at which he excels.

Labrador Retrievers are renowned sporting dogs; however, they are also first class guide dogs. This is hardly surprising when you take their intelligence and temperament into consideration.

In recent years, obedience-trained Labradors as well as other breeds are being used as Therapy Dogs to enrich the lives of nursing home residents and even emotionally disturbed children.

Others do very well in Search and Rescue work, as well as making excellent Bomb, Narcotic, and Arson dogs. Their nose, disposition, and trainability make them particularly suitable for these types of activities and the breed has a distinguished history in these endeavours.

How are they with children?

Labradors are great with children and will be great companions for them, especially if the child is already a few years old. However, as with any dog, it is not a good idea to let puppies and children play unattended. Labradors aren't likely to intentionally hurt anyone, but could knock a child over when they thought they were playing.

Note that a Labrador that is not well trained or properly exercised is much more of an accidental hazard to children than one who is kept firmly under control.