Labradors are wonderful family companion dogs. They are very popular around the world with good reason! These dogs have remarkable intelligence and strength combined with a friendly outgoing nature. These gentle giants are also quite handsome as well! Labrador dog training is really a fun experience and all the time spent in building a lifelong bond with your dog is well worth the effort.

The Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is one of the oldest recognized breeds of dogs that originated in Newfoundland and were commonly used to help fishermen retrieve fishing nets and even loose fish. To date they just love a good swim! Full grown these muscular hunks can weigh as much as 80 pounds.

Understanding your dog before you start the training program will help you to progress faster. Labradors are always eager to please and coupled with their natural intelligence make training a highly rewarding experience for dog and owner.

Labrador dog training

Begin the training as soon as you get the puppy; these dogs will soon grow up and they do so very quickly. The breed responds best to non-violent, reward based, positive reinforcement training methods.

Labs need guidelines and boundaries and are quick off the mark to emulate behavior patterns that will please you. Please avoid harsh methods like choking, yanking and yelling! The Lab needs plenty of mental and physical stimulation so you need to make sure you provide an adequate supply of both.

Crate training

This is an effective way to get your new pup house trained. It does not mean putting the little one in a crate for long periods of time – that is more like a punishment for the dog. Training involves putting the pup in the crate for a short while, then immediately putting it on a leash and taking it outside to relieve himself. Reward the dog when he does his business and if he doesn’t, put him back in the crate for another short spell. Young pups will need to be taken out at least once every hour on the hour.

Dogs have accidents because we fail to take them out on time – none of that old school rubbing its snout in the mess! Small pups should not be left unsupervised period! Clean up the mess and carry on with the training.

Socialization training

Training needs to begin right from the time you get the pup. Start taking your pup out to public places where there are other people, children, and dogs. Part of the labrador dog training socialization program is to get him adjusted to people, sights, and sounds that are alien to its little world.

The other aspect of socialization training is to get your dog used to the vacuum cleaner, brooms, mops, umbrellas, cartons, and so many other things we take for granted. The sound of the blender may scare him so start an orientation program for the little one.

Take things slow and exercise a lot of patience when putting your dog through his paces. Amidst all the training you do, don’t forget to enjoy every moment with your dog.