Labrador Retriever dogs are actually considered to be one of the most intelligent and easily trainable of all dogs. Labs are widely used around the world as guide dogs for the blind, service dogs, military dogs, sniffer dogs for explosives and other detection work, search and rescue dogs, and therapy dogs. They excel at any kind of work that requires intelligence, training and a steady temperament. Here I want to share with you, some of the Labrador Retriever training tips I follow myself.
You and your Lab can pursue any kind of training that interest you. Most training begins with basic obedience training. Later, if you like, you can continue with agility, rally, fly ball, canine freestyle (dancing with dogs), dock jumping, Frisbee, tracking, hunting and retrieving work, therapy work, and so on. There’s no limit to what you can do with your Labrador Retriever. Or, you can simply enjoy your dog as a well-trained family companion.
Labrador Retriever Training Tips
Since they are so intelligent and easy to train, Labs enjoy training and they take to it very quickly. Whether you teach your dog at home or join a class, you’ll probably be surprised by how quickly your Lab learns. He’ll probably let you know that he wants you to teach him more. It should be very easy to teach him tricks, too, if you like to entertain your family and friends. Prior to training, It is important to build a bond with your dog first through things they love to do such as playing games. Labs are high energy dogs and they love the game of fetch, you can use this game to your advantage and really build a bond with your dog. Always use positive reinforcement when training Labs, they are a sensitive breed and any negative energy will throw off their trust in you.
Labrador Puppy Training Tips
When you first get your Labrador puppy you can begin his training by socializing him as soon as he’s had all his vaccinations. Socialization helps to build confidence in a young dog. Take him places where he will meet other friendly dogs on leash and friendly people will pet him such as pet stores and parks. Socialization at a young age will help your puppy grow into a confident adult dog and prevent problems such as separation anxiety later.
Crate train and potty train your puppy early to avoid major mess in the house as they grow older. It is normal for your puppy to cry the first few days of crate training but do not give into them. Potty training is easy for this breed as they are very intelligent and knows when you are unhappy. If the Lab puppy have an accident inside, be sure to catch them in the act and show that you are displeased with a stern tone and immediately take them outside. It might take a few times for them to completely eliminate the behavior, the key is to catch them in the act!
If you catch them after they have done the their duty, there is no point in showing that you are displeased as the puppy will not make the connection. Also be aware that a puppy will need to potty after meals and after they are awake from a good sleep, it will be easier on you if you set them on a schedule.
You can also enroll your puppy in a puppy preschool or puppy kindergarten class. These classes are often offered by animal shelters, kennel clubs, pet stores and dog trainers. They allow puppies of approximately the same age to interact with each other, play, be petted by the friendly owners, and socialize. The puppies will also learn some basic manners and obedience in some classes, depending on the trainer. Once your puppy is well-socialized you can start thinking about some basic obedience training. Hope you enjoyed reading my Labrador Retriever training tips, please be sure to comment and give us your feedback.
Thank you for sharing. Labrador Retriever Cute dog.