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Have you been thinking about adopting a Labrador Retriever (also called a Lab) puppy? If so, you may not know where to find these lovable puppies! We’ve put together some information on how to find a Lab puppy and how to care for him! Let’s get started!
What is a Labrador?
Labrador Retrievers is the top breed in the US! This is one dog breed that most people are able to recognize. Labs originally came from an island off the coast of Newfoundland. They were bred to work with fishermen to haul nets, fetch ropes, and even retrieve fish that got out of the nets. The dogs were also bred to be companion dogs, making them a well-rounded dog breed.
Labs continue to be working dogs today. They’re often used as assistance dogs for people with disabilities. They are also great at search and rescue and love dog sports! This dog breed also excels at drug and explosive detection. However, these are not great watchdogs because they’re extremely friendly with most people!
Labrador Retrievers are very energetic dogs, which means they need at least 30-60 minutes of exercise a day. This may include walks, playing in the dog park, running in the backyard, and playing. Without the right amount of exercise, these dogs can become destructive and develop other unwanted behaviors.
Labs usually stand between 21.5 to 24.5 inches and weigh between 55 to 70 lbs when it comes to size.
Where to Adopt a Lab Puppy?
When it comes to adopting a Lab puppy, there are a couple of options. One of the best ways to find your Lab puppy is through a reputable breeder. Puppies coming from a reputable breeder typically have early training & socialization and all necessary medical care, including their vaccinations. Breeders who love these dogs focus on breeding only healthy, good-tempered dogs. The resulting puppies will be healthier and better natured.
You want to avoid adopting your Lab from a puppy mill or backyard breeder. Puppy mills are the worst when it comes to family dogs. The reason is the dogs are usually bred too often, with no care for temperament, health, and more. The resulting puppies may have many health issues and not have good personalities. The dogs may also be raised in filthy, crowded cages. This is not the best start in life for a healthy, happy puppy.
Another option is to adopt your puppy from a rescue or shelter. The puppies from a shelter should also be comfortable and socialized with humans. Their pens or cages should also be comfortable and not too crowded. The puppies should be at ease, happy, and active. What’s more, puppies from a shelter will have had their vaccinations and other required medical care.
When it comes to choosing your puppy, take time to really study each puppy’s personality and how they act. Don’t make a rush decision. By taking time to find the right puppy, you’ll have a puppy that grows into a dog that becomes a companion for years to come! So, don’t make a rushed decision. And if the breeder or shelter is making you hurry, then it’s best to find a puppy elsewhere.
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Ask a Vet Live NowHow Much Does a Lab Puppy Cost?
The cost of adopting your Lab puppy will depend on where you find him. For instance, a breeder may charge between $800 to $1200 for a lab puppy. However, if you want a show dog or a pedigreed puppy, then the cost will go up considerably.
On the other hand, a Lab puppy from the shelter or rescue may cost between $100 and $200. The adoption fee will vary depending on where you live.
Other factors that can affect the adoption cost include a puppy’s color. Labs usually come in yellow, black, silver, and brown. Chocolate Labs are extremely popular, which means they can also cost more to adopt.
How to Care for a Five-Month-Old Lab Puppy?
At five months of age, a puppy goes through some major changes. While they’re still cute and playful, your puppy will be changing into an adult over the next few months. This is when your puppy may begin to become more stubborn and independent, as well as change in size!
This is also the time you’ll need to puppy-proof your home if you haven’t done it already. Dogs of this age are extremely curious and will get into everything! You may need to:
- Move houseplants out of the puppy’s reach
- Keep medications & household chemicals out of your dog’s reach
- Buy a dog-proof trash can
- Cover up cords (puppies love to chew on cords, which can be very dangerous!)
- Dog-proof your furniture (use couch covers, make sure your puppy isn’t chewing on the furniture, and more)
If there’s anything interesting to your puppy, you can be sure he’ll find it and have fun with it!
Feeding Your Lab Puppy
Your Lab puppy will need a balanced diet that helps him become a strong and healthy adult dog. This means buying dog food that’s specially formulated for large, active puppies. Also, make sure the puppy’s food is made for this life stage and contains plenty of protein. Meat should be the first ingredient on the label.
What’s more, many vets recommend feeding your puppy kibble. However, your puppy can also thrive on a wet diet. Another option is to mix wet food with the dog’s kibble.
How Much Exercise Does a Lab Puppy Need?
Lab puppies are very active; however, they should not have strenuous exercise at this age. Exercise should be gentle and not stress the puppy’s muscles and joints. So, it’s a good idea to provide your puppy with about 20-30 minutes of walking, about twice a day.
He will also enjoy running in a fenced backyard and playing! Your fur baby may even like to start swimming, as most Labs love water!
Summing It Up
Labrador Retrievers make wonderful family companions. They do best with active families who have the time to spend with them.
You can find lab puppies from a breeder or at a shelter. Either way, you’re sure to come home with a beautiful, loving, loyal Lab puppy. You’ll have an amazing, fun companion for years to come!
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Kyoko
Kyoko is from a family of 3 and moved to New York with her parents and siblings when she was 13. Kyoko is fond of spending a great amount of time with pets, specifically her beagle Luna and cat Missy. Her boyfriend often complains that she spends too much time giving attention to their animals. Kyoko has written dozens of articles concerning pets and is aiming at owning a pet shop one day!
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