Hi we are planning on getting a lab but hearing stories and ppl telling us not to - as they have health issues, and u can only walk them 20mins once a day, also they have a problem with there joints - can you tell me is this all true??? Pam
Hello there and a very warm welcome Most breeds of pedigree dogs suffer as a breed from some forms of genetic diseases - that is, some genetic diseases occur quite often in a breed of dog. Some breeds suffer from eye problems, others skin problems, some joint problems and so on. Some Labradors suffer from joint problems and there is an inherited element to this - you can improve your chances of a Labrador being healthy by buying from a breeder that has health tested the parents and can show you good results. Although there are no guarantees. This is the case for all breeds of dog, not just Labradors. Although there are some problems, many people have healthy Labradors that are free from joint problems and live long, active and trouble free lives. A healthy, fit, adult Labrador can exercise for several hours a day without any problems, although it is best to restrict the exercise of young puppies (under a year old). There is more information here: http://www.thelabradorsite.com/health-screening-for-labrador-diseases/
Hello and welcome . I`m afraid you have been very much misinformed Labradors must be exercised with care when they are pups , as are most other largish breed dogs, but once they reach adulthood , they will happily take all the walks you can give them . Regarding health issues , just make sure that when you look to buy a puppy , that both parents have had the full gambit of health checks , ask to see proof of these too and it must be both parents, not just the Mum . This is by no means a guarantee but it minimises the risk of joint or eye problems in your puppy . Hope this helps
Welcome to you Here is lots of excellent information about Labradors - http://www.thelabradorsite.com/labradors-breed-information/ "The Labrador’s kind expression is mirrored by his kind nature. His easy going, tolerant temperament and love of water are hallmarks of the breed, but of course, not all Labradors fit this breed description precisely. It is fair to say that sometimes poor temperament traits such as aggression and nervousness can appear in the breed, but is it also fair to say that this is not the norm. On balance, the labrador’s good reputation is justified, and provided care is taken in the choice of a lab puppy, you stand a good chance of getting a friendly, good natured dog." and "Many people are convinced that their Labrador has a sense of humor, and some Labradors are extremely playful, and not just as puppies Others can be bumptious, clumsy, and bouncy, especially when young." Are both very true! .
Hello #Doglover and welcome to the forum! Labradors love long walks, muddy puddles, swimming, and make fabulous dogs for active families, families with children, well just about anyone to be honest that are prepared to get up and go out rather than walk their dog from the back doorstep! Yes, they can reduce you to tears at time, they maybe aren't the easiest to train as teenagers ("puppy brain in adult body") but they are loving loyal wonderful companions Their health problems are no worse than the average dog. Knowing about health checks and good breeding can reduce but not eliminate risks. Same for any pedigree dog. Having a dog with joint problems, I would say cautious exercise as pups is important, but no more of a caution than building up exercise and stamina in yourself or your child. We obviously love our labs
Hi and welcome. I agree with all the comments above. All pedigree dog breeds have health issues and responsible breeders perform all the recommended tests, and then some, to try and ensure healthy pups. It is important to research a breed you are interested in so you know at least a little of what to expect, and then research possible breeders. Pippa's book "The Labrador Handbook" is really useful to read if you are interested in adding one of these gorgeous dogs to your family
oh yes i saw the book you talking about and will get one - what i was told by a couple of ppl i best not to listen to them as it was starting to put me off a bit - but they are gorgeous animals and we both want one........thank you for that
yes your right in what you say - i trying not to be put off by what i was told as they are lovely/loyal dogs - thank u for replying back
Just wondering what experience these ppl have of Labradors? I know we may be a little biased in our opinions of Labradors but I for on would not change my girl - she may not be perfect but she's fun, gentle, loving and always keen to join us for walk.
Same here Rosemary , Sam is big , very big and takes up space like crazy, but I wouldn't want that space filled with anything else
one did have a labrador and she was looking up things about them and came out with they hve probs dont go for one but at end of day all breeds do have problems just like humans - at end of day we know what we want and lab is the fave
Hi there, Welcome to the Forum,I can see some of our lovely members have given you more balanced and honest advice.....all breeds should be searched for responsibly,planned for carefully and reared lovingly and kindly ......if you are going to do that anyway I definitely suggest doing it for a Labrador! The very best of luck with your search ,hope to be reading an Introduction to your wonderful Labrador puppy very soon x
Ah I'm glad you've decided ,you'll never regret it,despite the testing times but you don't need to worry,now you've found us we can help you through any of them x
