Labrador Retriever Training Guide

Labrador Retrievers have personality traits that make them an ideal family pet. Due to their intelligent nature, Labs are highly trainable dogs. A Lab, however, should be trained while young, as it may become more difficult to train when older and stronger. In order to gain a Lab’s respect, they must know who is in charge from day one.

Personality Traits

• Intelligent and eager to please masters


• Friendly, playful and devoted to their families


• Energetic, loyal and patient


• Outgoing and good-natured


• Loves water and are good swimmers


• Can serve as excellent guide dogs for the disabled

Obedience Training

• Obedience training works best with Labs. They respond well to positive, reward-based methods and are quick learners. Obedience training provides them with the physical and mental stimulation that makes them happy.


• Essential commands such as “sit," "stay," "down" and "heel” can be easily taught. They should learn to walk on a loose leash and refrain from jumping on people. This is important because they have an excitable nature and will grow to be large and strong.


• When training a Lab puppy, limit obedience training to just a few minutes and keep distractions at a minimum. Include plenty of praise and rewards. As the puppy learns particular instructions, start including distractions, such as tossing a ball as you give a command. The purpose is to get the dog to obey you no matter the other things going on.


• Obedience training must be consistent. If you want your dog to stay off the furniture, do not allow it on even once. Being that Labs are intelligent, they pick up on exceptions to the rule.


• A Lab should be socialized at an early age to help feel comfortable around different people and animals.


• A Lab must be exercised regularly to keep from being destructive or restless. Provide mental and physical activities to stay occupied. Without exercise they can start to chew or cause minor destruction.


• A Lab that is well-trained and exercised frequently can adjust to apartment life.