Q&A for How to Care for a Labrador Retriever

Most Labrador Retrievers typically go on to live between ten to twelve years.

Loose stools can be caused by stress (such as going to a new home), a change of diet, but also infections with worms or other parasites such a giardia, and certain bacterial infections. If you've only had the puppy a couple of days and he's bright and well, then put him on a bland diet of chicken and rice with the addition of doggy probiotics for 4-5 days. If the loose stools persist then give the vet a fecal sample so they can check for infection or parasites. But if the puppy is not 100% bouncy and happy, then don't delay and get him checked out by a vet.

A growing puppy needs a very special combination of proteins, vitamins, and minerals to ensure healthy bone growth. The easiest way to achieve this for a Labrador is by feeding a puppy food that is designed for large breeds. Choose either a complete dry kibble or feed a combination of dry and canned foods. At 2 months of age, he needs 4 meals a day, which you can decrease to 3 meals when he reaches 3 months old.

Prevent accidents in the house by keeping an adult dog on a leash in the house. As soon as he seems like he needs to relieve himself, whisk him outside and then praise him for going outdoors. Take him outside every hour or so, stay with him, and praise him when he goes to the bathroom. Also, make sure to clean away any residue of accidents indoors so that he isn't attracted to that as a toilet spot.

Labradors make excellent family dogs because they love people and are rarely aggressive. However, it's not appropriate for a child to be responsible for a dog. The owner must be knowledgeable about behavior and training so that the puppy is properly potty trained and grows up to be a safe, canine citizen.