Training Basics for labradors

Labrador Retrievers

The Labrador is one of the most famous and popular breeds in the world. Labradors were originally bred in Britain as gundogs, and they still have the webbed feet and the waterproof double coat of their ancestors. A Labrador’s greatest joy in life is to swim or retrieve. They are a very hardy breed of dog, have superb temperaments and are ever willing to please. Labradors make an ideal family pet and working companion. They are fun loving, intelligent and athletic, however they do need a reasonable amount of exercise to ensure you don’t have a bored and destructive pet!

Training Our Pawling Labradors

We take time daily with all our adult dogs puppies, ensuring they are obedient to 'recall'. They are well socialised with adults and children. All our dogs interact together in a controlled environment with us and our grand children . They play in various house yard areas and paddock areas on our 100 acre property. They have controlled access to our dam. We recommend using the Chet Womach method with a clicker and food treat. His DVD series has some excellent training tips and tricks can be purchased online or viewed on Youtube.

Labrador puppies love to please

Labradors are very willing and eager to be trained. Your labrador puppy will be a much happier dog if you do. A labrador has a natural curiosity and friendliness which makes them investigate. One of the endearing traits of a labrador, is their attempt to win over a non-dog lover. If your dog is not trained, it will be bothersome to other people. They are determined to convince the disinterested just how loveable they are. If you want your dog to behave in public then there are several things they must be able to do, especially if you want to let them off their leads. They must know their name and come the instant they are called. Reward them with treats. Call them and get them to sit. Reward then repeat again.            

Training Labrador Puppies

Start house training and obedience training at a basic level immediately. Praise good behavior and establish yourself as the leader of the pack. But you must not punish your puppy. It’s too soon to discipline for any behavior. Your labrador puppy has no idea what is expected of them. Punishing will only create confusion, stress and fear. Praise them to start their house training on a good note. When you bring your puppy indoors, let them explore. Whenever your puppy focuses his attention on you, looking at you or by following you, say their name cheerfully. They will associate their name with paying attention. This sets you as leader of the pack. This is important for obedience training.

Basic training like coming when called, sitting, short retrieves can start as soon as the pup is settled in. Carry a few small pieces of food then get down on the floor and call your pup then reward them with the food when they come. Teach him to sit by offering a small treat. Say sit, then let them smell the food as you move your hand over his head. They will have to stick their nose in the air to follow the food and receive it. The pup will have a natural tendency to sit as they pull their head up and back. Give lots of praise and gradually increase repetition as they connect the word sit to the food.

Puppy obedience classes

Puppy obedience classes are recommended for pup socialization and family fun. Begin the basic training that every house dog needs. are available at many obedience dog clubs and pet supply shops and are quite helpful. More advanced and demanding training doesn't begin until 6 months old. But their is a lot to be taught before that. If they are to be in the house with you then pups need limits. But remember he is trying to learn.

Take a time out for yourself

Labs are generally very happy dogs and they are not purposely vindictive. If you find yourself angry, then put the pup away and take a time out for yourself. Never take it personally. Corrections are necessary, but don't do it out of frustration or anger. If something isn't going right then take a look at how "You" are trying to communicate. Something "You" are doing isn't working. What can you do to help the learning process. Developed communication and trust with your dog in the process of training him. This will take you to another level of bonding. Your pup will actually seem proud of themselves when they accomplish the command.