Thursday, March 18, 2010
You are not logged in: Login | Register

How to Adopt a Black Lab

By Sarah Letts
 
Related Entries:

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

  • Dog Supplies
  • Dog License
  • Step 1:
    Search for Black Lab rescue organizations in your area. Foundations such as Labrador Retriever Rescue and Lab Rescue place Black Labs in loving homes. Some of the dogs may have been abused or neglected, although some are simply unwanted for a variety of different reasons. Rescued dogs often make the best pets as they tend to be extra loving once they gain your trust. In addition to nationwide organizations, you can likely find a Black Lab rescue in your general area.
  • Step 2:
    Contact Black Lab breeders near you. If you're interested in a puppy, breeders are good choices. You'll have the opportunity to meet the parents of the litter and get an idea of how your new pup will look when he is full-grown. If possible, make a visit to the breeder in person so you can interact with the puppies prior to choosing which Black Lab is right for you.
  • Step 3:
    Make a trip to your county's humane society. Since Black Labs are such a popular breed, you will find some available for adoption from time to time. If you don't mind a mixed breed, you'll undoubtedly be able to find one that is partially Black Lab. Often, adult dogs that are given to the humane society are already fully trained.
  • Step 4:
    Consider raising a Black Lab service dog. Organizations such as Guide Dogs for the Blind and Canine Companions for Independence are always looking for people to raise their puppies. You must participate in their training courses to ensure the puppy is fully ready to enter a life of service to disabled people. You will have to return the dog to the organization once she is fully grown but you'll have the knowledge that she is going help someone who needs her.
  • Step 5:
    Get your new Black Lab licensed at your local humane society. In order to get a license, you'll need to prove that your pup has all necessary vaccinations.
  • Step 6:
    Take your new dog to the vet for a checkup appointment. Black Labs are prone to eye diseases and hip disorders. Avoid extremely rough play with your puppy as this can lead to hip dysplasia.
  • Step 7:
    Walk your Black Lab at least three times a day. As an active breed, Black Labs require a lot of exercise. If you have an enclosed yard, allow your pup to roam freely in it. Black Labs also enjoy swimming.
  • Step 8:
    Brush your Black Lab once a week with a hard-bristled brush. They do have undercoats in addition to their top coats so make sure your brush reaches below the top surface of the fur.
  • Step 9:
    Train your Black Lab. If left untrained, Black Labs can participate in unpleasant activities such as whining for food and digging through trash. Be consistent, firm and rewarding in your training methods. Black Labs do not respond well to harsh training practices.

Tips & Warnings

  • Black Labs interact well with other dogs, even dogs they don't know.
  • Consider adopting a dog before you visit a breeder: animal shelters are full of unwanted animals that can be trained and become excellent pets.
  • Do not leave your Black Lab cooped up inside for extended periods of time. He may become destructive if he isn't allowed room to exercise.

Photo/Video Credit

http://www.publishersweekly.com/articles/blog/860000286/20080304/black-lab-puppy-face-thumb.jpg
How to Adopt a Black Lab Provided by eHow.com

More Puppy Pages

How to Adopt a Puggle Puppy

How to Adopt a Puggle Puppy

A Puggle is a hybrid breed of dog, created by mating a Pug with a Beagle. Due to a recent surge in popularity, the Puggle has become a common household breed of dog. Puggles are small dogs that generally grow to weigh about 15 to 30 pounds, and they...

Read More

How to Adopt a Schnauzer

How to Adopt a Schnauzer

Schnauzers come in three varieties--Miniature Schnauzers, Standard Schnauzers and Giant Schnauzers. As their names suggest, the only differences between each type of Schnauzer is in relation its size. All Schnauzers are known for their acute intelligence...

Read More

How to Adopt a Pomeranian

How to Adopt a Pomeranian

Pomeranians are known for their fluffy, golden-colored coats. These toy dogs are quite small, and only grow to weigh between three and seven pounds. As full-grown adults, they stand less than a foot high. Despite their small size, Pomeranians are quite...

Read More

How to Adopt a Great Dane

How to Adopt a Great Dane

The Great Dane is also known as the "gentle giant" among dog lovers. Despite their large size, Great Danes are very sweet and gentle. They make great family pets since they love children. They should, however, be supervised around small kids simply due...

Read More

How to Adopt a Dalmatian

How to Adopt a Dalmatian

Commonly known as a firehouse dog, the dalmatian thrives on social interaction and relationships with humans. Their trademark spots are either black or liver-colored and set against white backgrounds. Dalmatian puppies are pure white; the spots develop...

Read More