How to Take Care of a Lab Puppy

By Laura Heilman

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

Puppy food
Chew toys

Step 1:
Feed your Labrador puppy a high-quality kibble made specifically for large-breed puppies. A diet that is less than 25 percent protein will assist in preventing joint issues in Labradors. Follow the instructions on the bag for feeding amounts, but try to feed your puppy 2 or 3 times a day. Always supply your puppy with fresh water.
Step 2:
Have your puppy vaccinated according to your veterinarian's schedule. Routine appointments are crucial for the health of your Lab puppy. Your veterinarian can recommend a reliable flea treatment, parasite treatment and heartworm preventative.
Step 3:
Exercise and play with your Labrador puppy on a regular basis. Norma Bennett Woolf of the Dog Owner's Guide stresses that Labrador puppies must be exercised regularly. She emphasizes that "Daily walks, romps in a fenced yard, and games of fetch keep his mind and body in shape. Unless these needs are satisfied, the Lab may become a wanderer, a digger, or a chewer."
Step 4:
Train your puppy some basic commands such as "sit" and "no," as well as proper leash behavior. Labrador puppies may be rambunctious, but they have an innate desire to work hard and to please their owners. Teaching commands at an early age will set the stage for a well-behaved dog later in life.
Step 5:
Provide a variety of chew toys for your Lab puppy, to keep her from chewing on household items, such as stuffed animals and shoes. Keep items that you do not want chewed on out of the way.
Step 6:
Expect housebreaking accidents until your Lab puppy is at least 6 months old. Take your puppy to the same spot outside many times a day and praise him heartily when he uses it to eliminate. When accidents do happen inside, immediately pick up your puppy and take him outside.

Tips & Warnings

Since Labradors were bred to retrieve game as well as fishing nets, they are naturals for a game of fetch. Playing fetch with your Labrador pup will not only give her the exercise she needs, but also is a great way to promote bonding between the two of you.Consider taking a dog obedience course with your puppy to build a strong core of good behavior in your fun-loving pup. A professional can help you learn the ins and outs of dog training and dog psychology.
Always keep choking hazards, hard plastics and dangerous chemicals out of reach of your Lab puppy.

Resources

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