The Top 7 Ways To Keep Your Labrador Healthy And Happy

Labrador retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States, and for good reason. They are beautiful, intelligent, and relatively easy to train; however, labs can also be susceptible to certain health problems if you don’t watch out for them. If you want your lab to live a long and happy life, remember these seven ways to keep them healthy and happy.

Labrador retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States, so you’ve probably already considered adding one to your family. Before adopting a lab from a shelter or buying from a breeder, it’s important to understand how to keep this energetic and intelligent dog happy and healthy for life.

1) Feed Them the Right Food

With a little research and planning, you can provide your Lab with a diet that’s tailored to their needs. Just remember to avoid certain types of foods—from fatty meats and sugary treats to dairy products—and monitor how much they’re eating in order to prevent overweight issues.

2) Give Them Lots of Exercise

Labrador need plenty of exercise. If you are unable to give your dog as much exercise as they need, a quick fix is to consider buying them a treadmill. This way they can run whenever they want while you’re away at work or otherwise occupied.

3) Take Them to the Vet Regularly

Dogs and their owners enjoy a strong bond of trust, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t stay on top of your pet’s health. Be proactive and take your dog to see a vet every six months or so. Even if there is nothing wrong with your four-legged friend at first glance, regular checkups allow vets to provide early detection for any issues that may arise later down the road.

4) Train Them in Obedience

Labs are great family pets, but they require a good amount of attention and training to help them understand their role in your household. If you want to raise a well-behaved dog, make obedience a priority.

5) Give Them Lots of Love

Labs are considered one of the most lovable dog breeds around, and are definitely not a breed to be standoffish. They love attention and being pet by strangers. Make sure you spend a lot of time with your lab if possible, as they require constant love and affection. If you’re gone all day at work, consider hiring a dog walker to come in twice daily to give him some exercise and TLC while you’re away. A tired lab is an active lab! Bring your lab to parks or even visit local shelters so he can interact with other pups (and get his needed socialization in). Keeping up on his grooming is also extremely important for keeping him happy and healthy!

6) Keep Their Nails Trimmed

Labradors and many other breeds have thick nails. So thick, in fact, that they are prone to cracking and splitting. By keeping a watchful eye on your dog’s nails, you can cut back on any future problems. Luckily, cutting your dog’s nails is an easy task. Most dogs don’t even mind it, but for a nervous pet it might take some getting used to. Start with softening their paws by rubbing lotion into them and then make sure you use a nice pair of clippers when trimming their nails! Trim your labrador nails once every month or so as needed! Check out How To Cut Dog Nails – PetHelpful for great info on how to safely trim your dog’s paws!

7) Don’t Let Them Swim In Dirty Ponds

A Labrador’s nose is one of their best features—but it can be dangerous, too. Since Labrador love water so much, you’ll probably want to give them plenty of access to lakes and rivers. Just keep in mind that these bodies of water are often filled with nasty things like germs and parasites. When your Lab goes swimming, be sure to let them swim in a clean area. And make sure they get out quickly and dry off afterward.

Conclusion

Labrador retrievers are among the most popular dog breeds today. And with their seemingly endless supply of love, loyalty and positivity. It’s no wonder why they’re often referred to as nature’s therapists. However, as with any dog breed, you need to keep them healthy and happy in order to maintain their good demeanor.