How to Train a Labrador Retriever

One of America's favorite dogs is the Labrador Retriever. A good natured personality makes this canine a popular addition to any family. Like all dogs, Labs should be trained when they are still young and impressionable. Read on to learn how to train a Labrador Retriever.

Instructions

1. Socialize your puppy. Get it used to different people and places.

2. Spend at least an hour a day playing with, exercising and training your dog. Labrador puppies are balls of energy that can get into trouble if left on their own too long. Early toilet training is best. Take him outside before he has an accident. Praise him for using the bathroom in the right location. He wants to please you, so yelling isn't necessary.

3. Teach basic commands like "Sit" and "Stay." Repetition and consistency are key to successful training. Use your dog's name and repeat commands. Positive reinforcement techniques work best for your dog to bond well with you. Words of praise, petting and an occasional food treat mean the world to your dog. Start with frequent rewards and then decrease frequency. "No" should be taught in a gentle tone.

4. Teach "Sit" by holding a treat in your fist so that the dog can see it. Move the treat over his head from front to back while saying "Sit." When he sits, reward him with the treat in your hand. When he can do this, make him sit before you put his food bowl on the ground.

5. Use the "Come" command often. Reward your dog when she comes to you with the word "Come" or a whistle. Again, be repetitive and give rewards for success.

6. Leash train Labrador Retriever puppies early. These dogs have a tendency to pull on the leash, which is a very hard habit to break. Continue teaching the "Sit" command while on the leash.

7. Give your Lab pup the chance to be a natural retriever by teaching him to "Fetch." Toss a tennis ball or small flying disk past your dog. Once the object is in his mouth, say "Come." Reward your pup when he brings it to you.

Tips & Warnings

• Labrador Retrievers crave human attention and playtime. Make certain you can give him both.

• Get a good start on training by attending a basic obedience class offered at pet stores or an AKC sponsored course.

• Make certain everyone in your household is involved with training Labrador Retriever puppies.

• Take your dog swimming. Labs love the water.

• Remember that Labrador Retrievers can reach their full weight in six to eight months. Think twice before allowing a cute three-month old to jump on you and the furniture if you are not going to want a full-size dog doing the same.

• Don't use spike or electric collars to train your dog.

Resources

• More About Labrador Retrievers