Labrador Retrievers are people-oriented dogs, becoming bored if left to their own devices. Untrained, they can become unmanageable due to their size and enthusiasm. They require attention, love, and exercise on a daily basis!
Rescued Labradors may need some basic training to direct their energies properly. A group class in basic obedience commands (sit, stay, down, heel, come) is ideal, as is training the dog to a canine crate.
There are many Labrador Retriever rescue organizations across America. These groups "take-in" pure-bred Labs from shelters, pounds, stray situations, and private home placements, address any medical issues(including spay/neuter, heartworms), then foster the Labs until a suitable, adoptive family is located.
As with most shelters, rescue organizations always need volunteers to make the program successful. If you are interested in volunteering with the Heart of Texas Lab Rescue, click here.
A rescued Labrador Retriever is typically house-broken and, if fostered, crate-trained. This makes the transition to an adoptive home easier.
Rescued Labs are usually adolescents and have their adult teeth, so you will miss out on the sharp puppy-teeth biting stage! Many mature Labs are also available, already out of the chewing stage, and with some obedience training. These older Labs make wonderful companions right from the get-go.
Many people worry that an older dog will not "bond" with them as a puppy would. Labrador Retrievers are not one-person dogs and tend to "love the one they are with," doing very will in adoptive homes with a loving family.