7 Things Labrador Retrievers Love From Their Owners

“When they’re happy, we’re happy.” Isn’t that the truth of so many dog owners? We aim to please, and so do our furry canine friends. While this is true of most dogs, certain breeds tend to be what you might call more “appreciative” than others, always willing to reciprocate the love and care you give them.

A Labrador Retriever is certainly on that list, striving to make their ‘pet parent’ happy! At Caninely, we are counting down “7 things Labrador Retrievers Love From Their Owners.”

Affection

Simply put, Labs love… love. As their owner, you are their everything, and they’re going to make sure you know it. Whether it’s snuggling on the couch, giving hugs, pats on the back, or belly rubs, Labrador Retrievers are up for it! And gosh, they have the kindest hearts. I had a Lab as a kid, and she was pure sweetness. My neighbor also has a Lab, and she just wants everyone to love her and love on her.

They show their love by greeting you when you come home, wanting to sit next to you, making eye contact, or even giving you a few licks. From my experience, Labrador Retrievers are the definition of the most gentle, loyal “dog friend” you could ever have.

Exercise

Talk about “busy bodies!” Labs are energetic and constantly on the go, especially in their younger years. Fun Fact: they were bred to run, work, and swim so they need to get enough exercise or they could spell trouble, finding ways to release pent-up energy through negative behaviors.

How much exercise? Experts recommend at least one long walk per day for an adult dog; at least an hour and a half for 12-month-olds; and between one and two hours each day for 4-year-olds and older. Don’t over-exercise them though. Labs are prone to joint issues and can risk injury, soreness, or heat stroke.

Encouragement

You can call this “positive reinforcement!” As mentioned, Labs are eager to please, so they’re easily trainable if given the right encouragement and positive training methods. Consider motivating them with treats or their favorite toy when they perform the desired behavior or giving them praise or petting.

Something as simple as a “good boy” will get their tails wagging, as they thrive on being connected to their humans! Not all Labs are motivated by the same things, so observe what they respond to the most and use that as the primary reward.

Bonding Time

Seems simple, doesn’t it? Spend time with your dog and develop a closeness. Yes! That’s exactly what Labs crave! They are an empathetic breed and love closeness. So, you can teach them tricks, brush them, create a routine, feed them by hand, and schedule some time when they can cuddle up on your lap.

My childhood Lab Maggie did just that. Her favorite thing was to lay on my mom’s lap and listen to music. Such a spoiled girl, she was! But hey, if music “isn’t your jam,” maybe take your Lab to new places and go exploring. Just have fun together, and treat them with the compassion and attention that they deserve. If you treat them as a member of your family, you’ll soon feel the love right back!

Time to Play

Just good old-fashioned play is what Labs love! They have such an energetic nature and spirit that they enjoy playing with toys, fetching, swimming, and running. Consider going on a hike or maybe even taking a walk in the woods.

Remember, Labs love water, so perhaps a splash in a nearby creek, puddles, or a lake would “suit their fancy!” Their time to play is also your chance to get outside and interact.

And let’s be honest, we need play in our lives, too, so why not do it together? It could be the best motivation to keep our bodies moving! Play is good for the body and good for the soul, for both Labs and their human parents, alike!

Being Around Their People

It is known that Labs are one of the most affectionate, easy-going dog breeds out there (which makes them excellent family dogs), so it’s no surprise that they thrive on being around people and other dogs, making them great companions for dog parks and playdates. Because they’re highly social though, they can’t be left alone for a long time.

They seek extra attention and crave companionship, and if left alone for too long, they could develop separation anxiety and distress. For Lab owners, it could lead to behaviors like chewing, pacing, or excessive barking, and no one wants that!

Food, Lots of Food!

One thing you may or may not know about Labrador Retrievers is that they are known to have a big love for food due to a genetic mutation that affects their appetite and ability to feel full. As a result, they are often more obese than other dog breeds. But you can help.

Keep them healthy by choosing a diet with high-quality animal-based protein sources, such as beef, lamb, duck, chicken, turkey, fish, and eggs. In other words, they need a diet that’s rich in protein and other nutrients to support their health!