Getting a dog is simple but keeping one is not. Just like a baby, this new family member also comes with a laundry list of needs – love, care, time, effort, space and cost. Here are few things you should consider before buying a Labrador puppy.
A reputable breeder
There may be plenty of avenues for purchase, but you must invest your time into finding a reputable breeder, and inspect for his/her credentials. If the breeder is good, he will not hesitate to share information about the dog’s lineage, health and behavior.
Being present
Your availability for the puppy is of utmost importance. If you leave them alone for long hours by themselves, chances are, they will wreck things at home, feel lonely and bark non-stop. All they need is your time and attention. Be prepared to spend more time with them; take them out for daily exercise and training.
Spacious home
A spacious home with a garden is an ideal home to any Labrador. The lab puppy grows into a big-size dog in no time, and requires a lot of space. You will need to keep the place clear of any fragile items, so that the puppy with its long wagging tail doesn’t drop anything precious. Access to the garden, will allow the puppy to easily move out for bathroom breaks.
Affordability
There is a cost to buy and, a cost to keep. Price can vary from one breeder to another. It can be anywhere between $700 to $1500 for a well-bred, healthy lab puppy. If someone gifted you a lab puppy, you will still have to pay for expenses like vet insurance, advanced treatments, vaccinations, puppy bed or crate, bowl, leash and collar, teething toys, dog treats as basic necessities. Pay rent for boarding kennels in case you have to leave them behind. Now, ask yourself: Can you afford a dog in your house? Do not act too hastily into buying one.
Lifestyle
There will be a dramatic shift in your lifestyle the moment you decide to bring home a lab puppy. Be ready to get out of your comfort zone to take care of the little one. If you travel a lot, keeping a dog may not be a good idea for you.
Get to know more about a lab puppy,
is it really the right choice for you?
– Labradors are full of energy. They need to be taken for daily walks and exercise.
– Males dogs are more muscular and larger but are easier and cheaper to tame.
– A lab puppy can be very destructive – they do bite and chew a lot.
– As adult, they grow into a fairly large size and weight, and shed a lot of hair.
– They are very easy to train. Proper training is a must to a well-behaved lab.
To conclude, a lab puppy is very adorable but demands high maintenance and high cost. If you are ready to commit your time and, give the dog the space he needs, there is really no holding back. A lab is a true companion!
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