Labrador Retrievers are awesome all around dogs that make excellent companions in almost any situation. They are considered an easy to care for breed and many people get them as first dogs. And while they are fairly easy to take care of, especially when it comes to things like grooming, this doesn’t mean they don’t have any special needs or requirements. The following are things all Labrador Retriever owners should know.
#1 – Their Ears Are Prone To Infection
One of the biggest reoccurring problems Labs can have are ear infections. Those floppy ears are a great place for bacteria to grow. Burrs, seeds and other small things can get lodged in them causing problems as well. All Lab owners need to know how to clean and take care of those soft ears.
#2 – Joint Health Is VERY Important
Since Labrador Retrievers often develop arthritis and have a high probability of hip, elbow or knee dysplasia, owners should be very diligent in taking care of their joints. This includes making sure they do not get overweight, having them tested for dysplasia early in their life, keeping them active and putting them on joint supplements when recommended by their vet.
#3 – They Will Eat Anything
This is especially important for puppy owners, but any age Lab has a tendency to put things in their mouth (after all, it’s what they are bred for!) and will ingest things they should not. This can mean very high vet bills. Owners needs to be aware of this and be diligent about keeping dangerous and poisonous items — really anything a dog mouth can destroy — out of reach. Training is also good for this.
