You have a picture in your head. A picture of yourself with your practically perfect dog. Youve always preferred big dogs & your ideal dog is sturdy strong & energetic. At the same time you envision a dog who is gentle & completely in tune to your needs your whims & your every move. That perfect dog is likely a Labrador Retriever. After all the Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog in the United States according to American Kennel Club registrations. Labs are beautiful friendly adaptable easygoing brave loyal dependable & intelligent. What could be better? Labrador Retrievers For Dummies is a useful guide to have if youre thinking of getting a Lab or even if you already own one. Perhaps youre just curious about this popular breed. This handy reference is for you if you want to * Find out if a Lab suits your lifestyle * Know what to look for in Lab pups * Determine if a breeder meets high standards * Understand health & nutrition needs * Handle emergencies with a cool head * Train your dog with the lure-&-reward technique * Show off your Lab in competitions You can live a fulfilling life with your Lab by making sure she is socialized healthy & well trained. What better task for humans & dogs than to be great companions for each other? However you may need some help in knowing how to get the most out of your relationship with your Lab. This friendly guide offers that help with the following topics & more: * Exercising your pup & older Lab * Choosing the right veterinarian * Exploring spaying/neutering * Keeping your Lab beautiful with good grooming * Helping your dog deal with divorce a new baby moving * Managing barking & whining * Housetraining your new puppy * Traveling to dog-friendly vacation destinations * Choosing a pet sitter or boarding kennel * Volunteering your lab as a therapy dog Labrador Retrievers are big energetic & sometimes boisterous (especially as puppies) & they dont take care of themselves. They need you. Dont let them need you unless youre ready to be needed.