Labrador Puppies in Sarasota, Florida

When looking for Labrador puppies in Sarasota, Florida - take your time, do plenty of research and pick the healthiest puppy you can find from a reputable breeder.

Labrador Retrievers are the most popular breed of dog in much of the world - for good reason. Not only are they a handsome and beautiful dog; they are also intelligent, loving and gentle. Everywhere the Labrador has gone - from their beginnings in Newfoundland, Canada; to England; America; Australia and beyond - they've become highly appreciated and greatly prized. Before getting a Labrador puppy, make sure you're ready for the special care and attention they require.

Labrador Retriever Characteristics

The Labrador Retriever can be found in three coat colors - black, chocolate (light to dark brown) and yellow (light cream to fox red). Their eyes are hazel to chestnut brown colored. They have a double coat of short, thick fur that is water resistant. In addition they have webbed feet and a tail that resembles an otter's which gives them excellent swimming skills. They absolutely love any opportunity they can get to swim.

A male Labrador typically weighs between 60 and 80 lbs. A female typically weighs between 55 and 75 lbs. There are two slightly different types of Labradors - English and American. The English type is shorter and stockier, with a more placid demeanor. The American type is taller and longer with a more boisterous personality. The English type is seen more often in dog shows, while the American type is seen more in field and agility type competitions.

The life expectancy of a Labrador is between 10 and 12 years, with 15 years possible if well cared for. They love to eat and will accept any type of food. They will eat as much as you give them and are prone to obesity, so give them modest amounts of a good quality dog food rich in calcium to help support their large bone structure. Don't feed them human food and limit their treats. Provide them with good strong chew toys and bones at all times because they have a constant desire to chew on things.

Labradors are not aggressive, so they make excellent pets for a household with children or other animals. They make good watch dogs, but not good guard dogs - unless you want them to kill a prowler with kindness.

Labrador Retriever Puppies

Before bringing a Labrador puppy home, make sure you're prepared with the basic supplies. You'll need - food and water dishes, food, kennel/crate, toys, collar and leash and cleaning supplies.

A single litter of Labrador puppies can contain all three color types. Try to pick the healthiest puppy. A healthy puppy will have clear and bright eyes that look straight ahead. His eyes, ears and nose will be free of mucous (wet or dried). He will walk without a limp. He will not be overly shy or aggressive when picked up and held. Make sure to get any registration papers and vet records from the breeder before leaving with your new puppy.

Are you prepared to devote the time required? Labrador puppies require plenty of time and attention. When they're young, they'll need at least the basic forms of obedience and potty training. And all throughout their lives, they'll need some form of daily exercise and stimulation (walks and playing fetch).

Before shopping for Labrador puppies in Sarasota, Florida or anywhere else, make sure you're fully prepared for the responsibility. It's a responsibility you'll be carrying for the next 10, 12 or 15 years.