Hello:

We really could use some advice from others whom have owned a Lab. We are considering a Yellow Lab.
All of the research we have done states that these are great, highly trainable and good family dogs. We don't have a dog right now but will be getting one soon. We have 2 kids, age 8 and 13 and want it to be the right family dog. We have plenty of hands to help take care of it, walk it, groom etc. However, we have heard from several people who have owned labs, that they can be wild, tear up the house and destructive.

We would really appreciate any comments from current or former lab owners before we make our decision. HELP US MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION, THANK YOU IN ADVANCE:

a lab would be an excellent choice for kids that age IMO but as with anything else you will reap what you sew. puppys are a LOT of work & take many months sometimes up to a year to HB.

have you considered a young adult? rescues & shelters are full of them & then you wouldn't have all the "puppy stuff" to contend with.

yes, many are hyper especially if the owners have not done any obedience training with them. unfortunately, many people have no clue how much exercise a dog needs either which leads to the dog becoming destructive & "wild".

a dog from a reponsible rescue ( not all are ) runs around $350, is neutered, UTD on everthing, has been leash, crate & house trained. has been heartworm tested & is on flea & tick preventative. & is microchipped

As far as for a family, the Lab can be a fantastic and sound choice for a companion for children. Because they are quite an inteligent breed, busy minded dogs, yes they can become quite destructive if they dont have something to keep them occupied, particuarly whilst a pup, teen and young adult.

Very responsive to training of all sorts, obedience, agility, fly ball. A lab can be an outstanding all rounder and showoff.

Remember too, like many of the larger breeds, labs can be prone to hip displaysia. To minimise the risk of ending up with a dog that suffers this painful condition, either adopt a younger adult from a shelter, or purchase a pup from a good, sound breeder.

As cute as they can be, walk past any of the pet stores that might have them in the window, no one knows what hip scoring or other health tests may or more likely not been done.

[wishbone]

Seen this summary about Labs:

If you want a dog who...

* Is large and bouncy, with an enthusiastic attitude toward life
* Has a short easy-care coat in your choice of three colors
* Has a cheerful, tail-wagging nature
* Thrives on vigorous exercise and athletic activities
* Is steady-tempered and dependable with everyone
* Is peaceful with other animals
* Is eager to please and very responsive to training

... Lab is right for you

But be ware of this:

* A careful search to avoid all the neurotic Labradors
* Vigorous exercise requirements
* Rowdiness and exuberant jumping, especially when young or not exercised enough
* "Separation anxiety" (destructiveness and barking) when left alone too much
* Mouthiness -- carrying and chewing objects, mouthing your hands
* Shedding
* A multitude of serious health problems

Of course training and caring must always be present!