Sounds like either abuse or your lab is ill. If your lab isn't feeling good, then this could be a reason. Take your pet to your local vet and find out if it is physical, if not, then it is mental. Someone has probably beat the poor thing into thinking he/she can't play. If this is the case, be gentle, be calm, be reassuring, and work slowly into introducing playtime to her/him.If it's mental, try some exercise. This will stimulate the dog and make him/her feel good. This should help get his/her mind off of the fear of being punished for playing. It will take some time, but it may pay off. Reputable dog psychologists are a good choice. Check with your vet or a statewide listing of certified dog psychologist. Don't go to any psychologists who treat by beatings -- not reputable. For a more do it yourself approach, consult Cesar Milan's books, or watch the Dog Whisperer on Animal Planet. He's dealt with this before, and has some really good methods. However, you may need some actual hands-on professional help.Also, try to find something your lab is interested in. With my beagle, that would be food. Try lacing toys with food and start to play that way. Eventually, you should be able to play without food.Labs are smart dogs. They love to be mentally stimulated, but there may be a physical condition or even a mental block to get over, before playtime can begin.Hope some of this helps. Give us an update when you can.
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