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	<title>Labrador Retriever Information, Connect with Labrador Lovers Everywhere</title>
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	<link>http://www.clublabrador.com</link>
	<description>Crazy about Labrador Retrievers...you&#039;re at the right place</description>
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		<title>Training Labrador Retrievers: Which Commands Should You Teach</title>
		<link>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-dog-training/training-labrador-retrievers-which-commands-should-you-teach/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-dog-training/training-labrador-retrievers-which-commands-should-you-teach/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:00:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>wendyann</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog obedience training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Labrador Training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[training]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.clublabrador.com/?p=1363</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Training Labrador retrievers is often easy for anyone to do because of their level of intelligence. With a little work, motivation and patience, you will have your dog obeying simple commands before you know it. Knowing which simple commands your dog should know and a general idea of how to teach the commands will help [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Training Labrador retrievers is often easy for anyone to do because of their</p>
<div id="attachment_1364" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 224px"><a href="Training%20Labrador%20Retrievers:%20Which%20Commands%20Should%20You%20Teach--http://www.flickr.com/photos/mrpattersonsir/28420464/sizes/m/in/photostream/"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1364" title="Training Labrador Retrievers: Which Commands Should You Teach" src="http://www.clublabrador.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/black-lab-214x300.jpg" alt="" width="214" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Training Labrador Retrievers: Which Commands Should You Teach</p></div>
<p>level of intelligence. With a little work, motivation and patience, you will have your dog obeying simple commands before you know it. Knowing which simple commands your dog should know and a general idea of how to teach the commands will help you on your journey to train your dog. As long as you are willing, your dog can learn these tricks and more.</p>
<p>Sit is one of the most important commands to teach your dog. This command will keep it safe on walks and give you control over situations. To teach your dog to sit, snap your fingers over its head while you say the word “sit” in a firm voice. As your dog looks up at your hand, it will sit down. Give your dog a treat when it obeys you. Eventually, your dog will sit on the word instead of needing to snap.</p>
<p>Another important command to teach when training Labrador retrievers is stay. For this command, you will need to make your dog sit first. When it is sitting, hold your hand with your palm flat toward your dog. Say, “Stay!” firmly. Slowly back away from your dog. When it stays, give it a treat. If your dog doesn’t stay, repeat the process. Over time, your dog will stay when told.</p>
<p>Once your dog is capable of staying on command, you will need to teach your dog to come when you are ready. The easiest way to teach this command is to use the leash. Tell your dog to sit and stay, then back away from him. When you are ready for your dog to come, tug gently on the leash as you say come. After a while, you can remove the leash and work on the command using hand gestures instead of a tug on the leash. Your dog will quickly learn what “come” means.</p>
<p>Your Labrador retriever will be able to learn other tricks, as well. The way you teach those tricks requires you to repeat the action and the command to go with it. Labrador retrievers are quick to learn many commands and tricks as long as you provide treats and work patiently with them. The basic commands of sit, stay and come are essential to ensure the proper behavior of your dog in many situations. <a title="Training Labrador retrievers" href="http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-dog-training/training-labrador-retrievers/" target="_blank">Training Labrador retrievers </a>can be a very rewarding experience.</p>
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		<title>Crate Training Puppies: When to Use the Crate</title>
		<link>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-pup-dog/crate-training-puppies-when-to-use-the-crate/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-pup-dog/crate-training-puppies-when-to-use-the-crate/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:00:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>wendyann</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Labrador Pup dog]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.clublabrador.com/?p=1360</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Puppies, including Labrador puppies, can be rambunctious and wild, especially if left unattended for a period of time. Crate training puppies can help alleviate this problem. However, you must understand which types of situations are appropriate for crate use and which ones aren’t. Your dog should see the crate as a safe place to be [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Puppies, including Labrador puppies, can be rambunctious and wild, especially</p>
<div id="attachment_1361" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 209px"><a href="Crate%20Training%20Puppies:%20When%20to%20Use%20the%20Crate--http://www.clublabrador.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/crate-puppy.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1361" title="Crate Training Puppies: When to Use the Crate" src="http://www.clublabrador.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/crate-puppy-199x300.jpg" alt="" width="199" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Crate Training Puppies: When to Use the Crate</p></div>
<p>if left unattended for a period of time. Crate training puppies can help alleviate this problem. However, you must understand which types of situations are appropriate for crate use and which ones aren’t. Your dog should see the crate as a safe place to be and not a place of punishment and restraint. Establishing this balance takes time and attention on your part.</p>
<p>When you are unable to supervise your Labrador puppy, it is best to put the dog in the crate to ensure his safety and keep him out of trouble. As your dog becomes used to going to the crate when you leave, he will begin to go automatically. Teaching him to respond to a specific word, such as “cage” or “crate,” allows you to get him there with a simple command. Be consistent with it. Each time you leave the house, make sure the dog goes to the crate.</p>
<p>Night time is another good time to for crate training puppies. While some people like for their dogs to sleep on the end of the bed, others prefer that their dog have a place of its own. Let your dog outside once before bedtime and then put it in the crate when you go to bed. This will provide the dog a safe place to sleep, while giving you the peace of mind that your dog isn’t destroying your house when you sleep.</p>
<p>Don’t use the crate as a place to punish your dog. When your dog misbehaves, it is important that you punish it appropriately. Putting your dog in the crate when it misbehaves will cause the dog to equate being in the crate with being in trouble. Your dog will learn to hate being in the crate instead of considering it a safe place. This will defeat the purpose of crate training.</p>
<p><a title="Crate training puppies" href=" http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-health/should-you-crate-train-your-labrador/" target="_blank">Crate training puppies</a> is your way of keeping them save and providing them with a place to call their own. When you are unable to supervise your puppy, such as while you work or sleep, is an appropriate time to use the crate for holding your puppy. Punishing the puppy for bad behavior by giving him a time out in the crate will only cause stress and dislike for the crate. Once the puppy thinks the crate means trouble, getting it to go in will be much more difficult.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Choosing Between the Available Labrador Dogs</title>
		<link>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-general/choosing-between-the-available-labrador-dogs/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-general/choosing-between-the-available-labrador-dogs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:00:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>wendyann</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Labrador General]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.clublabrador.com/?p=1356</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When you go to pick out your dog, the Labrador dogs you will have to choose from will each have a different personality. Choosing the right one for your home and family situation can be difficult, especially if you have a lot of choices. However, it is important that you find a dog that will [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When you go to pick out your dog, the Labrador dogs you will have to choose</p>
<div id="attachment_1357" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 210px"><a href="Choosing%20Between%20the%20Available%20Labrador%20Dogs--http://www.flickr.com/photos/isherlock/2175262170/sizes/m/in/photostream/"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1357" title="Choosing Between the Available Labrador Dogs" src="http://www.clublabrador.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/yellow-lab-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Choosing Between the Available Labrador Dogs</p></div>
<p>from will each have a different personality. Choosing the right one for your home and family situation can be difficult, especially if you have a lot of choices. However, it is important that you find a dog that will be the perfect fit for your family. This will reduce the chances of having to return the dog for compatibility issues.</p>
<p>In many cases, you will get to interact with the dogs before you have to choose one. It is important to bring every member of your household along to pick out the dog. This way, you will be able to see how the dog reacts to each person and vice versa. If a dog reacts poorly to one member of your family, it is best to choose a different dog. If you like the dog in every other way, it can be tempting to assume that everyone will get along eventually, but that is often not the case.</p>
<p>Check over any Labrador dogs you are considering. If the dogs are older and have been given up by previous owners, ask about their health records and other issues. In some cases, the previous owner may have given up the dog for their own health reasons or moving, but in others, the dog may have had problems. Know what you are getting yourself into before picking a dog. You want a dog that is reasonably healthy so you can be sure of having many years together.</p>
<p>Watch the dogs play together for a while. The energy level and personality of each dog will shine through in this situation. This will allow you to identify any dogs that have undesirable traits and an energy level you are comfortable with handling. If a dog seems to have a wild streak and you work full time, for instance, it probably isn’t the right dog for you.</p>
<p>Being able to choose between the available <a title="Labrador dogs" href=" http://www.clublabrador.com/yellow-labradors/finding-the-perfect-labrador-breeder/" target="_blank">Labrador dogs</a> will ensure that you find one that is the best fit for your situation. Everyone in your household needs to meet the dog to make sure everyone is compatible. It is also important to ask about any health issues or other concerns about the dog, especially if it is an older dog. Paying attention to the behavior of the dog can also help you make the best decision.</p>
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		<title>Choosing the Right Labrador Retriever Name</title>
		<link>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-general/choosing-the-right-labrador-retriever-name/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-general/choosing-the-right-labrador-retriever-name/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:00:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>wendyann</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Labrador General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[labrador retriever]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.clublabrador.com/?p=1353</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Choosing just the right name for your Labrador retriever can be difficult. If you get an older dog from a rescue, it may already come with a name. However, just because it came with a name doesn’t mean you have to keep it. Whether the dog came with a name or didn’t have one at [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Choosing just the right name for your Labrador retriever can be difficult. If you get an older dog from a rescue, it may already come with a name. However, just because it came with a name doesn’t mean you have to keep it. Whether the dog</p>
<div id="attachment_1354" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="Choosing%20the%20Right%20Labrador%20Retriever%20Name--http://www.flickr.com/photos/taip5/3084822260/sizes/m/in/photostream/"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1354" title="Choosing the Right Labrador Retriever Name" src="http://www.clublabrador.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/January-27-300x199.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="199" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Choosing the Right Labrador Retriever Name</p></div>
<p>came with a name or didn’t have one at all, you may want to choose a name that fits the dog itself. There is no right or wrong way to name a dog, but some people work hard to find the best fit.</p>
<p>The appearance of your dog can help you find the perfect name. Labrador dogs come in three different colors: black, yellow and chocolate. The color of your dog can give you inspiration for the right name, such as “Cocoa” for a chocolate lab. If your dog has any distinctive markings, you can use that to name your dog as well. For instance, if the dog has a puff of white fur on the end of its tail or on the forehead, “Star” may be a good name.</p>
<p>When you first bring your Labrador retriever home, watch the way it acts. Some dogs will give you a clue to the right name in their behavior. If you have a dog that runs all over the place, you might want to consider the name “Dasher.” Or if your dog’s favorite game is playing fetch, you could name it “Fetch.” Just about anything works for a dog name; however, you need to avoid using names that sound similar to commands you will use.</p>
<p>Pay attention to the names of other dogs that frequent the area near your home. It is best to avoid giving your dog a name that is the same as other dogs that live near you or a similar name to a family member. Any name that can be confused with someone else or another dog isn’t a good idea. You want to choose something that will indicate you are talking to your dog.</p>
<p>While you may want to name your <a title="Labrador retriever" href=" http://www.clublabrador.com/yellow-labradors/finding-the-perfect-labrador-breeder/" target="_blank">Labrador retriever</a> as soon as you bring it home, the name can wait a few days if you need it. Paying attention to your dog’s appearance and its behavior can help you come up with the perfect name. As you consider all of your name options, make sure you avoid choosing one that too closely matches a family member or another dog that lives nearby.</p>
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		<title>The Benefits of Labrador Retriever Puppy Training</title>
		<link>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-dog-training/the-benefits-of-labrador-retriever-puppy-training/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-dog-training/the-benefits-of-labrador-retriever-puppy-training/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:00:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>wendyann</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Labrador Training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[labrador puppy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Labrador retriever puppy training]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.clublabrador.com/?p=1350</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Whether you seek professional help with your Labrador retriever puppy training or you decide to do it yourself, it is an important element of dog ownership. Some parts of training your puppy are unnecessary, but others are required for a well-mannered dog. As you consider which types of training you want for your dog, you [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Whether you seek professional help with your Labrador retriever puppy training or you decide to do it yourself, it is an important element of dog ownership. Some parts of training your puppy are unnecessary, but others are</p>
<div id="attachment_1351" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="The%20Benefits%20of%20Labrador%20Retriever%20Puppy%20Training--http://www.flickr.com/photos/24991888@N08/3403476808/sizes/m/in/photostream/"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1351" title="The Benefits of Labrador Retriever Puppy Training" src="http://www.clublabrador.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/January-25-300x199.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="199" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The Benefits of Labrador Retriever Puppy Training</p></div>
<p>required for a well-mannered dog. As you consider which types of training you want for your dog, you need to know the benefits of each one so you can make the right choices for your family.</p>
<p>Because Labrador retrievers are known for being friendly and active, they can be quite excitable, especially as puppies. If you don’t train your puppy in basic obedience training, you will find that your dog jumps on everyone and doesn’t listen well. Even if you don’t implement the exact tricks learned in an obedience class, such as “sit”, “heel”, and “down”, your dog will learn to listen. You can then take that skill and teach your dog to obey you in other areas.</p>
<p>Another important aspect of Labrador retriever puppy training is in the potty training. If you purchase your puppy when it is young, it likely isn’t house trained. This means you will need to spend a lot of time taking your puppy outside to teach it to relieve itself outside. If you don’t take the time to do this, you will end up with more messes to clean up. You may still have some messes, but early house training will reduce, and eventually eliminate, the messes.</p>
<p>If you plan for your dog to participate in special activities, such as hunting or dock diving, you will need to train it to do these things. While you can certainly teach an older Labrador what it needs for these activities, it is easiest to start as a puppy. When you start this type of training in a younger dog, it will notice the tasks more quickly and provide you with more time to enjoy the benefits.</p>
<p>Typical obedience training is necessary for your <a title="Labrador retriever puppy training" href="http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-dog-training/training-labrador-retrievers/" target="_blank">Labrador retriever puppy training </a>course. You can find puppy classes through your local humane society or by asking your veterinarian for recommendations. It is also important to house train your puppy so you don’t have to deal with cleaning up messes in your home. These two types of training are the most important for all dogs. However, if you wish, you can train your dog to do other tasks as well.</p>
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		<title>What You Need to Know About the Black Labrador Retriever</title>
		<link>http://www.clublabrador.com/black-labradors/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-black-labrador-retriever/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clublabrador.com/black-labradors/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-black-labrador-retriever/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:47:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>wendyann</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Black Labradors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[black labrador]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.clublabrador.com/?p=1347</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The black Labrador retriever was the first version of the Labrador when you look at the history of the breed. Over the years, the other two primary colors – yellow and chocolate – developed. The black version of the dog continues to be one of the most sought after colors. There is no difference between [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The black Labrador retriever was the first version of the Labrador when you look at the history of the breed. Over the years, the other two primary colors – yellow and chocolate – developed. The black version of the dog continues to be</p>
<div id="attachment_1348" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 210px"><a href="What%20You%20Need%20to%20Know%20About%20the%20Black%20Labrador%20Retriever--http://www.flickr.com/photos/12587661@N06/2350272554/sizes/m/in/photostream/"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1348" title="What You Need to Know About the Black Labrador Retriever" src="http://www.clublabrador.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/January-23-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">What You Need to Know About the Black Labrador Retriever</p></div>
<p>one of the most sought after colors. There is no difference between them, though, besides the color.</p>
<p>The black lab offers dog owners a calm demeanor and friendly attitude. They are a good family dog. Black labs may be big, but they are very gentle, especially when it comes to children. While it is important to monitor any animal with a small child, a lab can put up with a fair amount of tail and ear pulling from a child. Many labs simply lie down and take it. However, any dog can snap at any time. Therefore, it is important to make sure your children understand when to leave the dog alone.</p>
<p>The black Labrador retriever is built with a sturdy frame, making it a good dog for the outdoors. On average, a female lab weighs between 55 and 70 pounds. Males weigh about 5 pounds more than the females. The average shoulder height for females ranges between 21 and 22 inches and the males fall between 22 and 23 inches. The dogs have webbed feet and a tail that helps them to swim well. Therefore, if you are looking for a dog to play in the water, the lab may be the right choice for you.</p>
<p>The Labrador retriever breed can experience some health problems, though, especially as they grow older. While any dog can become ill, some breeds are more prone than others are. For instance, the lab breed is more likely to experience hip problems, certain cancers and eye problems. Some of these problems, such as hip problems, are due to the larger size of the breed.</p>
<p>If you decide that a black Labrador retriever is the best option for your family, it is best to <a title="educate yourself" href="http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-general/facts-about-the-labrador-retriever/ " target="_blank">educate yourself</a> about the breed so you know what you understand the level of commitment you are about to undertake. Knowing the typical temperament of the dogs, as well as the maximum size of the dog when it is full-grown can help you know what to expect. As long as you aware of the potential health problems you may deal with when the dog gets older, the Labrador retriever makes an excellent family dog.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>The Temperament of the Labrador Retriever</title>
		<link>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-general/the-temperament-of-the-labrador-retriever/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-general/the-temperament-of-the-labrador-retriever/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:00:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>wendyann</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Labrador General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[labrador breed]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pros cons labrador retriever]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.clublabrador.com/?p=1344</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[One of the biggest draws to owning a Labrador retriever is their temperament. The breed is well known as a family-friendly dog because of the traits the breed carries. While you can never be completely sure of the personality or temperament of an individual dog, knowing the overall temperament of a breed can help you [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>One of the biggest draws to owning a Labrador retriever is their temperament. The breed is well known as a family-friendly dog because of the traits the breed carries. While you can never be completely sure of the personality or</p>
<div id="attachment_1345" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="The%20Temperament%20of%20the%20Labrador%20Retriever--http://www.flickr.com/photos/oakleyoriginals/2905866990/"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1345" title="The Temperament of the Labrador Retriever" src="http://www.clublabrador.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/January-20-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The Temperament of the Labrador Retriever</p></div>
<p>temperament of an individual dog, knowing the overall temperament of a breed can help you make the right decision for your family.</p>
<p>Labrador dogs are very friendly, particularly with their owners. Though some breeds are a little more affectionate, the Labradors are likely to make friends with just about anyone. This makes them a good breed choice if you are around strangers often or you have a household full of people. They can be put in many different situations without reacting poorly to the situation. Their even temperament helps them to adjust well.</p>
<p>Because a Labrador retriever does have an even temperament and is unaffected by what goes on around them, they are a good family dog. Labradors are the kind of dog that will let your<a title="young child" href="http://www.clublabrador.com/labradors-families/families-and-labradors/" target="_blank"> young child</a> climb all over them or pull on their ears or tail. While it is never a good idea to leave a child alone with a dog or to allow a child to abuse a dog, it is always nice to have a dog that doesn’t snarl, nip or bite when a child does do something that would typically bother a dog.</p>
<p>Activity is another part of the temperament of Labrador dogs. They love to run around outdoors and play with toys. Therefore, if you are looking for a dog that will be playful and have fun playing outdoors with you, a Labrador may be the right dog for you and your family. However, this means it is best to have a yard in which the dog can run and play. If you want to give your dog free reign of the yard, it is best to fence your yard in rather than put your dog on a leash outside. Labradors don’t mind either way, but they burn more energy running freely.</p>
<p>When you choose the type of dog you want, one thing you need to consider is the dog’s temperament. A Labrador retriever is a friendly, active dog that does well with people of all ages. These dogs need space to run and attention from their owners, but can do well in many situations. Therefore, if you find yourself with people in and out of your home or going out places with your dog, the Labrador will feel comfortable in all of these situations.</p>
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		<title>Training Labrador Retrievers as Guide Dogs</title>
		<link>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-training/training-labrador-retrievers-as-guide-dogs/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-training/training-labrador-retrievers-as-guide-dogs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:00:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>wendyann</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Labrador Training]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.clublabrador.com/?p=1338</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As you have gone about your daily errands, you may have seen a service dog, helping someone who is blind or sticking by a child that experience seizures. Labrador dogs are among the most frequently used in this position because of their temperament and intelligence. Through training, Labrador retrievers learn how to help someone who [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As you have gone about your daily errands, you may have seen a service dog, helping someone who is blind or sticking by a child that experience seizures. Labrador dogs are among the most frequently used in this position because of</p>
<div id="attachment_1339" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="Training%20Labrador%20Retrievers%20as%20Guide%20Dogs--http://www.flickr.com/photos/pmarkham/2894457722/"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1339" title="Training Labrador Retrievers as Guide Dogs" src="http://www.clublabrador.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/clublab2-300x229.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="229" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Training Labrador Retrievers as Guide Dogs</p></div>
<p>their temperament and intelligence. Through training, Labrador retrievers learn how to help someone who can’t see or learn the unperceivable signs of an impending seizure to alert others that a seizure is about to begin.</p>
<p>The training to become a service dog often starts when the Labrador dogs are quite young. Training Labrador retrievers to be service dogs begins around 8 weeks. At this point, prospective guide dogs are placed in specially trained foster homes. The job of the foster homes is to raise a healthy puppy that is well socialized. Proper socialization is very important for service dogs so they are always comfortable. Obedience classes and exposure to different situations is also crucial.</p>
<p>Once the Labrador dogs reach 18 months of age, they begin their service training. Over the next 4 to 6 months, the dogs receive extensive training in the tasks they must do for their master. During this training period, the dogs become familiar with the harnesses they will wear and the commands they must know. They will go through training exercises in situations they are likely to encounter. Upon graduation, it is time to make a match.</p>
<p>Matching is the most important step after training. It isn’t as easy as just picking the dog with the name you like or the way it looks. Instead, the guide dog organization works to make the best match for personality and services. It is important that the person who needs the Labrador dogs for assistance to receive a dog that will work the best. This isn’t an easy task, which is why it’s important to go through the proper channels to get a guide dog in place.</p>
<p>The training Labrador retrievers receive through a <a title="guide dog training" href="http://www.clublabrador.com/uncategorized/labradors-as-assistance-dogs/" target="_blank">guide dog training </a>program helps them to learn how to help their human counterparts. Labrador dogs are often used for this type of work because they are easy to train and learn quickly. They also have an easy-going temperament, which makes them a good option when it comes to working among people in various situations. After this training, it is important to make an effort to match each dog to the person that dog can help the most.</p>
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		<title>Reasons to Use a Labrador Retriever Rescue to Find a Pet</title>
		<link>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-rescues/reasons-to-use-a-labrador-retriever-rescue-to-find-a-pet/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-rescues/reasons-to-use-a-labrador-retriever-rescue-to-find-a-pet/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 16 Jan 2012 15:00:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>wendyann</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Labrador Rescues]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.clublabrador.com/?p=1334</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Once you decide that a Labrador retriever is the type of dog you want for you home, you need to find one. You could look in the newspaper or online classified ads to find someone local who happens to have a litter of pups. However, you can’t be sure of the quality of the parents. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Once you decide that a Labrador retriever is the type of dog you want for you home, you need to find one. You could look in the newspaper or online</p>
<div id="attachment_1335" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 235px"><a href="Reasons%20to%20Use%20a%20Labrador%20Retriever%20Rescue%20to%20Find%20a%20Pet--http://www.flickr.com/photos/oakleyoriginals/6142586502/"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1335" title="Reasons to Use a Labrador Retriever Rescue to Find a Pet" src="http://www.clublabrador.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/clublab1-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Reasons to Use a Labrador Retriever Rescue to Find a Pet</p></div>
<p>classified ads to find someone local who happens to have a litter of pups. However, you can’t be sure of the quality of the parents. A pet store may be an option, but again, the quality is generally low and many of these dogs come from puppy mills. Instead, it is best to look into a dog rescue that specializes in the breed you want.</p>
<p>One of the benefits of purchasing your Labrador dog from a rescue is you will get the best fit for your family. Pet stores and some shelters will give a dog to anyone who has the money to get one. This increases the risk that the dog will become abandoned or abused by its new owners. Instead, many rescues require potential owners to interact with the dog and complete detailed profiles to ensure that they match the right dog with the right family. This helps ensure a better fit.</p>
<p>The quality of the Labrador retrievers is another concern alleviated by dog rescues. While rescues aren’t known to turn down any dog, they know a lot about the breed in which they specialize. When they specialize in Labrador dogs, they will know what to look for in dog quality. They will know if the dog is ill or has the potential for other problems based on its past history and care by previous owners. Therefore, you can feel confident that you will get a healthy dog in general.</p>
<p>Using a pet rescue also supports the cause. If you truly love dogs, it is important to support the proper channels. When you buy from a breeder with a poor reputation or a pet store supplied by puppy mills, you support the wrong causes and encourage that behavior, whether you condone it or not. Supporting a rescue, instead, can help save more dogs in the future.</p>
<p>Deciding to bring a Labrador retriever into your home as a pet is a big decision. Once you make that decision, it is important to find the right one for your family through proper screening. A <a title="dog rescue" href="http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-rescues/p1047/" target="_blank">dog rescue</a> will screen both its dogs and potential owners to ensure the best match to reduce the chances of abuse and abandonment.</p>
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		<title>A Brief History of Labrador Dogs</title>
		<link>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-general/a-brief-history-of-labrador-dogs/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-general/a-brief-history-of-labrador-dogs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:00:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>wendyann</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Labrador General]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.clublabrador.com/?p=1330</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Like many other breeds of dogs, Labrador dogs have a history. They weren’t always in existence until certain breeds were crossbred to create them. With the Labrador retriever, their origins lie in Newfoundland, Canada. The primary breed that later became the Labrador is known as the St. John’s dog. These dogs trace back to England, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Like many other breeds of dogs, Labrador dogs have a history. They weren’t</p>
<div id="attachment_1331" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="A%20Brief%20History%20of%20Labrador%20Dogs--http://www.flickr.com/photos/53887959@N07/4985390430/"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1331" title="A Brief History of Labrador Dogs" src="http://www.clublabrador.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/labrador-dogs-300x187.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="187" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">A Brief History of Labrador Dogs</p></div>
<p>always in existence until certain breeds were crossbred to create them. With the Labrador retriever, their origins lie in Newfoundland, Canada. The primary breed that later became the Labrador is known as the St. John’s dog. These dogs trace back to England, where they came to North America in the late 1800s. The breed itself, though, is first referenced in the early 1800s.</p>
<p>In their early history, Labrador retrievers worked with the <a title="fisherman" href="http://www.clublabrador.com/yellow-labradors/legendary-labs-the-role-of-the-labrador-retriever-in-world-history/" target="_blank">fishermen</a> to retrieve both fishing lines and lost fish. They were also used in hunting to help retrieve the prey shot by the hunters. This established the breed as a working class breed. In addition to their skills in helping fishermen and hunters retrieve things, the breed also became known as a good family dog to have around children, thus establishing the breed to be the popular family dog it is today.</p>
<p>The colors of the Labrador dogs also has its place in history. In the early years, all Labradors were black, with many of them carrying white markings on their chests and other areas. Occasionally, a Labrador mother would give birth to puppies in other colors, but black was the predominant color. By the late 1800s, yellow labs were more common in their various shades. It wasn’t until the 1930s when chocolate labs became more common. Today, show-quality labs must be one uniform color. The only allowable exception is a small white spot on the chest, caused by the old white markings on the original breed.</p>
<p>Today, Labrador retrievers are among the most popular family dog. They are still sometimes used in working situations, but are most often found within homes, especially with young children. These dogs are often gentle and love to play, especially when it involves retrieving things, such as playing fetch. Some working situations where Labradors are still common include service dogs, hunting, tracking and therapy.</p>
<p>While Labrador dogs don’t have a long history, they have come a long way from their origins. The colors of the Labrador retrievers have changed over the years as the breed became established, adding two additional colors to the original black. The breed has also made the shift from primarily working with hunters and fishermen to retrieve items to being one of the most common types of family dog. Their temperament and abilities make them the perfect dog, even if you have young children.</p>
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