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If you’re looking for a qualified dog trainer to help out with your Labrador Retriever’s behavior, follow some recommendations to find the right fit for you and your Lab. To keep your dog in good shape, try adding some healthy food alternatives to your Lab’s high-grade dog food. Get to know your dog better by studying the body makeup of a Labrador Retriever; your knowledge will also help when you’re talking to your veterinarian.

How to Find a Trainer for Your Labrador Retriever

If you’re considering hiring a dog trainer because your Labrador Retriever just isn’t behaving the way you expect, use these guidelines to find a good trainer who uses positive methods and can help you establish effective communication with your Lab:

  • Ask for recommendations from friends, neighbors, and relatives who have friendly, well-behaved dogs.

  • Ask the opinion of pet professionals, such as veterinarians, vet techs, groomers, boarding kennel managers, humane societies, and rescue groups.

  • Call the Association of Pet Dog Trainers at 1-800-PET-DOGS to ask for the names of dog trainers and canine behavior consultants who use positive training methods, such as lure-and-reward and clicker training.

  • Expect a good dog trainer/canine behavior consultant to understand how dogs learn and to communicate with you — in terms you understand — about how to manage and train your Lab.

  • Ask about experience and ask for references. And check them! A good dog trainer/canine behavior consultant will have extensive experience educating owners and their pets.

  • Ask about correction styles. A good dog trainer/canine behavior consultant doesn’t advocate or use physical punishment (shock collars, choke chains, prong collars, leash jerks, or hitting).

  • Expect fun! A good dog trainer/canine behavior consultant gives you the feeling that training will be fun for you and your Labrador!

Healthy Foods for Your Labrador Retriever

Your Lab loves to eat! As a responsible dog owner, your job is keep your Lab at a healthy weight. This list is a group of healthy additions you can add to your Lab’s high-quality dog food. Limit the eggs and oil to no more than once a week — and only for active Labs who aren’t overweight.)

  • Small pieces of raw or cooked carrots

  • Small pieces of raw apples

  • One or two tablespoons of plain, nonfat yogurt

  • Half of a cooked egg

  • One teaspoon of canola oil

The Anatomy of a Labrador Retriever

Understanding the anatomy of a Labrador Retriever will help you know your dog better and talk more specifically with your veterinarian. This figure gives a complete outline of your Lab’s body parts:

illustration showing the body parts of a Labrador Retriever

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