A VET has revealed the important things that dog lovers need to know before buying a Labrador Retriever.
Known for their perpetually wagging tails and gentle, loving nature, Labradors are often thought of as the ultimate family dog.
Amir is a vet and is giving his honest opinion about Labradors[/caption]
But according to one vet, many owners are walking into a long-term commitment without fully understanding the breed’s very specific, and often challenging, needs.
Amir Anwary – known as @amirthevet on TikTok – shared a candid video that quickly gained over 53,000 views, urging prospective owners to listen up before welcoming that cuddly retriever into the family, especially as the change of season approaches.
The biggest misconception Amir tackles is the idea that Labradors are low-maintenance, easy-going dogs.
He explains that many people think that Labradors are “chilled out family dogs.”
But Amir reveals that “is not true” before going onto Retriever.
“They were literally bred to retrieve things so they thrive on a lot of good quality exercise,” he explains.
As working dogs, they have high energy needs that require more than just a quick walk around the block.
That good quality exercise is what keeps them happy and, crucially, helps manage their weight.
If they aren’t mentally and physically stimulated, you could end up with a restless, bored, and possibly destructive pet.
If you’re someone who is particular about a tidy home, Amir has a blunt warning: think twice before getting a Lab.
“They’re heavy shedders. They have a double coat meaning that they will shed year-round more so during season change,”
So if you are someone that does not like cleaning your house regularly, Amir suggests that a Labrador is probably not the best thing for you.
As the weather shifts, Labs will blow their undercoat to prepare for the change in temperature.
This means dog hair will become a permanent part of your furniture and clothing, making a vacuum cleaner and a good lint roller your new best friends.
Food loving
It’s no secret that Labradors love food, but Amir stresses that their tendency to gain weight is not just about greed – it’s genetic.
He explains that they are one of the breeds that is genetically predisposed to picking up weight very quickly.
This means owners must be incredibly strict.
You have to be “extremely mindful about exercise but also extremely mindful about what you feed your Labrador because before you know it, it will be rolling all over the place.”
Even small treats and scraps add up rapidly for this breed.
Finally, Amir cautions that Labradors thrive on companionship and are prone to becoming distressed if left isolated for long periods.
Labrador’s are prone to separation anxiety[/caption]
“Labradors are prone to separation anxiety,” he explains, quoting how they are family dogs.
His advice is firm: “If you work all day every day, don’t get a Labrador because if you leave them at home all the time alone, they’re going to be really sad and nobody wants to see a sad Lab.”
If you can’t guarantee regular human interaction – whether that means working from home, arranging doggy daycare, or having a family member around – this popular breed might not be the right choice for your lifestyle.
Amir’s video got dog lovers talking as 117 people rushed to the comments section to share their thoughts.
One wrote: “You left out a very important thing: they never grow up.”
A second added: “The separation anxiety is heavy on mine, he doesn’t leave you alone for 1 second.”
While a third said: “No better dogs on this planet!”
Britain’s favourite dog breeds
HERE are the top ten dog breeds in the UK….
- Labrador Retriever
- Renowned for their friendly and outgoing nature.
- Popular as both family pets and working dogs.
- French Bulldog
- Known for their distinctive bat-like ears and affectionate temperament.
- Ideal for city living due to their small size.
- Cocker Spaniel
- Beloved for their playful and loyal disposition.
- Excellent companions for active families.
- Pug
- Recognised for their charming wrinkled faces and sociable nature.
- Adaptable to various living environments.
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Valued for their courageous and loving character.
- Strong and muscular build, yet gentle with children.
- Dachshund
- Adored for their distinctive long bodies and lively personality.
- Comes in a variety of coat types: smooth, wire, and long-haired.
- Border Collie
- Celebrated for their intelligence and energy.
- Excellent working dogs, especially in herding.
- Golden Retriever
- Known for their friendly and tolerant attitude.
- Great family pets and skilled in various service roles.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Cherished for their gentle and affectionate nature.
- Small size makes them perfect for lap dogs.
- German Shepherd
- Admired for their loyalty and versatility.
- Commonly used in police and military roles due to their trainability.
