Introducing a new puppy to your current dog is often an exciting process, and many dogs will become fast friends and eas...
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Whether you are looking for an affectionate friend or a diligent coworker, Labradors can excel just about anywhere. A dog that regularly makes you wonder how your friends don’t have as much sense, the Labrador is keenly intelligent, devoted to their family, and friendly to just about anyone.
They will struggle in the harsh heat of the Tennessee summer, though their thick double coats will keep them well-insulated so long as they are not out for hours during the winter. They can fit into most households, and while cats and dogs may not immediately warm up to them, Labradors rarely hold grudges and should fit in just fine.
That all being said, each dog is an individual, and prospective owners need more to go on than the usual traits of a breed. To help ensure you get a great dog, this article will take an extended look at how to adopt a Labrador retriever in Tennessee. Whether you want to know how to pick a canine out or how to train a new dog, we have you covered!
Labrador Retriever Adoption in Tennessee
From Memphis to Johnson City, there is no shortage of Labrador retrievers in Tennessee. Similar to every other state in the country, Labrador retrievers have plenty of dedicated owners and enthusiasts throughout Tennessee, which helps those looking for the breed within adoption shelters and rescues.
It still doesn’t hurt to get an idea of what shelters have to offer, and calling ahead of time or checking shelter social media pages might save you some gas money and time. Getting everything ready before bringing the dog home is always preferable, and there is never a bad time to get pet supplies until you actually get the pet.
If you have ever taken a canine on a walk through a store full of things they are deeply interested in, you will understand the difficulty of buying supplies with the new dog by your side. Similarly, write down or make a mental checklist of what personality traits a dog must have before adoption to lessen the chance of you having to bring it back later on.
Ask employees about the good and bad habits of a dog, and give yourself time to monitor how they act around other dogs and people. When you feel you have found a good fit, you can begin the most boring part of the process: filling out paperwork.
The paperwork, thankfully, is light and will just ask basic questions about your previous experience with dogs, how many pets you have, and how to reach you by phone or email. Beyond that, you just need to sign an adoption contract and pay for the dog. Prices vary, but Tennessee absolutely has a price range when you are looking to get a Labrador retriever.
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How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Labrador Retriever in Tennessee?Adoption costs differ, and it will largely depend on the age of the dog, the rescue you choose to go with, and the medical history of the animal. Overall, you can expect a price somewhere between $225 – $425. Prices will be higher for puppies than seniors and dogs with health conditions, but breeders will always be more expensive than adopting from a shelter. |
How Should I Train a Labrador Retriever?Labrador retrievers are very easy to train, but it can still be a struggle in the beginning as the two of you get to know each other. Don’t let the initial roadblocks frustrate you, and ensure that the time spent is positive for both of you. Treats, toys, and affection should be given liberally when the dog performs well. If you are completely unfamiliar with training, take a look through our courses to help you break through the initial learning curve of helping a dog learn commands. |
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Find the Right Labrador Retriever in Tennessee for You
Labrador retrievers are not just popular because they are unbelievably cute; they are popular because they are some of the best companions available. They are loyal, loving, and intelligent animals that create lifelong bonds with those they are around. It isn’t uncommon for someone to get a Labrador once and choose the breed for the rest of their life.
If you want a great Labrador, it helps to get them young, but even an old dog can learn positive habits. The main concern is finding a dog that is compatible with you and one that can fit into the lifestyle you already have, not the one you envision in your ideal dog-owning world. Be realistic, be patient, be prepared, and the rest should come fairly easily.
