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Your new Lab puppy will worm his way into your heart in a flash and become a member of your family from day one!  The bond, love, and good times will grow daily.  You may not have stopped to think about it, but that cuddly bundle of happiness will grow up, grow older, and has a life expectancy just as humans do.  The life expectancy is based on averages and the average life expectancy of most dogs is from 10 to 12 years.  Your Labrador Retriever falls in those averages.  Much of your new Labs life span and quality of life depends on how you care for your dog.  Diet and exercise will play an important part.  Another extremely important factor is good breeding and genetics. 

The first 2 years in your Lab’s life is the growth stage.  Your best friend is developing physically and mentally.  Nutrition is important throughout the life of the dog.  However, in the first two years nutrition is critical.  It lays a foundation for a healthy life span.  Many people think a chubby dog is a happy dog.  Do not allow your pet to become over weight.  This will shorten the dog’s life span.  Exercise is important but don’t overdue it.  Moderate exercise is recommended.  Imposing extreme exercise on the dog prior to their second year can cause hip dysplasia, joint problems, and possible ligament damage later in life.

Do not feed your pet table scraps, chocolate, or other foods intended for humans.  Choose a high quality food with a balance of nutrition and stick to it.  You can add flax or fish oil to the dogs diet.  This will increase the beauty of their coat and is great for their joints.  In addition, using a glucosamine supplement after the age of two with your pet helps insure good joint health and quality of life for your dog.  A good pet vitamin with antioxidants is wise to consider too.  These are suggestions that will lower risk factors, improve the quality of life, and possibly increase the life expectancy of your Labrador.

Your dog will be with you for a short span of time compared to human life span.  Love and enjoy every moment with them.  The Pointing Labrador Retriever’s most dominant trait is their desire to please you.  Your lab will bring to you and your family unconditional love and joy!