Labrador retriever

Part I. The World of the Labrador Retriever

Chapter 1. What Is a Labrador Retriever?

The Sporting Breeds

The Lab's Physical Appearance

The Lab's Character

Chapter 2. The Labrador Retriever Yesterday and Today

The Lab in the USA

The Lab Today

Chapter 3. Why Choose a Labrador Retriever?

Are You Ready for a Dog?

The Lab as a Pet

The Working and Field Lab

If Labs Could Choose Their Owners

Chapter 4. Choosing Your Labrador Retriever

Breeder, Rescue, Shelter, or Free?

Choosing Your Lab

Puppy Temperament Test

Choosing an Adult Lab

Part II. Caring for Your Labrador Retriever

Chapter 5. Getting Ready for Your Labrador Retriever

Basic Supplies

Puppy Essentials

Make Your Yard Safe

When Your Dog First Comes Home

Puppy-Proofing Your Home

Pet Professionals

Chapter 6. Feeding Your Labrador Retriever

Feeding Your Dog

Nutritional Building Blocks

Reading Dog Food Labels

Commercial Dog Foods

Homemade Diets

Seven Mistakes to Avoid

Chapter 7. Grooming Your Labrador Retriever

Brushing

Bathing

Other Details

External Parasites

Making Your Environment Flea Free

Chapter 8. Keeping Your Labrador Retriever Healthy

Preventive Health Care

Problems That Affect the Lab

Internal Parasites

Emergency First Aid

How to Make a Canine First-Aid Kit

When to Call the Veterinarian

As Your Lab Grows Older

Part III. Enjoying Your Labrador Retriever

Chapter 9. Training Your Labrador Retriever

Understanding Builds the Bond

Practical Commands for Family Pets

Training for Attention

Teaching Cooperation

Chapter 10. Housetraining Your Labrador Retriever

Your Housetraining Shopping List

The First Day

Confine Your Pup

Watch Your Pup

Accidents Happen

Scheduling Basics

Appendix. Learning More About Your Labrador Retriever

Some Good Books

Magazines

Clubs and Registries

On the Internet

Index