Help! I love my Lab and don't want to give him up, but he's too much for me! What can I do?
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Feed a high-quality dry dog food bought from a pet supply store. Good nutrition is a good start.
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Give him enough exercise—at least 30-45 minutes twice a day.
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Take him to school! Attend training classes with your Lab, if only to learn how to walk your Lab on leash without your getting dragged.
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Give him enough contact with people.
If you are away for most of the day:
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Arrange for a dog sitter, neighbor, friend, or family member to come to your house and play with or walk your Lab
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Leave your Lab with a neighbor or friend who is at home during the day and would welcome canine companionship.
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Find a good doggy day care where your dog can play with other dogs and get his exercise through play.
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Train him to enjoy his crate by making it a pleasant place to stay—out for no more than 4 hours at a stretch without a break that includes human interaction and exercise.
Labs thrive on companionship. A Lab left alone for long periods will likely exhibit behavior problems—especially if he doesn't get enough exercise.