Positive training · From eight weeks

Labrador Retriever Puppy Training Manual

From 8 Weeks

Labrador Retriever: food puzzles turn appetite into measured enrichment and impulse-control practice.

29 chapters · English / 中文

Labrador Retriever: food puzzles turn appetite into measured enrichment and impulse-control practice.

Breed profile

Training group: Gundogs and retrievers
Origin: The Labrador Retriever originated from Newfoundland fishing dogs and was developed for retrieving work.
Shoulder height: 55–62 cm
Weight: 25–36 kg
Coat: Short double coat
Coat care: Build calm, reward-based acceptance of brushing and of dryer or blower sound and airflow; do not force handling.
Drive keywords: Food · Retrieving · Social contact
Handling practice: Condition the short double coat to calm brushing and to dryer or blower sound and airflow, marking relaxed stillness and allowing breaks. · Build cooperative paw, nail and harness handling while the puppy is relaxed; stop before restraint creates a struggle.

General Australian reference range only; individual dogs vary.

FluffyWA

Edition 2026-08

Positive training · From eight weeks

Labrador Retriever Puppy Training ManualFrom 8 Weeks

A practical manual for ordinary families bringing home an eight-week-old Labrador Retriever puppy—and for anyone deciding whether this breed's training needs fit their life.

Core training period Arrival at 8 weeks through the 16-week socialisation window

Roadmap beyond puppyhood Clear next steps through 6 and 12 months

Prepared by FluffyWA Pty Ltd · Southern River, Western Australia

Start with the route you need

How to use this manual

This is an execution manual, not a book to read once and shelve.

Every practical chapter ends with “Do these three things,” so you always know what to do this week. Printable logs and scorecards are collected in Chapter 27.

Choose your reading path

Path 01

The puppy arrived today

Set up the environment and routine first, then move directly to toileting and crate work.

06 07 10 11

Path 02

The puppy has been home for two weeks

Build marker and focus skills, then address mouthing and safe socialisation.

08 09 13 16

Path 03

Is the Labrador Retriever right for your home?

Read the breed reality, the developmental clock and the long-term exercise limits before deciding.

04 05 20

How to read the cards

Warning card

Safety or behaviour risk

Stop, lower the difficulty and manage the situation before continuing.

Goal card

A clear passing standard

Use the stated behaviour and success rate to decide whether to progress.

Time card

Length of one session

End while the puppy is still successful; more minutes are not automatically better.

Training with FluffyWA

Day school, board & train and private sessions are quoted after a chat, and boarding or daycare can be booked online with live prices.

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