FluffyWA

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

Watercolour illustration of a Labrador Retriever puppy sitting beside a round food-puzzle feeder with a jar of treats above
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.

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.

Path 02

The puppy has been home for two weeks

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

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.

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.