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The results are in – yet again the Labrador Retriever has been named the most popular dog in America for the 28th year running. Despite the rise of the Cockapoo and GoldenDoodle crossbreeds, the purebred Labrador is still topping the charts as the favorite type of canine companion. This loveable breed is known for its friendliness, empathy with children and trainability. All Labradors are unique though, and like their human owners, they all have different personality types. Some are very quiet and reflective, some are complete extroverts. The trick is to know how to look after each type so that they are mentally stimulated and happy. 

The INFJ Labrador

Based on the Myers-Briggs personality types, the INFJ person is Introverted, iNtuitive, Feeling and Judging. They are often thoughtful, reserved, caring and warm with excellent listening skills. This is why the INFJ person is known as “the confidant.” Your INFJ Labrador is very similar in personality. They will lie with their head on your lap if you are sad and upset – they will be there first to comfort you. This kind of Labrador loves listening to you talking – you can tell them your troubles and they will always be there for comfort – they make great therapy dogs. The INFJ Lab is a happy creature of routine who enjoys a little meander around the quieter streets of New York, before going home for a snuggle on the couch with you. If you own an INFJ Labrador, make sure that you are careful with giving them treats – because they are a little more sedentary, they can be prone to weight gain. Keep them happy at home by creating a nesting space with a comfortable bed or crate, so they can always feel safe and secure. 

The ESFP Labrador

The ESFP Labrador is affectionately known as “the performer.” ESFP stands for Extroverted, Sensing, Feeling and Perceiving. This kind of Labrador loves the outdoors and is very connected with nature. Let them off the leash, and they will be happy and content exploring the big, wide world. These are the dogs that love meeting new people and other furry friends. They are reliable if you take them out on walks, and they take a change in routine in their stride. Take them to Central Park, and these joyful Labradors are in their element. If you own an ESFP Labrador, enroll them in some agility training classes, where they can be socialized with other dogs. It is also a good idea to vary their walking routes regularly, so that they don’t get bored. ESFP Labradors also make good service dogs and would benefit from some focused skills training. 

The NUTS Labrador

Do you struggle keeping your Labrador out of the water? Will he go berserk in every puddle, lake, pond and pool he can find? Is this the dog that would jump in the bath with you if you let him? Then you are the proud owner of a NUTS Labrador. These are high-energy level working dogs that take a good two hours of walkies every day before they are even remotely tired. They will eat your socks and chew your shoes given the opportunity. These are the dogs that continue to steal the toilet roll from your bathroom, despite your reasoning with them. That toilet roll will be torn to shreds and distributed evenly around your apartment. Make sure that you spend plenty of time with them playing reward-based games to keep them mentally stimulated. A good supply of tennis balls will help keep them entertained if you are out on walkies. 

The Labrador Retriever is a wonderful dog breed that is full of personality. Understanding their unique traits means that you can adjust your routine so that you always have a contented canine companion. 

This post was contributed by Jane Wood.

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