Wanting a “Lab” Personality in a Dog That Isn’t a Lab?
Question by Rayven ~ Here we Go Again: Wanting a “Lab” personality in a dog that isn’t a Lab?
This is rather general but someone else’s question did bring this to mind.
Why is it some people want lab/golden like personalties in breeds not known for that or even one the opposite side of the spectrum?
By that I mean, very outgoing, attention seeking, eager to please and so forth.
I mean is it simply a matter of being naive about how their particular breed is supposed to be or more a matter of people wanting their dog(s) to be an extension of themselves? The second I mean in the way that some people use their kids or other things as a way to garner attention or break the ice because they have their own issues with socializing with other people.
Then again look at how the GP tends to behave around dogs to begin with. God forbid you actually correct someone or their kid(s) for wanting to pet your dog without asking first.
That brings to mind another question. Why is it when you expect a smidgen of actual common sense and politeness from people as far as asking to pet your dog first, there suddenly has to be a problem with you or your animal?
My life: Actually that is the proper Lab temperament.
“The ideal disposition is one of a kindly, outgoing, tractable nature; eager to please and non-aggressive towards man or animal. The Labrador has much that appeals to people; his gentle ways, intelligence and adaptability make him an ideal dog.” That’s right from the breed standard.
Bells: Nope couldn’t tell at all. Also you just reminded me and this Beagle breeder(loosely using the term) who breeds for the average pet owner. Pumping out heavily watered down Beagles by the dozen.
Best answer:
Answer by Aphrodite ☼Dobe uses a PRONG
I KNOW I KNOW!
Because Labs possess qualities that everyone thinks a PET dog should have (like what you used as an example – outgoing, attention seeking, eager to please). Most of these people don’t see the Lab for what it was really bred to do. They just want a dog that is happy to see them, wants to be petted, like affection, listens to them, etc.
Keeping in mind they want the energy to be low too lol.
Of course it is also a lack of knowing how their particular breed is supposed to be as well. Most people buy dogs on a whim and mostly based on looks or status.
Like if someone buys a Doberman because they look mean or whatever and then expect it to be like a Lab – they will be thoroughly disappointed because they are nothing alike.
I have a story for you Rayven – just happened on the weekend…
Was at a Pet Valu. I walk Quattro around the store when I first get there so we can get the sights and smells of a new store out of the way. Then as I was looking at stuff I asked for the DOWN and STAY. When he got out of his position, I corrected him. The lady working there says to me “Have you ever heard of a kid in a candy store?” I say “Yes.” She says, “Well that’s what your dog is like right now, you can’t possibly expect him to listen to any commands while he is here.” To which I replied “Sorry lady, I expect him to listen AND THEN SOME as my expecations for MY dog are clearly higher than yours. He is in Advanced OB so I expect MUCH more from him”. So then I get “Oh, why is he in Advanced OB? What’s wrong with him?”….
Same crap different smell. You don’t want people to pet them, your dog is mental. You want your dog to follow commands at a dog park/dog store, your dog is mental.
What do you think? Answer below!