Owning your own labrador - even one free from a rescue home comes with a price tag. Feeding, immunization, kennel fees just to name a few does not come cheap. Add into the mix a pure breed like a Labrador then the cost of owning a dog can rocket. Of all the breeds of dogs, the Labrador is the most popular dog in the UK, taking the number one spot with 45,700 registrations in 2006 according to the Kennel Club Top 20 Breeds list.

Known for its fine temperament, easy-going nature, the Labrador makes an excellent family pet, as well as being ideally suited to a working life. Synonymous with its role as a Guide Dog, they can also be trained to be an Assistance Dogs for the disabled and Therapy Dogs, being used in homes and hospices as a comfort for residents and patients alike.

Labradors are colored in one of 3 ways : chocolate, black and gold.There are further pigmentations. For example the gold labrador can vary from cream to gold and the chocolate labrador from mid brown to dark brown.

The American Kennel Club is a well established dog site and provides full information on all breeds. Should you have a Labrador worthy of showing, you will find a calender of events of dogs shows.

Okay, so youve sourced a potential puppy. What about the cost? Well, there are two types to consider -physical as well as financial. The Labrador needs a lot of exercise to prevent it becoming hyperactive and boisterous. Its good nature is derived from being kept active and adored by you, the owner.

Puppies can costs from $400 to $700 and will also need inoculations.These need followe3d up yearly with booster shots at about $40. Further to this is when you decide to go on vacation and need to inoculate against typical illnesses. There is also flea protection and worming to bring into the lsit. A quick visit to some vet sites will show you the exact amount.

Insurance for your dog is important in order to avoid large vet bills. For example chronic illnesses would cost a fortune if you did not have good cover in place. In the fine print you will see restrictions you should avoid like the 12 months only version which is, of course, much cheaper.

The Classifieds Service of the AKC provides contact information for breeders who currently have AKC registrable puppies available for sale, a good starting point if you are looking to buy your first puppy. At least the online info will keep you fully informed about your potential new pet.

Posted under Dogs