If you’re in the market for a dog with a bubbly personality and a strong desire to please, definitely consider a Labrador Retriever. It’s true, though, that these sizeable and exuberant dogs aren’t for everyone. Before purchasing one of these roly-poly little puppies, it’s smart to consider the pros and cons of the breed.

Standing 21 to 25 inches tall from the shoulder, and weighing in the range of 55 to 80 pounds, the Labrador is a powerful, dependable dog. These dogs don’t tire quickly, guaranteeing long play sessions. Labs are easily identifiable by their soft brown eyes and thick, round tail. The Labrador’s dense and practically waterproof coat can be black, yellow or chocolate. The black Lab is the most common type you’ll see.

Hunters bred Labs to tirelessly retrieve game from areas the hunters couldn’t easily reach. So it’s not surprising that Labs enjoy the water, making them wonderful boating or fishing companions. For these reasons, Labs are classified as part of the American Kennel Club’s Sporting Group.

Labradors, particularly puppies, need plenty of exercise. They just don’t do well in apartments that lack the room required to run and play. Ideally, the best situation for a Lab would be a home with a fenced-in yard. But even with enough space to play, a daily walk or romp in the park is still needed to burn off all their excess energy.

Being high energy dogs, Labrador Retrievers eat large amounts of food. As your Labrador puppy grows and develops, it’s a good idea to give him a premium food specially formulated to help large-breed dogs develop healthy bones. Labs reared to be hunting dogs will require a high-protein food to build their muscles and health.

Labrador Retrievers do extremely well with children and make great all-around family dogs. But largely due to bad breeding, a few of them are surly, so try to meet both parents before buying a puppy. Also, though they mean well, Labs don’t do well with infants or young toddlers. Wait until the children are steady on their feet before buying a Lab, since that powerful tail wag can knock an unsteady toddler to the floor.

Training your new puppy early, between 8 and twelve weeks of age, will prevent some otherwise predictable future problems. For example, a full-grown Lab can easily bowl a visitor over with his enthusiastic greeting if he isn’t trained not to jump. Take your puppy to obedience classes. This will both socialize him and give you some professional input, which can help with the slightly stubborn Lab.

Labradors need very little grooming. A quick brush once a week to remove loose hair and dirt does the trick. Periodically trim the nails when you hear them clacking on the floor. And don’t forget to check your dog for ticks after he plays outdoors.

Looking for a friendly family dog who’s ever so slightly headstrong? The Labrador Retriever might be the dog for you.