While Labrador Retrievers obviously have endearing traits that have made them one of the most popular dog breeds<\/a> for decades, many are not aware that it can actually take some time before Labradors can reach that point where they become absolutely wonderful canine companions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So, here is everything you need to know about when do Labs mentally mature, when can you consider them fully grown<\/a>, when do Labrador Retrievers sexually mature, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s take a look.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A great number of experts consider a Lab <\/a>to be fully grown by the time they turn 18 months old. However, not all Labradors will develop at the same pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some Labradors are late bloomers and will take between 18-24 months old before they mature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On the other hand, other Labs may also fully physically mature when they are 2-3 years old. Most Labradors will be mentally mature when they are 3-4 years old.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Labradors mature more slowly than other smaller breeds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Most small and medium-sized breeds will mature when they are 9-12 months old. However, the Labrador is a big dog, and larger breeds mature slowly<\/a>. Therefore, a 1-year old Lab will still exhibit a lot of childlike behavior compared to a 1-year old toy Poodle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are clear signals that your Lab has become mature. Here are some common signs you can expect:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lab puppies are high-energy and find excitement in nearly everything. However, mature Labradors will be calmer and reserved. They may not jump as much for things they enjoy, but they will exhibit it in other ways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For instance, they will quickly run to you if you pick up their leash or ball instead of jumping and barking. Labradors are prone to obesity and joint problems, which is why they need at least 1-2 hours of exercise every day through walks, playtime, and other activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When your pup was young and still learning, they may not be able to resist temptation. They would possibly often try to steal food or disobey you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, when your Labs mature, they often know what the rules are, especially when they have been properly trained. They will be less tempted to follow their impulses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Contrary to adult Labs that are generally more patient, puppies often cannot hold their excitement and will be hyper when they want to do something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When Labradors are young puppies, they will have very soft coats of fur. However, that fur will begin to shed when they are 3-5 months old.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Their new double coat of fur<\/a> will replace their baby fur. By the time they are 6-7 months old, your Lab may have thicker, slightly coarse fur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Like humans, dogs also lose their baby teeth to make way for their new adult teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Labrador baby teeth will fall out when they are 14-30 weeks old. They usually have all their adult teeth when they are 6-8 months old, but it may also depend on your Lab\u2019s development.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhen will my Labrador mature?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Labradors mature slowly<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Signs of a mature Labrador<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1) You Lab is slowing down.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
However, even if they do not want to play as much as they used to, that does not mean they do not need to exercise anymore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n2) Your Labrador exhibits more self-control.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3) Your Labrador Retriever has more patience.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4) A new double coat of fur will replace your Lab’s baby fur.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5) Your Labrador will have no more baby teeth.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6) Your Labrador Retriever will exhibit less destructive behavior.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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