One of the things that I suggest to all the puppy owners is that they take their puppy to a kindergarten class. These classes are usually run by local obedience or breed clubs within driving distance of most people. They are really fun because it's an opportunity for puppies over 12 weeks of age to meet other people, other puppies and get some basic obedience instruction. Over the years, I took several puppies to kindergarten class.
A favorite game at the classes I attended was "pass the puppy" in which the puppy went around the circle with owners sitting on the floor and was actually passed from person to person. This is great socialization for puppies and they seem to enjoy it. The obedience part of the classes basically deals with learning to walk on a leash, learning to sit and learning to heel. The classes are a great introduction to further obedience classes and can be wonderful for those dogs and owners who are interested in conformation showing.
Aggression is something that should always be of concern with a puppy. Going to classes helps with interactions with other dogs but be sure that the other dogs are friendly. Since these are puppies, most are very happy and enjoy the interactions. Labradors are such happy dogs anyway that they enjoy any excuse to be goofy. Proof of vaccination is required for classes so be sure to ask about that and make sure that the instructors require such proof. No matter what the pursuit, the main thing is to have fun with your dog. Hopefully, kindergarten is just the start with the many activities that you and your Labrador can do together.
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