In this episode of "The Labrador Podcast," our guest Ashleigh shares her story about her beloved 15-month-old Labrador, Baxter.

Ashleigh was initially convinced to get a dog after witnessing the endearing cheekiness of a Labrador at work. When Baxter's litter arrived, she knew it was the perfect time to bring a dog into her life. However, she soon realized that her expectations were far from reality.

Despite reading books and watching videos about dog care, Ashleigh quickly learned that dogs are not preprogrammed and each is different.

The first few weeks of Baxter's nighttime routine were traumatic and stressful for both. With her firsthand knowledge, Ashleigh knows that she would do things differently if she had her time again.

Training Baxter at the local town hall proved challenging, as he was larger and more enthusiastic than the other breeds there. You'll also hear thoughts about the immense pressure on large-breed dog owners compared to small-breed owners.

Ashleigh shares her strategies for keeping Baxter engaged when off-leash, including using scent detection skills outdoors and allowing him to explore and sniff his surroundings. Ashleigh emphasizes the importance of training and routines for a dog's well-being and reflects on how tough life would be for Baxter without these aspects.

Understanding Baxter's emotional feelings and needs has influenced Ashleigh's life to the point where she changed her job to accommodate her furry companion better. This change allowed her to truly get to know Baxter, learn about his personality, and provide the best possible care for him.

Finally, Ashleigh offers valuable advice to listeners based on her experiences. She encourages others to be prepared for the challenges of owning a dog, to recognize that every dog is unique, and to prioritize understanding their emotional needs. Ashleigh's journey with Baxter has taught her the importance of adapting to her dog's personality and providing him with the best life possible.

Tune in to "The Labrador Podcast" to hear more about Ashleigh's inspiring story and deep bond with her Labrador, Baxter.

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