Hey y'all.
I've been looking at a black lab, and from what I can tell, they seem to be smart, loyal, even tempered, and just an all around good friend-dog to have around.

I'm wondering about possible medical problems, any temperment conflicts, and just general knowledge on this breed.

Anything special that I'll need would also be a big help.

Thanks in advance!

Hey,
Black labs are very, very good dogs! They are very loyal, intelligent, and very sweet.
They can be a hand full when they are young. They can be destructive and have alot of energy but most grow out of that at about 2 yrs of age. A good crate to put him in when you are not home or are not able to watch him is a very good idea.
The breed does have problems with hip dysplasia so make sure that your puppy is checked out.

Good luck!

J

Don't buy a Lab from just anywhere. They are the most popular dog in the US and many people are breeding them just for money-not temperment and health. Make sure the breeder has the sire and dam OFA(orthropedic foundation for animals) certified. This gives their hips a rating as to how likely they are to have problems with their hips. The parents should be at least 2yrs old because OFA won't certify their hips until then.
Labs also like to nip a lot when they're puppies. Don't buy the first pup that comes up to you. That is usually the dominant pup. It is best to choose a dog that is not too dominant and not too submissive. Watch how they play with their littermates. They also need a lot of exercise. They need to be able to get a good run in daily. If you can't provide this, a lab could get really destructive and hyperactive. I've got one of those retractable leashes (26ft). I walk my lab twice a day.
Labs are my favorite breed. They are very loyal, smart and love to be with you. Make SURE you get it used to a crate. It is for it's own good. They like to get into things while you're gone. It could get hurt if you don't crate it. I learned this the hard way when I came home and found my couch coushins torn to shreds. Try feeding it in its crate if it doesn't seem to like it in there.
Your local bookstore will have a bunch of books on Labs. I'm starting a collection myself! We have three in our family. With the right upbringing and breeding, you will have a great addition to your family.
One more thing. They shed quite a bit. If you don't like to vacuume once a week, it could be a problem. Also, if the dog is going to sleep on your bed, get a comforter that matches the color of their fur.
Let me know if you have any more questions!
Find a breeder near you at http://www.breeders.net

I also have a black lab that has just turned three years old now. He can still be a hand -ful when he wants to be but for the must part is VERY, VERY obediante. He is always eager to learn anything new wether a new game or a new trick. He has learned how to play Tag and is getting better at Soccer along with his favorite game "Catch Me If You Can" They do shed alot compared to other dogs but are fully worth it. Their attitudes are extremely friendly but can also be protective when REALLY needed. He loves to meet new people and go and explore new places but also loves to lay and watch T.V. beside of me in the evenings. We were doubtful also when we purchased our Lab but he has been fully worth it. As for diseases the only thing that we have ever had wrong with him so far is an ear infection from having water in his ear which is normal for any athletic animal but his back legs sometimes tremble but have not limited him to anything he can not do and our vet says that it is not really a problem. If your thinking about I say go for it! We have never regreted getting our Black Lab.

labs are wonderful pets i have a yellow one myself about 13 months old hips and u may not hear this alot but its there eyes are the major factors u look for in them they shed a lot so get your brush in one hand and the vacum i the other be prepared to do this every day they need plenty of exercise at least one walk a dayi never crated mine and hes left in the house all day with no problems except if he hasnt been exercised good for two days or so they love learnign tricks and r excellent learners but practice a lot on the come i learned that the hard way they love other dogs people almsot anything that moves but when something set them to growling they mean buisness the hair on my dogs back rises up and if a robber ever tried to break in their bark could easily scare them away they are awesome family dogs they love to be petted and seek u otu for attention the loveeeee the water if theyre a true lab and they r even good dogds to sleep with in the winter because they keep u warm but they do tend to try to take up the whole bed and in the summer they get hot they love bones and when teething they jjust chew the plastic like bones that your vet suggests right up otherwise they dont like them make sure to keep them in shape because they can get weight problems and dont let them bit when theyre little their bite gets alot harder as they get older hope this helps
ann