There is some great advice through out this thread. I have 5 labs and they are all great dogs. Rescued 2, one was a pup and the other is estimated over 10 years old. The oldest is 13 this year and he has to stay inside the house. We got this dog when I was 6 and now I am 19 and he is like a brother to me. We house trained one of the females in 3 days. She is smart. In my opinion labs are some of the greatest dogs, great learners, good energy, and awesome companions. I am sure that you can get Jake to listen and act how you want him to with a little work and patience. They do eat alot, and shed. But that is just more time you get to spend with your dog. If he is already sitting, giving howdy and retrieving, I say he is making good progress.
