 Labradors have a reputation as a very even @-@ tempered breed and an excellent family dog . This includes a good reputation with children of all ages and other animals . Some lines , particularly those that have continued to be bred specifically for their skills at working in the field ( rather than for their appearance ) , are particularly fast and athletic . Their fun @-@ loving boisterousness and lack of fear may require training and firm handling at times to ensure it does not get out of hand — an uncontrolled adult can be quite problematic . Females may be slightly more independent than males . Labradors mature at around three years of age ; before this time they can have a significant degree of puppy @-@ like energy , often mislabelled as being hyperactive . Because of their enthusiasm , leash @-@ training early on is suggested to prevent pulling when full @-@ grown . Labradors often enjoy retrieving a ball endlessly ( often obsessively ) and other forms of activity ( such as agility , frisbee , or flyball ) . 
