Whether you're choosing an adult Lab from a shelter, Lab rescue group, or breeder, many of the same temperament tests suggested above for use with puppies can also help you choose an adult Lab that will be a good fit for your family and lifestyle. Of course, you can't pick up a grown Lab to see how he reacts to being carried, but you can see if he'll willingly roll over for a tummy rub, a good sign of trust in and submissiveness toward people. The most important thing is to spend time getting to know the dog.

At a shelter, ask if you can take the dog out of the kennel. Most shelters have a yard or a room where you can interact with the dog you're considering. The way a dog behaves in his kennel is very different from the way he behaves in a less restricted situation. Spend a little time talking to the dog, walking him on a leash, and playing with him.

Some things to look for include whether the dog makes eye contact with you, whether he seems glad to be in your company, and whether he responds when you speak to or move toward him. A Lab that shows no interest in you is going to be a tougher act than one who immediately seeks your affection, gives you his paw, or nuzzles you. Any sign that a dog wants to interact with you is positive. Choose a dog whose style of playing or interacting with you is one that you find pleasurable and that the dog seems to enjoy as well.

A ten-year-old chocolate Lab.

Take note of the dog's activity level. This will be affected by circumstances, such as whether the dog has been out of his kennel recently, or has just eaten or is about to eat. Nonetheless, you can usually tell if a dog seems to have a lot of frenetic energy or a more mellow personality. If he is a very active dog, be honest with yourself about your ability and desire to walk him several times a day or channel his energy through dog sports so he doesn't become destructive. See if the dog knows any commands, such as “Sit,” “Down,” or “Fetch.” Put a leash on him and take him for a walk. Lots of dogs pull. Find out before you adopt one whether you're able to control him.

If possible, bring everyone in the family to meet the dog. Many shelters require this before they'll complete an adoption. That's because the way a dog interacts with adults may be different from how he interacts with children. If you have another dog in the home, it can even be a good idea to bring him along so you can make sure the two will get along. (Call to arrange this beforehand.) The neutral setting of the shelter is a great place to introduce them. All of these interactions are important sources of information about how the dog might behave in your home.

Finally, ask yourself whether this is a dog you would enjoy having in your home and in your life. If the answer is yes, you're ready to take your new friend home. Give him time to adjust to his new surroundings and provide him with firm, consistent rules and lots of love. In a few months, you'll wonder how you ever did without him.