In the Home
Your Lab begins learning about his environment the minute he walks into your house. Some of the things he will learn about (if he hasn't already encountered them at the breeder's home) are vacuum cleaners, blenders, doorbells, fireworks, and thunderstorms. Be careful how you react the first time your Lab pup encounters these things. He'll take his cue for future behavior from your response.
Whether your puppy reacts to different noises with surprise, fear, or curiosity, be matter of fact: “That's just the dish-washer/vacuum cleaner/blender.” Don't comfort him if he seems frightened by the noise. Your reassurance will only create a dog that's afraid of loud noises.
Start your Lab's socialization process by providing him with plenty of attention and affection from everyone in the family. Introduce him to the neighbors and to delivery people who regularly visit your home. Invite neighborhood kids to come play with him, and show them how to hold and pet him. Also, let your Lab meet other dogs, as long as you know they are vaccinated.
