1. They were so cute as a puppy it actually made your heart hurt a bit.
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Such a velvety one.
2. You couldn’t believe any creature could be this soft and perfect.
Becky Barnicoat / BuzzFeed
3. But then they ran and everything was forgiven.
4. Their smolness was heaven, but it was over so quickly.
Becky Barnicoat / BuzzFeed
5. There was that bit in the middle when they were a beautiful teenager.
Instagram: @the_pupper_scout
All ears and outsize paws.
6. Then they were a big boy.
Such a fine dog. Look at them all growed up.
7. And they didn't fit on the sofa or chairs any more.
Twitter: @ColinDeDog
Although of course they still tried.
8. Talking of sofas, the way they get off one is amazing.
9. But when they're big, jumping up has serious repercussions.
Twitter: @Almighty_faye
They're almost as tall as you when they stand, and much, much muddier.
10. Which is why training them is so very important.
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It's also one of the most fun things you can do with your Labrador.
11. And luckily Labradors are so clever and love to learn.
goodass.dog
Such a good student.
12. They just want to be good boys!
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Good boys and good girls!
13. Except for when they do the digging.
stories.barkpost.com
Maybe they want to go to Australia?
14. Oh, and sometimes when they eat the bad things.
15. Like the walls.
16. And when they fetch it, but they won't drop it.
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My bally.
17. But they always say sorry for what they did.
18. Your home is covered in Labrador hair.
Twitter: @gingerdisco99
They shed their coats twice a year!
19. But it's all totally worth it for the greeting you get when you come home.
20. If you're really lucky, you have a Labrador who actually smiles.
Twitter: @simonfromharlow
Their smiles are all the more gorgeous for being kind of ugly.
21. They're such jolly dogs, they really are everybody's friend.
22. They're also extremely greedy of course.
Instagram: @mydogisfamily
They're greedier than you, which is saying something.
23. But you can't resist spoiling them because of those eyes.
Twitter: @threedogindy
Happy burfday, you've been such a good boy.
24. They’re total water babies and will jump into anything.
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If you choose to swim with them, be warned that they might try to climb on your head in the water.
25. Most of all, you know you've got the kindest, gentlest best friend, who'd do anything for you.
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