The Labrador Retriever has many charming traits, is easy to care for and makes a great family friend. They are smart and really easy to make, halfway into their willingness to work with people. They are "simple watchdogs" and can become obese if they do not exercise and food packages are unbalanced. Labrador Retrievers make formidable family dogs because they love being around people and many do not do so well as hotel dogs.