Maybe it’s because so many of our rural clients own Black Labs, but I can’t help feeling that a Black Labrador is an institution in rural England. Whether bounding across Cotswold fields outside Cirencester, plunging into the cold water of Cotswold Country Park & Beach, or just dozing under a pub bench in a Wiltshire village in Pewsey Vale, these dogs are as much a part of our rural way of life as stone cottages and wellies by the backdoor.
If you share your home with a Black Lab, you already know their many charms and are all too aware of their muddy pawprints. In this guide, we’ll look at what makes Black Labs such well-loved companions across the Cotswolds and Wiltshire and how to help them thrive in your care.
Dog Built for British Countryside Life
British breeders bred the Labrador from the St. John's water dog, imported from Newfoundland, refining it into the working gundog we know today. So, they’re truly designed for outdoor life, retrieving gamebirds, swimming in icy waters, and generally being useful. The Black Labrador has long been favoured by gamekeepers and farmers for its keen work ethic and the fact that its coal-black coat blends into the countryside, especially woodlands, making it an asset during shoots.
Fast forward to today, and while Black Labs still work in the field, an even greater number serve in a new capacity; as devoted family companions, loyal walking partners, and unapologetic sock thieves.
Temperament: Gentle, Goofy, and Game for Anything
Black Labradors are known for their unshakeable good nature. They’re confident but never brash, friendly but not pushy, and endlessly tolerant; even of toddlers, terriers, and the chooks. This makes them a favourite in multi-pet households and an ideal choice for the many rural homes across the Cotswolds.
I’ve house-sat Labs who curl up with the cat in front of the fire, charm the local postie, and run unphased through the farmyard chickens. They don’t hold grudges (unless you’re late with dinner), and they genuinely enjoy being part of the daily rhythm, whether you’re mucking out the chickens or heading to the Saturday market. In fact, the only time I have been deserted by a Black Lab was after 30 minutes of searching for a tortoise in the vilest thunderstorm I’ve experienced in Wiltshire. You read that right - a tortoise. It’s a story for another day, but I did find it, in case you were wondering.
Training Tips: Don’t Let That Wag Fool You
Labradors are clever, disconcertingly so when left to their own devices. They respond beautifully to training, but will also test boundaries, especially if they smell food (which they almost always do). Don’t be fooled by that happy wag; Black Labs are sharp. Training needs to be consistent, brief, and food-motivated. When taking on a new Black Lab, I’ll usually have it trained within a day to wait for my signal before bounding through a door or gate. Manners are everything, after all.
Great recall is vital in the Cotswolds, where fields and footpaths often border partures used to graze sheep, cattle and horses. Off-lead work in places like Cirencester Park or around the quieter banks of the River Windrush are great for building trust. Always start with long lines if you're unsure of your dog’s recall.
Quick Tip: Use their stomach to your advantage. Black Labs will work for kibble, so no need to haul gourmet treats everywhere. Keep a pouch handy and reinforce calm behaviour, heel work, and wait commands often.
Exercise Essentials: They’ll Walk for Miles (and Then Some)
If you’re looking for a dog to amble around the garden, a Labrador is not it. They need a minimum of 1–2 hours of solid activity daily, and many will take far more in stride.
Favourite walks among my regular sits include:
Ducklington Lake (Witney Lake & Meadows) – ideal for water-loving Labs, with shaded paths and open meadows. Here are a few things to keep in mind if walking your dogs here:
- Keep your dogs under close control and please clean up after them.
- The southern half of the lake is managed as a nature reserve, so be mindful of wildlife.
The Bathurst Estate near Cirencester – very dog-friendly and offers miles of managed woodland and parkland with plenty of safe space for your dogs to stretch their legs.
- On and Off-Leash Areas: There are marked routes where dogs can be off-leash, provided they are under close control. In other areas, particularly woodland walks and near livestock, dogs must be kept on a lead. Signage within the park will indicate the specific rules for each area.
- Permitted Routes: Stick to the designated dog walking routes within the park.
- Areas to Avoid: Dogs are not permitted in The Mansion or children's play areas. They are also not usually allowed on the grass area of Seven Rides or the central Broad Ride. Be mindful of environmental field margins and cultivated fields.
- Passes and Entry: There is a system of day passes, community passes, and annual passes for entry to Cirencester Park. You can purchase these via The Bathurst Estate website or at ticket offices at the Cecily Hill Gates and Windsor Walk.
Shilton and Swinbrook circulars – scenic Cotswold walks that offer plenty of sniffing opportunities and the odd pub at the end.
- The Countryside Code: Please adhere to the Countryside Code, which includes keeping your dog under close control, cleaning up after them, and keeping to marked paths.
Make use of local enclosed dog fields, especially for younger Labs learning recall. And remember, mental exercise is as important as physical. I always make their day with a little game of Seek Seek Seek where I make them sit and stay and then scatter a kibble for them to sniff out.
Health Watch: What to Keep an Eye On
Black Labradors are generally robust, but they do have a few health quirks:
- Obesity: Their appetites are legendary. Measure food carefully and don’t look them in the eyes.
- Hip and elbow dysplasia: A reputable breeder will provide joint scoring. Avoid over-exercising pups.
- Ear infections: Their floppy ears trap moisture. Check and clean regularly, especially after swims.
- Bloat (gastric torsion): Feed twice daily rather than once and avoid heavy exercise immediately after meals.
In the Cotswolds, you’re never far from good veterinary care. See our curated list of trusted veterinary practices here.
Diet & Grooming: The Food Fanatic’s Guide
Stick to a high-quality food that supports joint health, and consider breed-specific diets designed for Labradors. Raw food diets are popular locally but require commitment. If you’re using a sitter (like yours truly), let them know how meals are prepped and any supplements used.
As for grooming, Labs shed. A lot. Black coats just hide it better. Use an undercoat rake weekly or risk clogging your vacuum!
Trusted Care While You’re Away
Black Labs don’t just need care, they thrive with consistency, affection, and activity. If you're planning time away from your home, I’d be delighted to step in. I’m familiar with the quirks and routines of this wonderful breed and ensure they stick to their usual schedule, get plenty of exercise, and receive all the fuss they’re used to.
📩 Request a consultation for our professional pet sitting tailored to the needs of countryside companions.
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Author Bio
Glenn Bauer is a trusted professional specializing in pet and house sitting for rural homes and estates across the Cotswolds and South West and South England. With years of hands-on experience in managing properties and animals, he offers tailored care and solutions. His expertise is reflected in consistent 5-star client reviews. Read Glenn's journey to professional pet and house sitter Glenn and Mandy: The Journey behind A-Breed-Apart
If you'd like to send Glenn a message, then visit his Contact Page.
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