Labs are people dogs so, they want to be near their people and when they are not they tend to get in trouble. This is bad for non-dog people who want independence from their canine companion (oxymoron?).
I've had labs all my life and couldn't imagine not having my friend next to me where ever I am in the house. When I leave her outside she digs a hole in the same spot. My solution is to not leave her outside.
Labs are great dogs, very intelligent and easy to train. You may consider consulting a professional to see if you can get some help. It will bring you closer to the dog if it helps and that works for all involved. The other side of that option is that it will help you realize this isn't for you and you can find the dog a new happy home.
You may need a heart to heart with the wife tough, that's always fun...