You will need to watch a Labrador Retriever’s weight.
They have a tendency to overeat, and this can cause obesity and other complications later in life.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are your most important health screening priorities.
It’s important to check with breeders to confirm that the puppy’s parents are free of these conditions.
Progressive retinal atrophy is another lab health concern which can easily be tested for.
Ear infections are also a relatively common ailment to be mindful of.
The American Kennel Club recognizes three types of Labrador: black, yellow, and chocolate. The black Lab is solid black in color with no other markings. The yellow Lab is not necessarily solid yellow; it may vary in color from a cream shade to a reddish or strawberry color and still be considered a yellow Lab. The chocolate Lab ranges from light to dark brown in color. For American Kennel Club registration, these breeds must maintain the same color over the whole dog, with no other markings. However, non-show dogs may have white spots on their chest or other markings.
The silver Labrador is not recognized for registration by the United States or United Kingdom Kennel Clubs as „silver.” These kennel clubs register only chocolate, yellow, and black Labradors. However, silver Labradors came into existence in the 1980s and are considered to be purebred Labradors. They have all the same physical characteristics of their breedmates as far as height, weight, webbed feet, and head shape. Their silver color makes them more difficult to find than other colors.
The Field Labrador is an informal distinction within the general breed of Labrador Retriever. It refers specifically to a dog that is bred for field work. They tend to be taller and lighter, with a longer nose than other Labs. The Field Labradors can be found in any of the colors: chocolate, black, or yellow. Field Labradors also are known as American Labradors, referring to the height standard in the AKC for a Lab, which is 57-62 cm for a male.
Like the Field Bred Labrador, the Show Labrador distinction is informal and not a standard recognized by any kennel club specific to registration. The Show Bred Labrador refers to dogs bred to a show standard type for judging in conformation dog shows. This Lab generally is shorter and stockier in size compared to the Field Labrador, and has a fuller face.
Labradors are known to be terrific with children.
Their chill, take-it-all-in-stride temperament and typically low aggression levels mean they are usually OK with being petted, cuddled and occasionally prodded.
This easygoing attitude also means most Labradors will get along with other pets.
However, the Lab is a large dog. He can be overly enthusiastic when it comes to playing and greeting.
Very small children and frail older adults might be knocked down and potentially hurt due to the Lab’s overly eager displays of affection.
A Labrador with kids in the home shouldn’t be an issue, but you will need to always be mindful of their interactions.
A Labrador Retriever is a much better match with kids who are older. Their equally high energy levels mean they can play together for hours without getting tired.
Labs love loads of attention. They want to be around people, and will follow you around or flop at your feet to be close to you.
That being said, Labradors are not suitable for families who are gone for long periods of time.
They crave companionship. So if everyone in your house is at work or school throughout the day, you will probably need to get a dog sitter or take him to doggy day care.
Labrador puppies especially will need full-time attention.
If you’re bringing a new Lab puppy into your home, expect to take some time off while he acclimates to his new surroundings.
Are Labradors good family dogs? They are if they are not ignored.
If left to their own devices, they can become destructive, disruptive and very unhappy.
Getting a dog means recognizing the time commitment involved.
Everybody loves Labrador retrievers. In fact, Labradors are the most popular dog breed in America. You’re pretty likely to see at least a couple of these energetic, eager-to-please dogs when you spend time outside at the park or in your neighborhood. Labs make great family dogs. They can learn to play gently with small kids. And they also make excellent hunting companions. Plus, Labrador retrievers are always ready for adventure, whether that’s a hike in the mountains or a trip to the beach. And they’ll even curl up on the couch with you.
The AKC notes that Labrador retrievers are not only friendly, but they’re also smart. These intelligent dogs want to please their owners. So they’re highly trainable. As with any other dog, training is still work. But Labs are up for the challenge (unlike many other dogs, who resist the process all the way). Labs are loyal to their owners and will take their cues from you. They’ll go on a run around the neighborhood with you, or they’ll cuddle up with you on the couch if you need a quiet evening at home.
Another reason why Americans love Labrador retrievers so much? According to PetBreeds, these dogs make great companions for children. They love children. (And they definitely don’t make the list of dog breeds that are worst for families with small kids.) Like any dog, Labs need to be supervised around very young children. But they’re affectionate, patient, and often love spending time with the smallest members of your family. They also love to play fetch — a game both little humans and young dogs can easily figure out together.N
When you bring a dog into your home, you want him or her to stay a part of your family for many years to come. PetBreeds notes Labrador retrievers often do because they can live long and healthy lives. (That’s especially true if you feed them a balanced diet and help them get plenty of exercise.) Labrador retrievers live an average of 12 years. So one of these dogs can remain a part of your family for a very long time.
People who want easy-going dogs find a lot to love in Labrador retrievers — as do people who want to avoid expensive trips to the groomer. PetBreeds notes these dogs require only very occasional trips to the groomer. And unlike many dogs with long coats, Labs don’t need to be brushed for hours every week. Of course, that doesn’t mean Labs never need to be brushed or that they won’t need the occasional bath. But they’re much easier to keep well-groomed than many other dog breeds.
Labs often become guide dogs or search-and-rescue dogs. Some even get trained as therapy dogs. Sure, it helps that Labs take training well. But according to the AKC, “The Labrador retriever’s willingness to please makes them outstanding search and rescue dogs, as well as guide dogs for the blind.” In fact, Labs are the breed of choice to serve as guide and rescue dogs. That means the breed’s desire to be helpful pays off.
The Labrador Retriever, or just Labrador, is a type of retriever gun dog. The Labrador is one of the most popular breeds of dog in Canada,the United Kingdom and the United States.
A favourite disability assistance breed in many countries, Labradors are frequently trained to aid the blind, those who have autism, to act as a therapy dog, or to perform screening and detection work for law enforcement and other official agencies. Additionally, they are prized as sporting and hunting dogs.
A Labrador Retriever has the kind of versatility that other dogs only dream of. He can be a companion, show dog, hunting dog, canine athlete, guide dog, service dog, sniffer dog, search and rescue dog, and therapy dog. He enjoys jogging (health permitting), boating, swimming, hiking and more. If it’s active, outdoors and with his people, the Lab is ready and willing to participate in any activity.
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