Labrador Retrievers: Everything You Need to Know
This may come as no surprise, but Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in America today. With a friendly demeanor and robust personality, Labs are outgoing by nature and fall in love instantly with those around them. Here's everything you need to know about Labrador Retrievers, from their hunting dog history, how to care for your very own Lab best friend, and how to decide whether a Labrador Retriever is the right dog for you.
Labrador Retriever Origins
Labrador Retrievers come from Canadian heritage, descending from the province of Newfoundland. Their lineage can be traced back all the way to the 1800s, where they were primarily friends of the fishermen and elite duck hunters.
With a short, thick, and water-resistant double coat, Labs were the ideal dogs to bear the icy waters of Canada. The short hair of the Lab was preferred over the long-haired retrievers to prevent icicles from forming on their coat.
All retrievers are descendants of the now extinct St. John's Water Dog, which were taken over to England and crossbred with other dogs. Once English nobles caught sight of these champion swimmer dogs, they brought some home where they instantly became top tier sporting dogs for royalty.
By the late 20th century, Labs had officially captured America’s hearts and have been one of the most sought after breeds in the United States ever since.
Everything You Need to Know About Labrador Retrievers
Labradors: Life Expectancy
The average life expectancy for Labrador Retrievers is 10-13 years.
Labradors: Size
Labrador Retrievers are classed as a medium-size breed, with males measuring 22.5 - 24.5 inches in height, and females measuring 21.5 - 23.5 inches.
In terms of weight, males usually weigh between 65 and 80 pounds, and females weigh between 55 and 70 pounds.
Labradors: Physical Appearance
Labrador Retrievers are known for their strong build and sweet, expressive eyes. Their short, dense, weather-resistant coat varies between yellow, chocolate, or black varieties and their otter-like tail is great for swimming.
Labradors: Temperament
Labs are incredibly friendly creatures which is why they're a “go to” breed. They have the tendency to be extremely affectionate and befriend all those around them.
Labradors are also incredibly intelligent and determined pups which makes them an ideal sporting dog. Labs enjoy playing games like fetch or tug-of-war which comes in handy when interacting or socializing your new puppy.
Labradors: Grooming
Besides the basic grooming needs that come with being a dog owner, Labs are fairly low maintenance.
Their water-repellent double coat does shed and should be brushed out regularly.
Labradors: Health
Young adult Labs can experience exercise-induced collapse (EIC). Breeders can carry out a DNA test to allow them to discover if their dogs carry the gene.
Other Lab health issues include elbow and hip dysplasia, muscle weakness (hereditary myopathy), and heart disorders.
Being on the larger size with a deep chest, similarly to other breeds such as Great Danes, German Shepherds and Weimaraners, Labs can develop a life-threatening condition called bloat. Whilst this condition is rare, it's important to learn the symptoms, so you know when to take your dog straight to your vet as a matter of urgency. American Kennel Club has a helpful article about bloat in dogs.
Labradors: Training
Though naturally friendly, Lab puppies benefit greatly from early socialization classes and obedience training. Interacting with other dogs early on will teach them how to act around other dogs and understand boundaries.
As natural born sporting dogs, training Labs via retrieval games and swimming practice is a good way of sharpening their minds and expending excess energy.
Labradors: Energy Level
Healthy Labs are known to be super energetic and need mental and physical stimulation daily. They are the perfect breed to accompany you on long road trips and join you in the great outdoors, as they thrive in the wilderness.
Labs need plenty of exercise throughout the day to discourage any destructive or hyperactive behavior and keep their temperament neutral.
Who Should Own a Labrador Retriever?
Considered one of “America’s favorites”, Labrador Retrievers are born and bred family dogs. Their kind, gentle demeanor paired with their high energy makes them the perfect candidates to run around in the backyard with the little ones or play nicely with another dog.
Because Labs are made for the outdoors and love water activities, having a swimming pool or a nearby lake or beach would be a major plus.
Active, social households are the best fit for a young Lab. Labs have trouble thriving if left alone for long periods of time or if there's a lack of social interaction, though a trusted pet sitter or dog walker can help.
Getting a Labrador Retriever
Choosing to adopt or go through a breeder for your Labrador Retriever is a personal choice that requires research. There are plenty of helpful resources to assist you in finding a breeder that offers healthy, ethically sourced Labrador Retriever puppies.
Preparing yourself to become a dog owner and researching Labrador Retriever puppies is an important step in being a responsible pet owner. Whether you find a responsible breeder or are planning on adopting, it’s up to you to be prepared for an energetic and friendly addition to your household. Once you bring your new Lab home, be prepared to fall in love instantly and have a built-in best friend!
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