Labrador Retriever Information
Oh the Labrador Retriever, the most popular dog breed in the world! Energetic, friendly and and loving, the Labrador makes the ultimate family dog. They’re also incredibly athletic with keen hunting abilities. The breed is often used for guide dogs or search-and-rescue teams due to their obedient nature and desire to please.
Available in three colors – yellow, black and brown – (plus a reddish variation of the yellow lab). The Labrador actually did not hail from Labrador, Canada, but from the neighboring Newfoundland. With its high energy, obedience training and lots of exercise are a must. A tired Lab is a well behaved Lab!
Labrador Retriever History
The Lab originally comes from the island of Newfoundland in Canada. Its original source was the St. John’s water dog which comes from European working breeds. This breed was used to retrieve ducks and provide company to fishermen. Their name came when they were brought to England and named for the area they retrieved, in the Labrador Sea.
The dog has two primary variations, and English and an American Lab. The English style Labrador has a stockier build and blocky head. The American variation is leaner with a narrower head.
The initial breed was a yellow or darker yellow color. English breeders even bred a fox red variation of the dog that can still be found. Eventually through breeding brown and black Labs emerged.
Labrador Retriever Training & Temperament
Labs are kind, friendly and outgoing. They make an excellent family dog and are good with children and other animals. It’s good to socialize and train them early on as they have lots of energy and can get into trouble with their large size. This will help them develop into a well-mannered adult. It’s also good to train them on a leash or they tend to pull, which gets difficult to manage as they grow.
They are outgoing and love being with family. This means they generally expect attention and to be included in whatever you’re doing.
Labrador Retriever Exercise
Labs have tons of energy as puppies. They need walks and play multiple times per day. Keeping them worn out will prevent any destructive behavior to release that energy. They love retrieving and swimming. They make good hunting companions or just playtime pals. After about 3 years they’ll start to slow down, but still require walk & play time.
Labrador Retriever Grooming
The Lab sheds in season and you’ll want to brush them to keep it under control. They need occasional baths to keep clean. Make sure to trim their nails and brush their teeth. You’ll also need to check their ears for cleaning, especially if they’ve been swimming.
Labrador Retriever Health
Labs are generally healthy. They can get hip issues with age that should be watched out for. They also can develop bloat, an expansion of the stomach to be aware of. It’s best not to run them immediately after feeding or drinking a lot of water.
Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labrador_Retriever, https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/labrador-retriever/
