Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever

Yellow Lab

Appearance:

    The Labrador Retriever comes in three different colors, black, chocolate and yellow. Those are the standard colors, but there are labs that are polar white or fox red, but really those are just variations of the yellow coat color. 

    Their fur has two layers. There is a soft coat that is weather resistant, this is the undercoat. The topcoat is short, thick and straight fur. These two coats help protect them from from the cold water.

    Labrador Retrievers tend to shed a lot, so it is best to brush them daily. 

    Female labs are about 55-70 pounds and stand at 21-23 inches. Male Labrador Retrievers tend to be larger and weigh around 65-80 pounds and stand at 23-25 inches.

Behavior:

    This breed is known for its eagerness to please, which makes training easier. Labrador Retrievers are also quite intelligent. With the right training, a lab can be one of the most well behaved dogs!

    Labs have lots of energy. This is also why they need to be trained, so they can put their energy to good use! They need lots of exercise and playtime.

Black Lab

    They are fantastic family dogs. Typically they get along with children because they are so easy going. However, just like any other breed, they do need to be taught how to act around children just like children need to be taught how to act around dogs. Also, with the correct training and socialization at the young age, labs will get along with other animals. 

Health:

    Just like any breed, Labrador Retrievers are prone to certain health issues. Here is a list of problems that they are prone to, but of course other health issues that aren't listed can appear. The list includes: ear infections, myopathy, cold tail, acute moist dermatitis, TVD, gastric dilation volvulus, cataracts, epilepsy, PRA, hip and elbow dysplasia. Just make sure to go to the vet for check ups and be aware of what your dog is prone to. 

Fun Facts:

Chocolate Lab

•     According to American Kennel Club, the Labrador Retriever has been the most popular breed for 24 years!
• Labs can begin to sprint 12mph in just 3 seconds.
• No matter what color the parents are, you can get all three variations of the coat colors in just one litter.
• Labrador Retrievers are the most common breed used as guide dogs.
• Since they have such powerful noses they have been used to sniff out cancer on a human!
• Labrador Retrievers did not come from Labrador, they came from Newfoundland!
• They can carry an egg in their mouth without breaking it.