Labrador Retriever Information

The Labrador Retriever originated in Newfoundland, Canada and is believed to have descended from the now extinct “St. John’s Water Dog”. Labrador Retriever’s where trained to help retrieve fishing nets from the icy cold waters of the North Atlantic. Their dense, water-repellant coats, swimming skills and hard working nature made them the perfect dog for this task.

In the early 19th century, the Duke of Malmesbury began breeding Labrador Retrievers in England. He was also responsible for the name “Labradors”. Labs where first recognized by The British Kennel Club in 1903 and the American Kennel Club in 1917. It is now considered the most popular dog breed in the world. Anyone who has ever known a Labrador will surely understand why!

A bit about the Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are medium to large sized dogs with a smooth short coat and a powerful, otter like tail (usually wagging!). These intelligent dogs make great family pets but they do need a lot of exercise, mental stimulation and training. They enjoy long walks and love water. A well exercised Lab is a happy Lab!

The Labrador Retriever makes an excellent sporting dog and excels as a retrieving gun dog. They are also used as guide dogs for the blind and therapy dogs.

Labrador Retrievers have been the most popular dog breed in the United States for the past 16 years. They are also by far the most popular dogs in The United Kingdom with over 45 000 registrations.

Height:

American Kennel Club Breed Standard:

Male: 22.5 inches – 24.5 inches to the shoulder

Female: 21.5 inches – 23.5 inches to the shoulder

British Kennel Club Breed Standard:

Male: 22 inches – 22.5 inches to the shoulder

Female: 21.5 inches – 22 inches to the shoulder

Weight:

Male: 65 – 80lbs

Female: 55 – 70lbs

Coat:

Short, thick, dense and weather resistant coat in black, yellow, chocolate or silver. Silver Labs are not yet recognised by the American Kennel Club.

Characteristics:

Just another day in the water!

Webbed Feet – These act as ‘flippers’ and make the Labrador Retriever a very strong swimmer

Otter-Like Tail – Acts like a rudder in the water.

Layered, Slightly Oily Coat – Keeps them warm and dries easily.

Soft Mouth – A well trained Labrador Retriever can carry an egg in it’s mouth without cracking it

Ability To Learn – Can learn up to 300 human phrases

7th most intelligent dog breed.

The Labrador Retriever is intelligent, adaptable, obedient, sociable , affectionate and loyal. They are also very energetic, especially when very young.

Temperament:

Health Problems:

As with all breeds Labrador Retrievers are prone to certain health problems.

These include:

Canine hip dysplasia, epilepsy, elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and skin allergies.

Labrador Retrievers are also susceptible to Gastric Torsion – or Bloat.

Upkeep And Maintenance:

Labrador Retrievers must be well excercised on a daily basis. Whenever possible, this should take the form of running and swimming. Retrieving is at the top of the list of games that Labradors really enjoy, especially through water such as the beach or even a large outdoor swimming pool.

The difference between English and American Labrador Retriever:

English Labrador Retrievers have smaller, shorter bodies and a fuller face, and American Labs have a larger body and some would say a more boisterous personality.

A moment later the stevedore appeared on deck leading by a leash one of the most handsome dogs ever seen in Maryland. He was jet-black, sturdy in his front quarters, sleek and powerful in his hind, with a face so intelligent that it seemed he might speak at any moment.

His movements were quick, his dark eyes following every development nearby, yet his disposition appeared so equable he seemed always about to smile.

“He’s called a Labrador Retriever, ‘Lightfoot said. ‘Finest huntin’ dog ever developed”

James Michener – From his novel Chesapeake

More Labrador Retriever information and articles here