 |
 |
LABRADOR RETRIEVER
:: Breed Profile |
|
| |
| The Labrador
Retriever originated in Newfoundland, Canada and
is believed to have descended from the now extinct
"St. John's Water Dog". Labs 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 Labradors in England. He was also
responsible for the name "Labradors". Labrador
Retrievers 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 Lab will surely understand why!
|
|
About
the breed
Labs 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!
Labradors make excellent sporting dogs and excel as retrieving
gun dogs. 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 or chocolate.
The
difference between English and American Labs:
English Labs have smaller, shorter bodies and a fuller
face, and American Labs have a larger body and some would
say a more boisterous personality.
Characteristics:
The Labrador Retriever is intelligent, adaptable, obedient,
sociable , affectionate and loyal. They are also very
energetic, especially when very young.
Temperament:
One of the reasons Labs are so popular is their excellent
temperament. They are friendly, loving and non-aggressive.
These outgoing dogs are playful and always eager to please.
As someone once said "A Lab never has a bad day". Due
to their easy-going, non-aggressive nature, Labs do not
make good guard dogs. They may bark protectively but unlikely
to take things further.
Health
Problems:
As with all breeds Labradors are prone to certain health
problems.
These include:
Canine hip dysplasia, epilepsy, elbow dysplasia, progressive
retinal atrophy and skin allergies.
Labradors are also susceptible to Gastric
Torsion - or Bloat
Upkeep And Maintenance:
Labs 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 Labs
really enjoy, especially through water such as the beach
or even a large outdoor swimming pool. A well excercised
Lab is a happy Lab!!!
|
| |
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, 'Lightfoot said. 'Finest
huntin' dog ever developed"
James Michener - From his novel Chesapeake |
|
|
|
|
|
|
