The Labrador Retriever (”Labrador” or “Lab” for short), is one of several kinds of retriever, and is the most popular breed of dog (by registered ownership) in both the United States and the United Kingdom.
History: Once known as the “St John’s Dogs,” the Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular breeds in the United States.The Labrador is believed to have originated on the island of Newfoundland, now part of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. It is thought to have descended from the St. John’s Water Dog (no longer in existence), a crossbreed of native water dogs and the Newfoundland to which the Labrador is closely related.
Appearance: The Labrador is slightly longer than it is tall with a medium to large bone structure. The skull of the Labrador Retriever is wide and is somewhat pronounced at the top where it meets the eyebrow. Their lips are slightly curved against their square jaw.They have a wide nose with open nostrils. The color of the nose varies depending on the color of the dog. The most distinguishing characteristics of the Labrador Retriever are its short, dense, weather resistant coat; an “otter” tail; a clean-cut head with broad back skull and moderate stop; powerful jaws; and its “kind,” friendly eyes, expressing character, intelligence and good temperament. The water-resistant double coat that does not have any waves and comes in solid black, yellow, or chocolate. There is also said to be a rare silver or gray color that is referred to as a shade of chocolate.
Size: Height: dogs - 22.5-24.5 inches; bitches: 21.5-23.5 inches
Weight: dogs - 65-80 pounds, bitches: 55-70 pounds
Temperament: Labradors are a well-balanced and remarkably versatile breed, adaptable to a wide range of functions as well as making very good pets. They are easily trained and are a very obedient breed. This breed is highly intelligent, loyal, and deeply devoted. The Labrador Retriever is reliable, affectionate, and thrive on human companionship and attention. They have an excellent, reliable, temperament and are friendly, superb with children and equable with other dogs. Still because of their exuberant nature they must be supervised with very young children. Never aggressive or shy, they crave human attention and need to feel as though they are part of the family. The breed tends to be more dominant than the Golden Retriever, and English Labs are calmer than the American lines.
Health: Labrador Retrievers are prone to elbow, hip and retinal dysplasia, and PRA. Labs also suffer from the risk of knee problems. A luxating patella is a common occurrence in the knee where the leg is often bow shaped.
Life expectancy: 10 – 12 years
Grooming: The smooth, short-haired, double coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush regularly with a firm, bristle brush, paying attention to the undercoat. Bathing or dry shampooing should only be done when absolutely necessary.
Puppy price: $300.00 - $1.000.00