Year after year, Labrador Retrievers have
consistently ranked high as a good family dog, with their
intelligence, and laid back demeanor they make for excellent
family pets. Here's more about this breed…
History: The Labrador
Retrievers roots, depending upon which theory you adhere to,
either started in England or Newfoundland. Most theories suggest
that the origin of the Labrador Retriever dates back to
Newfoundland in the 1700s, where they were originally considered a
smaller version of the Newfoundland, and might even have been a
partial cross of a now extinct St. Johns dog and the larger
Newfoundland. By the 1800s, the Labrador began making its way to
England and European countries, but compliments for refining the
breed as a hunting and retrieving dog go to the English breeders.
They are known for being black in color originally, with the first
yellow and chocolate colored Lab's being recorded around the end
of the 19th century.
To this day the Labrador Retriever was and
still is used for bird hunting and retrieval of birds in the
water. Even though today the Retriever is a natural when used for
bird hunting, they were in the past, excellent at retrieving fish
too, and still show their love for a good swim. Said to have
originated in Newfoundland, there are those who speculate that the
Labrador name comes from the Canadian Province of Labrador.
Popular among breeders in Canada around the 1800s, the Labrador
Retriever only made it's way to America in the early 1900s, where
it was finally registered with the American Kennel Club in1917.
Description:
Thriving in all types of weather, the Labrador Retriever has a
thick, resistant to water coat, that comes in the various flavors
of yellow, black or chocolate brown. Female Labrador Retrievers
weigh in at around 55-75 pounds, while the larger male tips the
scale at between 65-80 pounds. the height of the Labrador can
range from 21-24 inches tall. Some of the beautiful features that
this dog possesses include their muscular hind legs combined with
an otter like tail, most often recognized while in their stance.
They are also known for their proud, powerful looking head.
Life Span: 10-13
years
Common Ailments: May
be prone to Hip and Elbow Dysphasia which might cause problems
with mobility and arthritis in it's later years. otherwise, this
is a hardy dog breed. Another possible ailment known to this breed
is called Retinal Atrophy which is a progressive disease that
results in reduction or complete loss of vision.
Suitability with Children:
Yes, a very even tempered breed as well as gentle natured.
Suitability with Other Pets:
Yes
Living Conditions:
Labrador Retrievers do best in a home with a large yard or with
land. They are easily adaptable though, and would also do well in
an apartment or with a small yard if received plenty of exercise
on a daily basis.
Training: This breed
is easily trainable as a puppy. Combining their intelligence with
their easy trainability makes them one of the most powerful
combinations as a superior working dog and excellent sporting dog,
as well as a wonderful family pet. Remember that Labradors need
consistency and reinforcement from the time they are puppies and
they will grow into a strong and gentle family pet.
Exercise Required:
High
Expense to Maintain:
Low
Breed Temperament:
Being definitely a favored breed in America, just about every
puppy in the pound will state they have some Labrador in their
blood. If not, many owners will make the claim that they do
because of their gentle nature despite their size, as well as
their extreme intelligence and ease at training. There is no doubt
about it, the Labradors loyalty, agreeable temperament and
affectionate nature are what causes this to be one of the most
popular dog breeds around..
Keep in mind that Labradors find their
greatest happiness when they are outdoors sporting or exercising
on a regular basis. While Labrador Retrievers can adapt to almost
any living environment, owners will find they are most content
when they are regularly exercised. If not regularly exercised,
especially as a puppy, owners could find that they will turn
towards destructive habits, like chewing furniture. Also, Labs
that are not regularly exercised show a tendency to put on weight,
as they sure love to eat.
All things considered, Labrador Retrievers
will make a good family dog with a little extra TLC…and along with
the tender loving care, don't forget the extra running, fetching
or swimming!
