Labrador Retriever Dog Breed Information | Dogs 101 Labrador Retriever

Are you ready to get to know American Kennel Club’s (AKC) most popular dog breed? The Labrador Retriever is one of the friendliest and most outgoing pets to have as lifelong companions. They are known for their short, plush coat that comes in yellow, chocolate, and black. You can spot them from a mile away because of their glorious stance, their broad head, and their “otter tail”.

As you look closely, you can see their eyes glimmer with kindness and serenity. It’s true what they say, some angels do not have wings. They have paws. But these are not the only traits that make the Labrador Retriever stand out.

History

The Labrador Retriever breed originated in the 1800s in North America, mostly in Canada, when hunters reared dogs that can swim. These dogs were bred and meticulously selected for their effective retrieving abilities, particularly in water. Hunters chose them as partners in hunting ducks and fish in all sorts of weather.

As time passed by, people saw their ability to help people in need. Hence, they earned their positions in the police force and the military as excellent service dogs and guide dogs. They are trained for search and rescue operations, drug raids, and arson tasks. Aside from that, they are natural helpers. Labs help persons with disabilities in any way they can. Plus, they make effective therapy dogs. This paved their way to their popularity in America, and now, the world.

Other Names

The Labrador is also known as the Lab in certain areas. They are amazing companion dogs that can live up to 12-14 years. Wherever you are, when you hear the name you know how valuable they are in communities.

Size

Male Labrador Retrievers grow up to 24.5 inches, weighing up to 80 pounds. Females, on the other hand, can grow as tall as 23.5 inches, weighing from 55 to 70 pounds. It’s no surprise authorities want them as companions in the field. Their size matched with their agility, make them great fighters of crime.

Personality

The first characteristics that come to mind when people see Labrador Retrievers are intelligent, trustworthy, outgoing, agile, gentle, and kind. They are highly sensitive dogs that love to live in peace. Living in a rowdy and chaotic neighborhood might not be good for this breed. They are easily bothered by inconsistencies in the environment. They prefer a household where their handlers show regular care and warmth.

Seeing how agile and energetic these dogs are, they need to regularly spend their energy through exercise. If you have a yard where dogs can run securely, Labrador Retrievers will thrive in your hands.

If Labrador Retrievers receive the care they need, including training and socialization, they grow up to be affectionate and friendly dogs who give happiness to everybody.

Pet Compatibility

If you have other pets at home, Labrador Retrievers can be an outstanding addition to the family. They are great with other animals. In fact, Labs can be caring and gentle to their fellow animals. They can easily adapt to the attitude of their littermates and will eventually treat them like family.

Temperament

Just like any other dog, Labrador Retrievers tend to be aggressive without proper training and socialization. They display destructive behaviors such as chewing and digging. Other times, they even display nipping and play-bites. Experts believe that Labrador Retrievers display mouthiness when they are bored.

To suppress this behavior, help them expend their energy through exercise and give them a chew toy to play with at home. This will help them redirect their tendency to chew on objects they are sanctioned to play with.

Family Life

The Labrador Retriever is an amazing family dog. They love to get involved in family activities. If you were to own one, you need to consider their exercise needs. This helps them remain happy and satisfied inside the house.

Be ready to spend more than 30 minutes every day to play fetch, go on a walk, or run in the park. If you want to take it up a notch, you can take them swimming and hiking. They are amazing at these activities. Who knows, they might help you out in catching your next meals. What better way to enjoy these escapades with a knowledgeable and highly agile dog?

Labradors can be protective of their family, especially if they sense that something’s wrong. They hate to see their family get hurt or aggravated. During which case, they can be aggressive towards the attackers. Other than that, they can greet visitors with warmth, provided that your Labrador is properly socialized.

Children Compatibility

Labrador Retrievers make amazing babysitters. They are very loving and caring towards children, which makes them the ideal indoor pet.
Parents all around the world get their children Labradors because of their sweet and tender nature. They believe that showing children how responsible and kind these dogs are will teach them to reciprocate the same attitude. This teaches children responsibility and friendliness which will benefit them as they grow older.

Owning A Labrador Retriever

Even if you’re a novice owner, you can easily care for a Labrador Retriever. If you’re worried about their grooming needs, Labs have a short double-coat. It needs minimal attention. You can just brush it from time to time using a medium-sized comb. Sure, they need the basics such as regular bathing, nutritious food, and fulfilling exercise.

Aside from these, Labradors need veterinary attention too. They need regular body checkups, dental checkups, and vaccines. At most, prepare $1000 for their needs, including your expenses for high-quality dog food.

Any diet you give to the Lab should be appropriate to their age. If not, they either get overweight or get malnourished. Either way, it is detrimental to their health.
Other than that, caring for a Lab is easier compared to other breeds. All you need to do is to maintain their coat and their nails, spend time for exercise, and focus on their nourishment. If you’re getting a dog for the first time, this is the ideal breed to ease you into the responsibilities of being a dog owner.

Are you ready to take on the sweetest, friendliest, and most popular dog in the United States? As long as you can provide for their needs, nothing is stopping you from getting the best life companion that ever walked the planet.