Labrador
dogs:
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Height:
55-57cm (21.5-22.5 in) at the shoulder
Weight:
30-45kg (55-75 pounds)
Group
American Kennel
Club: Sporting
The
Kennel Club (UK): Gundog
Australian
National Kennel
Council: Hound
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Who is the Labrador Retriever?
A friendly, active medium sized dog, these dogs love to please their masters.
They come in three colours: yellow, black and chocolate brown. They are probably the most popular breed of dog in the world.
Breed history
Labrador Retrievers (or 'Labs') were bred to retrieve game in rugged terrain and water. They originated in Newfoundland where they accompanied fishermen and helped to bring in the catch. They were taken to England in the 19th century and were further developed as a hunting dog and trusted companion. It's no surprise that they top the world's most popular puppy breeds!
Nowadays, labrador dogs
make excellent guide dogs and they are
used as rescue dogs throughout the world.
Personality
- Active
- Fun-loving
- Sociable
- Eager to please
- Good watchdog
- Can be boisterous but responds well to positive reinforcement training
Good with children?
Yes. Labs thrive on companionship, have an even temperament and love to be with their family. Everyone is their friend!Exercise needs
Labrador dogs are active medium sized dogs and need regular exercise. A daily of walk of 30 minutes is a must.Health
Generally, they are a strong, healthy breed.
Labs are keen eaters and can put on weight easily so you need to watch their diet carefully and keep them active. Like all dog breeds, obese labs can develop diabetes, heart disease and arthritis.
Possible health problems
Hip and elbow dysplasia (a disease that can cause lameness and arthritis in the hips or elbows)
Luxating patella (the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal position)
Osteochondrosis (an orthopedic disease that can occur in rapidly growing dogs)
Eye problems
Good breeders should x-ray or test their dogs for
as many of these
conditions as possible before
breeding, or should avoid breeding from dogs that display the
conditions.
Grooming
Labrador dogs have a double coat that sheds seasonally. The coat is easy to groom and a weekly light brushing will help to maintain its natural water resistance.
When grooming, remember to check the paws, ears and coat for grass seeds. Also check for any minor injuries and check the teeth to see if they need cleaning.
More information for new puppy owners:
Want to know more about buying, raising and caring for a puppy? Check out these PuppyPrimer.com pages:
Ideal owner
Lab puppies will generally be too strong and boisterous for the elderly or very young.
The ideal owner will be prepared to involve their lab in family activities, take him for regular walks and give him at least basic obedience training to control his naturally exuberant nature.
Labrador dogs are enthusiastic diggers and chewers so you should fence off an area of your garden for the puppy.
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