The Labrador Retriever
Before getting a puppy, get to know the breed.
Description
There
are two types of Labradors, the English Labrador and the American
Labrador. The English bred lab comes from English bred stock. Their
general appearance is different. The English bred labs are heavier,
thicker and blockier. The American bred Lab comes from American bred
stock and is tall and lanky.
The Labrador Retriever is a solid, muscular
dog, slightly longer than tall, with a short, hard, easy-care,
water-resistant double coat that does not have any waves and comes in
solid black, yellow, or chocolate.
The Labrador has a broad head, thick nose, scissors bite and a pronounced stop. Its muzzle is fairly wide and its neck is powerful. The eyes are chestnut or hazel with an intelligent expression. The medium-sized ears are pendant. The otter tail is strong, thick near the body then tapering, and completely covered with hair. Its limbs have good bone structure. The webbed feet aid in swimming.
Temperament
The
Labrador Retriever is a loving, affectionate, lovable, patient dog.
Highly intelligent, loyal, willing, and high-spirited. Lively and
good-natured, they love to play, especially in water - for they love to
swim. They have an excellent, reliable, temperament and are friendly,
superb with children and equable with other dogs. They crave human
attention and need to feel as though they are part of the family. Labs
are easily trained. Some may be reserved with strangers unless very well
socialized as puppies. These dogs are watchdogs, not guard dogs,
although some have been known to guard. They can become destructive if
left too much to their own devices. Train Labradors early not to pull on
the leash, as they have very strong necks. Show lines are generally
heavier and easier going than field lines. Field lines tend to be very
energetic and high strung. Often the best pets are from combination
show/field stock. This breed is very popular. If you are planning to
show, buy only from a reputable breeder. Labs are a bit more dominant
and independent than the Golden Retriever. Some of their talents
include: hunting, tracking, retrieving, watch dogging, police work,
narcotics detection, guide for the blind, service dog for the disabled,
search and rescue, sledding, carting, agility, and competitive
obedience. Labs bred from English lines (English Labs) are more calm and
laid back than Labradors bred from American lines. English Labs mature
quicker than the American type.
Height/Weight
Height:
Dogs 22-24 inches (56-61cm.) Bitches 21-23 inches (53-58cm.)
Weight:
Dogs 60-75 pounds (27-34kg.) Bitches 55-70 pounds (25-32kg.)
Some males can grow to 100 pounds (45kg) or more.
Health Problems
Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, PRA and eye disorders.
Living Conditions
Labrador Retrievers will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are moderately active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard.
Life Expectancy
About 10-12 years
Exercise
Labrador Retrievers are energetic dogs, delighted to work and play hard. They need to be taken on a daily, brisk, long walk, jog or run alongside you when you bicycle. Labs are big eaters and need regular exercise and moderate rations to avoid a tendency to become overweight.
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. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. These dogs are average shedders.