Mary Allen
Friendly, easy to train, and social. It is not without reason that the Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds. However, it is important to note that this respected family dog originally started out as a hunting dog and therefore requires plenty of daily exercises.
The Appearance
The Labrador is one of the most popular family dogs in many countries. He loves people and is easy to train. Originally from Newfoundland, the breed made its way to Great Britain in the 19th century, where it was used as a hunting dog. He is an excellent swimmer and can cover very long distances. These skills in the water, it was primarily used for retrieving fishing nets that had escaped the fishermen. Today, the Labrador is a talented hunting dog, capable of hunting both on land and on water. Dogs of this breed are also often trained as drug detection dogs, rescue dogs, and service dogs.
Temperament
The Labrador is patient, harmonious, and naturally cooperative. He has a social attitude, seeks contact, and, with his friendly disposition, likes to be part of the family. Generally, the Labrador is good-natured towards everyone and everything, but they can be a little more vigilant in their own homes. He needs mental activation and lots of exercises to be happy. Because of their history, Labradors like to carry things around with them. And that’s why Labradors are often satisfied when they have something in their mouth.
Level Of Activity
This breed does very well with active families or of course with an active owner. You should be prepared that a Labrador will need daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. In addition to regular walks, many different activities can be tried out with the versatile Labrador. How about jogging, swimming, or hiking? The Labrador is probably in everything!
If you are interested in dog sports, you can train agility, rallying, or obedience with the Labrador, for example.
Food is appreciated and the breed has a tendency to become overweight. Therefore, daily exercise is particularly important. But you also have to pay attention to the food.
Grooming
The coat is short and dense, with no waves or curls. It feels hard and a little bristly and perfectly protects the dog from wind, weather, and water, it insulates in almost any weather. The Labrador sheds a little and therefore the dog should be brushed regularly.
Training
The Labrador Retriever is a very trainable breed. The dogs enjoy working with their owners and will work hard for treats. The breed was bred to hunt, meaning the dogs like to pick up and carry things. They are rewarded with toys and treats. The breed should be raised with love and positive reinforcement.
Many Labradors are used in the hunt to retrieve shot birds. They do not typically hunt themselves or roam. The dogs remain in close contact with their mistress or master.
Height And Weight
Male: 56-57 cm.
Females: 54-55 cm.
Weight: 25-34kg
Color
Originally, the Labrador Retriever only came in black. Later the colors brown and yellow were added.
Peculiarities Of The Breed
Labrador Retrievers are bred in two lines. A working line (also called a field trial) and a show line. Only one species is described in the breeder standard, but there is a difference between the two lines. There is also a dual-purpose line that combines both lines. Which line is right for you depends on what kind of life you can give your Labrador.
A Labrador loves water – at any time of the year. That means they can get hot spots and water rods, among other things. This can be avoided by thoroughly drying the dog after it has been in the water so that it does not remain wet and cold for long. For example, use a drying pad that absorbs moisture.
Hereditary Diseases
The Labrador is a healthy breed that does not typically have any major health issues. But as with all breeding breeds, there are some hereditary diseases. When you buy a pedigreed Labrador Retriever, you can usually see in the document what the ancestors were tested for and what the result was.
Typical hereditary diseases of this breed are:
- hip dysplasia
- elbow dysplasia
- OCD (osteochondrosis)
- Cataract PRA (progressive retinal atrophy)
Before purchasing a Labrador puppy, it is important to check if their ancestors suffered from any of these diseases.
Lining
When choosing the right food, it is crucial that it meets the Labrador Retriever’s needs. In the first year of the puppy’s life, it is particularly important that he gets the right food to prevent joint problems. Choose a food that is appropriate for the dog’s size and activity level. Since Labradors tend to be overweight, you should watch your dog’s weight and make sure he doesn’t get overweight. Obesity can lead to joint problems, diabetes, and heart disease. If you are unsure what food your dog needs, you can ask your veterinarian for advice.
Kind
sports dog
Five Facts About Labrador Retrievers
- With its water-resistant coat and muscular body, the Labrador Retriever is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, or water sports.
- Labradors come in three colors: black, tan, and yellow.
- Labradors love water – any type of water, puddle, or sea. It attracts the Labrador and mud is seen as a fashion accessory.
- Labradors love to eat and tend to be overweight, so keep an eye on your dog’s weight.
- Labradors are bred in two lines: a working line and a show line.