Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever breed head image

Labrador Retriever breed is originally from Canada,United States. Also known as Labrador, Lab.

Table of contents:
  1. Breed information
  2. Labrador Retriever breed image
  3. Pros and Cons
  4. Breed Characteristics
  5. More about breed
  6. Video about Labrador Retriever
  7. Questions and answers

Breed information

Popularity
  • 2 of 199 (2022)
  • 1 of 197 (2021)
  • 1 of 195 (2020)
Name Labrador Retriever
Other names Labrador, Lab
From country Canada,United States
Standards
Breed groups Sporting (AKC),Gun Dog (UKC)
Type Purebred
Size Large
Life span 10 - 12 years
Temperament affectionate,alert,cheerful,energetic,friendly,gentle,intelligent,loving,loyal,out-going,playful,responsive,social
Height female 21-23 inches (53-58 cm)
Height male 22-24 inches (56-61cm)
Weight female 55-70 pounds (25-32 kg)
Weight male 60-75 pounds (27-34kg)
Colors black,chocolate,yellow
Litter Size 5 - 10 puppies
Puppy Price Average $800 - $1500 USD

Labrador Retriever breed image

Breed Labrador Retriever image

Labrador Retriever Pros and Cons

There are 4 pros and 4 cons of owning Labrador Retriever.

Pros 👍 Cons 👎
Kid-friendly Tends to shed a lot
Dog-friendly Makes a lot of noise
Easy to groom Needs a lot of exercises
High intelligence Not hypoallergenic

Breed Characteristics

Sensitivity Level
Low-sensitive
High-sensitive

High-sensitivity dogs can be deeply affected by their owner's actions. If you shout loudly at the dog, ignore it, or if your child pulls its tail, it may take offense.

On the other hand, low-sensitivity dogs, often referred to as 'tolerant' dogs, handle these situations more easily.

If you're an emotional person, have a busy lifestyle, sometimes neglect your dog, or have young children, we don't recommend getting a high-sensitivity dog.

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Kid-Friendly
No-Kid-Friendly
Kid-Friendly

Kid-friendly dogs are highly tolerant of children's behavior, including hugs and playful "games" like attempting to saddle them. They typically interact kindly and patiently with kids, making them great family pets.

Not Kid-Friendly Dogs - Dogs in this category do not tolerate such behavior from children and may react negatively or even aggressively. Be cautious about bringing a not kid-friendly dog into a family environment.

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Dog Friendly
Low-friendly
High-Friendly

Dog-friendly characteristics vary widely, ranging from low-friendly to high-friendly. It's important to note that a dog's level of friendliness depends on several factors, and breed is just one of them.

Dogs with high friendliness tend to be sociable and enjoy interacting with other dogs. They may happily play with other canines or simply remain calm and relaxed when in the company of other dogs.

Conversely, dogs with lower levels of friendliness may exhibit different behaviors. They might be more prone to barking, trying to engage in fights with other dogs, or even attempting to run away from unfamiliar dogs or situations.

Keep in mind that a dog's friendliness is influenced by their individual personality, upbringing, and experiences. So, it's essential to consider these factors when assessing your furry friend's social behavior.

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Friendly Toward Strangers
Not-friendly
Everyone Is My Best Friend

It's important to understand that a dog's behavior towards strangers is influenced by various factors, with breed being just one of them.

A dog that is friendly toward strangers will typically exhibit pleasant behavior when your friends or visitors come to your home. They won't display aggression or attempt to attack them. Instead, they will likely be welcoming and sociable.

On the other hand, some dogs may be naturally shy or even fearful of strangers. However, it's crucial to note that a dog's socialization plays a significant role in their behavior. Proper socialization lessons can help any dog become more welcoming to strangers, regardless of their breed.

That said, if you happen to choose a breed known for its high stranger-friendly rating but don't invest time in training and socialization, the dog may still exhibit unfriendly behavior toward your visitors. Remember, a dog's behavior is a product of both their breed tendencies and their upbringing.

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Amount Of Shedding
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere

What's crucial to note is that the extent of shedding can vary from one breed to another. Some dogs shed consistently throughout the year, while others may have specific seasonal shedding patterns. There are also breeds that shed minimally, and in some cases, almost not at all.

When choosing a dog, it's essential to consider your personal preferences and standards regarding shedding. Your choice should align with how much you're willing to handle in terms of grooming and cleaning to keep your home and clothes free from excessive dog hair.

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Easy To Groom
Easy
Hard

Some breeds are low-maintenance and can be brushed quickly and easily. Others may need regular clipping, grooming, and bathing to keep them looking their best.

When choosing a dog, it's important to assess how much time and money you're willing to invest in their grooming needs. Your decision should align with your preferences and your commitment to providing the necessary care for your furry friend.

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General Health
Need more attention to health
Healthy as an ox

It's important to be aware that some dogs may face health challenges due to irresponsible breeding practices. One example of such health issues is hip dysplasia, which is a genetic problem.

However, it's essential to understand that not every dog of a specific breed will develop these health issues, although they may be more prone to them. When adopting a puppy, it's a good practice to gather information about any genetic illnesses associated with the breed.

For more detailed information, you may also want to consult with a shelter or rescue organization, as they can provide insights into the physical health of the puppy's parents or siblings.

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Easy To Train
Self-Willed
Eager to Please

It's worth noting that some dog breeds are more trainable than others.

For instance, certain breeds may quickly grasp and establish associations between words like 'stay,' corresponding actions (such as staying in place), and the resulting rewards. On the other hand, some breeds may require more time and attention during training.

Dogs are highly intelligent animals, but they often like to understand what's in it for them when they follow your commands. This is where games and rewards can be valuable tools in training and motivating them.

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Intelligence
Low
High

Different dog breeds excel in specific tasks and exhibit varying levels of intelligence, concentration, and quick decision-making abilities.

For instance, breeds bred for their intelligence, like Border Collies, may excel in activities such as herding livestock. These dogs require more mental stimulation to thrive compared to breeds designed for physical endurance and running.

Understanding your dog's specific needs is essential to ensure they are mentally engaged and don't engage in unwanted behaviors like chewing and digging. To meet these needs, consider interactive toys and activities, such as obedience training for dogs in need of mental engagement, or search and rescue activities for those with high activity levels and keen senses.

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Tendency To Bark Or Howl
Only To Alert
Avid singer

It's important to understand that vocalization varies between dog breeds. Some dogs are naturally more vocal, and they can bark and howl at different pitches.

For instance, consider the hound, known for its distinctive barking and howling. You'll need to decide if the sound of their vocalizations might become bothersome or if you find it somewhat musical. Additionally, if your chosen breed has a history of hunting, they might constantly chase and howl at nearby wildlife.

If you're looking for a watchdog and your dog is alert, it may bark at everyone it encounters. These factors are essential to consider when selecting a dog breed, especially if you have neighbors or are subject to any noise restrictions.

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Energy Level
Couch Potato
High Energy

A dog's energy level is often influenced by their breeding, as some breeds were designed for specific tasks like herding livestock or retrieving game for hunters.

Dogs with high energy levels will require plenty of interaction and exercise. They tend to be more active and enjoy activities such as playing, running, tumbling, and exploring new smells and sights. On the other hand, some breeds are low-energy and prefer lounging on the couch with you, taking naps, and enjoying Netflix marathons.

When choosing a dog breed, it's essential to consider your own activity level and lifestyle. Select a breed that aligns with your preferences and can comfortably fit into your daily routine.

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Exercise Needs
Low
Need a lot

Different dog breeds have varying requirements when it comes to physical activity.

Some breeds may be content with a leisurely stroll in the evening, while others might crave several vigorous laps around the block. Their exercise needs are often linked to their original purposes, such as hunting or herding, which influence their energy levels.

Dogs with high energy levels that don't receive adequate exercise may be prone to weight gain and may engage in behaviors like digging, chewing, and excessive barking. High-energy dogs tend to thrive when paired with individuals who are active, enjoy the outdoors, or have an interest in training their dog for competitions.

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Potential For Playfulness
Only When You Want To Play
Non-Stop

Dog breeds exhibit a wide range of personalities, and this includes their inclination for play.

Some breeds are consistently playful and seem to stay in a perpetual puppy state of mind. In contrast, other breeds tend to be more serious and enjoy their moments of relaxation.

When choosing a dog, it's important to consider whether the idea of having a playful companion excites you or if you prefer a more relaxed and laid-back dog. Additionally, factors such as the presence of children or other pets in your household should be taken into account.

Another option to explore is adopting an older dog, which might be less demanding but still enjoys interacting and playing, providing a balance between playfulness and a calmer demeanor.

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Historically

When this breed first attracted the attention of Europeans, Labradors were all black. Historically large shaggy black dogs appeared on the island of Newfoundland, this is the homeland of Labrador. The Labrador Peninsula is separated from Newfoundland by the Strait of Belle-Ile, but the name of the breed somehow was given after the Peninsula. Black fur color was originally inherent in the breed. This is the dominant color, so if the puppy is present with the gene of black color, it by no means will be yellow. Thick and shiny black Labrador is very beautiful. It's a little reminiscent of the mineral labradorite, sometimes even the bluish glare. Labrador dog of black color looks more impressive, as people unconsciously treat black dogs as more cautious and respectful.
Attention! Black Labradors are allowed the presence of a small white spot on chest. White spots in other places are unacceptable. The eyes should be hazel or light brown but the darker, the better.
Here we’ve tried to gather the most important information about black Labradors and have listed it as the facts. So we hope you’ll find out something new for yourself here and have fun.

Interesting Facts about Labrador Retrievers

  • Labrador retrievers are excellent swimmers. Their feet are webbed and their tail allows them to swim well. The tail of the Labrador is a kind of a wheel, thanks to which he can sail in the right direction.
  • Webbed feet of a Labrador Retriever also help him to walk freely through the snow and prevent the accumulation of snow between the toes. That spares Labradors many diseases and saves their health.
  • The fur of the Labrador Retriever is waterproof. Their hair coat is a distinctive feature of the breed. They have a so-called double coat. The soft undercoat is resistant to different atmospheric conditions, protecting dogs from extreme cold and getting wet from any kind of pollution. The outer layer of fur is quite rough and serves as an additional strengthening to the undercoat. The soft undercoat has proved to have a water-repellent effect.
  • Labrador retrievers like all other dogs shed. Although the process of shedding is not as intense as of German Shepherds or Alaskan Malamutes. They shed only twice a year.
  • Obedience, speed and efficiency. Labrador retrievers always won in American field trials retrievers due.
  • There are two recognized lines of Labrador. They are the more stocky English Labrador and the American Labrador.
  • Labradors are known for its voracious appetite. They will never refuse food that you offer them, except when they don't feel very good. One of the most common negative traits is the fact that the Labrador loves to beg food at the kitchen table.
Advise: labrador retrievers do not have the sense of "their territory", so they are not excellent guard dogs. They are very friendly, even to strangers. So, if you’re looking for a guard dog, you’d better choose the other breed.

Black Puppy in the House

We recommend: that the very first day you take the dog you should connect with it very carefully and gently, so it takes you. Be sure to allow your baby to lick your hands. Stroke it, giving warmth to the new family member.
Remember, nothing ever reflects so much on a pet, regardless of the age, as the bad attitude to it. After a couple of days the puppy will get used to the new house. Here the point can be to educate. The first thing you need to do is to win the puppy's trust. The more you communicate with it (walk, feed, care and play), the better it will understand what you are his friend.
Carefully! Try not to leave a new pet alone locked up. Try to have close and dear contact with it. When the dog grows up it will be very glad to meet you every time.

Video about Labrador Retriever breed

Questions and answers about Labrador Retriever

Is Labrador Retriever good with kids?

Yes, Labrador Retriever's typical characteristics indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes it a family pet. But anyway You mustn't leave the kid and dog alone!

What is the life expectancy of a Labrador Retriever?

The average life expectancy of a Labrador Retriever is between 10 - 12 years.

How many dogs are born in a Labrador Retriever litter?

If your Labrador Retriever is pregnant, it is safe to assume that litter can have anywhere from 5 to 10 puppies.

Labrador Retriever Prices: How much do they cost?

If you purchase Labrador Retriever from a breeder it can be much more expensive than a shelter. A purebred Labrador Retriever costs between US$ 800 and US$ 1500 from a reputable breeder, but there are several advantages to doing so. First, a breeder will usually allow you to meet the parents to get a good idea about what the puppy will look like and behave. You will also see if the parents have any health problems. Breeders will also supply you with paperwork that documents your pet’s lineage.

Is Labrador Retriever popular in USA?

Yes, Labrador Retriever has captured the hearts of Americans and become a beloved and highly sought-after breed. It's in top 3 the most popular purebred dog in USA. Labrador Retriever have got #1 rank in 2020, #1 in 2021 and #2 in 2022 by American Kennel Club (AKC).

Are Labrador Retriever hypoallergenic?

No, Labrador Retriever are not considered hypoallergenic dogs. If you are thinking about getting a Labrador Retriever and have allergies, it's important to spend time with the breed to see how you react before bringing one into your home. This can help you make an informed decision about whether a Labrador Retriever is the right pet for you, and if so, what steps you may need to take to manage any allergy symptoms.



References:
  1. https://www.akc.org
  2. FCI standard
  3. Kennel club standard
  4. Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labrador_Retriever

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