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About the Labrador retriever breed
The Labrador retriever breed is the most popular breed in the world, and with good reason. These dogs are versatile, friendly, gentle, energetic, good with people of all ages, and low maintenance. The Labrador is the quintessential family dog.
History of the Labrador Retriever breed
Many don’t know this about Labrador retrievers, but they were originally bred in the UK from dogs imported from Newfoundland. Their name hints back to one of the Newfoundland regions: Labrador. Interestingly, though the English-style is accepted as the show standard, the Labrador has its roots on the Western side of the Atlantic. The St. John’s water dog was the parent breed behind the Labrador retriever breed as we know it today.
About the Labrador retriever breed personality
As can be expected from the world’s most beloved breed, the Labrador has a personality that adores people. Adults and children alike rave about the charming character of the family lab. The Labrador is a good “first dog” for those who are new to dog ownership or who have children who need to adjust to having a family pet.
Labrador retrievers are sweet-tempered, eager to please, happy to play, and easy to train. They love their humans fiercely – accept that there is nothing “fierce” about them. Stories abound of Labradors who went out of their way to be near or to do something heroic for the humans they loved, particularly the little humans.
The all-purpose family pet
Need a house dog? Get a Labrador. Need a dog safe with children? Get a Labrador. Need a dog gentle with the elderly? Get a Labrador. Need a dog to accompany on the boat or while hiking? Get a Labrador. Need a companion around town? Get a Labrador. Need a dog friendly with other dogs? Get a Labrador. They really can suit just about anyone with their winning ways. Even those who are dog-shy find something to love about Labrador retrievers!
About the Labrador retriever breed – physical traits
Purebred Labrador retrievers come in three distinct colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. While each has its own set of admirers, none of them are superior to the others when it comes to how the color affects the dog. There is no losing color when you stick with the classics!
In general, the Labrador retriever weighs 65-80 pounds for a male, and 55-70 for a female. They are endowed with a short double-coat that makes them so perfect for loving on. Perhaps this is their one down-side, as they do tend to shed quite a bit. But not to be dissuaded, most lab owners find ways to manage the hair without it being too much of an inconvenience.
The English (show) style Labrador is known for it block head and a straight, otter-like tail. These two characteristics coupled with a dense bone structure and plenty of muscle and skin make for a beautiful and impressive dog, indeed!
Owning a Labrador retriever: what you need to know
First of all, determine if you are ready to own a dog. This is an excellent article with helpful tips.
Labradors can be a sort of addiction. Once you’ve owned one, you are highly likely to own another. Many never even give other breeds a second glance after experiencing all there is to love about Labrador retrievers.
They are fairly high-energy, which makes them a perfect outdoor playmate for a family of children. A fenced-in yard or underground electric fence is a bonus, since they are extremely social and may take a fancy to visiting the neighbors.
Labradors make excellent house dogs, and they know it. Be prepared to welcome your Labrador indoors at least part of the time, so they know they are a valued part of your family and life.
Labrador puppies
After reading about the Labrador retriever breed, are you ready to bring a lab puppy home?
