"A LABRADOR RETRIEVER IS A GOOD-NATURED DOG"



The Labrador Retriever is a very popular dog and most widely owned dog in the world. They were the top dog registered in the AKC last year with 149505 registrations.

They maybe one of the most even-tempered dog breeds there is. They are dependable, intelligent and exceptionally friendly. These dogs are an obedient companion.


The Labrador Retriever originated in Newfoundland where they were trained to haul fisherman's nets to shore. They are a crossbred of the native water dog and Newfoundland dog. They were taken to Britain in the early 19th century by fisherman. They were accepted in the American Kennel Club in 1917.

There are two types - English Labrador and the American Labrador. Their general appearance are different. The English Lab is heavier, thicker, calmer, laid back and quicker than the American Lab. The American Lab is taller and lanky.

These dogs are strongly built, with a clean cut head, and are relatively large. They have a broad skull, thick nose, wedded feet, friendly and kind eyes with a scissors bite. Their trademark tail is called the "otter tail". It is relatively short in length with a thick covering.

These dogs have a double coat with the undercoat soft and downy and keeps them warm and dry in cold weather. The outer coat is weather resistent which help them repel water. It comes in solid black, yellow or chocolate.

Lab Retriever Picture


Male

  • Height: 22 - 24 inches
  • Weight: 65-90 pounds

Female

  • Height: 21 - 23 inches
  • Weight: 55 - 70 pounds
The Labrador Retriever is a great family dog. They are gentle with children aren't an aggressive dog but will bark to alert you to strangers. They don't have a vindictive bone in their bodies. They make great hunting dogs but their disposition makes them loved by the entire family.

They are known as one of the fastest learning breeds. They are so easily trained and respond well to praise. Because of these qualities they are used as guide dogs, drug and explosive detection dogs.

Since they are fun loving, boisterousness and have lack of fear they can get into mischief which may require training and firm handling at times. "Zone Training Your Labrador Retriever" Here is a ebook that will help you use techniques specific for Labrador Retrievers.

These energetic dogs need lots of exercise and love to play especially in water - they love to swim. They love to retrieve things like balls and sticks. They are very accommodating and will do what the owner does - walking, jogging, swimming, hunting, chase Frisbees and even curl up with you.

CHARACTERTICS AND TEMPERAMENT

  • Loving

  • Affectionate

  • Lively

  • Alert

  • Excellent temperament

  • Good natured

  • Intelligent


GROOMING

They are easy to groom - just comb and brush regularly. They are considered an average shedder.

HEALTH

Generally, Labs are healthy dogs but are prone to certain diseases. They are:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Epilesy

They are also beg eaters which you need to monitor. An overfed dog that becomes overweight may develop diabetes later in life.

The Retriever Journal MagazineA magazine all about Labrador's. Check it out!



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