Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever has its origins in Newfoundland, which is off the coast of Canada. Given that they originated on an island, Labrador Retrievers were used as all-purpose water dogs. From retrieving games to pulling small fishing boats, the Labrador had a variety of different jobs. Around 1830, during travels to Newfoundland, English sportsmen took a liking to the Labrador Retriever and brought some of the dogs back to England. While the breed began to die out in Newfoundland because of a high dog tax, breeding continued in England. During the early 1900s, the Lab made its way back to North America and was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1913. Since then, the Labrador Retriever has gained even more popularity and now ranks among the most popular dog breeds of all time.

Labradors are muscular and athletic with a short top coat and dense undercoat. They have a broad head, strong jaw, and soft, velvety ears. They are most known for their kind and expressive eyes that are typically brown or hazel in color. Their coat comes in three colors, black, brown, and cream.

Labrador Retrievers are easygoing, sweet-natured dogs with excellent personalities. They make wonderful companions for all types of people, as well as wonderful service dogs. Labs are very social and love people, which makes them eager to befriend just about anyone, including strangers and other dogs. Aside from their lovable personalities, Labs are also highly intelligent and easy to train, making them very suitable for first-time dog owners. However, Labradors have a lot of energy and need daily physical and mental stimulation. A bored Lab can become destructive and get into trouble. That said, they're not ideal for someone who's looking for a lap dog to lounge around with them all day. With the right amount of exercise, though, Labrador Retrievers make devoted, loving pets for all types of different homes.

Labrador Retrievers have a common hereditary condition known as exercise-induced collapse (EIC). Because this is a hereditary condition, responsible breeders thoroughly test their dams and studs for this condition before breeding. Other health issues a Lab might be faced with include hip dysplasia, obesity, elbow dysplasia, and bloat. Owners will also need to keep an eye on their Labs as these dogs are known for consuming inedible objects.

Labs shed quite a bit and will need to be brushed around once a week. During high-shedding seasons. owners should brush their Labrador Retrievers daily to prevent loose fur from getting everywhere in their homes. A weekly ear cleaning and inspection is good for keeping your Lab safe from ear infections. You can expect to bathe this breed once every 2 months.

Labrador Retrievers are very energetic and should get about an hour of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They love playing fetch and going on hikes, especially if there is a place for them to swim. Exercise should incorporate their family as often as possible. If they don't get enough exercise their behavior can be destructive.