Labrador Retriever
These dogs where once known as 'St. John's Dogs'. The Labrador Retriever is one the of most popular breeds. They originated from Newfoundland, Canada, and where trained to haul fisherman's nets to shore. In the 1800's somewhere brought over to England, where the dog's skills as a retriever where developed. It was in England that it was given its name. Their otter-like tails and webbed toes mean that they are very good swimmers, their coat will even repel water to a certain degree, allowing their usage in the hunting of waterfowl. Labradors mature at around 3 years old, before this they have boundless energy. The Labrador Retriever comes in various different colors usually gold, black or brown.
Naming
This breed is often named after its color so it may be also referred to as; Golden Labrador Retriever, Silver Labrador Retriever, Chocolate Labrador Retriever, Yellow Labrador Retriever, White Labrador Retriever and Black Labrador Retriever. The name of this dog is often misspelled as Retriver, Retreiver or even Retrever. Also
Temperament
They have a loving, gentle disposition, and are very trainable and obedient, also excelling in detecting drugs, or as a guide for the blind or a service dog for disabled people. They are not very prone to being territorial, insecurity, pining, aggression, destructiveness, or hypersensitivity. They will instinctively enjoy holding objects in their mouths. They are prone to chewing objects if not trained appropriately. They love to play in water. Although some may be reserved in front of strangers unless well trained. These dogs are more like watchdogs than guard dogs. It is important to train them early to not pull on leashes as they have very strong necks. Labradors are a little bit more independent and dominant than Golden Retrievers.
Grooming and care
The coat is normally close, short and thick. The Labrador Retriever requires weekly care and grooming. A monthly bath is also recommended. It is important to make sure nails do not get too long and trim them, also be sure to make sure the ears do not have any dirt in them and for possible signs of any infection. This breed sheds hair twice a year, or throughout the year in a temperate climate. Labradors have a great appetite, eating digestible and non-digestible food, so care should be taken to control diet to avoid obesity. They will do fine in an apartment if they get enough exercise. However they are active indoors so will do best with some outdoors space to roam around in. They need to be taken on daily brisk walks or runs to be kept happy. They are big eaters so their food needs to be controlled to that they do not gain weight
Health
Labradors are generally a relatively healthy breed with relatively few major problems. However potential health problems specific to the Labrador Retriever:
- Epilepsy
- Eye problems- specifically progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, retinal dysplasia and corneal dystrophy.
- Hereditary Myopathy
- Knee problems
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia ( poor hip joint development ) - hip scoring is recommended before breeding
- Skin allergies
Stats
Labradors are larger dogs with males weighing 30-36 kg(65-80 lb) and females 25-32 kg (55-70 lb).
Life expectancy of this breed is 12-13 years