LABRADOR RETRIEVER

Temperament: Friendly, Active, Outgoing

AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 1 of 197

Height: 22.5-24.5 inches (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female)

Weight: 65-80 pounds (male), 55-70 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 10-12 years

Group: Sporting Group

ABOUT THE LABRADOR RETRIEVER

The warm and intelligent Labrador Retriever is America’s number one breed registered with the American Kennel Club. Even non-dog people can recognize a Lab, and artists and photographers have captured their image countless times–usually as the loyal companion, waiting patiently by their owner’s side.

Labrador Retrievers have proven their usefulness and versatility throughout the breed’s history, easily shifting from fisherman’s companion, to field retriever, to show dog, to modern working dog.

PERSONALITY

The Lab has the reputation of being one of the most sweet-natured breeds, and it’s well deserved. They’re outgoing, eager to please, and friendly with both people and other animals.

Aside from a winning personality, they have the intelligence and eagerness to please that make them easy to train. Training is definitely necessary because this breed has a lot of energy and exuberance. The working heritage of the Lab means they are active. This breed needs activity, both physical and mental, to keep them happy. There is some variation in the activity level of Labs: some are rowdy, others are more laid back. All thrive on activity.

NUTRITION

The Labrador Retriever should do well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity.

HEALTH

Labrador Retrievers are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they’re prone to certain health conditions. Not all Labs will get any or all of these diseases, but it’s important to be aware of them if you’re considering this breed.

Hip Dysplasia

Elbow Dysplasia

Osteochondrosis Dissecans

Cataracts

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Epilepsy

Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia

Myopathy

Gastric Dilataion-Volvulus

Acute Moist Dermatitis

Cold Tail

Ear Infections

CARE

The Labrador Retriever is an exuberant, very energetic breed that needs lots of exercise every day. A Lab who doesn’t get enough exercise is likely to engage in hyperactive and/or destructive behavior to release pent-up energy. The breed’s favorite activities are retrieving and swimming. Labs also love to burn up energy on hunting trips or at field trials, as well as by participating in canine sports such as agility, obedience, tracking, and dock diving. Many Labs also work hard in important roles such as search-and-rescue, drug and bomb detection, and as service and assistance dogs.

GROOMING

The Lab has a thick, water-repellant double coat that sheds. Give occasional baths to keep them clean. As with all breeds, the Lab’s nails should be trimmed regularly and his teeth brushed frequently.

Source: dogtime, akc.