Hi there! Did you know the 2021 top dog is the Labrador retriever? Given their outgoing personalities and dedication to their jobs, it’s hardly surprising. For anyone looking for a caring animal buddy, they make the ideal companions.
Curious by these fluffy animals? Labrador retrievers are medium to large dogs that can be trained for hunting, therapy, as assistance dogs, and even search and rescue. Plus, they excel in various canine sports.
They’re happiest while with their human relatives. So, stick with us till the end to discover more about why these dogs are truly special.
Labrador Retriever History
The Labrador retriever originated in Newfoundland. They were originally called St. John’s dogs, which was acquired after the capital city of Newfoundland. In the 17 hundreds, they were used as helpers of local fishermen in retrieving fish and towing in lines.
The Labrador retriever’s usefulness and pleasant temperament did not go unnoticed to outsiders, so English sportsmen brought a few labs to their country and used them as hunting retrievers. The first among them is the second Earl of Mainsbury, who shipped St.
John’s dogs in England around 1830. Meanwhile, the third Earl of Maimsbury was the first person to call these dogs Labradors. In the 1880s, labs were on the verge of extinction. The Maimsbury family and other English enthusiasts were credited with saving this breed in Newfoundland, where they originated.
These labs disappeared due to government restrictions and tax laws. Since families can only own one dog and female dogs were highly taxed, female pups were removed from litters in England, where the breeds survived.
They’re a Kennel Club breed. In 1903, the American Kennel club. AKC followed right after. In 1917. Around the 1920s and 1930s, british Labs were brought to the United States to establish the breed.
In 1991, Labs became the most popular dog registered with the AKC, and they hold the spot ever since. Today, this breed is also used in drug and explosive detection, therapy, search and rescue, and, of course, as loving family companions.
Appearance
labrador retrievers have a shiny, easy to care for coat that comes in two layers a short, thick and straight overcoat, and a soft weatherresistant undercoat. This protects their skin from the cold water, thus enabling them to be excellent retrievers.
You might also hear or see some people selling rare colored labs, which include Polar White or Fox Red. However, these colors are just a variation of a yellow lab. On average, male Labs stand around 22 to 25 inches with weight ranging from 65 to 80 pounds.
On the other hand, female labs stand around 21 to 24 inches with weight ranging from 55 to 70 pounds.
Personality
Labrador retrievers are terrific family pets if you can meet their demands. As hardworking dogs, labs will benefit in a home where they’re given a job to do. These dogs will love everyone in the household, including elders and children. As a matter of fact. They like to get involved in activities where there are children.
For example, In a children’s party, these dogs are willing to wear a party hat. Of course, while they are gentle and patient around kids, it’s still important to teach both parties how to properly interact with each other to avoid sudden aggression and accidents.
And although Labs are already friendly in nature, early socialization will help them to come more friendly with other people and animals. And because they have a strong retrieving instinct, expect that these dogs are mouthy.
If you raise them well, they’ll ruin your furniture if you don’t provide them a variety of chew toys. Labs will be one of the most sweet natured breeds you could ever have.
They’re also outgoing, making them good companions for socializing. We’re halfway through this content. What do you think about Labrador retrievers?
Let us know quickly in the comments section, because for now, we have a few more things to talk about these wonderful dogs.
Exercise
There are variations with Labs activity levels, but one thing is true they all need daily activity to keep them healthy physically and mentally.
For example, a 30 minutes walk, a walk at the dog park, a game of fetch or training sessions are some of the ways you can burn off their energy. Due to their developing bones and joints, puppies should not exercise too much.
Don’t let Lab puppies romp and play on very hard surfaces until they are at least two years old, where their joints are fully developed. To prevent your dog from suffering from joint discomfort, you can try Reggie’s Morning Hip and Joint Supplement.
Some product keeps your dog active, reduces soreness and inflammation after every exercise. And it also protects against cartilage breakdown that leads to long term joint stress, thus enabling your dog to enjoy a healthier and more active lifestyle.
If you want to know more about the morning hip and joint supplement by Reggie, let us know in the comment below. Going back labs, as mentioned earlier, are also hardworking dogs. This means they can exhaust themselves by working, so make sure to give them a task to at home.
While they do like to work, labs should not live alone at the yard or at the kennel. Instead, they need to live outdoors close to their family. They may bark, chew, dig, and scratch if left alone for too long.
Training
You might assume that Labrador retrievers are perfect angels who don’t need any training. Even the best dogs need guidance to be good kids. Training makes your Lab polite, obedient, and well-rounded. Don’t skip this vital step!
Don’t want a crazy dog that ignores your commands? Train your Labrador retriever! These furry friends are quick learners and will become obedient in no time. Who would not want a smart, well-behaved friend?
They win obedience competitions. Start teaching your dog with positive methods like food rewards, praise, and playtime by enrolling them in puppy school to expose them to new people and animals while learning good canine manners at home.
Hey there fellow dog lovers! A friendly reminder: punishing your pup for their less than stellar behavior isn’t the way to go. Instead, try redirecting their attention and rewarding positive actions. This will help them stay happy, confident, and ultimately more well-behaved. It’s best for any dog.
Grooming
grooming labrador retrievers shed all year round, but they shed more heavily during shedding season usually. Weekly grooming is enough to keep their hair sleek and tidy. However, during shedding season you will need to brush them more often. Indeed, with this breed in your home, investing in a high quality vacuum will be a necessity.
Bathing should only be done when necessary, such as when they rolled into something stinky and dirty. You can also take them to a lake, beach, or pool to play and swim as they adore water.
Don’t worry, their webbed feet and weatherresistant coat makes them excellent swimmers. Other grooming needs include brushing your dog’s teeth as often as you can to prevent bacteria buildup that can lead to gum and dental disease as well as bad breath.
You will also need to trim their nails once they get too long. Check their eyes, ears, and skin for redness, irritation, rashes, and infection while grooming.
Health
Labrador retrievers live 10–12 years if properly cared for. If you’re contemplating this breed, they’re still susceptible to some health issues like any dogs.
Some of these include hip and elbow dysplasia, osteochondrosis, desiccans cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, tricuspid valve dysplasia, myopathy, cold tail, ear infections, acute moist dermatitis and bloat, which is a life threatening condition if not addressed early.
Thus, see the vet twice a year to extend your dog’s life. Finally, a Labrador retriever will greet and entertain you. However, a dog will only become loving and kind if treated the same. Thus, take responsibility for your dog’s requirements.
Conclusion
Labrador Retrievers are amazing dogs with a fascinating history and a bunch of impressive traits. They’re super versatile and can thrive in various fields – from hunting and therapy to rescue and assistance work. These friendly and outgoing pups are awesome family pets, especially for those with kids. But to make sure they’re comfortable around both humans and animals you need to start early and socialize them.
Because they’re super energized, Labradors need regular exercise to keep them at their best both physically and mentally. Additionally, when it comes to building their good behavior and manners, training is key. Positive reinforcement is an effective approach since Labs are smart and quick learners. Thankfully, grooming isn’t a big stress point with Labradors, though teeth and fur require attention.
FAQs
1. Are Labrador Retrievers good with children?
Ans: Labrador Retrievers and kids go together like peanut butter and jelly! Labs are super patient and gentle with children, and they often become best buds. Naturally, you must supervise to ensure everyone plays safely. But overall, a Lab is a fantastic choice for families with little ones!
2. Do Labrador Retrievers get along with other pets?
Ans: Labrador Retrievers are such social butterflies that they get along swimmingly with other pets, like cats and dogs. But early socialization and correct introductions ensure a warm welcome from existing pets.
3. How much exercise do Labrador Retrievers need?
Ans: Ready for some playful furry fun? Get yourself a Labrador Retriever! Give these active dogs an hour of playtime daily. Whether it’s a walk, a game of fetch, or some dog sport action like agility or obedience training, your Lab will be grateful for the exercise. Get ready to run, jump and wag your way into a healthy and happy lifestyle with your new best friend!
4. Do Labrador Retrievers shed a lot?
Ans: Hey there, Labrador Retrievers have a cool double coat that sheds a bit all year round. Give them a brush regularly to keep their fur healthy and minimize the shedding. Just a heads-up, they might shed a bit more when they switch out their seasonal coats, so be ready for that!
5. Are Labrador Retrievers easy to train?
Ans: Labrador Retrievers are super smart and love to make their owners happy! They’re awesome at learning new things like commands and fancy tricks. If you want your furry friend to be top-notch in obedience, make sure you keep training consistent and positive. Early training is key to their success in being the best pet ever!