Breed Profile

DESCRIPTION

Labrador Retriever dogs are one of the most popular breeds in the United States. They are solid, muscular dogs, slightly longer than tall, with short, hard, easy-care, water-resistant double coats that do not have any waves and come in solid black, yellow, or chocolate. There is also said to be a rare silver or gray color that is referred to by the AKC as a shade of chocolate. They are wide over the loins and strong and muscular hindquarters. Labrador Retriever dogs are strongly built, active dogs; they are easy to train and are good with children and other dogs. Labrador Retriever dogs are good-natured, mild mannered, loyal and hardworking. They make good gundogs. Labrador Retriever dogs have much that appeals to people; their gentle ways, intelligence and adaptability make them ideal dogs.

TEMPERAMENT

Labrador Retriever dogs are loving, affectionate, lovable, and patient. They are high-spirited, lively, loyal, and willing. Labrador Retriever dogs are friendly, good-natured, and love to play; they are superb with children. These dogs love to swim. They should never be aggressive. They are highly intelligent, and easily trained. Labrador Retriever dogs need to feel as though they are part of the family; they crave human attention. They have an excellent, reliable, temperament. They may be reserved with strangers unless very well socialized as puppies. They make good watchdogs. It is important to train the dog early not to pull on the leash, as it has very strong neck. Labrador Retriever dogs are energetic dogs, delighted to work and play hard. This breed is a big eater and needs regular exercise and moderate rations to avoid a tendency to become overweight. Labrador Retriever dogs are a bit more dominant and independent than Golden Retrievers. Some of their talents include: hunting, tracking, retrieving, watchdogging, police work, narcotics detection, guide for the blind, service dogs for the disabled, search and rescue, sledding, carting, agility, and competitive obedience.

GROOMING

Smooth, close, short, dense double coat without waves or feathering. Labrador Retriever dogs are easy to groom. Comb and brush regularly with a firm, bristle brush, paying attention to the undercoat. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. This breed is an average shedder. Labrador Retriever dogs need plenty of exercise and should not be kept in a locked space. Minimum light brushing of the Labrador Retriever's coat every once in a while will keep it in great shape.

HEALTH

Usually hardy. Potential problems with hip dysplasia, epilepsy, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), arthritis and skin allergies.

EXERCISE

Labrador Retriever dogs need daily contact. They also love vigorous exercise including swimming. Labrador Retriever puppies are easy to raise and train and should be introduced to people at an early age. Beware of overfeeding your Labrador Retriever as it is easy for them to become lazy and obese.

TRAINING

Labrador Retriever dogs are happiest out in the countryside, but will adapt to an urban environment with a fenced yard when sufficient exercise is given. Labrador Retriever dogs are active and enjoy human interaction. The owner of a Labrador Retriever needs to be able to spend time to exercise, train and play with them. They can become obese if not exercised regularly. The best owner for this breed would be an active family living in a rural or suburban environment.