Group

Gun Dogs

Origin

The Labrador originated from Newfoundland, Canada, in the 17th century. It used to be known as the St John's Dog. The Labrador Retriever is now one of the most popular breeds in the United States. The Labrador was trained to bring in the fishing-nets through the icy waters for the fishermen.

In the early 19th century, the Labrador was brought to Poole Harbour in Great Britain by English ships coming from Labrador. The dog's fine retrieving instincts were then honed and developed. The breed was instantly successful as a gundog. The Earl of Malmesbury was fascinated by these dogs and he started breeding them.

A dog tax in Canada and quarantine laws in Great Britain caused a great reduction in the breed, limiting further breeding to be done without any more imports. Thankfully the ones already in Britain were of excellent quality and in the hands of serious breeders. One of the best family dogs and canine companions because of their gentle, loving disposition, the highly trainable Labrador also excels in drug detection, as a guide for the blind, and service dog for the disabled. The breed is also an outstanding obedience and field trial competitor.

Description

Labradors are strongly built dogs with good bone and substance. They have a broad head, thick nose and soft, intelligent eyes, hazel or chestnut coloured. Labradors are slightly longer than tall, with a short, hard, easy-care, water-resistant double coat that does not have any waves and comes in solid black, yellow, or chocolate. There is also said to be a rare silver or grey colour.

The labrador's muzzle is fairly wide and its neck is powerful. Their tails are 'otter' like and are very strong thick near the body then tapering, and completely covered with hair. The medium-sized ears are pendant. The webbed feet aid in swimming.

Their height is in average (Dogs) 22-24 inches (56-61cm.) and bitches 21-23 inches (53-58cm.), their weight, (Dogs) 60-75 pounds (27-34kg.) and bitches 55-70 pounds (25-32kg.).

Temperament

Labradors are very loving, affectionate, loveable, and patient dogs. They are very intelligent, loyal, willing, and high-spirited. Lively and good-natured they love to play, especially in water They love to swim. They are good with children and/or other dogs.

Labradors love attention and want to be a part of the family. They can become destructive if left too much to their own devices. Train Labradors early not to pull on the leash, as they have very strong necks. They are relatively easy to train if trained in early age.

Living condition

The Labrador Retriever will be fine in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are moderately active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. They will adapt to town living but rural settings are where they truly excel.

Exercise

The Labrador will adapt to the amount of time you can allocate for their exercise but do remember they should be given quite a reasonable amount. They love to walk and run and they do love to play. They adore retrieving and water. At least a minimum of an hour exercise a day is recommended. Labs are big eaters and need regular exercise and moderate rations to avoid a tendency to become overweight.

Health problem

Prone to hip and elbow dysphasia, eye disorders, progressive retinal atrophy and epilepsy and ear Infections.

Life expectancy

Labradors live in average up to 12 years.

Grooming

The smooth, shorthaired, double coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush regularly with a firm, bristle brush, paying attention to the undercoat. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. These dogs are average shedders.