Labrador Retrievers
If you want a family dog, exercise partner and loyal companion, a lab retriever could be the best dog for you. Labrador retrievers are among the best-loved dogs in America for their active, sweet temperament and playful personalities.
Key characteristics
Bred to endure icy temperatures, Labradors are tireless swimmers and can withstand freezing water than other breeds, which make them ideal for retrieving downed waterfowl when hunting. They have short and dense coats that can be yellow, chocolate and black.
Labradors play an extensive role including water rescue, drug detection, search and rescue, tracking and hunting. Due to their pleasant personalities, labs not only make great service dogs but are also wonderful animal assisted rehabilitation dogs.
Where do they come from?
Labradors originated in Newfoundland. After the Europeans settled in Newfoundland in the 16th century, they first developed the lesser Newfoundland or St. John’s Dog. The dogs were primarily used to retrieve fishermen’s nets. As more settlers arrived, St. John’s water dog was bred with Mastiffs from Portugal and become the first retriever.
Are they friendly?
Gentle, playful, loving, kind and hardworking, labs have the best personalities as compared to other dog breeds. They are soft-mouthed and can use their mouths to carry a raw egg without breaking it. These positive traits make labs ideal family dogs as they provide loyal friendship to children and adults.
Is this breed the perfect fit for you?
Lab retrievers need plenty of exercise to ensure they remain in good physical condition. Thirty minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise, either swimming, fetching, running or play will work wonders. You can spend at least 10 minutes a day playing with your lab as this offers enough mental stimulation. Although generally quiet, labs often turn to excessive barking when they stay inactive for a long time.
Grooming essentials
Labradors require ear cleaning and an occasional nail trim. Additionally, you need to brush their coat at least twice a week.
Health issues
Lab retrievers are overbred due to their popularity and this has led them to being predisposed to genetic health complications. Common health problems that affect labs are luxating patellas, osteoarthritis, osteoarthritis and elbow dysplasia.
Can you adopt one?
You will find different types of cats at the shelter, from seniors to kittens, long-haired to short-haired, all colors and sizes. However, if you want an exotic breed, you can research online for cat-specific shelters to find a new friend.
Conclusion
You need to visit the vet if you are considering breeding your lab. A vet can also advice you on the best diet for your Lab Retriever.
