Labrador Retriever Dog Breed Description, History, Grooming, Health Issues and Living Conditions

Description: Here we see two types of Labrador. The American Labrador and the English Labrador, both with different stock blood. With the English Labrador are heavier, thicker and sturdier than we see in the American Labrador, which is taller and thinner. On both there is a double coat, this is smooth, and does not have any waves. This is water resistant coat. Their colours come in solid black, yellow or chocolate. This breed has a broad head. Their teeth meet in a scissor or level bite, we see a wide muzzle. With medium-size eyes that are dark brown, or yellow and Black, or yellow dogs, with hazel or brown in the chocolate colour dogs. Their ears are pendent and hang down. This breed has an otter tail that hangs well and is thick at the base thinning to the end. This breed has webbed feet, that aid in swimming, which is something the Labrador Retriever loves to do. They seem to be able to sniff out the smallest drop of water and get into it. Their height is 22 to 24 inches in the dog and 21 to 23 inches in the bitches. Weight is 60 to 75 pounds for the dog and 55 to 70 for the bitch. They have a slightly longer body in comparison to the tail. Their life expectancy is 10 to 12 years.

History: The Labrador Retriever is one of the top breeds, seen in America today. This dog worked with the fishermen from Newfoundland. Their role was to catch fish that had jumped the nets, when pulling them in. This breed was then sent to England, in 1800 on ships that had come from Labrador. This breed was then crossed with Setters, Spaniels and other retrieving dogs to get the best from all the breeds. As a result we see the Labrador Retriever today. It was called the St. Johns Dogs in its history. Today, we see this dog working at search and rescue, narcotics and other police work. They also excel at, agility, field trials, hunting, tracking, and make a great companion.

Temperament: The Labrador Retriever is a loyal loving and affectionate dog. This is one of the most popular breeds in America. Making a great family pet that is really good with children. This dog is very intelligent and will not play, especially in water. With good reliable temperaments, they crave human contact and good leadership. This breed does well as part of the family and is easily trained. Socialising well as a puppy will help build a well rounded character. Training is important, as they become stronger in adult life. This breed can become destructive, if not given enough exercise, and good leadership from the owner. This dog requires mental and physical exercise daily. Problems can occur, if not enough exercises given with the dog becoming highly strung. The English line of the Labrador retriever is a calmer and more laid-back breed than its American counterpart.

Health issues: The Labrador Retriever breed is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, eye disorders and PRA.

Grooming: Due to the short smooth coat, grooming a Labrador Retriever is easy and it just needs brushing weekly. Bathing only when really needed is best for this breed. This is an average shedder.

Living conditions: The Labrador Retriever can live in an apartment if they have been given good daily walks and mental exercise. This breed would do well in an average size garden.