Breed Profile – Labrador Retriever

BREED FOCUS – Labrador Retriever

History

Labradors originated from the coast of Newfoundland in the 17 th
Century. They were trained by fishermen, to collect the nets
from the icy waters and for this reason, were bought to Poole
Harbour in the UK in the 19 th Century.

With such an attractive dog, the fishermen were often offered
money for them and they very soon were found to be extremely
effective as gun dogs.

The Earl of Malmesbury was a huge fan and began breeding these
dogs, and named them ” Labradors”

Appearance

Labradors are extremely attractive dogs, with kind faces and
gentle eyes. They are strongly built and broad through their
chest and rib cage.

According to the Kennel Club, Labradors should stand at
approximately 55-56 cm tall for females and 56-57 cm tall for
males.

Labradors have a short, dense coat which has a waterproof
undercoat. They come in 3 solid colours; yellow, black and
chocolate. Yellow Labradors can range in colour from a light
cream to red fox.

Temperament

Labradors make one of the best family pets, being friendly, kind
patient and very forgiving. They will bond with children and
adults alike and just love to be a part of the family. They are
not a good guard dog, and will welcome strangers like old family
friends. They like other dogs and are good with other animals
too.

Grooming

With their short coats, they will only require a minimal amount
of time spent on grooming.

Exercise

Labradors love to be outside; they appreciate long walks where
they can run off lead. But do beware; because of their love for
water, it is likely that they will become oblivious to your
shouts of “NO”, as they head for the nearest muddy water hole,
to wallow like a hippo! Care should be taken around large
expanses of water, as they will swim and swim!

Health Problems

When you purchase a Labrador puppy, you must check that the
breeder screens for hereditary problems, especially Hip and
Elbow dysplasia. You should also be aware that progressive
retinal atrophy and epilepsy are also hereditary problems.

Henry’s story

Henry is a 7 year old typical Labrador who lives with Kim and
Leon, and their 4 year old son, Max. Henry is extremely patient
with Max, who has been known to use Henry as a step up to the
settee and often follows Henry around, grabbing him and stroking
him and generally giving him no time to himself!! Henry
sometimes sneaks into Max’s bedroom at night and falls asleep in
there – maybe he wants to keep an eye on his buddy.

Henry loves his walks with a passion, but will head straight for
any patch of water or muddy hole, and will lie down in it so
that his perfect, pale yellow coat turns muddy brown – whatever
the weather!!