Basic Information To Know About The Labrador Retriever

The Labrador has origins dating back to the 1800s, and they were first bred for the main purpose of working with fishermen to pull nets and retrieve fish. A few of their most recognizable features include their gentleness and eagerness to please as well as their patience with kids - which help make the Labrador Retriever a suitable choice for a family pet and as a guide dog, search and rescue dog or police dog.

The Labrador Retriever was originally created in the island of Newfoundland and was used by English, Irish and Portugese fishermen for the purpose of pulling in nets to retrieve fish. They are believed to be a result of crossing the St. John's Water Dog and a mix of other English, Irish and Portugese working breeds.

Labrador Retrievers are classed as a large-sized dog. The recommended standard size for the Labrador Retriever male is 22.5-24.5 inches high from paw to shoulder and a weight of 65-80 pounds, whereas the recommended size for female Labrador Retrievers is 21.5-23.5 inches high from paw to shoulder with a weight of 55-70 pounds.

The Labrador Retriever is well-known for their gentle and outgoing temperament. They are generally trusting and easygoing with strangers when properly socialized, which can make them somewhat unsuitable as a guard dog. The Labrador Retriever is also known to be highly intelligent - ranking 7th compared to other dogs based on their ability to learn obedience commands.

Grooming the Labrador Retriever is a relatively simple task. They require a small amount of brushing every week and complete grooming every 8 to 12 weeks. The Labrador Retriever is happiest with a medium to large yard (and perhaps even a pool) to run around in, though they can be suitable for apartment living if they are exercised enough.

The Labrador Retriever can make the perfect dog for an active family or owner. Though they might be somewhat unsuitable for a guard dog or with less active owners and retirees, if you are able to meet their high exercise demands then the Labrador Retriever could make the ideal dog breed for you.

For more information on Labrador Retriever information visit HeartMyDog.com.