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Labrador dogs, commonly known as “Labs,” are a breed of retriever that originated in Newfoundland, Canada. They were historically bred to assist fishermen in retrieving fish that had fallen off their hooks or broken nets.
Labs are one of the best dog breeds known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, making them one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. This article will explore these lovable dogs’ history, characteristics, and care.
The Labrador dog price in India ranges from ₹12,000 to ₹50,000.
I got good quality labrador dogs at Galiff Street Pet Market, Shyambazar, Kolkata.
Here are some information and frequently asked questions (FAQs) you may want to know about labradors.
History of Labrador Dogs
The Labrador breed was developed in the 1800s by British nobles who wanted a dog breed skilled at retrieving games. They bred the Labrador with other retrievers, such as the Flat-Coated Retriever and the St. John’s Water Dog, a breed that is now extinct. The result was a versatile and loyal dog that excelled at retrieving games on land and in the water.
Labrador Characteristics
Labradors are a medium to large breed, typically weighing between 55 and 80 pounds. They have short, dense, black, yellow, or chocolate coats. Labradors are known for their webbed feet, which makes them excellent swimmers. They are also brilliant and trainable, which makes them popular as service dogs, guide dogs, and search and rescue dogs.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Breed Name | Labrador Retriever |
| Origin | Newfoundland, Canada |
| Size | Medium to large |
| Weight | Males: 65-80 pounds (29-36 kg) Females: 55-70 pounds (25-32 kg) |
| Height | Males: 22.5-24.5 inches (57-62 cm) Females: 21.5-23.5 inches (54-60 cm) |
| Coat | Short, dense, water-resistant double coat |
| Color | Black, yellow, and chocolate are standard colors |
| Life Expectancy | 10-14 years |
| Temperament | Friendly, outgoing, gentle, intelligent, trainable |
| Energy Level | High energy, requires regular exercise |
| Trainability | Highly trainable, eager to please, good with commands |
| Good with Kids | Excellent; known for being great family dogs |
| Shedding | Moderate shedding, especially during seasonal changes |
| Health Concerns | Common issues include hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and obesity |
| Grooming | Regular brushing, especially during shedding seasons |
| Purpose | Originally bred for retrieving game, now popular as a family pet, service dog, and therapy dog |
Caring for Labrador Dogs
Labradors are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they require regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and regular visits to the veterinarian. They are a high-energy breed requiring at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. Labs are also prone to obesity, so it’s essential to monitor their diet and avoid overfeeding them.
Are Different coloured labradors different?
People often speculate that black Labradors are the best hunters and yellow Labs are the laziest of the breed, but experts do not support these claims. Like humans, each dog is different and is often bred and developed according to the demands of skills in the field, while others are more concerned with the breed standard. However, none of these differences directly depend on the dog’s colour.
Labrador retriever temperament
Labradors are very friendly. They make great company, bond with the whole family, and socialize easily with neighbourhood dogs and humans.
Primary health issues of labradors
Some general health conditions in labradors are patellar luxation, canine hip dysplasia (CHD), osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), and canine elbow and shoulder dysplasia. (Source-Petmd)
How do you discipline a Labrador retriever?
Labradors are no different than kids; they have the same reward and punishment strategy. Reward them with gifts or toys, and when necessary, withdraw them.
Check out some cool gifts and toys for your dog here.
FAQs
Which Colour Labrador is the most intelligent?
People often associate a labrador’s IQ with their colour by claiming that black labradors are the smartest. But maybe the reason is black labs are simply more in number. It is also rumoured that chocolate labs are less intelligent because they are bred incorrectly by the breeders for more money.
Which colour Labrador is the calmest?
Yellow Labs are probably the sweetest and kindest, black Labradors are the calmest and most patient, and chocolate Labs are the most boisterous and wild.
What Color Labrador is the rarest?
Chocolate-coloured labs are the rarest and costliest. Black labradors are the cheapest and most available.
Are boy or girl labs better?
Some believe the male dog is more affectionate and easier to train, while the female dog is more aggressive and protective of its owners and puppies. Female dogs have one more problem-they are often uncontrollable during hormonal heat.
What Color Labradors sheds the least?
Many dog lovers believe that yellow Labradors shed the most. That leaves black and chocolate labs as the least shedders.
That may be why more people would look for black and chocolate-coloured Labs. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case. Shedding can differ from dog to dog, regardless of their colour. Yellow labradors don’t necessarily shed more than black labs, but light-coloured fur contrasts more than black hair on non-white surfaces.
Are black Labradors aggressive?
There is no proof that the dog’s aggressiveness is associated with its skin colour. Perhaps, more people may have been bitten by a black labrador simply because they are the highest in numbers.
How long can Labradors be left alone?
A labrador should not be left alone for more than 7-8 hours. It should not be a routine to leave them alone. If you don’t have other family members to look after your dog while you have a daily 7-8 hours job, perhaps you should not adopt one.
Do Labradors bark a lot?
No, labs generally don’t tend to bark constantly. They are very calm and composed when they are grown up.
At what age do labs calm down?
Just like human kids, labrador pups are also hyperactive when young. Knocking children over, barging into old ladies, and jumping up at visitors are common crimes. Usually, it takes two years for them to calm down and behave maturely.
How often should a labrador be walked?
An ordinarily healthy adult Labrador Retriever will need 1 hour of exercise daily. The more relaxed Labs, just 45 minutes daily, the more energetic 1.5 hours+.
Will a Labrador protect its owner?
Any dog will instinctively try to protect its owner; labradors, too, will. But don’t expect them to be like guard dogs.
Which colour of labradors is the most/least common?
Black labradors are the most common, while chocolate ones are rare.
Are Labradors good with children?
Labradors are known for their friendly and patient nature, making them excellent family pets.
Do Labradors shed a lot?
Yes, Labradors have a double coat that sheds heavily twice a year, so regular brushing is recommended.
How long do Labradors live?
On average, Labradors live between 10 and 12 years.
Are Labradors easy to train?
Yes, Labradors are highly trainable and excel at obedience and other dog training forms.
Conclusion
Labrador dogs are an incredibly lovable and popular breed known for their friendly nature and trainability. They make excellent family pets, service dogs, and search and rescue dogs. If you’re considering adding a Labrador to your family, research and understand their unique exercise, nutrition, and veterinary care needs. A Labrador can bring years of joy and companionship to your life with proper care.
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