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Discover the history, characteristics, and care requirements of this beloved breed
The Labrador Retriever originated in Newfoundland, off the coast of Canada, and was taken to England on fishing boats in the early 19th century. Here they were developed and bred as a hunting dog, being used for retrieving game in rugged terrain and icy waters. They were popular as tough, strong dogs with excellent scenting powers and a strong desire to please. Even today, Labrador Retrievers are the most popular breed with shooters and they also work as assistance dogs in many different roles such as police dogs, customs dogs, and guide dogs for the blind.
12-15 years
Lifespan
55–63cm
Height
28-38kg
Weight
Labradors Retrievers are intelligent, active, fun-loving dogs, eager to please and extremely sociable. They want to be friends with everybody, and are not a "one person dog". The breed is wonderful with children and makes a good watchdog - adopting a big deep bark to notify of any intruders. As with all dogs, young children and pets should always be supervised when together.
Labradors are healthy dogs overall, and a responsible breeder screens breeding stock for conditions such as elbow and hip dysplasia, heart disorders, hereditary myopathy (muscle weakness), and eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). A condition called exercise-induced collapse (EIC) can occur in some young adult Labs, a DNA test allows breeders to identify carriers and plan breeding's to avoid producing the disease. Like other large, deep-chested dogs, Labs can develop a life-threatening stomach condition called bloat. Owners should educate themselves about the symptoms that indicate this is occurring, and what to should it occur.
Labradors need a large, draught-proof kennel, raised several centimeters off the ground. In summer they require plenty of shade. Like all dogs, Labradors are happiest if kept fit. Adults will benefit from a daily walk of a minimum of thirty minutes, while pups will need overall periods of play. As a Labrador will need some free running, a large backyard is desirable - especially if you live in an area where having a dog off-leash in public parks is not permitted. Labradors are sociable dogs that really need to be part of a family. If left alone in a backyard most of the time, they may get up to mischief or take to persistent barking. Labradors can easily be trained to be well behaved indoors; however, they do shed quite a lot of hair at certain times of the year. As Labradors can also be great diggers and chewers as puppies, it is a good idea to fence an area for the dog if you are attached to your garden. Labradors tend to put on weight, which can cause health problems, so their diet needs to be carefully restricted as they mature. Obesity can predispose them to diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis.
The Labrador Retriever should do well on high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian's supervision and approval. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog's age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog's calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog's weight or diet. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.
The Labrador retriever has a thick, water-repellent double coat that sheds. Give occasional baths to keep them clean. As with all breeds, the Labrador's nails should be trimmed regularly and teeth brushed frequently.