Labrador Retriever

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Origin:
Labradors normally are thought to have originated in Newfoundland, very likely from ancestors in the Saint John variety of the Newfoundland breed. According to most accounts, they were introduced into England in the 1830s, and are known to have come to America early in the twentieth century. Their progenitors probably included Flat-coated Retrievers, Curly-coated Retrievers, and the smaller of the two varieties of Newfoundland. However, there is evidence that fishermen of Devon, England actually bred them and later transported them to Newfoundland, and re-introduced these fine water dogs to Great Britain.

Aptitude:
Labradors were originally used to help Newfoundland fishermen haul in their loaded nets. More recently this intelligent breed has found numerous other uses.The Lab is a fine companion animal, and properly trained can be a valuable all-around gun dog. A strong swimmer and natural retriever of aquatic and upland game birds, it requires very little special training. Labradors are often candidates for guide dog training. Their fantastic innate scenting ability makes them quite useful as search-and-rescue, contraband, explosive, and drug-sniffing dogs.

Size:
Males weigh 60 to 75 pounds (27 to 34 kg) and stand 22.5 to 24.5 inches (56 to 61 cm) tall. Females weigh 55 to 79 pounds (25 to 35 kg) and stand 21.5 to 23.5 inches (47 to 51 cm) tall.

Coat:
A Labs coat is short and quite thick. It has a weather-resistant, tight undercoat.

Colors:
The Labrador is seen in three colors...black...chocolate...yellow. Yellow Labs vary from fox-red to light cream-colored. Chocolate colors range from light sedge to dark chocolate. Eye colors vary from black, brown, or hazel to yellow.

Coat Care and Exercise:
The short coat of a Lab is easily cared for. Daily or at least weekly brushing is best, with more intense combing and brushing during seasonal shedding. Being an active sporting dog, the Lab's exercise requirements should not be overlooked. These are large, active dogs that thrive on regular, vigorous exercise. If they don't receive routine exercise, Labradors will invariably become obese.

Attitude:
The average Labrador is a tough, gentle, and loyal companion dog that is patient and good-natured with children. Labs are not known for their guard dog propensities, but they often become quite protective toward their owners' families and property. The Labrador is normally considered very intelligent and trainable, and gets along well with other pets. It is obedient, trustworthy, affectionate, and sociable. Although, mentally and physically it matures later in life than some breeds, it has great strength and is a hard-working field dog.

Training:
As in all large dog breeds, the Labrador should receive the usual house-training and obedience training early in life.

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