Facts About Labrador Retrievers
The Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog breed
in the United States so there are lots of good things
to say about them. They will do ok in an apartment as
long as they can be walked frequently. They do like
lots of exercise. If it is possible for them to experience
water occasionally, so much the better as they have
a water resistant coat and love to swim. A properly
fenced in yard is best for them. They love people and
do well with other dogs and pets, especially if socialized
early. They can be good watch dogs. They need to be
part of a human family so please do not neglect that
requirement or they can become destructive. They are
great with children. As a reminder, never leave a child
unsupervised with a puppy or dog.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size
(two years old or older) of the male Labrador Retriever
is 22 to 24 inches to the withers (highest point of
the shoulder) and 60 to 75 pounds. The female ranges
from 21 to 24 inches to the withers and 55 to 70 pounds.
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds
have certain inherited health problems associated with
that specific breed and the Labrador Retriever is no
exception. Even though this is considered a hardy breed,
be on the lookout for Canine Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
(genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead
to arthritis pain and lameness), epilepsy (comes in
various degrees and is common in dogs), skin allergies,
eye disorders and skin tumors. This disease list is
an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also
be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian
for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the
first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as
an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for
shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and
on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for
check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog
sweets.
*Grooming. The Labrador Retriever has a double coat
of short, hard, dense and straight hair which is water
repellent. She should be brushed regularly. Brushing
will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat and
help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen
your emotional bond with her.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with
toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing
removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which
can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease.
Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth,
bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and
clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow
slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally
a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore
and competent instructions to accomplish this can be
found on the net.
*Life Span. The Labrador Retriever can live between
10 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care
and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Labrador Retriever comes from Canada
where they were used by fisherman to help collect netted
fish and also by hunters to retrieve ducks and other
water fowl. They were first registered by the American
Kennel Association in 1917.
Some Registries:
*Labrador Retriever Club, Inc.
*UKC United Kennel Club
*NKC National Kennel Club
*CKC Continental Kennel Club
*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
*AKC American Kennel Club
*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
*ACR = American Canine Registry
Litter Size: 7 to 8 Labrador Retriever puppies
Category: Gundog, Sporting Group
Terms To Describe: Strong, character, soundness, outgoing,
smart, kindly, non-aggressive, gentle, hard working,
good natured.
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Good watch dog.
They are very friendly.
They want to please.
Great for kids.
She is the most popular breed in the US.
Easy to train.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Poor guard dog.
May take up to two and one half years to mature.
They need lots of exercise.
*Other Names Known By: St. Johns Dogs, St. Johns Newfoundland,
Lesser Newfoundland
*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this
information may be correct for your dog. This information
is meant as a good faith guideline only.
About the Author
Mitch Endick is a short article writer, editor and website
developer for the popular pet site petpages.com.
www.petpages.com
is a pet information site with free pet ads, dog classifieds,
and puppy for sale info Petpages.com also offers
information on cats, fish, reptiles, birds, ferrets,
rabbits, mice and even pet bugs.
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