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| Height |
21.5-24.5 inches |
| Weight |
55-75 lbs. |
| Life Span |
10-12 yrs. |
| Overview |
Labrador retrievers are among the most appealing dogs. They are very trainable, always ready to work and to please their owners.
They are also kind, outgoing, intelligent, adaptable, and friendly to humans and to other animals. They love children and want to be involved in all of their activities.
The Labrador excels in field trials, as a service dog, and in narcotics detection.
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| Appearance |
The outercoat is short, straight, and very dense; the undercoat is soft and weather-resistant. Coat color is black, yellow, or chocolate, sometimes with a small white spot on the chest.
The tail is otterlike, thick at the base, tapering gradually to the tip.
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| Grooming & Exercise |
Labrador retrievers need to be brushed one to two times a week.
They need a lot of exercise--daily vigorous walks and an opportunity, preferably daily, to romp and retrieve balls in a secured open area.
They love water and, in all fairness, should be taken to swim and retrieve in a safe area on a regular basis.
Field stock is generally much higher in energy than show stock.
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| Origins |
The Labrador retriever originated in the 19th century in Newfoundland (not Labrador), where it was used by fishermen to pull in fish-filled nets by retrieving the attached cork floats. |
| Other |
It is especially important to obtain a Labrador retriever from a reputable breeder. Breed-related health concerns: hip dysplasia, osteochondritis dissecans, hypothyroidism, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, epilepsy. |
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