Labrador Retriever

Dog Breed Profile

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Labrador Retriever History

The Labrador Retriever is one of the most well-known breeds of domestic dog. The Labrador Retriever was originally developed as a gundog by English settlers in Canada, where it was used to help hunters retrieve waterfowl. The Labrador Retriever is the most popular breed of gundog in the US, and the second most registered purebred AKC dog. The “Labrador” name actually refers to a range of closely related breeds, although these other varieties may sometimes be referred to as “Labs” or “Rexes”. The “Rex” in “Rex” comes from the Latin rex, which means “king”, and is a reference to the Labs’ regal appearance. The popularity of the Lab as a pet and a showdog has skyrocketed in recent years, and it is now the 4th most popular breed of registered dog in 2016. The Lab is also the 3rd most popular family dog in 2016, and the most popular breed of service/therapy/assistance/police/guard dogs in 2016.

Time of Origin

1800s

Country of Origin

Canada

Ancestry

St. John’s Water Dog

Labrador Retriever Physical Characteristics

The Labrador Retriever is a medium-sized, short-coated breed of dog. The breed comes in three sizes: the Miniature Lab, the Standard Lab, and the Giant Lab, and are known for their intelligence, friendly demeanor, and eagerness to please.

Eye Colors

Hazel, Brown, Amber

Nose Colors

Unknown

Coat Colors

Unknown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 22 – 24 inches

Female Height Range: 21 – 23 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 65 – 80 lbs

Female Weight Range: 55 – 70 lbs

Labrador Retriever Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

10-12 yrs

Labrador Retriever Health Concerns

Gastric Torsion, Elbow Dysplasia, Hip Dysplasia, Epilepsy, Osteochondritis Dissecans, Otitis Externa, Cataract, Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Labrador Retriever Temperament and Behaviour

The Lab is a good-natured and friendly dog that is highly intelligent and eager to learn. They are playful and energetic, but also calm, quiet and patient with children. They are friendly and protective of their families, but may be wary of strangers.

Labrador Retriever Activity Requirements

Labrador Retrievers are known around the world for their intelligence and outgoing nature. They are one of the most popular breeds, and for good reason. A daily, brisk walk or jog is the best way to meet your Lab’s exercise needs. Labs are high-energy dogs and will quickly become bored if they are not provided with an outlet for their energy. A home with a fenced yard is ideal for a Lab. A fenced-in yard provides a safe place for your Lab to play, burn off energy, and get outside. A backyard or nearby park also provides a perfect spot for your Lab to get some leash-free time.

Miles Per Day

Unknown

Activity Per Day

Unknown

Daily Food

2.5 cups

Kennel Club Recognition

American Kennel Club

Recognized by the American Kennel Club

Labrador Retriever is part of the Sporting group.

Visit the American Kennel Club website.

The Kennel Club

Recognized by The Kennel Club

Labrador Retriever is part of the Gundog group.

Visit the Kennel Club website.

Australian National Kennel Council

Recognized by the Australian National Kennel Council

Labrador Retriever is part of the Gundog group.

Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.

Canadian Kennel Club

Recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club

Labrador Retriever is part of the Sporting group.

Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.