Dog's Help

Labrador Retrievers were initially known as St. John’s Dogs. The cold, moist and rocky terrains of Newfoundland and Labrador of Canada were the original homeland to this breed. The dogs were mainly used for retrieving fishermen’s nets from the ice-cold waters. As a result, they developed short, hard and water-resistant double-coated furs and webbed feet. This initial beginning also decided much of their behavioral pattern.

Labradors are energetic dogs and require lots of room for exercise. However, they are known to do well in apartments also. In all cases, anyhow, access to an average-sized yard or a garden on a daily basis would be a must. Labradors also love to swim. Hence, it is important to give your pet lots of opportunities to exercise on water as well.

The present day Labradors are rather long than tall. They can be generally described as solid and muscular. The other physical appearances are thick nose, broad head, sharp bite, strong neck and a clear stop. The wide muzzle and the hazel or chestnut eyes give it an intelligent expression. The ears remain pendant and medium sized. And the thick and strong, completely covered otter tail slightly tapers at the end.

The body and limbs of the Labrador have very good bone structure. The webbed feet aid in swimming. And the fur coats come only in solid black, yellow or chocolate. The occasional grey or silver coats are considered by some either a Weimeriner cross or a true mutation.

The temperament is best described as intelligent, sharp, loyal and high-spirited. Inside the house, however, they remain moderately active. They are also known to sleep through the entire night. In short, therefore, a Labrador can be described as a loveable, affectionate and a patient dog.

Labradors are big eaters. They are prone to elbow and hip dysplasia, eye disorders and PRA. The average height of a male varies between 22-24 inches and that of a bitch between 21-23 inches. The average weight, therefore, should not go beyond 60-75 pounds and 55-70 pounds respectively.

Training a Labrador is also not a complicated issue. Their special agility makes them suitable for hunting, retrieving, tracking, watchdogging, narcotics detection and similar police works. They are also excellent as service dogs for the disabled, for search and rescue operations, sledding, carting and competitive obedience. Guarding, however, is one option which is not suitable for a Labrador.

The grooming and maintenance is again not a difficult task. Being average shredders it suffices to comb and brush the upper coat with a firm bristle. Bathing or dry shampooing, therefore, is required only when necessary.