Labrador Retriever
If you’re looking for the most popular dog breed in the U.S., look no further than the Labrador Retriever. For 18 consecutive years, when the registration statistics are compiled by the AKC, the “Lab” has ranked Number 1. In fact, this is considered the most popular breed in the entire world. It’s no accident.
Kind, outgoing, extremely intelligent; all accurately describe the “Lab”. Sturdy, courageous, and loyal equally define the breed. They are such hard workers and so eager to please that they excel in virtually anything they are asked to do from field service work to narcotics detection. Yet at the same time they are incredibly gentle, absolutely adore children, and are even friendly to other animals. Small wonder then that this native of Canada is everybody’s “All-American” here at home.
Origin
The Labrador Retriever originated in Newfoundland, Canada, (not Labrador as the name suggests) in the 19th century. It was originally trained by fishermen there to jump overboard and pull in the filled nets as their boats neared harbor. Later it would “retrieve” the cork floats of the nets and swim them back to land. Finally, its “soft” mouth enabled the dog to collect fish that fell from the nets without damaging them.
The breed’s reputation spread all the way to sportsmen in Britain who bought some of the dogs from ships carrying codfish to England. The Lab was bred with other sporting dogs such as water spaniels and it soon became indispensable as a sled dog, a message carrier and general working dog. Today’s modern Lab continues this proud tradition of service in a number of fields including police and armed forces work. However, it is probably best known around the world for its work as a guide dog and assistance dog for people with disabilities.
Appearance
This is a strong, solid dog with a sturdy frame and a broad skull that sits on a powerful neck. They have a distinctive medium length “otter” tail that is thick at the base. It gradually tapers up to the tip and performs as a veritable rudder in water. The outer coat is short and quite dense, while the undercoat is soft and water repellent. This unique double coat keeps it from getting cold in the water, even in winter. The Lab comes in three basic colors; Black, Yellow, and Chocolate. It is a mistake to refer to a Yellow Lab as a “Golden” Lab.
Males are 22 – 24 inches and 65 - 80 lbs. Females are 21-23 inches and 55 - 70 lbs.
Temperament
Reliable, responsive, and obedient, the Labrador adapts to any environment. An ideal family pet, it is incredibly patient and gentle with children. It craves attention and literally needs to feel as if it is indeed part of the family. Given its history, it is extremely fond of swimming, and will happily retrieve balls, Frisbee’s, you name it . . . . all day long.
The Labrador Retriever is easily trained and will accept any kind of task with equal parts of enthusiasm and responsibility. However, it’s a good idea to begin training early on as it will insure that this dog’s high energy level remains focused. They have voracious appetites and will at times devour items that are not necessarily digestible. Care should always be taken so that they are not overfed as doing so can easily make this otherwise energetic animal obese and lazy.
Grooming
With their smooth double coat, Labs need to be brushed at least once a week. This will remove dead hair from the undercoat while keeping the outer coat shiny. Bathe a Lab only when necessary. Check the ears often. The Lab’s floppy ears trap moist air and as such can be prone to infection. Monitor the eyes and keep the nails trimmed. If there is one concern with owning this breed it would be that despite their relatively short hair they have a propensity to shed.
Exercise
This is a high energy dog that needs lots of exercise every day. Long, vigorous walks are the rule and, if possible, the opportunity to “retrieve” things daily as well. Let this dog romp and chase balls in a secured open area. Naturally they love water and, in all fairness, should be given the opportunity to swim and retrieve on a regular basis. It’s not essential to have a swimming pool to own one. However, if you’re considering this breed please understand that it will benefit greatly from regular access to water.
Summary
The Lab just might be “The Best of the Best” when it comes to choosing your next pet. Indeed this breed has earned worldwide respect as a companion dog or a duty dog. And while no breed can be “perfect” for everyone, this one certainly possesses the attributes to adapt to any lifestyle. Country sprawl or Urban living, your Lab won’t care. Just be sure he gets plenty of love, attention and exercise and it won’t matter whether or not it’s the top breed again next year. It’s already certain he’ll be Number 1 where it matters most . . . in your heart.