Black, chocolate or yellow, no matter the color the Labrador Retriever is a friendly loyal companion to all.
First named a St. John’s Water Dog, the Labrador Retriever, or “Lab” for short, has roots in Canada and England. Labs originally helped fisherman retrieve fish from icy waters! Let’s learn more about this personable pup!
Lab Weight, and Health
Labs are a medium-large breed dog. Labs range from 21 to 25 inches tall and can weigh between 55 and 80 pounds when fully grown.
Labs are healthy, with few health problems. Labs are prone to obesity, so make sure to watch their diet and give them plenty of exercise through play or walks. Labs average lifespan is about 12 years, but some can live to 19! Chocolate labs have a slightly shorter lifespan than their black and yellow cousins.
Temperament of Labs
Even-tempered, outgoing, kind and pleasant, the Lab is an excellent family dog. Labs are generally not territorial or frequent barkers. Labs are intelligent and curious and enthusiastic.
Because they love a challenge, a bored Lab may become an expert escape artist, so keep them involved with the family.
Activity Level of Labs
Labs were bred for hunting and swimming, and are still used professionally for hunting, tracking and detection. Labs love activity. A healthy lab can run up to 20 to 30 miles per hour and could happily spend the day on a hike, for a swim or outside with the family.
Caring for Labs
Because Labs are prone to obesity, it’s important to keep an eye on what they eat. Table scraps are not good for this breed (no matter how cute the face), so keep the people food on the table, and make sure they get plenty of exercise.
Labs are smart! There is a reason most guide dogs you see are Labs. They need challenges, training and plenty of playtime.