Love Those Labs

04/07/2011 11:58 PM | Dr. Vitti

Labrador Retrievers continue to be the number one breed in America.  Why? Because they are great family dogs. They are high energy for the first several if not most of their years. They love to play, retrieve and swim, they are loyal, smart and eager to please- actually some might say they live to please. These traits are why they excel as guide and rescue dogs. This is also the reason they are not considered ideal guard dogs- they are often found wagging their tails while barking at the door.

They require much love, attention, physical and mental stimulation.  This breed is for people who consider pets part of the family. Despite their size, they are not ideal material for backyard dogs because they long for human attention.  If they were smaller, they would be lap dogs.  They are great with kids, but are powerfully playful and can easily knock little ones over.  The same is true for seniors or anyone without a good amount of strength. 

 

An interesting fact- In some years when the labrador was the most popular breed, it was also number one reported for dog bites.  Vicious dog? Not at all. This is the statistics game as well as common sense.  If there are 10 labs and one yorkie, chances are more dog bites will be reported for the labs. The bottom line, all dogs can bite, so be respectful and careful. 

 

Characteristics-

There are several color varieties in this breed: yellow, black, brown and now a silver/grey color.  The colors are just that- colors, no difference in character has officially been described. If you ask people who own labs of any color, they may have a different story. Their weight range is about 60-80 pounds and they stand 21-25 inches tall.  The average life span of a lab is 10-12 years.

 

History-

Labradors originated in Newfoundland in the 1700‘s from a breed known as the St. John’s Water Dog. These dogs worked with fishermen to retrieve fish and nets.  The breed changed some from those early beginnings, but by the early 1900’s was recognized as what we now know as the Labrador Retriever (AKC recognition in 1917). Today, the breed excels in their intelligence, sporting skills and companionship.

 

 

Medical history-

Labradors are prone to joint diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia.  Choosing a reputable breeder and having your veterinarian assess your dog’s joints will help manage or avoid these diseases.  In addition, keeping your lab slim and trim and adding a joint supplement to his diet will also be beneficial.  Like other deep-chested breeds, labs can twist their stomach or bloat.  This condition can be a consequence of eating too fast or too much at once, or vigorous exercise after eating. Labradors are enthusiatic eaters and often gulp their food or treats. A special bowl has been made for these food lovers and can be found at any pet store.   

 

Is this dog for you? 

Do your research. Ask your vet, ask your friends, ask more than one breeder. Don’t forget that there are a ton of lab mixes out there that have all of the characteristics our purebred friends have.

 

 

Famous Labradors-

“Buddy” & “Seamus” President Clinton’s Labs

“Widgeon” Prince William’s Lab

“Koni” President Vladimir Putin’s Lab