Labrador hunting/field lines are more athletic, agile, and energetic. dependence issues, and if they feel their owner is withdrawn or spend too much time alone, they can turn destructive and develop. But this breed is strong and energetic, especially adolescents. The Labrador Retriever originated in Newfoundland, Canada, as a popular ‘retriever’ for the island’s fisherman. Labs need more brushing than some other shorthaired breeds because of the high shedding. Historically, even keeled temperaments and social personalities were not often seen in working-class canines. In general, Labrador retrievers are excellent family dogs, as long as you keep in mind their need for exercise and training. Females mature faster than males, thus are often further ahead in housetraining and obedience training. Labs from show lines are heavier-boned and stockier, with a large blocky head and dense coat. In fact, they were made for it! It applies to Labradors as well. But this excitability can become menacing if not properly controlled or prepared for. Chocolate also comes in shades: from light coffee to deep chocolate brown. The bulk of their shedding occurs twice a year, for three weeks in the spring as their thicker winter coat switches to a cooler summer coat, and three weeks in the fall as their summer coat switches over to a winter coat. Many Labradors between one and three years old are dropped off at animal shelters or rescue groups because of dog behavior problems such as pulling vigorously on the leash and jumping on people. Even though they can't be shown, the AKC still accepts them for registration. Nearly every obedience class I've ever taught has included at least one Lab. As long as you follow the. But, these canines should never exhibit anything save for the most sociable, loving, and charismatic personalities. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. 6. They have a propensity to not only engage and adore youngsters, but to be easy and delicate with them. Some have necks like bulls and barely notice tugs on the leash. Even a friendly dog can make mincemeat of a small fragile creature simply by jumping on it. Introduce your dog to your friends, family members, other canines, and different environments as soon as possible. On the other hand, if I wanted a dog who could be counted on to look and act like a Lab, you're more likely to get that in a Lab who isn't silver, especially if the silver breeder is still using Weimaraners in his breeding program. But, these canines should never exhibit anything save for the most sociable, loving, and charismatic personalities. American Labrador Retriever Temperament. Their thick tail (sometimes called an “otter tail”) is … All said and done, it’s no surprise this breed is so popular. As the name suggests, affected Labradors who have been vigorously exercising suddenly begin swaying, collapse, and require a rest before they can move again. Some silver Labs aren't silvery gray, but dark charcoal gray. Their position is that the silver gene infiltrated the Labrador's gene pool by crossbreeding Labs with Weimaraners. The Labrador Retriever temperament is a thing of such stability and grace, that these canines are the #1 therapy dog in America. The AKC describes the Labrador's temperament as a kind, pleasant, outgoing and tractable nature. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a great dog for experienced owners. Females are a little more demanding, stubborn, territorial, and independent than male Labs. About the Labrador Retriever Swimming, chasing, playing, walking with its owner – the Labrador Retriever is up for anything and everything! Labrador hunting/field lines are more athletic, agile, and energetic. This is not a good breed for a casual or couch potato owner. Our 40 years of experience and happy families are a testament to the best Labrador Retrievers in Southern California. Adults have a more settled temperament and you can specifically look for a calm one. As long as you follow the dog training tips above, it’s hard to go wrong with a Labrador. They have a propensity to not only engage and adore youngsters, but to be easy and delicate with them. They also come in silver (gray), but this color is frowned on by breed purists. Dogs can look like Labs without having any Lab genes at all. Of course, it might just be coincidence! Inside the home they were noted for being excellently tempered pets, which is why their popularity boomed. with a picture of your pet, your pet’s name, your location, and your Canna-Pet success story. There's only the one breed. The Labrador Retriever has a natural enthusiasm and energy for live that often takes the front seat of all their characteristics.Their natural ability to get up and go in the morning and their contagious energy is almost an invitation to live a life on par with their happiness. Labrador Retrievers are easy-going and rewarding pets with a slow temperament and a big heart — perfect for families. This is particularly important being that their enthusiasm and energy often comes from a shortage of stimulation, the desire for work, and their strong athletic bodies growing into adulthood. It’s safe to say that if you’re reading this, you’ve probably seen them around. While a poor childhood (be it circumstance or inadequate training/socialization) can certainly be the vehicle behind these ‘irregular’ labs, most often the root grows from irresponsible breeders trying to meet market demand. Labradors are known for their gentleness, tolerance, and intelligence. They’ll stare at an aggressive canine never barking in response because they don’t understand why the other dog doesn’t want to be friends. Ever heard: a tired dog is a behaved dog? About the author: Michele Welton has over 40 years of experience as a Dog Trainer, Dog Breed Consultant, and founder of three Dog Training Centers. Intelligent enough to learn commands and strong enough to execute them, these original retrievers—dated somewhere in the 1700’s—would swim long distances to pull in dead fish which slipped their hooks. Not unless the seller has done the proper health certifications on the puppy's parents. You might have heard someone say they had a Golden Lab or a Fox Red Lab or a White Lab. Jumping can injure people, and even when it doesn't, it puts a dog in a heightened state of arousal that isn't good for him. For all the good to be said about this breed’s natural charisma and sociability, they can also be a bit too extroverted. The nose of the dog will match its coat. Being that their the #1 dog in America, you can’t really expect this ‘review’ to dissect the issues or flaws of this breed, as truth be told—if they’re a purebred and properly raised—there’s no friendlier, easy-going, and lovely canine. Behaviour & Personality. Show type Labrador Retriever. Labrador Retrievers (more often, Lab crosses and mixes) are frequently found in animal shelters. However, the Labrador Retriever can be an emotional. They’re large enough to join the family on adventures, intelligent enough to become show dogs, and rarely do they have a malicious bone in their body. So if there are some Weimaraner genes floating around in a silver Labrador, that wouldn't bother me. Being full of energy, they require regular exercise and long walks. Like the Golden Retriever, Labrador retrievers are friendly, affectionate, and outgoing. Copyright © 2000-2020 by Michele Welton. This trait is observed when raising a litter of male and female Lab puppies, Pausma says. In other words, according to the AKC, your silver Lab is actually a chocolate Lab also has inherited dilution gene that washes the chocolate into a silvery gray. The popularity of this breed has grown steadily until the Labrador Retriever became the most popular breed in America in 1991 and remains so today. Canna-Pet® produces the only legal, veterinarian-recommended, non-prescription CBD products for animals. Retrievers were initially bred to help fishermen rail in nets and retrieve ducks. I'll be happy to show you how to raise and train your new family member. Therefore, American Labs may require more exercise than their English Lab counterparts —i f you can believe it! Don't just plunk a baby bunny onto the floor and let your full-grown Lab loose in the room. This breed originated in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, in Canada. Whatever the shade, it's still just a yellow Lab. Labs usually have brown eyes. Black is the most common color. They make excellent companions, as well as assistance dogs. Difference between Labrador and Golden Retriever temperament The words commonly used to describe the temperaments of both Goldens and Labs are the words we use to describe very good dogs! However, the Labrador Retriever can be an emotionally-complex animal. Focus on teaching loose-leash walking, indoor calmness, and no jumping. The breed is at higher-than-average risk for an emergency gastrointestinal syndrome called bloat, which can kill a healthy dog within hours. Respect Training for Puppies: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy. One of the best dogs for children of all ages, Labrador Retrievers are kindly, good-natured, and take most things in stride. It’s safe to say that if you’re reading this, you’ve probably seen them around. Flat-Coats also suffer from serious health issues. Here is a complete list of health problems in Labrador Retrievers. They have a narrower head, longer muzzle, lankier body, and a sleeker coat. It's a good idea to have pet insurance when you own a Lab. Some are also gray and silver although they are rare. They'll bark when someone comes to the door, but they're not protective. There are many reports of Labradors showing great kindness and empathy when their humans are sad. Also more independent – though quite biddable and responsive to obedience training, some Labs have a noticeable stubborn streak. alone. And then you’ll see them in the park, tirelessly fetching a ball with the same enthusiasm, never wanting to stop because engaging in an activity with the family is their ultimate happiness. Labrador Retrievers typically live 10-12 years. Yes, training most Labrador Retrievers is easy. From their range of knowledge and discipline—to how they interact with society—if they have behavioral issues it’s almost always the fault of the owner or their owners before them. A number of neurological/neuromuscular diseases, some of them deadly, affect Labrador Retrievers. Common orthopedic diseases in Labradors include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and luxating patella (loose knee joints), each of which causes chronic pain and lameness and can require expensive surgery. The Labrador Retriever’s strong physique and open, happy temperament make it one of the more tireless breeds. Labrador Retriever Temperament: Eager-to-Please Pups Labrador Retrievers’ high intelligence and willingness to please makes them standouts in the field as hunters, in the home as companions and as service dogs who guide the blind as well as search for and rescue victims of disaster. Today, if you hear of a Lab with a poor personality or temperament, it’s often the cause of puppy mills. We’ll follow up with a 25% off coupon code! The Labrador Retriever proved their versatility and in turn migrated out of their exclusive working-class position, emerging as the second Earl of Malmesbury’s most prized companions in the 19. century, the Lab was eventually exported to the US, wherein under a century it became the most popular canine to date. To me, those dogs don't really look like the classic Labrador Retriever. This is integral to their personality and temperament. Acclimate him with his surroundings to ensure he is confident in adulthood. They’re smart enough to learn, want to do so because they know it’s going to make you happy, and love to do so because it’s a central source of stimulation. These dogs—being that they’re so outwardly loving—trust easily, and those they trust the most possess the ability to greatly affect the adulthood of their pup. And if one hind leg ruptures, the other is likely to follow at a later time. Their cheerful, eager-to-please personalities don’t just make them easy to manage around strangers or unfamiliar environments, but within the home too. They housebreak quickly and are usually willing to please. But they also shed some all through the year. However, shelter personnel can be overzealous in labeling every medium- to large shorthaired black dog as a "Lab cross." Or you can buy one from a performance breeder who emphasizes an energetic temperament and strong working drives for hunting. If you don't diligently pull out the dead undercoat during regular grooming sessions, it will all fall out on your floors and furniture. You must control this breed's tendency to chew on objects and to mouth your hands – provide a box filled with toys that he can carry around in his mouth. History of Labrador retrievers. Receive 25% off your next order when you share your testimonial with us! Most Labs are fine with other dogs and cats, fine with livestock, and even fine with very small pets such as rabbits and ferrets. Stuck in an everlasting conquest for their family’s regard and affection, if they feel they’re being neglected or loved less they can turn inwards. But how they prioritize those two goals can vary greatly. Naturally charismatic and happy, the Lab has one of the most naturally magnetic temperaments of any breed in the American Kennel Club. Introduce your dog to your friends, family members, other canines, and different environments as soon as possible. Their cheerful rapport and stamina in the face of any array of emotions can run dry if not properly looked after. They need nutrient-heavy diets that are going to aid their metabolism and keep their digestive system balanced. Different builds, different body shapes. Naturally charismatic and happy, the Lab has one of the most naturally magnetic temperaments of … Labrador Retrievers may be turned over to Rescue because they shed too much or need more exercise than the owner was prepared to give. In this time, their excitability can spill wildly out of control if not mitigated. The Labrador Retriever originated in Newfoundland, Canada, as a popular ‘retriever’ for the island’s fisherman. Did you know there's a quick and simple DNA test that can tell you definitively which breeds make up any given dog? They’re the most prized therapy dog because of their natural uplifting auras—and the way they handle themselves is no different. Acclimate him with his surroundings to ensure he is confident in adulthood. If your Lab has been allowed to jump on people, you should stop this behavior immediately. Their eager-to-please personalities beget a dog more docile than 90% of other breeds. Temperament. There has perhaps never been an animal so widely loved and universally respected as the, . Weight can be as low as 55 pounds, but is usually 65-80 pounds. In fact, these are always full of energy. Labrador retriever temperament is even tempered Make sure you do your research, find a reputable breeder, sign off on the health clearances, and meet your dog’s parents before making a purchase. Not officially. The psychological and physical effects of proper exercise are not so different from canine to human and your dog will have a higher propensity to be both behaved and efficient in learning if he is active. In contrast, the chocolate Labs I've worked with have all been very energetic. Again, when speaking towards the quintessential and natural Labrador Retriever, there is little negative to mention about their personalities. AKC Labrador Retrievers Award Winning, English-Type Yellow, Fox Red, Chocolate, Black See Our Lab Puppies COUNTRY LABS Puppies For Sale Labrador Stud Dogs AKC Registered, Proven Stud Dogs Extensively Tested for Health Gorgeous Conformation, Delightful Temperament, and Highly Intelligent Meet Our Stud Dogs COUNTRY LABS I think they're probably right. Bayside breeding Labrador Retrievers Master hunters, gun dogs, obedience, therapy & service dogs. The sweet-faced, lovable Labrador Retriever is America’s most popular dog breed. In particular, Labrador Retrievers used primarily for hunting and field trials look very different from Labs you see at dog shows that emphasize conformation. Yellow Labradors can be any shade from reddish to pale yellow, even approaching white. The problem is finding one with the best chances of staying healthy through the years. Unfortunately, an increasing number of beloved Labs are lost in middle age to inherited forms of cancer or heart disease. Most Labs are among the best possible dogs for children. Otherwise they will become bored, which they may express by becoming rambunctious and destructive. This article is going to take an in-depth look at what makes the Labrador Retriever personality and temperament so wonderful. This ‘flaw’ in their temperament is actually noted as one of the only persistent hurdles in owning a Lab, and there are programs out there dedicated specifically to teaching an owner, Take a look at some of these tips below that’ll help you p, Not just for Labs, but every dog. Detailed information for Club - Labrador Retriever Club of Southern California. So long as you’re aware of their excitability issue, there is little more you need to know about this breed’s temperaments. Too much confinement and not enough exercise can lead to rambunctiousness and destructive chewing. Yes, most Labs are happy to see everyone. The Labrador Retriever temperament is a thing of such stability and grace, that these canines are the #1 therapy dog in America. Excitability problems with Labrador Retrievers usually take the form of jumping on people, not respecting a stranger’s (canines and people alike) bubble, barking excitedly, not knowing how to calm down when the situation calls for it, and playing too aggressively with children. Kindness is another of those traits that is difficult to quantify. They’re the dog with the infinity smile that will come lick your face before you’ve even introduced yourself. Compared to the Lab, a Chessie has a stronger temperament, needs more exercise, is more reserved with strangers, and can be bossy toward strange dogs. . Field/hunting type or show type. Usually they're 21-25 inches at the shoulder, with males typically in the higher half of that range, and females in the lower half. You can't just leave this breed in the back yard every day with one walk around the block. These are just made-up names for yellow Labs whose shade of yellow happens to be golden or reddish or whitish. And based on the appearance of some silver "Labs", there are breeders who are still crossing in Weimaraners. Bayside Labs began breeding Labrador Retrievers in California and now reside in Gallatin Valley, Montana. Their cheerful, eager-to-please personalities don’t just make them easy to manage around strangers or unfamiliar environments, but within the home too. All said and done, it’s no surprise this breed is so popular. They come in several colors, yet they're all Labrador Retrievers. dependence issues, and if they feel their owner is withdrawn or spend too much time alone, they can turn destructive and develop canine separation anxiety. However, since genetic diversity is a good thing in living creatures, I don't view cross-breeding as an evil thing. Or spend too much time alone, they can differentiate the size an. 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