Labrador Retriever: description in the table, character, maintenance and care, education, 120+ photos and reviews

For those seeking a devoted and amiable friend, the Labrador Retriever may be the ideal breed. With their gentle nature and playful spirit, Labs have gained affection from people worldwide. Their allure is evident whether they’re cuddling on the sofa or splattering in the water. We’ll go over everything you need to know about these adorable dogs in this article.

To begin, here is a helpful table that enumerates the main traits of Labrador Retrievers, such as size, coat, and lifespan. This brief reference will help you understand what to anticipate from this breed. We’ll then get into their personality traits, which are a major factor in their immense popularity. Because of their reputation for being gregarious, perceptive, and eager to please, labs make excellent family pets.

A Labrador’s happiness and health need some commitment to maintain. Everything from food to exercise requirements will be covered in our essential care plan. Additionally, you’ll discover advice on how to properly train them so they become well-mannered friends. Finally, we’ll include genuine testimonials from Lab owners alongside more than 120 precious pictures that perfectly depict the playful side of Labs. You’ll discover how much happiness these canines can bring into your existence!

Topic	Description
Labrador Retriever	The Labrador Retriever is a friendly and outgoing breed known for its intelligence and loyalty. They are medium to large-sized dogs with a short, dense coat that comes in black, yellow, or chocolate. Labs are great family pets and are especially good with kids.
Character	Labs are friendly, social, and eager to please. They are known for their playful nature and adaptability, making them great companions. They can be energetic and require regular exercise.
Maintenance and Care	These dogs need regular grooming to manage shedding, especially during seasonal changes. They thrive on routine exercise, such as walks or playtime, to keep them healthy and happy.
Education	Labradors are intelligent and respond well to training. Positive reinforcement techniques work best. Early socialization and obedience training are essential for a well-behaved dog.
Photos	120+ photos of Labradors in various settings, showcasing their playful spirit, beauty, and versatility.
Reviews	Owners love Labs for their friendly demeanor and loyalty. Many praise their trainability and how well they fit into family life.

Brief characteristics of the Labrador Retriever in the table

Male: between 27 and 34 kg. Female: 25–32 kg.

Photo gallery of the Labrador Retriever

Advantages of the Labrador Retriever

Almost all large dogs, including Labradors, can live happily in apartments and won’t experience depression.

In addition, the breed offers several other benefits:

• Almost complete absence of aggression, friendliness, devotion.
• Very sociable, but at the same time calm and balanced.
• Get along well with children, can serve as a nanny for kids.
• Smart and quick-witted, easily understand the owner and his mood.
• Easily amenable to education and training.
• Agile and playful, always supportive in everything their owner.
• Hardy and hard-working.
• They get along well in the same house with other animals.
• Low maintenance, except during shedding periods.
• They have an attractive appearance, look impressive and imposing.

Disadvantages of the Labrador Retriever

Although many dog owners believe Labradors to be the best breed, they can have certain drawbacks.

Most of them can usually be easily corrected because they were formed as a result of improper upbringing.

• The dogs are very clumsy, they love to chew on everything that comes their way.
• They require a lot of activity from the owner, they love walks.
• They are trusting and loving, they even greet a stranger affectionately and enthusiastically.
• They love to eat, they will never pass by a dropped piece of food, even on the street, so they are prone to obesity.
• They are large in size, so they are not quite suitable for small apartments.
• They shed heavily twice a year.

History of the Labrador Retriever

The Labrador breed is unrelated to the named North American peninsula, even though it shares a "speaking" name. It is widely acknowledged that the island of Newfoundland, which is home to the youngest province in Canada, is where the ancestors of Labradors were transported to England.

There are numerous justifications for the breed’s name. One of them claimed that the dogs’ original black color—which was strikingly similar to the labradorite, an igneous black rock—was how they got their name.

According to other experts, it was much easier: because Europeans were not familiar with the nuances of topography, they just gave the dogs that arrived on ships from the Labrador Sea names out of convenience. From the outside, they resembled the long-haired Newfoundlands that were popular in the 1800s, so it became important to differentiate between the two breeds. Despite the fact that a large number of scientists think that both breeds arrived in England around the same time, misunderstandings led to the naming of Labrador dogs after their neighbor and vice versa.

There is a belief that the ancestor of the enormous, shaggy Newfoundlands was a close relative of the St. John’s water dog, the ancestor of the Labrador. Very little research has been done on it, and some experts even believe that it is the product of an unintentional cross between several different breeds. In fact, a great number of people arrived in North America during the Great Geographical Discoveries, including those with dogs that could quietly navigate their surroundings and assist in the birth of puppies with the most erratic sizes and looks.

It is a historical fact that Portuguese sailors were the first to study the current Canadian coast. They most likely introduced Portuguese water dogs, or can-diagua, to those regions. Because these animals are excellent swimmers, which the ship crews actively utilized, they made life much easier for sailors during the Middle Ages. Dogs were used to haul letters and messages to the shore, and they were also used to retrieve objects that had fallen overboard, drive schools of fish into nets, and even assist in the rescue of survivors of shipwrecks.

However, dog owners back then had it rough because they had to pay high taxes, which caused the number of water dogs to gradually decline and eventually vanish. The breed’s last members were listed in the 20th century, but Labradors—golden and flat-coated retrievers—will always carry some of their genetic makeup.

The first Labradors were brought to Europe on merchant ships. Sailors sailed from Newfoundland to the shores of England, selling cod caught in the Atlantic. The British, famous for their passion for hunting, immediately paid attention to the unusual dogs that unquestioningly obeyed their owners and were distinguished by amazing endurance. They were nicknamed "small Newfoundland dogs" and began to be actively imported into the country. The modern name of the breed appeared only in the 1970s, and already at the end of 1895, a quarantine act was signed, according to which it was forbidden to import dogs into England that did not have a license and had not served a 6-month quarantine. Since then, the breed has developed only thanks to those dogs that were brought to the country earlier.

The Dukes of Buccleuch and the Earls of Malmesbury are credited with being the first Labrador breeders. Approximately at the same time, they started breeding Labradors separately from one another. Kennels in Hampshire and Scotland actively supported the breed’s development. The dogs gained popularity because they proved to be great hunting companions, skillfully locating small game that their owners had shot.

For a number of decades, specialists were unable to agree on whether Labradors belonged to a specific breed. Puppies from the same parents were occasionally given different retriever breeds. Everything changed in 1903 when the world’s oldest kennel club, the Kennel Club, recognized the breed. This fact sparked a greater interest in dogs and helped a number of new kennels to open. The Labrador Retriever Club, a dedicated group for Labrador owners, was founded in 1916 and continues to this day to protect the unique characteristics of the breed.

Dogs continued to migrate across Europe during World War I, made it overseas, and quickly became popular in the United States. With time, the American breed of labradors separated from the English breed. The purity of the lines originating from these dogs remains a topic of debate among experts.

Regarding appearance, the coat’s only color for a very long time was black. However, the first registered puppy was fawn in 1899, and the second was chocolate-black in 1930.

Description of the breed’s appearance in the table: the standard and disadvantages of the Labrador Retriever

The primary characteristics of a Labrador Retriever’s appearance as per the current breed standard are listed in the table below.

Disadvantages

Any departure from the aforementioned breed standards is regarded as a disadvantage. The degree of severity and the effect on the dog’s ability to carry out its regular tasks determine how critical they are.

Disqualifying defects

Faults that disqualify include the following:

• Aggression.
• Excessive timidity.
• Physical or behavioral deviations.

Labrador retriever coat color and features

The coat of a labrador retriever is short, thick, and rigid to the touch; it lacks waves and feathering. An abundant undercoat is present. The hue can range from fox-red to light cream, with solid black, brown, or fawn being the possible options. On the chest, a tiny white spot is acceptable. Let’s take a closer look at the available dog color options.

Types by color

Three color options for the dog coat are allowed by standard.

Black

Regarded as a traditional hue for Labradors. The nose, lips, and eyelids are all black, and the coat is glossy and silky.

Brown

Chocolate or brown? Labradors cost more and are regarded as the rarest breed. There are three primary shades of brown:

• Light chocolate.

• Liver or liver.

• Dark (bitter) chocolate.

The color ought to be consistent, homogeneous, and free of transitions and stripes. You can have brown, hazel, hazel-green, or hazel-yellow eyes. Blue eyes, despite their striking appearance, are regarded as a breeding defect.

Fawn

Peach, apricot, bluish, and pink hues make up a broader color palette that sets this color apart. Fawn was initially referred to as yellow and classified as a breed defect by the breed standard, which did not acknowledge its existence. It wasn’t formally accepted as acceptable until 1924. Three primary colors make up the fawn color today:

• Golden.

• Cream (from light to beige and grayish).

The heterogeneities are present in the fawn color. It is acceptable to cover the back, ears, and tail with darker fur, but the muzzle shouldn’t have a noticeable dark mask.

Other colors that do not meet the standard

Although there are a number of different color options for Labradors, they do not match the breed standard and are therefore not permitted for breeding, even though they still have all the traits that make this breed unique. Among them are:

1. White. A very atypical color, since white Labradors do not exist. The dog can have either a very bright steel wool or white as a result of a melanin deficiency, t.e. Albino dog. Such a color will indicate a genetic failure.

1. Blue. It is recognized as a defect if it is too far from a decay-gray one, but it looks very impressive, so the blue labradors are very popular among those owners who do not plan to participate in exhibitions with their pet.

1. Spotted. Not allowed for breeding and costs a little less, since it deviates from the usual color variations.

1. Dudley. This includes light yellow Labradors with poorly expressed pigmentation of the nose. Throughout their life, they have a pink nose, which is also considered a genetic defect.

Types by coat type

A Labrador’s coat must be short, thick, and smooth, with a thin layer of grease applied to provide water and dirt resistance. The hair is hard and straight, measuring about 5 cm in length. Only the tail can support longer hair growth. Only exceptional breed representatives who have displayed other standards brilliantly can be excused for their waviness.

That’s why real Labradors can only have short hair. However, there may be breeds of retrievers that have long, wavy, or curly hair. They are unrelated to Labradors; instead, the confusion is typically caused by the golden retriever, which is misidentified as a Labrador with shaggy coats.

What types of Labradors are there

The two Labrador breeds that are most popular.

English

The dog has retained in its appearance the maximum number of features from its direct ancestor – the water dog. The English Labrador is more squat, solid, it has a powerful skull, short, thick legs and a wide chest with rounded ribs. The character of the dog is calmer, good-natured, the dog will leisurely stroll through the park, and at home it will obediently bring slippers to the owner. But with all this, island Labradors show good hunting qualities, love to swim, bring aport. They mature earlier, socialize faster and are better amenable to education and training, therefore they are very popular among children with children and people of retirement age.

American

Its construction is drier. The dog has long, slender limbs and is tall. The animal is distinguished by a more dynamic and active temperament; the dog is both more vivacious and aggressive than its English counterpart. Active owners will be well-suited for a "cheerful one."

Other retrievers

Gundogs, which were originally bred for hunting alongside their owners, are all retrievers. There are numerous varieties among them, each with a unique appearance and size. Experts believe that these dogs are perfect pets for everyone because they share traits such as openness and friendliness, bravery and courage, devotion, and a lively mind. Now let’s look at the most common kinds of retrievers.

Golden (Golden, Gold)

These retrievers are occasionally mistaken for golden Labradors. However, golden retrievers differ from labradors in that their hair can be long, straight, or wavy. It is inaccurate to refer to a golden retriever as just a long-haired Labrador; they are a distinct breed. Despite the fact that dogs’ appearances are similar. Goldens make wonderful therapy dogs, nurses, guide dogs, rescuers, and companions. The animals reach a maximum height of 61 cm, and their colors range from cream to gold, but never red or scarlet.

Nova Scotia duck

The dog weighs up to 25 kg and is 53 cm tall at the withers. The Canadian province of Nova Scotia is where the breed originated, and its dogs were meant to be used for waterfowl hunting. They stand out for having a lot of stamina, energy, and speed, but they also frequently exhibit stubbornness and willfulness. They develop into incredibly focused, persistent, and perceptive hunters during the hunt. The dogs have thick, long hair and a dense undercoat that keeps water from getting on their skin, giving them a fairly compact appearance. The hue is rusty-red.

Curly-coated (Curly-Coated)

The 19th century saw the introduction of the breed to England. Dogs are primarily distinguished by their curly, dark brown or black hair, which resembles karakul in appearance. Animals are known for their courage, excellent intelligence, and keen sense of smell.

Straight-coated (Flat-Coated)

The British Isles are thought to be the dog’s native land. The animal is 36 kg in weight and can grow to a height of 61 cm. The dogs actively participate in waterfowl and swamp bird hunting because they can swim well. They have a lot of vitality, energy, and endurance, and they frequently compete in and win sports. Most of the color is either chocolate or black.

Chesapik-Bey

In the United States, the Chesapeake Bay region serves as the breeding ground for this breed. The dog weighs 34 kg and stands up to 66 cm tall. used for waterfowl, marsh, and ground hunting. The color of the camouflage is one of the keys to success in this. It comes in a variety of brown, reed, and brownish-gray-yellow hues.

The nature of the Labrador-Retriever

Maybe there isn’t another dog in the world that is as amiable and outgoing as this one. Labradors are people-loving animals that are devoted to their master and his family. Give your energy and optimism to such a pet. Indeed, it is impossible to imagine a better dog for the role of a companion when you consider the total lack of aggression in character.

It is true that you shouldn’t expect your pet to act as a selfless guardian; nature hasn’t endowed it with such traits, and its only motivation for jumping on an unwelcome guest is to lick him and get to know him as quickly as possible.

The dog’s intolerance for loneliness is another crucial characteristic. It’s critical that Labradors stay near their owners, follow their directions, obey, and serve. Dogs stand out for their unending love and devotion. Consequently, it is strongly discouraged to keep the dog in an aviary or on a chain as this will cause him excruciating pain. Long-term isolation of the pet is also undesirable since it can cause him to miss his owner and possibly get very sick.

Due to a dog’s innate tendency to hunt and return to its owner, experts recommend giving your dog toys and allowing him to run around outside and play for as long as he pleases. If not, you will have to accept that your dog may search for objects on its own and may even catch birds in order to appease a loved one.

The fact that Labradors are naturally water dogs is not accidental; they inherit a love of the water from their ancestors. Because of this, you must be ready for the fact that your dog will always be drawn to every puddle or pond.

Labrador retriever"s attitude to the owner

Labradors have an extreme level of loyalty; they practically worship their owner and are very attached to him. In addition, the dog loves to play and cuddle with young children and shows a great deal of tenderness and affection towards other family members. However, when people are gone for an extended period of time, it can get very depressed, find it difficult to cope with being alone, and begin to damage furniture and other items out of hurt feelings.

Labrador retriever"s attitude to children

Labradors are famous for their excellent ability to get along with children. They make great nannies. The dog can even be left alone with a baby – when he cries, the dog will immediately inform the parents about it. If the child has already started crawling, then the four-legged friend will closely monitor him so that the baby does not go far and does not expose himself to danger. The dog will always entertain, pity and calm the little family member. All these skills, of course, should be developed in the dog from childhood, so it is important to devote enough time to raising the dog, and not let this process take its own course.

If the Labrador is raised properly, children as young as ten years old can already walk him by themselves. Such a dog will follow the small owner’s instructions without question and won’t sever the leash to chase after fluttering birds.

Another significant benefit of Labradors is that, unlike other family members, they do not experience jealousy from their owner. As a result, the arrival of a baby in the home has no effect on the dog’s behavior.

Attitude of the Labrador Retriever to strangers

Security is not a trait of labradors. They are incredibly open and trusting, and they will be happy to play games and meet new people. However, the dog may defend its owner if he feels that he is in danger.

The attitude of Labrador-Retriever to other animals

These days, people hardly ever use labrador retrievers for hunting; instead, they are more often used as friends and companions. As a result, the hunting instinct toward other animals can sporadically manifest. Birds seen in the park or forest may be an exception. However, the dog will naturally be friendly to the parrot or canary if they grow up together.

A dog can get along with nearly any kind of animal, including hamsters and cats. Dividing the land with jovial brothers, with whom you can brainstorm and collaborate on different projects, will be especially happy.

Dogs exhibit weak expressions of dominance, so if the leader of the pack attacks another animal, the Labrador will quietly cede this position to him.

Protective qualities of a Labrador retriever

Guard dogs are not labradors. They have an unending love and trust for people. First and foremost, they will view any stranger in the house as a playmate. The only exception will be if the stranger behaves aggressively toward the owner and the owner is actually in danger. The dog can then spring into defense mode and defend itself.

Hunting qualities of the Labrador Retriever

Originally intended as gundogs, labrador retrievers engaged in active hunting and returned the owner’s shot game. Their hunting instinct is not as strong as it once was, so in daily life, if their owner is not hunting, the dog will live in peace and won’t chase after the park’s birds or neighbor’s cats. He’ll interact with the owner on the street in a fairly active manner. However, he will gladly fetch a toy or a stick.

Other qualities

Because they are such good watchdogs, children with autism benefit from the therapeutic use of labrador retrievers. Furthermore, labradors are the most capable and responsible guide dogs; customs officers find them invaluable due to their excellent sense of smell and serene demeanor.

A Labrador’s ability to swim well and pull people out of the water is another important trait, which is why animals are frequently used in rescue operations.

Who is it suitable for

Almost anyone who has the time to dedicate to their pet can bring their Labrador Retriever into their home. The dog is also a good choice for first-time dog owners who have never raised a four-legged companion.

Additionally, labradors get along well with kids, so families with small infants can keep them. A young family member will never be bitten or offended by such a dog; rather, it will actively participate in his upbringing.

Labradors make devoted friends for those who lead active lifestyles; they will gladly go on walks, engage in sports, go hunting, and travel with their owners.

Professional guide dogs are labradors; they pick up the skills needed quickly and become an invaluable member of a visually impaired person’s team.

Education and training of a Labrador retriever

Dogs that are labrador retrievers are highly active. It is imperative that dogs receive education and training from an early age, as failing to do so will make it exceedingly challenging to command an adult dog to obey.

Dogs are incredibly intelligent and have a highly active mind, making them easy to train. The more intricate and diverse the tasks assigned to the pet are, the more engaging they will be for him to complete. Labradors adore toys with puzzles. To maximize the stimulation of their dog’s brain, some owners even feed their dog through these toys.

Playfulness should be incorporated into training. The quick-witted dog picks up instructions quickly; only a few practice sessions are required for the knowledge to be stored in the subcortex. Every time a child behaves correctly, it’s best to reward them with praise or a treat.

Labrador retrievers are excellent swimmers. In addition to helping active pets stay physically active, water activities allow them to retain their innate ability to perform water rescues.

Several factors need to be considered when rearing and training Labradors:

• Success is achieved through positive reinforcement of successes. This can be a treat, verbal praise, petting. The main thing is not to punish the dog for failures, it does not tolerate cruelty.
• Training should be consistent and clear. The dog should understand well what result is expected of it, so you cannot deviate from the chosen scheme and methodology.
• The importance of socialization. The more people and other animals a dog sees from birth, the better it is socialized in this world. If you wean a Labrador from reacting to birds from childhood, then you can safely let him go for a walk even with a small child.
• Regularity of training. To consolidate a certain skill or behavior pattern, it is necessary to train your pet regularly, and not do it from time to time. If necessary, you can use the services of dog handlers.

Hunting with a Labrador Retriever

The renowned Russian zoologist Leonid Sabaneev’s notes contain the earliest references to Labrador Retriever hunting. He expressed regret in his 1896 book "Hunting Dogs: Pointers" about the scarcity of Labradors in Russia, given their superior forest hunting abilities.

Similar to all other retrievers, Labradors are regarded as gundogs. This indicates that it performs admirably when it comes time to deliver the game the owner shot. With its keen sense of smell, the dog can clearly locate prey. The dog’s thick undercoat keeps it from freezing in even cold water, making it an essential tool for fall hunting.

The reason autumnal hunting is so successful is that black grouse broods are easily located by Labradors in their strongholds. The creatures also demonstrated that they were skilled at hunting pheasants, who are avid hiders in difficult-to-reach areas that are inaccessible to other dogs.

However, the majority of hunters appreciate Labradors for their calm demeanor, superb obedience, and devotion in addition to their high level of professionalism in this area.

Because they can be kept in both private homes and apartments, labradors are sometimes referred to as universal dogs. The only thing that breeders do not recommend is keeping the pet in an enclosure or on a chain, because communication with the owner and contact with people are extremely important for him. If the dog gets tired of this, though, you can always outfit it with an outdoor house that is winter-ready. The animal is comfortable in nearly any temperature because of its thick undercoat.

During the summer, you can give your pet a hose bath to prevent overheating in extremely hot weather and provide a shady spot for him to hide from the sun’s rays. This is particularly true for light-haired breeds with poorly expressed pigment, like albinos or Dudleys, for whom prolonged sun exposure is strictly prohibited.

Walking and activity

Labradors are active representatives of retrievers, as was previously mentioned. Regular physical activity is essential for their healthy physical and psychological development. You must be ready for lengthy walks if you decide to own one of these dogs. It’s advised by experts to walk your pet for at least 30 minutes in the morning and two hours at night. If not, the dog will become bored and begin looking for entertainment on its own, which may not sit well with the owners.

How much does it cost to keep a Labrador

Depending on the owner’s approach to the dog, a Labrador’s maintenance costs vary. Some choose the best for their pets, purchasing only high-end food and providing them with toys and treats on a regular basis. Other owners’ expenses are significantly lower because they are not as wasteful.

Food is the primary expense item. The cost of feeding your dog premium dry food (holistic or super-premium) will run you about 7,000 rubles a month. If you feed premium natural products to your dog, you will still spend the same amount on food. Naturally, you can choose a less expensive food, bringing the total down to $3–5,000, but we do not advise doing so because dog food from the economy and premium lines contains additives, cereals, and other things that are superfluous. In any case, you should research the ingredients of the food you purchase. This is critical to the dog’s overall health.

The observation of a veterinarian will incur additional costs. The annual cost of standard vaccinations is between 3,000 and 5,000 rubles. The dog also receives monthly antihelminthic medication, the exact cost of which varies depending on the drug’s manufacturer and will run an additional $1–$2,000 per year. The remaining health care costs will be determined by the pet’s appropriate lifestyle and any unforeseen illnesses or injuries.

The pet needs to be washed and combed on a regular basis; this requires special products that cost approximately 1,000 rubles annually. While it’s not required, some dog owners take their pets to be groomed. Such a specialist will charge you roughly 3,000 rubles for a single visit.

You will also need to pay if you wish to take part in exhibitions. The amounts are noteworthy in this case; the only fee is admission to the event itself, without any additional costs; ballets and lodging can range in price from 5,000 to 30,000 rubles.

Therefore, 40,000 rubles is the absolute minimum that needs to be spent on a dog per year.

Care for a Labrador Retriever

The main thing to remember when taking care of a labrador is to give it basic hygiene care and to comb it.

Wool

The thick undercoat of Labradors causes them to shed a lot. This occurs twice a year, in the spring and the fall. You will need to brush your dog frequently during this time; in order to remove loose hair, you may need to brush the dog’s coat several times a day with a special brush.

From an early age, labrador retrievers are trained to take baths. Dogs enjoy the water, but they dislike taking baths. However, they don’t require frequent washing. It is sufficient to wash the dog once a month if it walks carefully and does not roll in mud and puddles. You must use specific pet shampoos that are safe for animals in this situation.

It is also undesirable to wash it too often. The hairs are covered with a special protective layer that prevents the dog from getting wet and very dirty, frequent exposure to soap foam destroys this layer, the dog becomes vulnerable. If dirt gets on a small area of ​​the body, then it can be removed from the coat with a cloth soaked in plain water.

Ears and eyes

To avoid infections, labrador ears need to be checked and cleaned on a regular basis. Cotton sticks cannot be used for these purposes because any slipshod handling could cause harm to a pet. To clean the auricle from the inside, simply moisten the water disk with a little bit of water, being careful not to let any water seep too far into the ear.

It is advised to clean your labrador’s eyes once a day. A distinct cotton pad is used for each eye, and it is moistened with either warm water, tea welding, or chamomile infusion. You do not need to self-medicate if the dog’s eyes are shocked or flushed. It is advisable to speak with a veterinarian as these symptoms may indicate the onset of an infection.

Teeth

Since the condition of the oral cavity directly affects the health of the gastrointestinal tract, it is especially important to take special care of the dog’s teeth. It is essential to use a specialized brush and paste, available from a veterinary pharmacy, to brush your pet’s teeth twice a week, from the outside to the inside. Labradors must be raised knowing this from an early age. You can give specific chewing treats or toys that will remove the formed plaque in order to prevent tartar from forming.

Claws

A dog that exercises regularly and runs a lot on asphalt will naturally wear down its claws. They don’t require trimming. However, trimming might be necessary if the dog spends most of its time on the grass. With a specialized claw cutter, this is done once or twice a month; however, you can seek assistance from a veterinarian or groomer. You cannot trim the claw near its base because the most important thing to remember is to avoid touching the blood vessels.

Vaccinations and treatment for parasites

Puppies receive their first vaccination in kennels. At six months old, the next one is completed. An annual rabies vaccination must be administered concurrently. There must be a two-week quarantine following each injection. Dogs also receive antihelminthic medications 14 days prior to vaccinations.

In the event that the puppy was acquired through an advertisement rather than a nursery, you must get in touch with a veterinarian so that they can accurately create a vaccination schedule.

Dogs must be treated for fleas, ticks, and lice as needed. The effects of using a special collar, which lasts for two to four months, or applying drops to the withers on a monthly basis both work.

Features of the Labrador Retriever"s diet

Because labradors enjoy eating, it is crucial for their owners to provide them with a balanced, moderate diet. Dogs who overeat tend to have health issues. The dog has been raised under a regimen to prevent these problems. Between feedings, it is strictly forbidden to feed it from the table; additionally, it is crucial to follow the veterinarians’ recommended portion sizes.

Although you can buy ready-made dry food for your dog, it is preferable to select holistic or super-premium class options, as we have already mentioned. Sure, they cost more, but their ingredients are "cleaner" and more natural; you can’t add any more vitamins or supplements because these foods already contain everything you need.

If you decide to feed your dog natural products, it’s best to consult a specialist to decide on the menu so the dog doesn’t miss out on any essential nutrients. Acceptable goods consist of:

• Low-fat meats (rabbit, turkey, chicken, beef).
• Rice and buckwheat.
• Seasonal vegetables and fruits.
• Low-fat dairy products.
• Boneless sea fish.

It’s absolutely prohibited to provide your dog with:

• Pork and other fatty meat.
• Legumes.
• Baked goods, sweets.
• Fried, smoked, pickled food.
• River fish.
• Pasta.

Puppies are fed six times a day for the first two months of their lives, then five times a day for the next four months, then four times a day for the final six months of their lives, and finally three meals a day. You can start feeding your pet twice a day after a year.

Health and life expectancy of a Labrador retriever

Good health is a defining characteristic of labrador retrievers, particularly those that were acquired from reliable breeders in well-maintained kennels. There you can find out about the parents’ health history, rule out genetic illnesses, and obtain a comprehensive assessment of the dog’s state of health.

The most common problems in Labradors are:

• Hip dysplasia. The disease is hereditary, the thigh does not fit tightly to the hip joint, resulting in painful sensations, the dog begins to limp on one or two legs.
• Arthritis. Appears with age, expressed in painful sensations in the joints and decreased mobility. Monitored by regular visits to the veterinarian. If the disease manifests itself, then such dogs can no longer be bred.
• Elbow dysplasia. Another hereditary disease that affects large breeds of dogs. The cause of its appearance is the proliferation of cartilage tissue in the joints. As a rule, this is typical for the elbows, but sometimes it can also appear in the shoulders. The disease manifests itself due to the different speed of the three bones. Of which the dog"s elbow consists. The joints become flaccid, which can lead to lameness.
• Osteochondrosis dissemination (OCD). The disease is related to orthopedic and is also associated with the proliferation of cartilage in the joints, they harden, lose flexibility, sometimes the pet cannot bend the elbow at all. The disease begins to manifest itself in animals aged from 4 to 9 months, its development is facilitated by overfeeding puppies with high-protein food.
• Cataract. Can affect a dog at any age. Dark spots appear on the lens of the eye, the area of ​​​​which can increase over time. Often cataracts are practically asymptomatic and do not even affect vision, but in some cases they lead to blindness. Only a veterinarian can give an accurate prognosis; if necessary, surgery is performed.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Manifested in a gradual deterioration of the retina. First, the dog loses night vision, then daytime vision is also lost, the dog goes blind. The situation is difficult to correct, but even a blind dog can easily adapt to new life circumstances if it is in a familiar environment.
• Epilepsy. As a rule, the disease is inherited. It manifests itself in the form of convulsions and seizures, which can be caused by: Labradors can suffer from epilepsy, which causes mild or severe seizures. Convulsions can occur as a result of unusual behavior, such as running fast.
• Tricuspid valve dysplasia (TVD). A congenital disease that manifests itself in a malformation of the tricuspid valve on the right side of the heart. It is detected during an ultrasound examination of the heart, can be asymptomatic and never make itself known, or can lead to the death of the dog.
• Myopathy. The disease manifests itself at the age of 6 weeks to 7 months, characterized by damage to the muscles and nervous system. The puppy becomes sleepy, lethargic, constrained on walks, and after physical exertion literally falls down without strength.
• Cold tail. The cause of the disease is considered to be a poor muscular connection between the vertebrae in the tail, as a result of which it becomes lethargic. The disease is benign, but can cause painful sensations.
• Ear infections. Due to their great love of water, Labradors often experience problems with their ears. To avoid infections, it is necessary to clean and check their ears in a timely manner.
• Obesity. Almost all Labradors are prone to the disease, if you give the dog free rein, it will eat a lot and often. Excess weight leads to serious diseases: diabetes, loss of vision, dysfunctions of the musculoskeletal system.

A Labrador should expect to live 10–12 years on average, provided they receive the right care and lead healthy lives.

Mating a Labrador Retriever

In female Labradors, the first heat occurs approximately 21 days after the dog reaches 6–12 months of age. It is advised to wait to begin mating until after the third heat; this fact does not indicate that the body is ready. If not, the puppies might be born sick and frail or the delicate body might not survive the birth.

It is advised by experts to begin mating dogs after they turn two years old.

The ideal time will be the period from 11 to 14 days from the beginning of the estrus in the female. 2 weeks before this, it is necessary to carry out the following procedures:

• Treat the dog from external and internal parasites.
• Visit the veterinarian to make sure there are no diseases.
• Carry out all missing vaccinations.

It’s critical to handle the decision of which male to mate with responsibly. It must be in possession of all the paperwork attesting to its provenance and breed membership. A corresponding agreement is reached with the boy’s owner prior to mating.

This is how mating is done:

• Animals meet on neutral territory and get acquainted.
• The last meal should be no later than 3 hours before the meeting, after which you need to walk the dog so that the intestines are emptied.
• Mating is carried out on the territory of the male, you cannot leave the animals unattended during this time, as help may be needed.
• Upon completion of mating, a “lock” state occurs, which lasts from 5 to 60 minutes.
• Control mating is carried out after 1-2 days.

A woman can expect to carry a child for 62 to 64 days after the end of her pregnancy.

It is crucial to understand that brown and fawn Labradors cannot be crossed when selecting a mate.

We’ll go over all you need to know about Labrador Retrievers in this post, including their attractive appearance, endearing dispositions, and vital maintenance advice. We want to give current and potential owners the best possible guide to help them understand everything from the playful nature of this breed to its training requirements, with over 120 colorful photos and real-life reviews. This thorough introduction will enable you to recognize the special traits of the Labrador Retriever, whether you’re thinking about getting one for your home or you just want to know more.

How to choose a Labrador Retriever puppy

Selecting a puppy from a reputable seller is crucial. It is advisable to think about nurseries first. Although the dog will cost more, you can be sure that you will receive a Labrador that possesses every trait that makes the breed unique. The breeder will provide you with all the information you need to know about the puppy and its parents, as well as details on feeding and caring for it. The infant will also receive all the age-appropriate vaccinations. Every breeder keeps in touch with their new charge. If you have any questions about owning a Labrador, you can always get in touch with them for assistance.

If you decide to buy a dog through advertisements, then it is better to pay attention to puppies aged 6 months, since it is during this period that you can most objectively assess the dog"s compliance with the breed standard, and also at this age many genetic diseases are already noticeable.

When selecting a baby, you should consider its curiosity and activity level—the animal shouldn’t be scared of strangers. A puppy in good health plays, has clean eyes and ears, and has glossy fur.

Boy or girl

Female Labradors are thought to be more submissive and subdued. They are quicker to learn new commands, more affectionate and loving toward their owners, and easier to train. They behave much better when out for a walk and don’t stray from the leash unless they’re feeling particularly hot.

Boys still possess the calmness and friendliness that define all Labradors, but they are more mischievous and frequently exhibit stubbornness and self-will. They take slightly longer to learn commands, but this isn’t due to a lack of intelligence—rather, it’s due to increased activity and distractibility.

Experts point out that girls get sick more frequently and shed more than boys do.

Boys are easier to handle in breeding because they don’t have children and don’t get hot. Dogs that refuse to carry on the family line must be castrated or sterilized; only then will there be no more issues with the animals.

Is it possible to buy an adult Labrador

There will be fewer difficulties with a dog under 3 years old, since it is still considered a teenager and adapts faster than adult dogs. But even in this case, you will have to put in a lot of effort. The dog very quickly becomes attached to a person, the loss of the owner and a change of residence will be a deep stress for the animal. Therefore, at first, it is necessary to create conditions as close as possible to the usual. Even in this case, the dog will be bored, refuse food and games. It is important to be patient and surround the pet with care, then gradually it will get used to the new owner and return to a full life.

If you adopt an adult dog from its owner, you must do the following inspections:

• Ask the owner to demonstrate the dog"s ability to follow commands. If it does not obey, then you are unlikely to be able to re-educate the animal.
• Ask about vaccinations – an adult dog must have all the necessary vaccinations.
• A good solution would be to go to the vet together and take the necessary tests to make sure that the dog is healthy and has no pathological deviations.
• Study the documents and reissue them, if the papers are missing, then the origin of the Labrador is very doubtful.

Photo gallery of Labrador retriever puppies

Cost of a Labrador retriever

Puppies of Labrador retrievers from reputable breeders can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000, depending on a number of variables. The cost of the baby will increase with the amount of regalia its parents own. The cost can go up to $2500 if we are discussing champions’ offspring, who can then participate in exhibitions.

Interesting facts about the Labrador retriever

• Sometimes Labrador retrievers are confused with golden retrievers, which are taken for a long-haired version of the Labrador. In fact, this is far from true. Golden retrievers have only one color option, their fur is long, and their body is much more graceful.
• Labradors have a 25% higher sense of smell than German Shepherds, which is confirmed by the results of research by German scientists. That is why dogs are actively involved in customs work. A Labrador named Yogi from England was awarded a government award – the Knight"s Gold Medal – for finding a shipment of drugs weighing 490 kg.
• Labradors are considered the best swimmers among dogs. They stay afloat thanks to their specially shaped tail and the presence of webbing on their paws. The dog is an excellent diver, and its fur practically does not allow water to reach the body, which allows it to swim even in cold weather without harm to health.
• Although the Labrador is a service dog, it does not have the skill of protecting territory, it needs to be developed and trained, the dog received such a reputation due to exemplary obedience, devotion, and excellent performance.
• Labradors practically do not feel pain, but have amazing endurance, so dogs are actively involved in various rescue operations.
• A Labrador can control the force of its jaw clenching. A dog can easily carry a chicken egg without crushing it with its teeth. Therefore, a dog will never bite a person unless it feels strong aggression from him or her and there is a need to protect the owner"s life. But with all this, Labradors love to chew on some household items.
• Labradors mature late, up to 4 years old, the dog retains the habits of a puppy. But even growing up, it retains a cheerful and playful disposition.
• Several centuries ago, the Labrador was called St. John"s dog or a small Newfoundland.

Which stars have a Labrador retriever

Not only are labradors incredibly popular among the general public but also among celebrities.

Various Labrador owners over time included:

• Leonid Brezhnev.
• Jacques Chirac.
• Francois Mitterrand.
• Bill Clinton.
• Margaret Thatcher.
• Vladimir Putin.

Additionally, celebrities do not ignore Labradors.

• Marina Mogilevskaya is the owner of a fawn Labrador named Gandalf Gray Winsberry Sweetriss.
• Honored Artist Nikolai Karachentsov lived with a Labrador named Tsilya. The pet passed away on the anniversary of the death of the people"s favorite.
• Mikhail Shirvindt loves dogs very much, for a long time his family had a Labrador named Chaucer.

Labradors shared homes with Valery Syutkin, Tatyana Arno, Yana Poplavskaya, Alena Khmelnitskaya, and Yuri Galtsev at various points in time.

Where the breed was filmed

Film heroes were frequently Labradors. The dog appears in the following motion pictures:

• Marley and Me.
• Marley and Me – 2.
• Hero of the Air.
• The Road Home.
• Property with a Tail.
• Sincere Paws.

Popular Questions and Answers to Them

How does a Labrador shed

Fall and spring are the two times a year that labradors shed. If brushed in a timely manner, moderate shedding won’t cause the owners any particular inconvenience.

Is a Labrador suitable for a family

For families with small children, labradors are the best dog breed. The most important thing is to make sure the dog gets regular walks and care.

Is a Labrador aggressive

Dogs that are labradors are not aggressive at all. They will never bite someone they know; instead, they will show them their unending kindness.

How smart is a Labrador

Labradors possess a sharp mind and high intelligence. They pick up commands quickly and take pleasure in playing with dog puzzle toys. However, training must begin at a young age, or the dog may grow obstinate and unyielding.

Is a Labrador noisy

A dog’s temperament—loud or quiet—is directly influenced by its upbringing. When a pet is raised in an environment of order and discipline, its owners won’t have any concerns.

How does a Labrador tolerate loneliness

A Labrador’s value for people is immense; they cannot stand being alone and will often become yearning and inventive when it comes to entertaining themselves. They might start chewing on shoes or furniture, for instance. As a result, leaving your pet alone for an extended period of time is not advised.

Labrador Retrievers make very unique pets. They are devoted friends and fantastic family pets because of their intelligence and amiable disposition. Whether you live in a busy home or a more sedate environment, their lively personality and desire to please make them adapt well to a variety of lifestyles.

In terms of maintenance, Labradors benefit greatly from consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Playtime, walks every day, and interesting activities keep them content and healthy. Their water-resistant, thick coat takes some maintenance, but regular brushing will help keep it under control. Your Labrador can keep up a glossy, healthy appearance with a little care.

Most of the time, training a Labrador retriever is satisfying. Because they are eager learners, you will both enjoy the obedience training. Consistency is crucial, and positive reinforcement is incredibly effective. When trained properly and given enough time, your Labrador will become well-mannered and capable of taking on new tasks.

In general, getting a Labrador Retriever is like bringing a loyal and affectionate friend into your life. They will bring happiness into your home with their abundance of joy. Whether their gentle disposition or lively spirit appeals to you, a Labrador can fill your home with boundless affection and joy.

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