labrador-retriever

Labrador Retriever Breed Profile

The UK's favourite dog breed. A friendly, family dog and trusted service dog.

Labrador Retriever Profile

What's the Labrador Retriever's history and background?

The Labrador retriever is a devoted family dog who’s history dates back to the 1600s in Newfoundland, Canada. They were originally bread to help fisherman in the 1800’s with fish that fell from the hooks, diving into the water to retrieve the precious catch, hence the name retriever. With the well established trade routes between Canada and England, these dogs eventually found their way here, where their remarkable retrieving ability was soon spotted by sporting hunters.

 

Due to their active breading history, these dogs have strong haunches and stamina, and they love water. Labrador retrievers come in three distinct colour variations, blonde, black and chocolate. Find out more about the UK’s favourite dog below.

What's the Labrador Retriever's Behaviour & Personality?

How to groom a Labrador Retriever

  • Although appearing to be a simple coat to maintain, Labradors shed their hair in excess
  • The thick, waterproof coat requires frequent washing and brushing no less than once a week in order to maintain its shine
  • For Labs, brush out the dead winter coat in the spring, and brush again in the autumn to allow the new one to grown in
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How much exercise does a Labrador Retriever need?

  • Labs have high energy levels so they need room to run. They love to sprint, hitting speeds of 12mph in 3 seconds!
  • A rule of thumb with these dogs is 1 hour of exercise a day, be that swimming, jogging or playing fetch, as long as its more than a regular walk.

How much training does a Labrador Retriever need?

  • These dogs a easy to train, so long as you start at a young age.
  • If Labradors aren’t getting enough exercise they can become bored and ignore owner commands.
  • Their natural instinct is to retrieve, so incorporate this into their training schedule to keep them happy and eager for more.

What's the average lifespan of a Labrador Retriever?

  • The average lifespan of a Labrador Retriever is 10-14 years.

What's are common health problems for a Labrador Retriever?

  • Unfortunately these dogs are prone to many health issues so bear this in mind before taking one into your home
  • Hip dysplasia is the most common issue caused by an abnormal formation in the hip, leading to a loss of cartilage and pain
  • Labs are also susceptible to a genetic eye condition called retinal dysplasia, which causes blind spots
  • As with many athletic breeds, labs have common issues with their knees and elbows
  • Health ailments are sadly extremely common in Labrador Retrievers, meaning its best to get a DNA test for your pet to better understand and diagnose any health issues running in their family 

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