Is a Labrador Retriever the right dog for you?

Owning a dog can help an individual stay fit and active. Compared to non-dog owners, those with a dog get around 2 hours of moderate exercise a week just by walking them. This leads to a physically active lifestyle that can help with weight loss and improve heart health. Aside from the physical benefits, dogs can also aid in improving mental health.

You can choose between many dog breeds. If you want an easy-going pet that can help you stay active, a Labrador Retriever could be the right choice for you. Labs are active dogs that seek for attention all the time, forcing you to spend more time with your pet instead of slacking off.

Before you get a Labrador Retriever, do research first. Get to know the breed well enough and arm yourself with the necessary knowledge for raising an active furry friend.

Breed characteristics

A Labrador Retriever is the best choice if you are looking for assistance and companionship, bred to be a working dog, and by extension, an excellent pet. Being America’s most popular breed of dog, Labradors are easy-going and suitable as family pets, especially if you have small children.

Over the years, Labradors were divided into two different strains. The first strain is bred as a show dog, while the second strain is for fieldwork. But despite their distinct purpose, they still have the same common traits.

This breed of dog has a low adaptation capability. It can be hard for the dog to adapt to your living environment, especially if you are living in an apartment. It can, however, moderately endure both hot and cold temperatures.

A full-grown Labrador stands about 21 to 24 inches in height and weighs 50 to 80 pounds. Labrador Retrievers usually have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years.

Mellow temperament

Labradors have a tolerant temperament and are very easy-going dogs. Although nervousness and aggression can sometimes manifest in this breed, it is not typical for Labradors. How you raise and train your dog will have a significant impact on their temper. A friendly approach and a calm environment will give you a higher chance of having a warm and good-natured dog.

This dog has a high drive to hunt and usually loves to roam around. It also has water and soil-resistant fur that are easy to wash and clean. It is a very active breed but is very friendly and obedient if adequately trained.

Labradors also are very sensitive and hate being alone. This dog breed is the best option for a first-time dog owner.

Grooming needs

Labradors are also very easy to groom despite their large size.

However, they shed like crazy, so expect fur everywhere inside your home. 

Breed history

A Labrador Retriever is a sporting dog. They are used for retrieving items or animals in a hunting game. Their sniffing skills also made them the best hunting dog back then, and because of these traits, they have become the best canine dogs at present.

Aside from being unit dogs, the Labrador is the most favorite household dog due to its gentle personality and loyalty. The ancestor of the Labrador breed is the St. John’s Water Dog, also known as the lesser Newfoundland. Like the well-known Labrador of today, St. John’s Dog is a working dog with a random mix of Old English, Portuguese, and Irish working dogs.

The name Labrador was first documented in 1839 and owned by the Duke of Buccleuch. Lord John Scott, the Duke’s brother, began to import these breeds, sending out three St. John’s Dogs named Brandy, Jock, and Nell.

The American Kennel Club classifies the Labrador as a sporting dog. It only proves that labs have the best of both worlds being the best house dog and the best sporting dog. Having a versatile pet at home will surely make raising one an exciting experience.

General health

Labradors have a high risk of obesity. They have the potential to gain excessive weight if you are not careful with what you give them. It’s recommended to feed these dogs the best salmon dog food available in the market. Not only will it satisfy your dog’s hunger, but you can rest assured that your dog is eating healthy food.

The most common health problems for Labradors are hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and osteochondritis dissecans. Some dogs may also have diabetes, distichiasis muscular dystrophy, and entropion.

These health conditions are a significant issue and should not be ignored. Labradors are also prone to suffering from minor health concerns now and then. Hypothyroidism, cataract, and retinal dysplasia, to name a few. Make sure that your dog’s twice-yearly trip to the vet includes a knee, eye, and elbow check-up.

Training a Labrador Retriever

Whatever dog breed you’re considering, the primary question remains the same: how hard is it to train a dog? Luckily, Labradors are known for their trainability. They are highly motivated dogs, which makes them one of the easiest breeds to teach.

Labradors also love to please their owners, and this will have a significant impact during their training. Labradors like to eat, making training fun and motivating for them. In return for treats, Labs work hard and follow whatever command you give them.

This trait traces back to the Labrador’s ancestors. They were initially made as working dogs and even called the fisherman’s mate.

Labs have an innate work ethic and intelligent temperament, which makes them easy to train. They are friendly and less aggressive compared to other dog breeds, making them great pets. Labradors are the best example of being a “man’s best friend.”

Takeaway

Dog lovers will choose any dog breed as long as they have a connection with it. Labradors have characteristics that can make them especially appealing. The breed’s stellar physical attributes and amicable attitude will surely melt your heart. But no matter what breed you decide on, it is vital that you and your dog have a connection from the first time you meet.

Courtney John is an animal advocate whose life mission is to spread awareness against animal cruelty across the globe. When she’s not busy making ends meet, Courtney tours around the country supporting different animal welfare activities.

 

 

*DogsBestLife.com participates in the Chewy Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to let our site earn fees by linking to Chewy.com. 

Puppy training 101: 7 tips to start your dog off right