8 Facts About Labs

Labrador Retrievers are a well-loved breed and probably the reason why they are the most popular breed in the USA. Anyone with a Lab best friend can attest to what great dogs they are!  Want to know more about the lovable Lab? Here are 8 facts about Labs below:

1. General Appearance

According to AKC Breed Standards, Labs typically fall into the following ranges:

2. Color

Labrador Retrievers can be found in 3 different colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. All three can even be born in one liter!

 3. Coat & Grooming

Labs do not have special grooming requirements due to their short hair. They shed seasonally and have a water-resistant coat. Regular brushing and a high-quality Large Breed Dog Food will help keep their coat healthy and shiny.

 4. Origin & History

The popular Lab was first recognized in Newfoundland, Canada, in the 1800s. Labs were used as water dogs to help fishermen retrieve cork floats and fishing nets. Through the fish trade, these dogs were introduced to the shores of England, where locals introduced the breed to hunting. Today the Lab retains its love of the water and is one of the most popular pets in the world. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Labs have been awarded number one on the breed popularity list for the 24th consecutive year.

 5. Retrieving Naturals

Labrador Retrievers are naturals at retrieving things.  Labs just love a good old-fashioned game of fetch, on land or in water.

 6. Guide Dogs

Labs are the most common breed used for guide dogs. According to Guide Dogs of America, 70% of the dogs used for their guide dog programs throughout the world are Labrador Retrievers. A few reasons Labs make excellent guide dogs is because they are:

• Easy to train

• Good-natured

• Intelligent

• Lively

 7. Speed

Labs are quite an active breed. They love all forms of exercise including: running, swimming, playing fetch, jogging, and walking. Depending on how energetic your Lab is, this breed may need around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours of activity each day. The Kennel Club provides a ratio for your dog’s age versus exercise rate. You want to provide your best friend with a healthy balance, without overdoing it, especially when they are still a young puppy!

“A good rule of thumb is a ratio of five minutes exercise per month of age (up to twice a day) until the puppy is fully grown, i.e. 15 minutes when three months old, 20 minutes when four months old etc. Once they are fully grown, they can go out for much longer.” -The UK Kennel Club

 8. Great with Children

Because Labs are a friendly breed, they are affectionate with families, kid friendly, dog friendly, and nice toward strangers. Labrador Retrievers are sweet-natured breeds, always trying to please those around them.

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 If you currently own a Labrador Retriever, what is your favorite quality about your best friend? If you are thinking about welcoming a Lab into your family, what questions do you have? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments below!