Why we Love the Labrador Retriever Breed
- #1 AKC Breed out of 192
- Labs are friendly, people loving, and outgoing which makes them excellent family dogs
- While Labs come in three base colors; Chocolate, Yellow & Black, there are 9 variations to the colors including Silver and Charcoal Labs.
- Labs are a sturdy and well-balanced dog that stands between 21.5 and 24.5 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 55 and 80 pounds usually.
- There are two types of Labs, the American and the English; however they both compete in show, field trials and hunting.
- Labradors bred for show and conformation are commonly known as English type
- Labradors bred for field trials and hunting are more commonly known as American type
- There is only ONE breed standard and all Labradors follow the same standard with AKC.
- Famously friendly, Labradors can be protective but are not a typical guard dog as they bond and socialize well.
- The Lab should not be hyper, however it is an enthusiastic athlete and does require regular exercise to stay physically and mentally fit.
- Labradors have thick, water-repellant double coats that shed. We recommend feeding a skin and coat formula (www.lifesabundance.com/lindcouleelabs) to reduce shedding and promote a healthy and shiny coat.
- Labs who become bored or who are not exercised enough may develop undesirable traits such as hyperactive and or destructive behavior to release pent up energy.
- Labradors are excellent at hunting, agility, obedience, tracking, swimming, field trials, and retrieving. Many Labs are trained for incredibly important roles as search and rescue dogs, bomb detection dogs, and service dogs.
- As with any dog, puppy training and socialization are very important to the success of you and your dog.
- Labradors are by nature, very devoted, extremely intelligent and loyal companions who love to be included in all of your family activities.
- As a very healthy breed, there are still things that responsible breeders screen for. These include Hip and Elbow Dysplasia screening, Exercise Induced Collapse testing, an eye condition called Progressive Retinal Atrophy, and as in other large and deep chested dogs, Labs can develop life threatening bloat.
- Labrador’s do well on a high quality and balance dog food. As in other breeds, some dogs are prone to being overweight so it is wise feed according to a regulated diet plan. We highly recommend always feeding a reputable veterinarian formulated diet that always has meat as the first ingredient, (www.lifesabundance.com/lindcouleelabs) to ensure that the nutritional needs of your beloved dog are met. It is important that the diet guarantees omega 3’s and 6’s for a healthy coat and skin, an antioxidant system that includes vitamins C & E, Calcium & Phosphorus for healthy teeth and strong bones, dietary fiber to maintain a healthy digestive tract, nutritious vegetables, prebiotic fiber and probiotics etc…
- We also feed and recommend a wellness vitamin daily tablet that perfectly complements the high quality food we feed. (www.lifesabundance.com/lindcouleelabs).
- Treats can be utilized as a training aid, but in access can lead to obesity. We feed and recommend treats from (www.lifesabundance.com/lindcouleelabs).
- Always have fresh water on hand and available for your dog at all times.
