December 31, 2009 | Rick | Comments 161

Labrador Retriever Information

The Labrador retriever is the most popular breed of dog in the United States. They are also by far the most popular dogs in The United Kingdom with over 45,000 registrations. There is a lot of information available about the Lab in a variety of areas. Labs are great pets in general?they adore kids and they are faithful servants. Labs love to exercise, run around and play but they also require some maintenance.

Labs need to be exercised every day?whether it is a play in the park, a swim in the pool, or a walk around the block. A home with a securely fenced in yard is the perfect environment for any Lab since they need a lot of room to run and play. In most instances Labs just love other pets too! They are fantastic with children and they are great watchdogs.

Labrador retriever?s often develop some health problems such as epilepsy, skin tumors, canine hip and elbow dysplasia, eye disorders, and skin allergies. Labs are no more prone to illness and disease than any other dog but each dog breed has its own group of health problems and these are what Labs seem to get most often.

The Labrador has a coat of hair that repels water; it is also thick and needs to be brushed regularly. Labs also need for their owners to brush their teeth for them or provide them with dental chews that do the trick instead of brushing. This helps to prevent plaque from forming on the teeth and thwarts periodontal disease. Their toenails also need to be clipped regularly. A healthy and cared for Lab will usually live about 12-15 years. This life span requires that the dog gets proper nutrition and exercise as well as great medical care and good living conditions.

The American Kennel Association first registered the Labrador in 1917. The Lab originates from Canada and was used by fishermen to haul in the fishing nets from the extremely cold waters. They were also used by hunters to retrieve ducks and other waterfowl. They are also used as guide dogs for the blind and therapy dogs.

The difference between English and American Labs is that the English Lab is a bit smaller and shorter but their face seems to appear fuller. The American Labs have a more overexcited personality. The typical characteristics of the Lab are that they are very smart, compliant, docile, friendly, and trustworthy. They are also very full of life particularly when they are puppies. Labs have a wonderful disposition. They are non-aggressive, playful and constantly willing to make somebody?s day.

Conversely, if you want a family pet but don?t want the hassle or the commitment of taking your dog running, biking, or swimming then it is best that you do not buy a Lab because they really need this interaction with their master to thrive.

Labrador retriever?s require a great deal of camaraderie and dislike being left home unaccompanied for more than just a little while. When they are, they can be very destructive so if you are gone a lot then you may want to reconsider buying the Lab.