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Understanding Labrador Retrievers – Three Things You Can Rely on When Raising a Labrador Retriever

Rick — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 05:23:53 +0000

Labrador Retrievers, also known as labs, are wonderful animals. They are a popular pet on television shows and in homes worldwide.
To absolutely understand the true nature of the Labrador Retriever, you have to have a firm grasp on the three most significant aspects that make up this animal’s personality and personality. These are:
1. Labradors Must Have Good Training: As hunters, Labradors must be able to follow precise directions in order to find birds. Even if they do not have a direction to move in, they will keep hunting without stopping. So, a good Labrador will actually take matters into its own hands in order to get the job complete.
These character traits are great for people to enjoy having a service dog that can take on its own in certain situations. On the other hand, it’s bad for dog owners who are incapable of providing absolutely no direction whatsoever. This is where most problems lie with new Labrador owners.
Many people see perfectly trained Labs at the park or walking with their owners and think to themselves “I want one of those dogs. They are so well trained!” Little do they realize that dogs are never born trained. It takes nonstop progressive commitment to specific training protocols, all based on a Lab’s genetic make up. This can prove too much work for some owners to handle and end up with nothing but problems and aggravation with their pet.
2. Labradors Are Like A Bowl of Fruit: Another important thing to understand with Labradors is that they are unusual and not every Labrador is the same. Labradors are like a bowl of cherries. So, you never know just what you will get as they grow up.
Most Labradors show the same interests, hunting, running, retrieving, and swimming, but oftentimes you may get a Labrador puppy that may absolutely hate water. If you are lucky enough, your Lab may not have an oral fixation, which causes many to eat anything they can get their little mouths on.
The one thing you can certainly count on is that every Labrador is unique. Through proper training, you’ll have a wonderful dog that will display the utmost in loyalty and affection until its last day on earth with you.
3. Labs Are Born To Hunt: Unlike many other hunting dog breeds, Labs do not just wait for its human hunting companion to tell them to retrieve fallen birds. These dogs have to be so attentive that they can mark the fallen foul on their own.
It is said that Labrador Retrievers are more conscious of their surroundings than other hunting dogs because of their heritage. When hunting, Labs wait for the right signal from their hunter when seeking out to find the prey. Likewise, at home, they frequently wait by their owner’s side for the next task or command, no matter of what it may be. It could even be a walk or even a treat. This is what makes a more needy for some pet owners.

Labrador Retrievers: Keeping Them Healthy

Rick — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 10:35:41 +0000

The Labrador Retriever has gained itself a reputation throughout the world of dog breeds of being one of the most friendly and calm dogs going. All the Labrador Retriever information available simply reiterates the fact that if this particular dog was laid back any further it would be lying down!

Labrador Retrievers are perfect in every way, no flaws at all right? Not quite, you see being a large dog as dogs go the faithful Labrador Retriever needs a fair amount of food. The problem comes when your dog simply does not stop eating.

Most of the information available about Labrador Retrievers will say about their voracious appetite, they cannot seem to have enough food. They are a big dog weighing between 45 – 80lbs. A large part of the problem comes from the dog receiving too little exercise and too much food. Labs are the most healthy when they have a proper exercise routine in place.

Labrador Retrievers adore people and especially their own ‘human family’ and they are a dog that simply enjoy being close to people. The closeness is enjoyed even more so when the dog’s family are eating. Once the dog turns its beautiful puppy-dog eyes on the people asking for food most will cave in and relent.

Owners of Labrador Retrievers feel that they are being kind by giving in when their dog asks for food. The truth of it is they are actually being cruel. Their Labrador Retriever is much more likely to suffer from health disorders if the dog is obese. Carrying the excessive weight around with them puts a lot of strain on the dog for starters; the dog’s joints can suffer as can the Labrador Retriever’s heart.

Being overweight can also make the dog and other dog breeds susceptible to diabetes, the condition is treatable but if you read a lot of the dog information literature available regarding diabetes in dogs it explains that diabetes can actually make dogs very sick and even blind if left untreated.

Take the time to observe your Labrador Retriever properly and notice if the dog’s body has an hourglass shape to it at all. If the dog appears fuller around the abdominal region then the chances are that your dog is overweight, as are so many dogs I know but it is so commonly spotted in the Labrador Retriever. Owners need to be firm and cut out all the treats and reduce their food intake.

The problem is that the more weight the dog piles on the less active he / she is going to feel and you then end up on an endless ‘circling’ exercise, simply going around in circles.

There are people that can hopefully help you and your lovable Labrador Retriever, even dog dietitians exist in today’s world so do not be afraid to ask for assistance. It’s also helpful to read up on how to properly feed your Labrardor on the internet. Once you start giving your Lab the proper amount of food and exercise, thee weight should easily start to fall off.

Do Labrador Retrievers Point?

Rick — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 07:40:14 +0000

Reports of Labrador Retrievers pointing date back to the 1940?s.

Are Labrador Retrievers Good Pets?

Rick — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 17:28:10 +0000

Throughout the whole of the UK and the USA there is one dog amongst all the other dog breeds that stands head and shoulders above the others for popularity, the Labrador Retriever.

If you are fortunate enough to spend some time in the company of a Labrador Retriever you will soon discover why these lovable dogs are proving to be so popular. These dogs are friendly, playful, intelligent and loyal. Labrador Retrievers absolutely adore children and this is why families rate them as one of the best dog breeds around.

The Labrador Retriever is a fun loving breed, they enjoy the water either swimming in it or generally simply splashing around having a good time. Another reason that the Labrador Retriever is such an ideal choice for families is the fact that they are a dog that can just go on for hours, much like children! They love to play fetch and swim. They will keep your children entertained all day long as well as wear them out. Labradors have unparalleled energy. Some have even run until they have given themselves a heart attack. They simply don’t know when they have given their all.

There are numerous dog breeds that make brilliant family dogs but none that are quite as good at filling the vacancy than the Labrador Retriever. These particular dogs do not simply just fill the gap in a family they become companions and friends. Any information on Labrador Retrievers will tell potential owners how mellow these dogs truly are, if you are considering a watchdog then a Labrador Retriever is probably not a good first choice. Intruders would just be covered in licks! They do possess quite a deep bark though and stand fairly tall and if the intruder pays no attention to their exceedingly waggy tail then they could feasibly be worried by a Labrador Retriever.

As far as dogs go the Labrador Retriever is an easy dog to train due to its intelligence. They are a breed of dog that simply loves to please its owner and make them happy and pleased with them. When compared with other dog breeds Labrador Retrievers do not shed as much fur as others, this is always a bonus.

If you read any dog information it will normally tell you of the biggest flaw the Labrador Retriever possesses, its appetite. These dogs are like dustbins on legs! They have a big appetite and are prone to gaining weight quickly. The trick is to monitor their food intake and also ensure they receive enough exercise. This is a clever dog though and will attempt bribery with its gorgeous big, brown eyes.

Labrador Retrievers are prone to several disorders that are associated with too much weight, as are most dog breeds. It is therefore imperative to watch their diet especially the amount of treats consumed. They are also prone to hip dysplasia, a disease that causes the joints to deteriorate. It is very painful for them and often fatal. It is important to have your dog screened for dysplasia before you take them home from the breeder.

The Labrador Retriever is a perfect addition as a family dog due to its incredible nature and temperament.

Labrador Retrievers as Pets

Rick — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 19:39:24 +0000

Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds to be kept as pets. They are known for their gentle and loving behaviour and all the information on Labrador Retrievers will reiterate the fact that they are a wonderfully calm dog.

The Labrador Retriever has actually been around for numerous years and commenced their life as assistance dogs to the fishermen in Newfoundland. During the 1800’s these dogs were relied on by the fishermen to help them retrieve the nets and also the fish. Labrador Retrievers have a distinct advantage over most other dog breeds when it comes to swimming in that they possess a water repellent coat. Most information on Labrador Retrievers explains how much these dogs adore the water and it is so true.

Another ‘job’ that the Labrador Retriever excels at is retrieving waterfowl from the water for their master. The dogs are taught to be very careful when they take the waterfowl in their mouths because the hunters do not wish for them to be damaged.

In the end people eventually began to recognize the Labrador Retriever as the perfect dog to have as a pet due to its wonderful personality and nature.

Labrador Retrievers are available in 3 varying colours yellow, black and chocolate. It was during the year of 1899 that the initial yellow Labrador Retriever was born and christened Ben of Hyde. Ben’s line is actually still observed in today’s yellow Labrador Retrievers that are signed up with the breed club.

Then suddenly during the 1940’s brown Labrador Retrievers appeared on the scene seemingly just coming from nowhere, there were comments made about how much their colour resembled the colour of chocolate and that is how this particular dog gained its name.

There are 2 genes in Labrador Retrievers that determine the dog’s colouring. The initial gene decides the actual colour, yellow, black or brown; the second gene is responsible for the pigmentation of the actual colouring of the dog’s coat. It decides whether the Labrador Retriever should be light yellow or a rich dark brown colour.

It does not matter which colour your Labrador Retriever is as they are all the same dog underneath their coat colouring. All the information on Labrador Retrievers explains how wonderful these dogs truly are as members of the family, out of all the dog breeds available the faithful and loyal Labrador Retriever is the first in the queue for suitability.

Labrador Retrievers Make Great Family Pets

Rick — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 02:38:44 +0000

Throughout the whole of the UK and the USA there is one dog amongst all the other dog breeds that stands head and shoulders above the others for popularity, the Labrador Retriever. If you are fortunate enough to spend some time in the company of a Labrador Retriever you will soon discover why these lovable dogs are proving to be so popular. These dogs are friendly, playful, intelligent and loyal. Labrador Retrievers absolutely adore children and this is why families rate them as one of the best dog breeds around. The Labrador Retriever is a fun loving breed, they enjoy the water either swimming in it or generally simply splashing around having a good time. Another reason that the Labrador Retriever is such an ideal choice for families is the fact that they are a dog that can just go on for hours, much like children! They love to play fetch and swim. They will keep your children entertained all day long as well as wear them out. Labradors have unparalleled energy. Some have even run until they have given themselves a heart attack. They simply don’t know when they have given their all. There are numerous dog breeds that make brilliant family dogs but none that are quite as good at filling the vacancy than the Labrador Retriever. These particular dogs do not simply just fill the gap in a family they become companions and friends. Any information on Labrador Retrievers will tell potential owners how mellow these dogs truly are, if you are considering a watchdog then a Labrador Retriever is probably not a good first choice. Intruders would just be covered in licks! They do possess quite a deep bark though and stand fairly tall and if the intruder pays no attention to their exceedingly waggy tail then they could feasibly be worried by a Labrador Retriever. As far as dogs go the Labrador Retriever is an easy dog to train due to its intelligence. They are a breed of dog that simply loves to please its owner and make them happy and pleased with them. When compared with other dog breeds Labrador Retrievers do not shed as much fur as others, this is always a bonus. If you read any dog information it will normally tell you of the biggest flaw the Labrador Retriever possesses, its appetite. These dogs are like dustbins on legs! They have a big appetite and are prone to gaining weight quickly. The trick is to monitor their food intake and also ensure they receive enough exercise. This is a clever dog though and will attempt bribery with its gorgeous big, brown eyes. Labrador Retrievers are prone to several disorders that are associated with too much weight, as are most dog breeds. It is therefore imperative to watch their diet especially the amount of treats consumed. They are also prone to hip dysplasia, a disease that causes the joints to deteriorate. It is very painful for them and often fatal. It is important to have your dog screened for dysplasia before you take them home from the breeder. The Labrador Retriever is a perfect addition as a family dog due to its incredible nature and temperament.

The Many Colors Of The Labrador Retriever’s Coat

Rick — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 11:25:28 +0000

Many people think of the Labrador Retriever as simply that just a Labrador Retriever, the one dog with no variation at all. They are quite surprised when they read information on Labrador Retrievers and discover that they are actually available in three different kinds.

Famous Labrador Retrievers: America’s Dog

Rick — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 20:24:26 +0000

Throughout the years there have been numerous Labrador Retrievers that have captured the eyes of the human world and the ears of the dog world! Because of their wonderful disposition, and extreme intelligence, Labs have become on of America’s favorite dogs.

Jake is a black Labrador Retriever search and rescue dog. He has been trained to specifically look for people in the after turmoil of disasters; it is worth reading some of the array of dog information available regarding these brave dogs.

They risk their own lives in order to help people in need, one of the main dog breeds employed for the task happen to be Labrador Retrievers. Jake was involved in the massive search exercise of the World Trade Center building, the brave Labrador Retriever searched tirelessly through the smoke filled building hunting for survivors. Jake was also one of the dogs present in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

Another Labrador Retriever noted for his bravery connected with the World Trade Center building is guide dog Dorado. The plucky yellow Labrador Retriever led his owner down 70 storeys moments before the first tower collapsed.

Most of the information on Labrador Retrievers explains how calm and placid they are in comparison to many other dog breeds. They are the perfect candidates when it comes to dog search and rescue work. They love to please their owners and have very sensitive noses. Finding illegal items for Law Enforcement makes them all the more happy.

Another canine hero to be fondly remembered is the fabulous yellow Labrador Retriever who went by the name of Endal. He was an assistance dog to his beloved owner, Allen Parton, who is an ex Royal Navy Chief Petty Officer. Allen was seriously injured during the Gulf War and relied on a wheelchair.

A reversing car threw Allen from his wheelchair one day and it was the courageous Labrador Retriever Endal that nudged Allen’s mobile phone next to his face and even placed him into the recovery position before running off to find help. This loving dog was remarkable and could complete over a 100 different tasks including withdrawing money from a cash machine. Endal was the most decorated dog throughout the world.

The Labrador Retriever has also been a reliable mascot to many sporting teams over the years. The Memphis Mad Dogs were a Canadian football team and their famous mascot was a black Labrador Retriever called Alien. He became known for charging onto the field and fetching the kicking tee after each and every kick off.

Duck Hunting Training Techniques Can Benefit All Retrievers

Rick — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 11:43:22 +0000

Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, mixed retriever breeds as well as all water dogs can have more enriched lives by learning training techniques used by duck hunters.
Once the owner of a retriever has learned the skills to teach his dog all he can be in the field a new world opens up. Training your retriever can become a highlight of family activities and at the same time give the retriever all the exercise he needs.
Too often retriever owners make the mistake of assuming only hunting dogs need to be taught marks and lines. But it is these exercises that keep the dog exercised and at the same time fulfills the basic need to retrieve. Not just throwing a toy a few feet but rather retrieves from a distance. This is referred to as a mark. The dog watches the dummy as it is thrown and then marks the location of the fall. Training dummies are used for this activity and can found at dog supply stores.
A single mark is the best exercise to teach the dog to mark. You will need a helper to throw the dummy. It is best to start with one person helping. Having two or more helpers in the field can cause the dog to gaze back and forth and disrupt his marking ability.
Double marks can motivate the dog to return quickly to retrieve another mark. Have your helper throw a dummy in one direction (approximately 50 feet to begin) and another helper throw a closer mark. Having your dog retrieve the last mark thrown is the usual order of pick up. Place the helpers so that there is no chance of going to the wrong mark. The more distant mark is often referred to as the memory mark. The dog will learn to judge distance if you vary the location of the helpers at each new marking lesson.
You will have a very enjoyable training session as long as each participant knows his job. Here are the steps to keep in mind. The handler places the helper in the field and decides where the starting line should be. He then heels his dog to the line holding him by a rope attached to the collar. He signals the helper with his free arm to throw. The dog must follow the flight of the dummy until it lands and only when the dog is intently fixed on it does the handler send the dog. The helper should remain silent facing the mark as the dog makes the retrieve.
When you are first beginning, find a park-like area with mowed grass and always try to use white dummies since dogs do not see red. Initially, do short marks about 50 feet or less. After a few weeks the training exercises can include water work. So if you are at a pond, lake, or river you can have lots of fun with marking retrieves across the water giving the dog a chance to do what he was bred to do. Once your retriever has successfully retrieved a mark it can be repeated without the helper. This is referred to as giving the dog a line.
The requirement to accomplish the above exercises is basic obedience. This must include the ability to return to the hander to deliver the dummy. Fun short marks can be introduced as early as four months old. Most dogs need a number of months to prepare for marking lessons.

Goldens and Black Labrador Retrievers,

Rick — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 08:24:58 +0000

Today I fell into a trap that I should never have allowed myself to get into. I actually trusted my dog, my Nikki, a 3 year golden retriever.
Nikki is an amazingly affectionate dog, even more than normal for a golden retriever. She is gentle, good natured and behaves pretty well.
She loves going out for car drives, and she is a very well behaved dog in the car. She sits beside me, head hanging out the window and gently watching the world go by. She never gets agitated, restless or excited, even when she spots another dog out the window.
The other day, I took both Nikki, and Benny my black lab out for a drive. This time Benny was sitting in the front. Nikki was in the back. As usual I had the back and front window open.
I drove around the corner, and pulled into my driveway. And, what do I see…Nikki, sitting by the front gate. She must have jumped out the back window as I was pulling around the corner and ran to the gate.
I had absolutely NO clue she had even jumped out. Never before did she ever show any signs of jumping out.
Needless to say I was freaking. I mean, with a little imagination, I could imagine what could have happened.
Rule number one: Don’t trust your dogs. No matter how well behaved your dogs are, they are still dogs. Look out for their safety. Always make safety your first priority.
I should have known better. I try to make dog safety and dog training and dog nutrition my priorities. I have 3 dogs, 2 black labs, and my Nikki, a golden retriever. Dukie, one of my black labs is blind. Oddly enough, when I walk my 3 dogs and my neighbour comes and joins me with her dog, Dukie behaves the best. He loves walking and going for car rides. If you are observing him, you would never know he is blind.
The Labrador Retriever (”Labrador” or “Lab” for short), is one of several kinds of retriever, and are the most popular breeds of dog (by registered ownership) in both the United States and the United Kingdom. The breed is exceptionally friendly, intelligent and good natured, and as a rule these qualities mean that Labs love people, handle children well, and therefore make excellent family and service dogs. Benny, my black lab and Nikki are both Certified Therapy Dogs. They visit the elderly in homes.
Labradors are relatively large with males typically weighing 60 to 80 lb (27 to 36 kg) and females 50 to 70 lb (23 to 32 kg). They are energetic outgoing dogs, and are black, yellow, or brown (called “chocolate”) in color, in that order of frequency. Their fur is usually fairly short and straight, and the tail quite broad and strong. The otter-like tail and webbed toes of the Labrador Retriever make him an excellent swimmer. Their interwoven coat is also waterproof, providing more assistance for swimming. The tail acts as a rudder for changing directions. Yellow labs can have black or pink noses; chocolate and black labs’s noses match the coat color.
As with some other breeds, the English and the America lines differ slightly. Labs are bred in England as a medium size dog, shorter and stockier with fuller faces than their American counterparts which are bred as a larger dog. I have both, one English, My Benny, and one American, my Dukie.
Famous Labs