Labrador Retriever Information

In 1903, the English Kennel Club recognized the Labrador Retriever breed, then later in 1917 by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Today, it is listed as the number one registered dog breed with the AKC and is popular with dog lovers all around.

Labrador Retrievers are a type of gun dog that are naturally friendly, loyal, playful, and trainable. Because of this, it is no wonder that in 1991, it was voted as the most popular dog breed. Even children are drawn to Labradors.

This very active dog is highly trainable and it enjoys learning anything that would please its owner or audience. Other than retrieving, this dog enjoys, playing frisbee, running, swimming, and just about anything that entails play.

Labrador Retrievers can be very gentle too and if they want to, they can carry an egg in their mouth without breaking it.

With their natural curiosity and trainable characteristic, Labradors are often employed in police work for detection and retrieval assistance.

Dog Care

Since the Labrador Retriever is an active dog, dog owners are advised to allow play time on a daily basis. This breed needs to be able to swim, run or just be outside and play. Engage your dog in games that will stimulate him physically and mentally.

Although Labradors can withstand all types of weather, it still would prefer to be indoors where the temperature is constant and is in the company of family. So keep your Labrador safe inside the home where it could be comfortable.

Upkeep must be fairly active on a daily basis. Labrador retrievers must have daily exercise in the form of running and swimming. Retrieving, however, is at the top of the list of fun games that Labs really enjoy, especially through water such as the beach or even a large outdoor swimming pool.

Health

In general, the Labrador Retriever can live anywhere from ten to twelve years if cared for properly. Annual checkup is advised since this breed has major health problems like OCD or obsessive compulsive disorder, CHD or coronary heart disease, elbow dysplasia, obesity, and patellar luxation. Dog owners should be on the lookout of other health concerns such as diabetes, distichiasis, muscular dystrophy, tricuspid valve dysplasia, and even collapse due to over-activity.

Dog owners are advised to give the Labrador Retriever a diet best for its size and activities so that it can reach its full potential and keep it healthy and strong.