Labrador Retriever

It might be interesting to know that the Labrador Retriever dog breed is not originally from Labrador, but hails from Newfoundland! They were originally bred for water retrieving, fish retrieving, and pulling fishing boats. No wonder this dog is so strong!

The Newfoundland Retriever, as it was called in the early 1800s, all but disappeared in Newfoundland because of a heavy tax placed upon dog owners. It wasn’t long after that the word Labrador fully eclipsed that of Newfoundland. The Labrador is one of the most popular breeds in history.

Labrador Retriever Dog Breed: Temperament

There are few breeds as obedient and eager to please their owners as the Labrador Retriever. They are great with children, are model citizens in the household, and perform admirably in the field. They do tend to be destructive if not exercised regularly.

Did I mention they absolutely love a good swim?

Labrador Retriever: Health

Labradors do best when living indoors because of their need to socialize and interact with their family. A game of fetch or a good swim is enough to satisfy this dogs daily exercise needs. Grooming requirements are more than manageable. Their coat will only need to be brushed once weekly.

Because of the Lab’s size, it is prone to canine hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, and osteochondritis dissecans. Make sure they get their daily exercise! They will become obese without it. There is also a minor chance of central progressive retinal atrophy, retinal dysplasia, hypothyroidism, cataracts, and hot spots.

Labs will oftentimes live to see 12 years of age.