Athletic, intelligent and eager to please, it is no wonder that the Labrador Retriever has been America’s breed for over 28 years!
Of course, this charming large dog breed has been wowing crowds for decades and has often found themselves near the top of the list. Known for their three color, the Labrador Retriever is one of only four breeds that were developed in Canada.
In addition to being the most popular, Labrador Retrievers are ranked as the number one breed for families. They are known for being gentle and patient with children while having the energy to keep up with them in play. Their temperament makes them excellent for a variety of canine careers and they are often the top breed to work as service dogs.
However, even with all of their pluses, owners need to be sure that they are getting a breed that works for them. While they aren’t as energetic as some working and sporting breeds, the Labrador Retriever does require ample exercise and training. In addition, due to their popularity, it can be difficult to find a high quality, health tested pup.
But if you are willing to put in the work, you will be delighted with your versatile pup who is happiest being with you…whether that means relaxing at home together or reaching new summits on a hike. So, let’s start this journey together with everything you need to know about the Labrador Retriever.
The Athletic Appearance of the Labrador Retriever
Height:
Males: 22.5 to 24.5 inches (57.15 to 62.23cm)
Females: 21.5 to 23.5 inches (54.61 to 59.69cm)
Weight:
Males: 65 to 80 pounds (29.48 to 36.29 kg)
Females: 55 to 70 pounds (24.95 to 31.75kg)
Coat Colors:
The Labrador Retriever has three accepted colors; however, they do have a number of mismarks that can be found in the breed including black with tan points. These are not accepted by any breed clubs, but they are not considered to be a rare color. If you are looking for a mismarked or unusual colored Labrador Retriever, be aware that they should not be more expensive and are not recognized by any kennel clubs.
In addition, Labrador Retrievers have been seen in silver, however, there is a lot of controversy about the color, which we will get into later in this article. The three accepted colors of the Labrador Retriever are:
- Black:Preferably a dark black with dark eyes and dark nose and lips.
- Yellow:Ranging from a light cream yellow that is almost white to a deep red, mahogany. Black or liver colored (also known as Dudley) noses can be seen in this color variation.
- Chocolate:Medium to dark chocolate. The darker shade of chocolate is preferred. The nose and lips should match the coat color.
Labrador Retrievers are large dogs that are known for being athletic in appearance. They should have a square body with the length being equal to their height while still maintaining the look of a well proportioned and athletic dog. The topline of the Labrador Retriever should be level and the overall look of the body should be muscular with the appearance of power.
The head of the Labrador Retriever should be broad and the muzzle should not taper. There should be a moderate stop and the mouth shouldn’t have over pronounced jowls. The eyes are large and set wide apart. They should be brown in color for yellow and black Labrador Retrievers and can range from hazel to brown in chocolate Labrador Retrievers.
A very important trait of the Labrador Retriever is the otter tail. This is a tail that is thick at the base and tapers to a point. In addition, Labrador Retrievers have webbed toes that aid it when working in and around water.
The coat of the Labrador Retriever should consist of two coats. The top coat should be short and dense and should have a harder texture without being wiry. The undercoat is softer and shorter than the top coat. The Labrador Retriever coat is water resistant and handles colder temperatures. The Labrador Retriever comes in three approved colors.
Finally, when it comes to build, there are actually two different types of Labrador Retriever and both are accepted by the American Kennel Clubs as one breed, however, the types come from two different breeding lines. These are
- Confirmation:This Labrador Retriever is often heavier with a stockier build. They have a wider head and are usually slightly shorter than the other type. They are also known as English-bred and Show type. They tend to have a calmer temperament but still have good energy, which is expected with the Labrador Retriever.
- Field:Also called working or American-bred Labrador Retrievers, these dogs are usually taller and have a longer muzzle and thinner head. They are usually more active as many of the field lines are still used as gundogs today.