holiday advice

I Luv The Labrador

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labradorAthletic, 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.

Dr Snippets Pet Hotel Tips

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Going on a vacation with a pet might sound challenging, especially in case you’ve already chosen a destination of your dreams. However, pets are our family members that deserve to stay involved in everything, even to our holidays.

That’s why we’ve prepared a list of pet-friendly hotels that will help you spend a relaxing time with your four-legged friend.

We all know how dog owners can feel sad about leaving their dogs to boarding kennels. The things can be especially difficult in case you own a companion dog breed. Since companion dogs used to work alongside their owners, they can start feeling anxious and depressed by realizing their owners are not by their side.

Even when you want to spend a weekend without your pooch can cause him to feel sad and stressful. Therefore, it’s advisable to take your four-legged friend with you whenever you can.

To make sure you’ve packed all the essentials for your furry friend, we decided first to introduce you with the over needed checklist.

What to bring to a pet-friendly hotel for your dog?

It’s an undeniable fact that your pet would be happy to spend a holiday with you. It’s the time when you’ll not go to work and leave him/her to spend time alone.

On the other hand, for some dogs,  relocation and changing a sleeping place may seem stressful by themself. In case you’ve already packed your suitcases, make sure you didn’t forget to take the following items for your four-legged friend.

Collar with an ID tag

Sometimes, we can’t predict certain situations to happen. Therefore, it’s advisable to keep your pet safe when spending time in a foreign country by putting a collar with an ID tag on his/her neck.

In some states, this rule is even prescribed by the law. The ID tag should consist of a dog’s name and your phone number. Another thing to consider is to make sure the microchip contact details are up to date.

Harness and leash

In case you own a brachycephalic dog breed or your dog doesn’t feel comfortable to carry a leash on it, it’s recommended to bring a harness to a pet-friendly hotel.

Harnesses not only provide better support to a dog’s body, but they are also suitable when going to long walks. In the case of going hiking, harnesses will surely make your pooch feel more comfortable.

Dog blanket

We all know that dogs like to feel the smell of their homes whenever they are. Therefore, your dog’s blanket with his scent will make him feel relaxed and calmed when spending time in a new environment.

In case you forgot to bring it with you, your dirty shirt can become his/her a great replacement.

Dog food

How can we forget about bringing dog food? Regardless of whether you went to spend only a weekend out of a town, it’s not advisable to suddenly change a dog’s diet.

Otherwise, your pooch might experience diarrhea and stomach flatulence. To be honest, these issues could really ruin your holiday.

Dog toys

It’s an undeniable fact that dogs like to play with toys to stay entertained. However, dog toys not only improve your dog’s intelligence, but they also prevent them from suffering from separation anxiety.

Many interactive dog toys can keep your pet occupied while you’re having a bath, drinking a coffee, or having lunch.

Dog Clothes and shoes

One of the most important things to consider is the season when you go on holiday. In case you are going to spend a winter holiday, then your dog should wear appropriate clothes just like you. Of course, this rule doesn’t apply if you own a mountain dog breed such as Siberian Husky.

Regardless if you are walking on snow or hot sand, your four-legged friend needs to wear protective shoes. When your dog wears boots, you’ll prevent his paws from becoming cracked or getting cuts and blisters. Note that road salt in winter can do severe damages to hit sensitive paw pads.

The reasons to bring a pet to spend a vacation with its owner

  • One of the best reasons to spend a holiday with a dog is that you’ll be able to make an unbreakable bond with your pet. You two will be able to enjoy a vacation of your life. There will be no going to work, preparing lunch, washing laundry, and doing other boring stuff.
  • It’s known that dogs are curious creatures that enjoy discovering new odors, nature, and places,  so you can be sure that he’ll be thrilled by the fact he spends time with you in a new environment.
  • You’ll be more active in case you take your pet on holiday. Since our pooches are ‘energy bombs,’ you’ll surely get in shape without going to the gym.
  • We all know that boarding kennels are expensive. Therefore, why not save some money and take your pet with you. In the end, you will not feel worried about leaving a dog at the dog sitting center.
  • Here we come to the most important reason! There are countless pet-friendly hotels that will literally prepare a red carpet for your four-legged friend. In some hotels, they even provide a dog with plenty of treats,  unique drinking and feeding bowls, and other equipment.

Extra safety tips when traveling with your pet

  • In case you’re traveling by car, it’s advisable to take short breaks every two hours. To escape potential dangers and your dog’s unwanted behavior, we recommend you always to put your pet in a travel seat.
  • Do not leave your dog in a car alone even for a minute. Since the temperature in a vehicle can go double in a short time, your pooch may get heatstroke. On the other hand, in cold weather, a car acts like a refrigerator.
  • Hydration is essential both for you and your pooch. When traveling, we advise you to feed your pet with multiple small meals instead of giving it one big. In that way, you’ll prevent your dog from digestive discomfort and stomach pains.
  • In case you want to take your dog to swim, make sure you bring a dog life jacket. Dog breeds such as French bulldogs, Pugs, and other brachycephalic breeds may sink faster due to their flat skulls and short legs.
Born To Be Wild