Labrador Retriever Dog Breed Facts and Information

The Labrador retriever is one of the most popular breeds of dogs. These dogs are smart, fun loving and good-looking. They have a broad head, expressive large eyes, drop ears and webbed feet. The skins between their toes are longer which helps them in swimming.

These dogs have a sturdy and well balanced built. They weigh around 55 lbs to 80 lbs and about 21.5 inches to 24.5 inches tall. The males are usually taller and heavier than the female.
The Labrador retriever comes in different colors ranging from black, chocolate brown, reddish or golden yellow to almost white. They have two layers of coat (double coat). The undercoat is soft and functions as an insulation to the changes in temperature, the outer coat is hard, and short which functions as protection. This beautiful coat they shed a lot so brush them regularly to remove those loose hairs.
Just like any other retriever breed, Labradors love carrying anything in their big mouths. They love to chew thing so protect your couch by giving them fun and sturdy toys to chew on.

Although named Labrador, they did not come from Labrador. They originated from Newfoundland as water dogs or all-purpose dogs. Their original name was also not Labrador retrievers. In the early part of 1800, Newfoundland dogs have different sizes. The “St. Johns” or “Lesser” Newfoundland became the earliest Labradors.
The original breed in Newfoundland actually died, but not before a few of them made it to England. The current Labrador retrievers came from this breed as well as those crossbred with other retrievers.
Generally healthy, Labs have a lifespan of around 11 years to 14 years. Just like any other dog breed, they are also at risk of elbow and hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy epilepsy and cataracts.
The Lab has the reputation of being one of the most sweet-natured breeds, and it's well deserved. But if you will choose a Labrador as your future dog, never forget that they are very active dogs and let them exhaust this energy!