Labrador Retriever Overview

One of the most popular family dogs; Labrador Retrievers are popularly favored due to their playful nature and tolerance of children and other dogs. 

Although the breed was developed in Canada, it earned its stripes as a favored sporting dog upon arrival in Britain in the 19^th century. The Labrador’s high, innate intelligence makes training easy, earning it a place as a guide for the blind, assistant for the disabled, search and rescue, drug and gas detection, hunting, tracking, animal therapy, and virtually any other dog-capable job. 

Their mental and physical capabilities are essential, however; as they tend to be idiot-savants when left on their own. 

The Labrador Retriever is an ideal breed for almost any situation, but training determines whether the dog grows to be an intelligent Jack of all trades, or a misbehaved, furry wrecking ball.

Labrador Retriever History

Interestingly, the Labrador Retriever originated in Newfoundland instead of Labrador. In the early 19^th century, a traveler through said region took note of the water dogs there. After deciding its black fur and athletic body was ideal for retrieving foul, he imported the dog to England. 

It is reported that the original Newfoundland Labradors died out due to a heavy tax on exportation to England. In 1917, a Labrador by the name of Brocklehirst Nell was the first Labrador Retriever recognized by the AKC. 

Because of the dog’s high intelligence and natural ability, it was decided in England that Labradors must have a working certificate as a prerequisite to become a show champion. Like the English, Labrador Retrievers became popular in the U.S. in the 1930s because of their aptitude as hunters.

Labrador Retriever Character

Like children, the Labrador Retriever benefits highly from boundaries. It is a highly athletic and energetic breed, so proper training and exercise is essential in its growth. While they enjoy pleasing their masters, they are also naturally greedy, demanding high attention and recognition. 

One can develop a strong relationship with this dog by organizing fun training sessions. For example, playing fetch is a great way to exercise this dog, as it revels in the joy of mental stimulation, exercise, and positive attention that the game provides. 

Be forewarned though, without regular training the Labrador can easily become lazy and obese from boredom and under-stimulation. And if left alone too long, they can become destructive and rowdy, chewing and slobbering over anything within reach. 

While the Labrador Retriever can be trained to live anywhere, life for both the dog and owner may be easier if they live on a ranch or home with relatively large backyards. 

Families with children need little concern, because the Labrador Retriever is immensely good with kids, tending to share Old Yeller-esque relationships with them. In regards to training yet again, the Labrador’s raucous personality could make them a danger around toddlers and the elderly, inadvertently causing injury while tackling or leaping up to greet them. 

Thankfully though, the Labrador Retriever’s intelligence and malleable mental capacity allow the owner to mold them into their “perfect” dog, as long as the owner maintains regular training.

Labrador Retriever Care

The Labrador Retriever requires regular grooming with a firm bristle brush. Special care should be given to the under coat to prevent mats and tangles. Bathing or dry shampooing should only be done when absolutely necessary. Labrador Retrievers are prone to elbow and hip dysplasia, eye disorders, and PRA.

Labrador Retriever Training

This breed is easily trained. Early socialization and basic obedience are recommended. The Labrador Retriever is very strong and must be taught not to pull on their leash. They do not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. The Labrador Retriever needs fairness, firmness, consistency, reward, and respect. They excel in tracking, police work, search and rescue, agility, competitive obedience, guide for the blind, and as service dogs for the disabled.

Labrador Retriever Health

Common Health Issues for the Labrador Retriever:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the Labrador Retriever:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Labrador Retriever Resources