The sweet, loving Labrador Retriever is America’s most popular dog breed. Labs are very friendly and social and have endless affection to offer. However, don’t mistake their easy-going personality for laziness. They are enthusiastic athletes that require lots of exercise. Activities like swimming, hunting, and playing games of fetch allow them to stay physically and mentally fit. They have long been employed as a duck retriever and are often seen at a waterfowl hunter’s side.
The sweet, loving Labrador Retriever is America’s most popular dog breed. Labs are very friendly and social and have endless affection to offer. However, don’t mistake their easy-going personality for laziness. They are enthusiastic athletes that require lots of exercise. Activities like swimming, hunting, and playing games of fetch allow them to stay physically and mentally fit. They have long been employed as a duck retriever and are often seen at a waterfowl hunter’s side.
Labrador Retrievers are highly trainable dogs and are known for their intelligence and willingness to please their owners. They are often used as service dogs, hunting dogs, and search and rescue dogs due to their exceptional trainability. Labradors are eager to learn and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods such as praise, treats, and play. They thrive on attention and enjoy spending time with their owners, which makes training sessions an excellent opportunity to bond with them.
Labrador Retrievers are generally healthy and have an average lifespan of 11-13 years. However, they are prone to certain health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, obesity, and eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. It's important to maintain their health through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine vet check-ups.
Labs are an exuberant, energetic breed and will excel with daily exercise. They are much more likely to develop destructive behavior when they have too much pent-up energy. They are enthusiastic, devoted companions who need to be included in family activities. They excel at hunting as well as agility, obedience, tracking and dock diving.
Labrador Retrievers generally stand at 21 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder. Adult males weigh 65-80 lbs. Adult females weigh 55-70 lbs.