The Labrador Retriever is a medium-sized, calm and intelligent dog.
This loyal dog is perfect for a family life.
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Origin
The Labrador Retriever is a dog of Canadian origin descended from the Saint John Dog (named after the island capital of Newfoundland), a smaller variant of the Newfoundland dog breed.
This fishing dog's role is to catch fish that escape overboard.
Very quickly appreciated for its qualities, the dog, which was then called the Newfoundland dog, received the name Labrador from the Earl of Malmesbury.
Introduced to England and crossed with various hunting dogs, the Labrador Retriever breed stabilized at the beginning of the 20th century, and was officially recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1903. It was introduced in France in the 1890s and the French club saw the day in 1911.
According to the LOF, the Labrador retriever is today the most common breed of dog in the world.
Character
Sweet, intelligent, easy to train, affectionate, the Labrador retriever does not lack qualities.
Often used as a guide dog or assistance dog, he has an exceptional character, always listening to his master.
Faithful and serious, the Labrador is often also used as a police dog or rescue dog alongside firefighters.
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Very sociable and patient, he is the ideal companion for families with children.
If the Labrador can live in the city, it is essential to make him enjoy long walks outside so that he can exercise, because the only "fault" of the Labrador is its gluttony which can sometimes cause a certain overweight.
Very attached and attentive to his family, the Labrador is a good guard dog who remains friendly with strangers and who accepts the company of other animals (dogs and even cats) without any worries.
Physical
Often confused with the Golden retriever, the Labrador retriever looks a lot like him.
Of medium height, he has a sturdy and powerful body.
A male Labrador can measure up to 60 cm at the withers, females are very slightly smaller measuring between 51 and 58 cm.
The Labrador is a heavy dog since it can weigh up to 35kg.
His head is round and with his large nose and large brown eyes, he immediately inspires confidence.
Its thick tail at the base is powerful.
The life expectancy of a Labrador is between 12 and 15 years.
While the Golden Retriever has a mid-length coat, that of the Labrador retriever is short, thick and dense.
It has no ripples, and is waterproof, providing the dog with good protection against the elements.
Its dress can be black, yellow (sand) or brown (chocolate).
The Labrador can have a sandy, chocolate or black coat.
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Price
The price of a Labrador retriever varies according to the breedings and the pedigree of the line.
Male and female will not cost you the same price.
It takes between 1,000 and 1,500 euros for a puppy.
The most prestigious lines registered in the LOF can reach 2,500 euros.
Health
The Labrador is a healthy dog.
However, he can tend to gain weight and obesity is a real danger for the Labrador retriever.
To prevent the dog from gaining weight, he should be walked regularly to provide him with physical activity that will keep him in good health.
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The Labrador can also be subject to certain eye (cataract) and joint problems such as hip dysplasia (elbow).
Before playing sports with your puppy, it will be necessary to wait until he is one year old in order to preserve his joints.
Adopting an animal commits you, it's a decision that you will have to think carefully. Do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian or the shelter closest to you before starting. They can give you advice on which breed of dog is right for you.
