We all know that the Labrador Retriever is fun-loving, loyal, and full of energy, but what else do you think you may know about this breed that is loved by so many all over the world?
Here are 8 fun facts you may not have known about Labrador Retrievers:
1. The Labrador Retriever is America’s favorite pooch! If you didn’t know this already, I’m sure you’re not surprised! They’ve topped the charts of the American Kennel Club’s “Most Popular Dog Breeds In America” list for 24 years in a row!
2. Black, chocolate, and yellow Labs can be in the same litter…They’re like a box of assorted truffles (kidding). Coat color is a variable genetic trait, much like how kids born to the same parents can have different colored hair! Talk about a stellar variety-pack.
3. However, different colors can be preferable for different uses. For instance: Black Labs tend to be the most successful competitors, and are the most common in the Lab family. Yellow Labs are preferred as police dogs. Chocolate Labs are the rarest of the three, so if you want a diamond in the rough, opt for this pretty coat.
4. Labs are from Newfoundland–not Labrador. In fact, they were bred as a smaller version of the Newfie in the early 1800’s. Fisherman needed a dog who could retrieve fishnets and fish that sprang loose from their hooks. The dogs needed to be natural swimmers with stamina, as well as strong back legs for catapulting themselves into the water. The name “Newfoundland” was already taken, so the breed was named for the body of water in which they worked: the Labrador Sea.
5. And they were specifically bred to have these five distinct traits:
- An “otter-like” tail for propelling through water
- Webbed paws are like flippers for swimming
- A layered, oily coat to keep them insulated and repel water
- A “soft mouth” to gently carry things (with training) without causing damage
- A great capacity to learn
Which leads us to the next point…
6. Most guide dogs are Labrador Retrievers. In fact, over 70% of dogs used by Guide Dogs of America are labs. The site states, “…we have found them to be the most successful breed used for guide dogs.” If that’s not a good enough reason to adopt one of these lovable pups, I don’t know what is!
7. But there are a few things to keep in mind before adopting a lab:
- They are some of the “mouthiest” puppies, meaning that they explore and play with their mouths…and those sharp little teeth! (Fingers, beware…)
- They are high-energy, so they need to be exercised and have plenty of space to run!
- They are generally a healthy breed, but are prone to hip, elbow, and joint issues, as well as some eye issues that can cause blindspots
8. But overall, they make amazing family companions.
(Recall point number one!) The fun-loving, loyal Labrador Retriever is a mild-tempered family dog with an outgoing personality that makes them great companions to both human and pup pals, alike. They do well in almost any climate and are easy to train, wanting nothing more than to make their owners happy.
If you can work with a nippy puppy, have some patience to train, and take a little time every day to exercise your pooch, a Lab could be the perfect addition to your family; and in return, your dog will reward you for all your time and energy, tenfold!
Sources:
- Youtube: “Dogs 101: Labrador Retriever”
- Mental Floss: “12 Friendly Facts About Labrador Retrievers”
- American Kennel Club
- Guide Dogs of America
If you’re totally crazy about Labs, then you’ll love these cool Lab-inspired shirts! And remember, every shirt feeds 7 shelter dogs in need of a forever home.
Lab USA, $22.00. Show off your patriotic pride and love for labs with this shirt right here. Available in a variety of sizes and color options to choose from.
Owned By A Labrador, $22.00. Does your Lab know he’s the top dog in the house? 😉
I Kissed A Lab, $22.00. The best kind of kisses!
Nicer Than My Lab, $22.00. Do you like your Lab more than most people? We feel ya!
