Labrador Retriever - Breed Profile
Labrador Retriever: Getty Images
Labrador Retrievers: Chocolate Lab, Golden Lab, and Black Lab
The Labrador Retriever is playful, loving and hardworking.
The Labrador Retriever can be counted on as a true friend. Labs work as guide dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, and for narcotics detection. They are also one of two breeds used in the Puppies Behind Bars Program.
Labrador Retrievers originated from the original "St. John's" water dogs of Newfoundland—rugged dogs who worked alongside the fishermen of Newfoundland, helping them pull in nets and even catching fish that escaped from fishing lines. Over the years, Labs developed into the retrievers we know today when they were crossed with setters, spaniels, and other retrievers.
Labrador Retrievers used to be best known for their glossy black coats, but yellow and chocolate Labs are growing in numbers. Any of the Labs can have a small white spot on the chest, but all should have dark (not pink) noses. The coat is short and dense and sheds year-round. Eyes range from yellow to hazel to brown or black.
Excerpts from the Standard
General Appearance: Strongly built, very active, muscular in the hindquarters. Tail should not curl over the back.
Size, Proportion, and Substance: Height at withers--males, 22 1/2 to 24 1/2 inches; females, 21 1/2 to 23 1/2 inches. Weight--males, 60 to 75 pounds; females, 55 to 70 pounds.
Fun Facts
The Labrador Retreiver has a distinctive tail. It is covered with thick, short (not feathery) hair. It is wide at the base and tapers to a point. It should not curl over the back. It is called an "otter" tail because of its rounded shape.
Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Petside is run by pet lovers just like you, and is here to help you be the best pet parents you…
Dog & Cat Breeds
Comments (4)
I just lost mine after 9 wonderful years yesterday. A Blood clot. I am so sad ! He was my best friend and when Im ready for another it will be a Lab! Wonderful pets / Family
labradors are the best!!I have a black lab.His name is colby and he knows i'm his mommy.he is like a human to me.
labradors are the best dogs ever!!!!they are loyal and you can trust them.
Hello,my name is Samantha and I am interested in breeding my Yellow Lab. Hi name is Hogan. He is 3 years old and before we have him neutered we would like to breed him. He is pure bread and very handsome. (I can send photos if you like) So loveable and playful. If you are interested and/or know someone with a female yellow lab that would be interested please let me know. We are located in the NY Metro area. Thank you very much.