Labrador Retriever
Adult Size: Females 21.5-23.5 inches and 55-70 pounds, Males 22.5-24.5 inches and 60-80 pounds
Breed: Labrador Retriever
Breed Group: Sporting

A Lab that’s well-bred is sturdy, agile, loyal and enduring. This breed was made to follow its master through rough terrains - retrieving prey and sounding alarms and serve as a dedicated companion through thick and thin.

Overall, the Lab is a fantastic pet for active families - they love to swim, fetch, run and romp with everyone. This versatile breed is a born athlete and also excels at obedience and field trails. An adult Labrador is powerful enough to drag an owner along on a leash, so prospective owners should teach these rambunctious dogs good manners from an early age. When it comes to training, the Lab can be stubborn, but responds to a trainer who rewards it with praise.

The Labrador Retriever is an exceptional swimmer, possessing what is called an “otter tail.” Because of its tapered end, the tail can propel the dog in water. The Lab’s coat also tends to be oily for shedding water and allowing for a quick dry after a good swim.

In terms of health issues, veterinarians and breeders suggest that you ask about the dog’s risk for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, eye problems, diabetes, epilepsy, hypothyroidism and craniomandibular ostreopathy (CMO).

The early Lab originated in Newfoundland, Canada and is closely related to the Newfoundland Dog. The breed is believed to have emerged from the St. John’s Water Dog and developed by settlers to the area in the mid 15th century. Today, the Labrador is the most popular dog in the world.

Unfortunately, the Labrador Retriever’s popularity has attracted less-than-ethical breeders, leading to some temperament and health problems in the breed. Before you purchase, always check the breeder’s reference and be sure to ask a lot of questions. Look for a breeder who is clearly invested in the well-being of his or her animals.

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Labrador Retriever - Dogs for Sale