Dog class - Sporting
Average height - 24 to 26 inches
Average weight - 60 to 78 pounds
Size - Medium to large
Coat - Thick double coat
Average life span - 10 to 12 years

Since there are great number of labs out there that have been carelessly bred, they come in many shapes and sizes. Their size should be around 60 to 70 pounds, with males usually being a little larger than females. Their height at the shoulders ranges from 24 to 26 inches. Labs should be somewhat stocky, but not too wide, and they should posses an athletic medium type build. Their coat is short, and is somewhat oily to repel water. Coat color is solid, in either black, yellow, or chocolate. The Labrador uses its tail as an otter does, to steer and manoeuvre when swimming.

This breed was reportedly developed in Newfoundland, Canada to be a fisherman's helper. They were apparently used to help pull boats, pull in nets, and retrieve fish that escaped the net or the hook, but floated from exhaustion. These dogs were also expected to retrieve any game that was shot by the fishermen. Their usefulness as a hunting dog was soon noticed, and their love of the water and their desire to please has allowed this breed great popularity among upland bird and waterfowl hunters.

This breed excels at waterfowl hunting as well as upland bird hunting. NAHRA, UKC, and AKC hunt test are non-competitive tests for retrievers based on hunting situations. AKC field trials are highly competitive and serious events for those who love stiff competition. Labs are also a popular breed to enter in obedience, Frisbee, flyball, and utility competitions. Labs also love family activities such as retrieve the ball and swim in the pool type games.

Their eagerness to please is very positive. They tend to bark at strangers, but this breed tends to be very friendly. Likes to play, very outgoing. Usually very tolerant and adaptable. A fairly mellow dog as an adult, but still needs a good daily walk or run. This breed tends to be easy to train, and should be due to their size. If you want a dog that likes to retrieve, this breed is hard to beat. Minimal grooming is required for this breed.

Hip, elbow, and retinal dysplasia. Both parents, and preferably the grandparents too, should be cleared and checked for hip and eye dysplasia. Heart problems are uncommon but deadly, a good breeder will not breed a dog that shows any signs of heart problems. Obesity is a common problem with this breed, proper diet and exercise will keep your lab in shape.

The great popularity of this breed has allowed for questionable breeding. This makes it very important to watch for problems with temperament and health. This breed often has a long, rambunctious puppy stage before it calms down. They can be terrible chewers in their younger years. Without proper exercise, Labs can become very destructive.

Further Labrador Retriever Dog Resources