Labrador Retriever - a nice companion of man

Labrador Retriever - The origin of the breed

The Labrador Retriever comes from the coast of Newfoundland (Canada). The origins of this breed date back to the XNUMXth century. The retriever was then used to carry fishing nets in the icy water, later working as a dog hunting. Some varieties of the so-called The "water dogs" were called Newfoundlands, and the smaller "St. John ". In the XNUMXth century, a representative of this breed was brought to Great Britain, where it gained great popularity among fishermen. It was also where the standard Labrador Retrievers were bred by improving the Newfoundland into a bellows flat-coated retriever.

As the name of the dog suggests, the Labrador Retriever was bred and selected for its outstanding retriever abilities in water. He became famous as an excellent duck hunter, performing well in all weather conditions. His intelligence and willingness to collaborate with humans led to the use of the Labrador Retriever for many other activities. These traits also influenced the status of the popular domestic dog. Today, the Labrador Retriever is perfect as a guide dog, and is also used in customs and border services, rescue and competitive sports.

However, it should be remembered that a Labrador at heart is still a water retriever. From an early age, the puppy shows a strong desire to carry things in its mouth, as well as a great love for water, even puddles!

Breed description

The Labrador Retriever is classified according to the FCI (Group VIII, Section 1, Standard No. 12) as Retrievers, Flushing Dogs and Water Dogs. With working trial. He is a strong and solidly built dog. An adult male of this breed measures 56-57 cm and weighs about 30 kg, and the female dog is 55-56 cm tall and weighs about 28 kg.

The retriever is easily recognizable by its broad head, drooping ears and large, expressive eyes. The external distinguishing features of a Labrador Retriever are: thick, fairly short double coat, which is waterproof, and the so-called "otter tail". The tail is thick, strong and comes almost straight from the topline. The feet are described as "membranous" with longer skin between the toes which makes it easier for the dog to swim. 

Labrador Retriever - character

The Labrador Retriever is one of the three most popular breeds of domestic dogs in Poland. Probably due to the exceptionally friendly character. He is an outgoing, affectionate pet. He is easily attached to children, he is patient and understanding with them. He feels best in a large family. He is a loyal, faithful quadruped who loves to participate in home life. He welcomes strangers with joy and is therefore not suitable as a guard dog. She loves long walks. Requires a moderate amount of exercise and exercise daily. When this activity is insufficient, it can act destructively. 

Lablador is  extremely intelligent  and obedient and can also be trained by novice owners. He learns new commands and games with great motivation. He wants to please the guardian with all his might. 

Labrador Retriever and his health

The Labrador Retriever is a fairly healthy breed, but there are some medical conditions to be aware of. These include hip and elbow dysplasia, heart problems (TVD tricuspid dysplasia) and epilepsy. The Retriever can also struggle with eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. Owners should also be aware of the possibility of an effort induced collapse (EIC). Due to the fact that the Labrador Retriever is a large dog with a deep chest, it may also experience severe stomach bloating. 

12 facts about Labradors

1. The Labrador Retriever dog breed was close to extinction in the late XNUMXs due to high taxes on dog ownership in Newfoundland. Fortunately, breeders from outside the region began to appreciate this breed several decades later and saved it from complete extinction.
2. The Labrador is an intelligent dog, incredibly eager to learn and follow commands.
3. The color of the Labrador Retriever is black, biscuit, or chocolate liver. A retriever can also be born in a beautiful silver color.
4. The Labrador Retriever's coat is waterproof. The dog can stay in the water for many hours. Swimming is facilitated by webbed feet and a tail that acts as a rudder, as well as a thick two-layer coat that blocks the water and keeps the dog's body temperature at the right temperature.
5. Retriever, as a result of breeding has developed the so-called "Delicate lips". Thanks to many years of efforts, control over the dog's mouth has been obtained, which, after appropriate training, can pick up a raw egg without breaking it, or gently grab a soft toy or a child's hand.
6. The average Labrador Retriever can reach speeds of 20 km / h. in about three seconds!
7. Despite the fact that the Labrador is perfect for hunting and fishing, it is primarily a guide. About 70% of all guide dogs are Labrador Retrievers. This dog can be both a show dog and a sports dog.
8. The retriever matures slowly. Unlike other dogs reaching full maturity at two years of age, Labradors reach full maturity after their fourth birthday. Even later, this breed of dog has a tendency to play as a puppy.
9. A Labrador Retriever can perform a multitude of tasks, but is not suitable for protection or working as a guard dog.
10. The retriever's hair is easy to care for, just brush it once a week. When molting, it requires more frequent attention.
11. The Retriever loves to eat, and only loses his appetite when he is sick. Therefore, it is prone to obesity. 
12. The oldest retriever in history was a black Labrador named Bella, who lived to be 29 years old!

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