![]() The breed is at higher-than-average risk for an emergency gastrointestinal syndrome called bloat, which can kill a healthy dog within hours.Ī number of neurological/neuromuscular diseases, some of them deadly, affect Labrador Retrievers. It's a good idea to have pet insurance when you own a Lab.Ī number of eye diseases cause blindness in Labrador Retrievers. And if one hind leg ruptures, the other is likely to follow at a later time. Labs are very prone to rupturing the ligaments in their hind legs – expensive surgery again. Unfortunately, an increasing number of beloved Labs are lost in middle age to inherited forms of cancer or heart disease.Ĭommon orthopedic diseases in Labradors include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and luxating patella (loose knee joints), each of which causes chronic pain and lameness and can require expensive surgery. Many Labs do live to 12 or 13, but usually with chronic health issues such as arthritis. Labrador Retrievers typically live 10-12 years. How long do Labrador Retrievers live? Are they a healthy breed? But they do tend to be very sweet dogs with mellow temperaments that fit well into many families. To me, those dogs don't really look like the classic Labrador Retriever. Labs from show lines are heavier-boned and stockier, with a large blocky head and dense coat.Įven within show lines there are variations, with British/English show lines having the shortest muzzle, shortest legs, and chunkiest build. They have a narrower head, longer muzzle, lankier body, and a sleeker coat. Labrador hunting/field lines are more athletic, agile, and energetic. In particular, Labrador Retrievers used primarily for hunting and field trials look very different from Labs you see at dog shows that emphasize conformation. Of course, it might just be coincidence!īut apart from color, you'll definitely see Labs who look quite different from other Labs. In contrast, the chocolate Labs I've worked with have all been very energetic. In my obedience classes, yellow Labs are often the calmest and most mild-mannered. For hunting and field trials, though, black Labs are by far the most common color. They come in several colors, yet they're all Labrador Retrievers. Are there different "types" of Labrador Retrievers? but does require patience and training to manage. The Labrador Retriever matures slowly, remaining a spirited teenager for several years. You must control this breed's tendency to chew on objects and to mouth your hands – provide a box filled with toys that he can carry around in his mouth. Some have necks like bulls and barely notice tugs on the leash. Most Labs are friendly with everyone, though compared to Golden Retrievers, many Labs are just a bit more conservative with their affections.Īlso more independent – though quite biddable and responsive to obedience training, some Labs have a noticeable stubborn streak. One of the best dogs for children of all ages, Labrador Retrievers are kindly, good-natured, and take most things in stride. Too much confinement and not enough exercise can lead to rambunctiousness and destructive chewing. You can't just leave this breed in the back yard every day with one walk around the block. The Labrador Retriever is one terrific family dog – that is, when given enough vigorous exercise (including daily fetching games, and swimming if possible). That's not because the breed has a lot of behavior problems – they don't – but simply because it's the most popular breed in the United States.Īnd rightfully so. Nearly every obedience class I've ever taught has included at least one Lab. My experience with Labrador Retriever temperament Yellow Labradors can be any shade from reddish to pale yellow, even approaching white. ![]()
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