The Labrador is a particularly comfortable breed. It loves children, and is friendly to other animals. In most cases, when they reach maturity, they are calm and easy dogs.
The Labrador is a particularly intelligent dog, which makes their training much easier. Furthermore, this breed stands out in dog shows and sporting events. Actually, the Labradors are most happy when in nature and are excellent swimmers. They were bred for hunting on land and in sea. The Labradors are joyful and add much to family activities.
The Labrador's full name is Labrador Retriever.
The History of Labradors;
Contrary to popular belief, Labradors were developed in Newfoundland and not Labrador. In fact, the first prototype of the breed was created by crossing a Newfoundland with a small water dog and was originally known as the St. John's Water Dog.
The first time that Labs became known as Labradors was when they were called that name by the Duke of Malmesbury in the early 19th century. This was also the time at which Labs became popular with the British Royals, who value the breed for their sporting characteristics, which proved useful for hunting.
The Labrador that we know today was developed in 1878, after interbreeding with other Retriever breeds. Fortunately, interbreeding did not cause the Labrador to lose their most desirable qualities or their popularity.
Labradors were recognized in 1903 by the UK Kennel Club and in 1917 by the American Kennel Club. Currently, they are still one of the most popular breeds of dog.
The Basics of Labradors:
Labradors are a devoted breed that can be a wonderful asset to a family. Their friendly and lovable temperament makes them good with children, visitors and other family pets. They can also be extremely flexible in different environments, as long as they receive sufficient exercise and attention.
Labs have a strong build, plenty of energy, and high intelligence. They are natural hunters and are equipped with an exceptional sense of smell. These traits are what have made them ideal hunting, police, rescue and even seeing-eye dogs.
Even though Labradors are an impeccable breed, they aren't for everyone. There have certain traits that do not match the needs of some dog owners.
For example, while Labs are shorthaired, they still shed quite a bit. Furthermore, their strong build and medium size can make them hard to control if they are not properly trained. Even growing Lab puppies can easily knock down small children.
In addition, since Labradors are friendly dogs, they are not especially talented as guard dogs. This isn't to say that a Lab wouldn't protect you if it sensed you were in danger, but they also probably wouldn't bare their teeth at an intruder. Therefore, if you are thinking about getting a Labrador to protect you, think again.
All in all, Labradors are remarkable dogs that make excellent pets, friends and family members. Give them a little love, and they'll return it tenfold.
Labrador Care - Simple Routine:
Labrador care is easy when you make it a daily routine. Brushing their coat on a every day is a good idea. This removes all the dirt and loose hair. Brushing is useful in removing fat from the dogs coat and, by doing so, increases its shine.
Other Labrador care includes:
Nails - Your Labrador should have its nails clipped about every 3 months. Have the Vet or a groomer do the job, or learn how to do it yourself.
Ears - Check your Labrador's ears twice a month to make sure they are healthy. Labs are prone to ear infections because of poor air circulation in the ears.
Teeth -Brush your Lab's teeth and give it disease prevention treatment. Your Labrador's teeth should also be checked out by your Vet.
Move those muscles - Labs need plenty of exercise and must move around to avoid gaining excess fat. Overweight dogs have health problems.
Good Food- Your Lab needs a well balanced daily diet. Provide him with a regular food schedule, and avoid feeding him human food which can lead to health problems. Consult your Vet about how much dog food you should provide him, and ask what brand he/she recommends.
Vet Visits - Take your Labrador for regular Vet checkups each year. All vaccines should be up-to-date, and it should be protected from heart worms.
Good Water - Change drinking water frequently. Your Labrador needs to stay well hydrated. Drinking water should be clean and without bacteria and dirt.