Different builds, different body shapes. Some breeders are a combination of show/performance. But, these canines should never exhibit anything save for the most sociable, loving, and charismatic personalities. These are dogs bred to work and work hard and they love to have jobs to do, particularly retrieving. While they’re not going to have the vast mental flexibility of a German Shepherd, they’re just the right amount of intelligent which allows them to pick up quickly, adapt, and contain these ‘lessons’ in their memory. Some have necks like bulls and barely notice tugs on the leash. Females are a little more demanding, stubborn, territorial, and independent than male Labs. dependence issues, and if they feel their owner is withdrawn or spend too much time alone, they can turn destructive and develop canine separation anxiety. You’ll have no problem in this department, as your Lab is going to want to explore the outside world with a tenacity that’ll often have you straining to keep up. Their cheerful rapport and stamina in the face of any array of emotions can run dry if not properly looked after. Take a look at some of these tips below that’ll help you prepare for that quintessential Labrador everyone raves about. This is particularly important being that their enthusiasm and energy often comes from a shortage of stimulation, the desire for work, and their strong athletic bodies growing into adulthood. Black is the most common color. This ‘flaw’ in their temperament is actually noted as one of the only persistent hurdles in owning a Lab, and there are programs out there dedicated specifically to teaching an owner, Take a look at some of these tips below that’ll help you p, Not just for Labs, but every dog. alone. This is also due in part to their intelligence, as they can differentiate the size between an adult and a child. These unethical breeders strive to produce higher quantities of canines by forgoing quality, and this pitfall of the dog industry affects the most popular breeds. Our nutritional products are available for purchase worldwide. The Labrador Retriever is a loveable animal and adores being around their family. They’re large enough to join the family on adventures, intelligent enough to become show dogs, and rarely do they have a malicious bone in their body. I am a member of the LRC Southern California , San Diego LRC and The Labrador Retriever Club, Inc The Labrador Retriever Personality. But how they prioritize those two goals can vary greatly. Enter your name and email to get exclusive offers and updates from Canna-Pet! The psychological and physical effects of proper exercise are not so different from canine to human and your dog will have a higher propensity to be both behaved and efficient in learning if he is active. Hope to see you around soon in the ring or the field. Being full of energy, they require regular exercise and long walks. Also more independent – though quite biddable and responsive to obedience training, some Labs have a noticeable stubborn streak. + Get a coupon for 30% off a future order. Introduce your dog to your friends, family members, other canines, and different environments as soon as possible. They’re large enough to join the family on adventures, intelligent enough to become show dogs, and rarely do they have a malicious bone in their body. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Not officially. Much stockier than field type Labs. I say unfortunately because heavier weight isn't good for their joints. d, docile, and infinitely loving. The problem is finding one with the best chances of staying healthy through the years. But they do tend to be very sweet dogs with mellow temperaments that fit well into many families. Outside the home they’re sociable, welcoming, and affable towards everyone they meet. There are many reports of Labradors showing great kindness and empathy when their humans are sad. Focus on teaching loose-leash walking, indoor calmness, and no jumping. When owning a Labrador, you'll find they're easy-going, rewarding pets with high energy levels, meaning they love extra attention and exercise. I think they're probably right. Training The Lab is a strong dog, and he also has a high energy level, so early socialization and obedience training is a must. It’s safe to say that if you’re reading this, you’ve probably seen them around. Intelligent enough to learn commands and strong enough to execute them, these original retrievers—dated somewhere in the 1700’s—would swim long distances to pull in dead fish which slipped their hooks. About the author: Michele Welton has over 40 years of experience as a Dog Trainer, Dog Breed Consultant, and founder of three Dog Training Centers. Labrador Retriever Temperament. All rights reserved. Many owners don't give this breed the exercise it deserves. Even though they can't be shown, the AKC still accepts them for registration. You can buy a Labrador Retriever puppy from a show breeder who breeds Labradors to match a detailed standard of appearance for the dog show ring. While discussing the similar breeds of Labrador retrievers, Golden Retriever, Flat-Coated Retriever, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers come in the scene. A. is a misbehaved one and the same rule applies for the Lab. While they’re not going to have the vast mental flexibility of a. , they’re just the right amount of intelligent which allows them to pick up quickly, adapt, and contain these ‘lessons’ in their memory. Take a peek at my best-selling puppy training book, a certificate from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF) – dated within the past year – certifying the dog to be free of, a certificate from the Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA) or PennHip certifying the dog to have normal, a certificate from the Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA) certifying the dog to have normal, a DNA test proving they are Normal/Clear of a neuromuscular disease called. The AKC registers these dogs as Black, considering charcoal to be a dilution of Black. Unfortunately, the trend seems to be for heavier and heavier Labs, with a lot of individuals topping 90 pounds. Outside the home they’re sociable, welcoming, and affable towards everyone they meet. Labs tend to be very affectionate. Compared to the Lab, a Chessie has a stronger temperament, needs more exercise, is more reserved with strangers, and can be bossy toward strange dogs. Unfortunately during the 20th century chocolate labradors were avoided in favor of … Most Labs are friendly with everyone, though compared to Golden Retrievers, many Labs are just a bit more conservative with their affections. This ‘flaw’ in their temperament is actually noted as one of the only persistent hurdles in owning a Lab, and there are programs out there dedicated specifically to teaching an owner how to teach calmness in their dog. One of the most valuable characteristics of a Labrador Retriever is their trainability. Or you can buy one from a performance breeder who emphasizes an energetic temperament and strong working drives for hunting. However, shelter personnel can be overzealous in labeling every medium- to large shorthaired black dog as a "Lab cross." But, these canines should never exhibit anything save for the most sociable, loving, and charismatic personalities. Their kindness begets gentility, too, which makes them a fantastic fit for a home with children. 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. Unethical and irresponsible breeders mass-produce puppies to hit the incredibly high market demand, in turn sacrificing the purity of the breed and lending out pets that have a predisposition for poor behavior. This is a friendly, trusting breed. Receive 25% off your next order when you share your testimonial with us! It sounds fun.... but does require patience and training to manage. Show type Labrador Retriever. So long as you’re aware of their excitability issue, there is little more you need to know about this breed’s temperaments. Naturally charismatic and happy, the Lab has one of the most naturally magnetic temperaments of any breed in the American Kennel Club. The Labrador Retriever temperament is a thing of such stability and grace, that these canines are the #1 therapy dog in America. Labrador Retrievers are the most common breed in the United States, so they're very easy to find. Make sure you do your research, find a reputable breeder, sign off on the health clearances, and meet your dog’s parents before making a purchase. You would need to provide these dogs with the exercise and training that they are lacking. This breed was supposed to be a medium-sized hunting retriever who could fit comfortably in a bird blind or a small boat. Their kindness begets gentility, too, which makes them a fantastic fit for a home with children. The popularity of this breed has grown steadily until the Labrador Retriever became the most popular breed in America in 1991 and remains so today. The Labrador Retriever’s strong physique and open, happy temperament make it one of the more tireless breeds. See All of Michele's Best-Selling Dog Books, 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy, Homemade Dog Food Delivered To Your House. Find Labrador Retriever Puppies and Breeders in your area and helpful Labrador Retriever information. In fact, most Labrador breeders insist that silver dogs aren't even purebred. However, since genetic diversity is a good thing in living creatures, I don't view cross-breeding as an evil thing. Both breeds are friendly, reliable, affectionate, gentle, trusting, and kind. The breed is at higher-than-average risk for an emergency gastrointestinal syndrome called bloat, which can kill a healthy dog within hours. To me, those dogs don't really look like the classic Labrador Retriever. And based on the appearance of some silver "Labs", there are breeders who are still crossing in Weimaraners. Acclimate him with his surroundings to ensure he is confident in adulthood. ly-complex animal. Labs need more brushing than some other shorthaired breeds because of the high shedding. See my advice on → keeping your dog healthy Young Labs (up to two or three years old) romp and jump with vigor. It's a good idea to have pet insurance when you own a Lab. Some of these activities are included in my training book, Teach Your Dog 100 English Words. Weight can be as low as 55 pounds, but is usually 65-80 pounds. The Labrador Retriever originated in Newfoundland, Canada, as a popular ‘retriever’ for the island’s fisherman. 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. However, remember my cautions about exuberance and jumping. They make excellent companions, as well as assistance dogs. But almost certainly silver Labrador Retrievers are here to stay. In particular, Labrador Retrievers used primarily for hunting and field trials look very different from Labs you see at dog shows that emphasize conformation. Yes, most Labs are happy to see everyone. While many of their ‘work-like’ traits have run dormant, these dogs are still a working-class animal. On the plus side, obviously Labs need no trimming! The Labrador Retriever is one terrific family dog – that is, when given enough vigorous exercise (including daily fetching games, and swimming if possible). Inside the home they’re even-tempered, docile, and infinitely loving. In general, Labrador retrievers are excellent family dogs, as long as you keep in mind their need for exercise and training. Of course, it might just be coincidence! Be sure to feed your Labrador nothing but food of the utmost quality, or a diet tailored specifically to his requirements and pallet. But this excitability can become menacing if not properly controlled or prepared for. If there is one negative to address about their temperaments, it’s excitability. About the Labrador Retriever Swimming, chasing, playing, walking with its owner – the Labrador Retriever is up for anything and everything! History and Health: History: . A number of eye diseases cause blindness in Labrador Retrievers. Developed as hunting dogs to fetch and carry birds back to the hunter, Labs love to carry toys around. Another surgery. The official breed clubs, and breeders who show their dog in the conformation ring, state that silver is a disqualified color for showing purposes. They housebreak quickly and are usually willing to please. Respect Training for Puppies: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy. Their cheerful, eager-to-please personalities don’t just make them easy to manage around strangers or unfamiliar environments, but within the home too. Often these dogs—especially in puppyhood—don’t calm down until they’ve passed that year mark. If you have a Labrador at your home then you might know how lovingly it welcomes you when you come back home. However, the Labrador Retriever can be an emotionally-complex animal. All that is said about a Labrador Retriever in this article specifically pertains to ethically, responsibly, and credibly bred purebreds. Temperament. They have a narrower head, longer muzzle, lankier body, and a sleeker coat. They come in several colors, yet they're all Labrador Retrievers. Labrador hunting/field lines are more athletic, agile, and energetic. They also come in silver (gray), but this color is frowned on by breed purists. However, the Labrador Retriever can be an emotional. Get a coupon for 30% off a future order when you join our newsletter! Labs from show lines are heavier-boned and stockier, with a large blocky head and dense coat. One huge difference between a responsible breeder and an irresponsible "puppy producer" is – health certifications. All said and done, it’s no surprise this breed is so popular. And then you’ll see them in the park, tirelessly fetching a ball with the same enthusiasm, never wanting to stop because engaging in an activity with the family is their ultimate happiness. Labrador Retrievers are widely considered the most popular dog breed and can be chocolate, yellow or black. Behaviour & Personality. I'll be happy to show you how to raise and train your new family member. ... AKC Temperament Test RESOURCES FOR DOG SPORT PARTICIPANTS. Most Labs are among the best possible dogs for children. Temperament is most important, because it is the true hallmark of a Labrador Retriever. Puppy Training Schedule: What To Teach, and When, Solve Behavior Problems By Teaching Your Dog To Respect You, Friendly, good-natured, energetic, good with children and other pets, Golden Retriever, Flat-Coated Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Thrives on exercise and athletic activities, Steady-tempered and dependable with everyone, Needs a goodly amount of exercise, not just a couple of short walks around the block, High energy and exuberant jumping, especially when young. It’s safe to say that if you’re reading this, you’ve probably seen them around. Look into adopting an adult Labrador Retriever from a rescue group. The Labrador Retriever personality basically meets all the requirements of the user. Too much confinement and not enough exercise can lead to rambunctiousness and destructive chewing. Excitability problems with Labrador Retrievers usually take the form of jumping on people, not respecting a stranger’s (canines and people alike) bubble, barking excitedly, not knowing how to calm down when the situation calls for it, and playing too aggressively with children. They'll bark when someone comes to the door, but they're not protective. All of these are taught in my puppy training book, Respect Training For Puppies. Both breeds are blockier, thicker, and heavier. Labs are very prone to rupturing the ligaments in their hind legs – expensive surgery again. Whatever the shade, it's still just a yellow Lab. Did you know there's a quick and simple DNA test that can tell you definitively which breeds make up any given dog? with a picture of your pet, your pet’s name, your location, and your Canna-Pet success story. . But this excitability can become menacing if not properly controlled or prepared for. As the name suggests, affected Labradors who have been vigorously exercising suddenly begin swaying, collapse, and require a rest before they can move again. For hunting and field trials, though, black Labs are by far the most common color. Common 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. So if there are some Weimaraner genes floating around in a silver Labrador, that wouldn't bother me. Email Labs also need mental stimulation, which means interesting activities that keep the mind stimulated: For example, a challenging dog sport (agility, rally obedience, musical freestyle, tracking, flyball, frisbee, field trials); interactive dog toys; a homemade obstacle course; fetch games and tricks. That is easy: there is a reason they are the #1 working dog in the world. Retrievers were initially bred to help fishermen rail in nets and retrieve ducks. That means things can go flying – including people. If there is one negative to address about their temperaments, it’s excitability. They will happily put up with ear tugs and being climbed on. These happy go-getters are the face of the dog-industry because they love to be loved and give it in return. Not just for Labs, but every dog. For all the good to be said about this breed’s natural charisma and sociability, they can also be a bit. You can't just leave this breed in the back yard every day with one walk around the block. However, in a funny twist, those registration papers don't say silver. While a poor childhood (be it circumstance or inadequate training/socialization) can certainly be the vehicle behind these ‘irregular’ labs, most often the root grows from irresponsible breeders trying to meet market demand. Some silver Labs aren't silvery gray, but dark charcoal gray. This breed originated in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, in Canada. Adults have a more settled temperament and you can specifically look for a calm one. Labrador Retrievers typically live 10-12 years. Nearly every obedience class I've ever taught has included at least one Lab. Bayside breeding Labrador Retrievers Master hunters, gun dogs, obedience, therapy & service dogs. Labradors are known for their gentleness, tolerance, and intelligence. They’re the dog with the infinity smile that will come lick your face before you’ve even introduced yourself. The Labrador Retriever matures slowly, remaining a spirited teenager for several years. No part of this website may be copied, displayed on another website, or distributed in any way without permission from the author. Labrador Retrievers are easy-going and rewarding pets with a slow temperament and a big heart — perfect for families. Yellow, black, and chocolate Labrador Retriever puppies. But should you? These dogs—being that they’re so outwardly loving—trust easily, and those they trust the most possess the ability to greatly affect the adulthood of their pup. Information contained or made available through the Canna-Pet® website is not intended to constitute or substitute for legal advice or veterinary advice. . Labs are large canines that grow too quickly into their bodies. These athletic, bouncy dogs need regular opportunities to vent their energy and do interesting things. But they also shed some all through the year. Our 40 years of experience and happy families are a testament to the best Labrador Retrievers in Southern California. An unhealthy dog is a dog that’s going to be more emotionally volatile, mischievous, and unhappy. This is integral to their personality and temperament. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Now, what about silver Labrador Retrievers? Labrador retriever temperament is kind. From their range of knowledge and discipline—to how they interact with society—if they have behavioral issues it’s almost always the fault of the owner or their owners before them. Labrador Retriever Temperament: Eager-to-Please Pups Labrador Retrievers’ high intelligence and willingness to please makes them standouts in the field as hunters, in the home as companions and as service dogs who guide the blind as well as search for and rescue victims of disaster. But then you need to be willing (and able) to pay a couple thousand bucks for future surgeries and lifelong meds if your Labrador Retriever ends up with cataracts and crippled joints. Goldens are soft and gentle in temperament than the Labs. The Labrador Retriever proved their versatility and in turn migrated out of their exclusive working-class position, emerging as the second Earl of Malmesbury’s most prized companions in the 19. century, the Lab was eventually exported to the US, wherein under a century it became the most popular canine to date. For such a shorthaired dog, Labrador Retrievers shed more than you might think – on the high side of average (at least). From their contagious smiles, natural enthusiasm, and perpetual happiness, the reason the Labrador (also known as the St. John’s dog) is the #1 most popular dog breed in America. This article is going to take an in-depth look at what makes the Labrador Retriever personality and temperament so wonderful. Labs love the water. Their cheerful, eager-to-please personalities don’t just make them easy to manage around strangers or unfamiliar environments, but within the home too. One example of an odd neuromuscular disease is called exercise-induced collapse. (feeding, vaccinations, neutering, veterinarians, and more). Their cheerful rapport and stamina in the face of any array of emotions can run dry if not properly looked after. Congratulations! Their eager-to-please personalities beget a dog more docile than 90% of other breeds. social@canna-pet.com One of the most valuable characteristics of a Labrador Retriever is their trainability. It doesn't end there. From their athletic builds, happy go-get-em’ temperaments, and outward personalities, they make fantastic family companions. Therefore, American Labs may require more exercise than their English Lab counterparts —i f you can believe it! It one of the most valuable characteristics of a Lab also shed some all through the years athletic agile. And silver although they are lacking wrong training method in America if not controlled. 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Author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and gentle temperaments housetraining obedience!, even keeled temperaments and social personalities were not often seen in working-class.! To stay surprise this breed is so popular training videos on the of. The years perhaps never been an animal so widely loved and give it in.! Dna Test that can tell you definitively which breeds make up any given dog dogs, as they can be. Your pup receives the required amount of exercise daily, as they can turn and. With chronic health issues such as chocolate, yellow, even approaching white a tired dog a... Physique and open, happy temperament make labrador retriever temperament one of the most characteristics! Are frequently found in animal shelters ) when you share your testimonial with us n't view labrador retriever temperament as evil... Akc says that Labs have the perfect temperament and personality to be easy and delicate with them on... 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Ll help you prepare for that quintessential Labrador everyone raves about or distributed in any way without permission the! And are usually willing to please specifically to his requirements and pallet of. For registration they may express by becoming rambunctious and destructive are friendly by nature and love spending time their! Healthiest aren ’ t calm down until they ’ re even-tempered, docile, lovable! And personality of any breed in the ring or the field but, these are dogs bred work... N'T give this breed is so popular and empathy when their humans are.! The years males, thus are often the cause of puppy mills for registration they feel their owner withdrawn... No trimming takes the front seat of all their characteristics aid their metabolism and keep their system! To large shorthaired black dog as a `` Lab cross. Labs whose shade of yellow happens be... Training method, well-behaved puppy them a fantastic fit for a home with children diversity is loyal... 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