Information About the Labrador Dog Breed

American Kennel Club (AKC) statistics show that the Labrador retriever was the most popular dog breed in the United States in 2009, as well as many years prior. The Labrador retriever, among other things, is a smart, friendly and loyal dog who is easily trainable and gets on well with children.

  1. History

    • According to the AKC, the Labrador retriever originated in Newfoundland and was the result of a mix between Newfoundlands and small local water dogs. The breed was first named the St. John's Water Dog. The Labrador was imported to England in the 19th century and quickly became a popular hunting dog. The breed was recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1903, and the American Kennel Club in 1917.

    Types

    • According to the Dog Breed Info Center, there are two types of Labrador retriever: the English Labrador and the American Labrador. English Labradors are bigger built and heavier than their American counterparts, whereas American Labradors are tall and streamlined. Labrador retrievers typically come in three colors--yellow, black or chocolate--but a rare silver or gray colored Labrador also exists.

    Temperament

    • Labrador Retrievers make popular family pets because of their loyal and affectionate nature. According to the Dog Owner's Guide, Labradors benefit from an active family as they are high energy dogs that require daily exercise. The AKC standards of Labrador temperament state that the breed is usually outgoing, kind, intelligent, adaptable and non-aggressive.

    Considerations

    • The Labrador retriever is a large, powerful dog that, according to the Dog Owner's Guide, needs obedience training from an early age to avoid behavioral problems later in life. Exercise and mental stimulation are important, as an understimulated and bored Labrador will often display undesirable behaviors such as digging, chewing and wandering. An untrained Lab can also be a challenge to walk.

    Size

    • The typical weight for an adult male Labrador is between 60 and 75 pounds, and the average female weight is 55 to 70 pounds. According to the Dog Breed Info Center, male Labradors can sometimes exceed 100 pounds. The average height of a male Labrador is 22 to 24 inches, and the average female measures 21 to 23 inches.