The Advantages & Disadvantages of a Labrador Retriever

Originating from Newfoundland and formerly known as St. Johns, Labrador retrievers are members of the classic working breed dogs. Nevertheless they are also among the first choice for pets, as they are popular for their people-oriented temperaments. People aspiring to get one for a pet should check whether this canine breed is the right match for them.

  1. Physical Appearance

    • Labradors possess broad, well-defined heads and floppy medium-sized ears. With colors ranging from black, yellow, chocolate and rarely silver, they have muscular build, strong back, a straight underbelly and a relatively long neck. Generally, they grow to 21 to 24 inches at the shoulder, and can weigh as much as 55 to 75 lbs.

    Disposition

    • Since Labradors have affinity for people, they prove to be very amiable family companions -- and have the need to be treated as a family member as well. Highly intelligent, good-natured to their owners, they can be trained to get along well with children. Labs are not the best guard dogs though, as their "keen to please" behavior may prove detrimental in safeguarding the house from threat. Labradors might tend to become excitable and mischievous if left unattended for long.

    Health

    • The muscular built of the Labradors indicate their need for exercise, for without it they tend to overfeed and gain weight quickly. They can accompany their owners for long walks, jogs, and even high-impact endeavors like running and bicycling, just as long as they are given the impression that their owners are in the lead. They can also be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia.

    Grooming

    • They are easy to groom -- owing to their short-haired fur -- but since they shed, they need to be combed with medium-sized bristles. And since ear infection is common to them, owners have to regularly clean the folds of the Labrador's ears.

    Breed-Specific Habits

    • Eighty percent of the Labrador retriever population love water: they love swimming and playing around with their water bowls. They also have habits that could drive their owners to the edge, like putting things in their mouths and rearing up at the dinner table. However, since they aim very much to please, they are easily trained.

    Activities

    • Because of their knack for activity, they can be perfect companions for hunters, fishermen, hikers, campers, and generally outdoors people. The English Labrador retriever, which is calmer and stockier, can be good companions for kids, while the American breed, which is leaner and taller, is ideal for hunting conditions.