What is the difference between a Labrador and a Retriever?
Retrievers are a type of dog. They are, literally, dogs that retrieve and were originally bred to retrieve game for hunters both on land and in the water.
The American Kennel Club recognises six different breeds: Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, Flat Coated Retrievers, Curly Coated Retrievers and Irish Water Spaniels. There are other breeds of Retrievers not currently recognized by the AKC, for example CKC's Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.
Labradors don't shed, do they?
Actually, they do. They have a double coat.. These two types of coat help keep the dog warm and dry while swimming in cold waters when retrieving. Generally Labradors will shed their coat twice a year. This is called "blowing" their coat.
They are moderate shedders, not like Alaskan Malamutes or German Shepherd Dogs. There will be a certain amount of hair loss throughout the year, especially in more temperate climates. This varies individually; some Labradors shed less than others, especially if they happen to have an incorrect coat.
How much grooming do they need?
Labs need to be brushed on a regular basis (about once a week) in order to keep them clean. This is a good way to keep their shedding under control. A "slicker" type brush would be perfect. Labs also need to have their toenails clipped regularly. Clippers can be found at pet stores and you should have your vet demonstrate the best way to clip the dog's nails.
Labs do not need frequent baths. The Labrador coat does not need constant attention. A true bath is neccessarry only when the dog smells bad. In case it is merely dusty or muddy, you can rinse them off with plain water or brush the dirt out.
Shampooing them too often could prove to be damaging, as shampoo tends to strip the natural oils out of their coats. A properly oily coat repels dirt and sheds water easily.
Are Labradors hyperactive?
A Labrador with correct temperament is never hyperactive. Since their populaarity is rising lately, some Labs are bred by people who disregard their temperament. If you don't breed for good temperaments you will only obtain them accidentally. This generally happens to people with little or no knowledge of breeding dogs, who are doing so mostly for the money.
The best advice for finding a Labrador with the right temperament is toget the most possible information about the breeder. An idea would be to ask to see their other dogs--this should give you an idea of the energy level you can expect from their puppies. Try to find out the names of other people who have previously bought dogs from them -- and then contact these people and ask them how they behave. Labradors with poor temperaments are often the result of thoughtless breeding. However, Labradors are active dogs especially in puppyhood. And they do not fully mature until the age of 3. This means you will have a dog that will act like a puppy until this age. Often a Lab puppy is labelled hyperactive when it is simply a normal, exuberant puppy. If you are prepared to be patient with them during this period of their lives, you will not have problems. Such dogs, untrained and unexercised, will become destructive, unmanageable, and in many cases escape artists. If corrrectly disciplined-which EXCLUDES beating- most of these Labs will become good companions.
Labradors are popular, aren't they?
Yes.At the end of 1997, the U.S. President got a chocolate Labrador. This means that there are a lot of people breeding Labradors hoping to get rich in a short time, instead of improving the breed. This requires a lot of attention to where you get your dog from.. With a bit of research and care, you can find good puppies. If you are asked to pay substantially more or less for a puppy without good reason given, be wary.
Do they make good guard dogs?
Labradors are not guarding dogs. Most will probably bark if they hear or see something disturbing- especially if it is near their yard. If plan to get a guard dog, a Labrador is not a good choice, but if you want an "alarm" barker, most Labradors are fine.
What kind of work can Labradors do?
They are good at hunting, doing field trials, and being terrific pets. Also, many Labradors are used as Service and Therapy dogs. Others do very well in Search and Rescue work, as well as making excellent Bomb, Narcotic, and Arson dogs.
Their nose, disposition, and trainability make them particularly suitable for these types of activities.
How are they with children?
As a breed, they tend to be good with children. As with any dog, it is not recomended to let puppies and children play unattended. Both puppies and children tend to be unaware of their own size and strength and could injure one another by accident. Labradors aren't likely to hurt anyone intentionally, but could knock a child over during playing.
If you are a parent of a young child and the owner of a young Lab, you will have to spend time teaching both of them how to behave around one another. A Labrador that is not well trained nor properly exercised is much more likely to hurt a child by accident children than one who is kept firmly under control.
Do Labradors like to swim?
They love to swimming. Don't be alarmed if your little pup is afraid of swimming the first time--they have to learn it just like anything else. Never throw a young puppy into the water! If you have an adult dog around that enjoys swimming, it can be easier since the pup will follow it. Or you can help them yourself.Be careful, though, since pups have sharp nails which can be painful if they try to climb up on you in the water. The spot where it learns to swim should be where there is a gradual entry, and without any current. The pup should be allowd to explore the water at his own pace. Another important matter is that dogs should not be allowed unattended access to a swimming pool unless know how to get out. Dogs often cannot pull themselves easily out of the pool.
If you do let your Lab in your swimming pool, check that filter often.
Are there golden Labs? What is the difference between golden and yellow Labs?
Labradors come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. Yellow Labradors are often mistakenly called "golden Labradors." The term yellow refers to a range of color from nearly white to gold to fox-red. The Golden Retriever is a separate breed from the Labrador, although there are similarities. Sometimes the term is used informally to refer to a Labrador / Golden Retriever mix.
Are there any other colors of Labradors?
No. Black, chocolate, and yellow are the only correct colors. While mis-marked purebred Labradors are possible, be careful of those selling "rare" Labradors of other colors at exorbitant prices. There are yellow Labradors that are so pale they appear white, but they are still considered to be yellow and will usually have some color, even if it is only on the ear tips. These lighter yellows not unusual nor rare and should not command a significant price difference. The same goes for "fox red" Labradors.
Variations in the color of yellow Labradors are not penalized, but treated the same as any other yellow Labrador; however the lighter shades tend to predominate in the ring at this time. "Silver" Labradors are purely a scam and are either crossed with Weimaraners or very light chocolates. An actual silver Labrador would be treated as a mismarked dog and not command a high price. As far as we know, "blue" Labradors (dilute blacks) have never been offered, but if they were they are in the same situation as the ones treated above. However, based on a comparison with Doberman Pinschers, it seems reasonable to speculate that silvers are dilute chocolates.
Can you get yellow Labradors from black ones? And vice versa? What about chocolates?
Yes, you can get yellows from blacks and blacks from yellows. Similarly, you can get chocolates from blacks or yellows and vice-versa. It all depends on what color genes the parents carry. But it is sure that if both parents are yellow, the resulting puppies are always yellow, never black or chocolate; if both parents are chocolate, you can get yellow or chocolate puppies but never black ones.
Are there differences between Labs of different colors?
Aside from the color itself, there are no differences. Some think that black Labs are better hunters, yellow dogs are lazier, and chocolate dogs are stubborn. It is al untrue.
The colour of the coat in normally colored Labs is determined by two genes unrelated to anything else about the dog.
It is perfectly possible to get all three colors in the same litter, therefore the notion that there is a color based difference in temperament and/or ability is absurd.
Under the current standard, a yellow with chocolate pigmentation is disqualified. Traditionally, the way to determine a dog's genetic background for color is to examine the whelping box: a dog that produces yellows and/or chocolate carries those genes.
What is a Dudley?
This is a yellow Labrador with chocolate pigmentation. It can also refer to a Lab with absolutely no pigmentation on the nose or eyerims (all pink in color), but in actuality, this is extremely rare, and probably a genetic abnormality. Although, while this is considered an undesirable trait, it is not some sort of genetic abnormality. There is no known correlation between Dudley noses and poor health.
But I see some Labradors with a pinkish nose?
Yes, this happens with many breeds, actually. Many yellow Labs will have dark noses in the summer that fade somewhat in the winter and repeat the cycle the next year. This also happens in many northern breeds such as Huskies and Malamutes. It is not considered a fault in any of these breeds and is not penalized. To differentiate between Labs with faded noses and Dudleys, check the eyerims and gums of the dogs. A Dudley will have only light pink or tan skin; the other dogs will have black pigment in these areas.
Do they bark a lot?
Excessive barking is not generally typical of the breed. They usually give a warning bark to an unusual event that they feel needs your attention.
Will a male or female Labrador make a better pet?
Both sexes make good pets. In general, male Labradors are more dependent and females are somewhat independent. For example, if you are at home working on your computer, your male Labrador will probably sleep right under your feet while your female will probably sleep in the other room and just come in and check on you periodically. For most people, a male Labrador will probably make the best pet!
How do I choose a puppy?
You need to make some decisions about what sex and color you'd like. What you plan to do with the dog. What kind of temperament you'd like. Once you have some answers to those questions, you should discuss your concerns and ideas with breeders. After you have found a breeder you like, then allow the breeder to help you select your puppy. Most breeders have a know of what the puppies' personalities are like and will guide you to a good choice.
Retrievers are a type of dog. They are, literally, dogs that retrieve and were originally bred to retrieve game for hunters both on land and in the water.
The American Kennel Club recognises six different breeds: Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, Flat Coated Retrievers, Curly Coated Retrievers and Irish Water Spaniels. There are other breeds of Retrievers not currently recognized by the AKC, for example CKC's Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.
Labradors don't shed, do they?
Actually, they do. They have a double coat.. These two types of coat help keep the dog warm and dry while swimming in cold waters when retrieving. Generally Labradors will shed their coat twice a year. This is called "blowing" their coat.
They are moderate shedders, not like Alaskan Malamutes or German Shepherd Dogs. There will be a certain amount of hair loss throughout the year, especially in more temperate climates. This varies individually; some Labradors shed less than others, especially if they happen to have an incorrect coat.
How much grooming do they need?
Labs need to be brushed on a regular basis (about once a week) in order to keep them clean. This is a good way to keep their shedding under control. A "slicker" type brush would be perfect. Labs also need to have their toenails clipped regularly. Clippers can be found at pet stores and you should have your vet demonstrate the best way to clip the dog's nails.
Labs do not need frequent baths. The Labrador coat does not need constant attention. A true bath is neccessarry only when the dog smells bad. In case it is merely dusty or muddy, you can rinse them off with plain water or brush the dirt out.
Shampooing them too often could prove to be damaging, as shampoo tends to strip the natural oils out of their coats. A properly oily coat repels dirt and sheds water easily.
Are Labradors hyperactive?
A Labrador with correct temperament is never hyperactive. Since their populaarity is rising lately, some Labs are bred by people who disregard their temperament. If you don't breed for good temperaments you will only obtain them accidentally. This generally happens to people with little or no knowledge of breeding dogs, who are doing so mostly for the money.
The best advice for finding a Labrador with the right temperament is toget the most possible information about the breeder. An idea would be to ask to see their other dogs--this should give you an idea of the energy level you can expect from their puppies. Try to find out the names of other people who have previously bought dogs from them -- and then contact these people and ask them how they behave. Labradors with poor temperaments are often the result of thoughtless breeding. However, Labradors are active dogs especially in puppyhood. And they do not fully mature until the age of 3. This means you will have a dog that will act like a puppy until this age. Often a Lab puppy is labelled hyperactive when it is simply a normal, exuberant puppy. If you are prepared to be patient with them during this period of their lives, you will not have problems. Such dogs, untrained and unexercised, will become destructive, unmanageable, and in many cases escape artists. If corrrectly disciplined-which EXCLUDES beating- most of these Labs will become good companions.
Labradors are popular, aren't they?
Yes.At the end of 1997, the U.S. President got a chocolate Labrador. This means that there are a lot of people breeding Labradors hoping to get rich in a short time, instead of improving the breed. This requires a lot of attention to where you get your dog from.. With a bit of research and care, you can find good puppies. If you are asked to pay substantially more or less for a puppy without good reason given, be wary.
Do they make good guard dogs?
Labradors are not guarding dogs. Most will probably bark if they hear or see something disturbing- especially if it is near their yard. If plan to get a guard dog, a Labrador is not a good choice, but if you want an "alarm" barker, most Labradors are fine.
What kind of work can Labradors do?
They are good at hunting, doing field trials, and being terrific pets. Also, many Labradors are used as Service and Therapy dogs. Others do very well in Search and Rescue work, as well as making excellent Bomb, Narcotic, and Arson dogs.
Their nose, disposition, and trainability make them particularly suitable for these types of activities.
How are they with children?
As a breed, they tend to be good with children. As with any dog, it is not recomended to let puppies and children play unattended. Both puppies and children tend to be unaware of their own size and strength and could injure one another by accident. Labradors aren't likely to hurt anyone intentionally, but could knock a child over during playing.
If you are a parent of a young child and the owner of a young Lab, you will have to spend time teaching both of them how to behave around one another. A Labrador that is not well trained nor properly exercised is much more likely to hurt a child by accident children than one who is kept firmly under control.
Do Labradors like to swim?
They love to swimming. Don't be alarmed if your little pup is afraid of swimming the first time--they have to learn it just like anything else. Never throw a young puppy into the water! If you have an adult dog around that enjoys swimming, it can be easier since the pup will follow it. Or you can help them yourself.Be careful, though, since pups have sharp nails which can be painful if they try to climb up on you in the water. The spot where it learns to swim should be where there is a gradual entry, and without any current. The pup should be allowd to explore the water at his own pace. Another important matter is that dogs should not be allowed unattended access to a swimming pool unless know how to get out. Dogs often cannot pull themselves easily out of the pool.
If you do let your Lab in your swimming pool, check that filter often.
Are there golden Labs? What is the difference between golden and yellow Labs?
Labradors come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. Yellow Labradors are often mistakenly called "golden Labradors." The term yellow refers to a range of color from nearly white to gold to fox-red. The Golden Retriever is a separate breed from the Labrador, although there are similarities. Sometimes the term is used informally to refer to a Labrador / Golden Retriever mix.
Are there any other colors of Labradors?
No. Black, chocolate, and yellow are the only correct colors. While mis-marked purebred Labradors are possible, be careful of those selling "rare" Labradors of other colors at exorbitant prices. There are yellow Labradors that are so pale they appear white, but they are still considered to be yellow and will usually have some color, even if it is only on the ear tips. These lighter yellows not unusual nor rare and should not command a significant price difference. The same goes for "fox red" Labradors.
Variations in the color of yellow Labradors are not penalized, but treated the same as any other yellow Labrador; however the lighter shades tend to predominate in the ring at this time. "Silver" Labradors are purely a scam and are either crossed with Weimaraners or very light chocolates. An actual silver Labrador would be treated as a mismarked dog and not command a high price. As far as we know, "blue" Labradors (dilute blacks) have never been offered, but if they were they are in the same situation as the ones treated above. However, based on a comparison with Doberman Pinschers, it seems reasonable to speculate that silvers are dilute chocolates.
Can you get yellow Labradors from black ones? And vice versa? What about chocolates?
Yes, you can get yellows from blacks and blacks from yellows. Similarly, you can get chocolates from blacks or yellows and vice-versa. It all depends on what color genes the parents carry. But it is sure that if both parents are yellow, the resulting puppies are always yellow, never black or chocolate; if both parents are chocolate, you can get yellow or chocolate puppies but never black ones.
Are there differences between Labs of different colors?
Aside from the color itself, there are no differences. Some think that black Labs are better hunters, yellow dogs are lazier, and chocolate dogs are stubborn. It is al untrue.
The colour of the coat in normally colored Labs is determined by two genes unrelated to anything else about the dog.
It is perfectly possible to get all three colors in the same litter, therefore the notion that there is a color based difference in temperament and/or ability is absurd.
Under the current standard, a yellow with chocolate pigmentation is disqualified. Traditionally, the way to determine a dog's genetic background for color is to examine the whelping box: a dog that produces yellows and/or chocolate carries those genes.
What is a Dudley?
This is a yellow Labrador with chocolate pigmentation. It can also refer to a Lab with absolutely no pigmentation on the nose or eyerims (all pink in color), but in actuality, this is extremely rare, and probably a genetic abnormality. Although, while this is considered an undesirable trait, it is not some sort of genetic abnormality. There is no known correlation between Dudley noses and poor health.
But I see some Labradors with a pinkish nose?
Yes, this happens with many breeds, actually. Many yellow Labs will have dark noses in the summer that fade somewhat in the winter and repeat the cycle the next year. This also happens in many northern breeds such as Huskies and Malamutes. It is not considered a fault in any of these breeds and is not penalized. To differentiate between Labs with faded noses and Dudleys, check the eyerims and gums of the dogs. A Dudley will have only light pink or tan skin; the other dogs will have black pigment in these areas.
Do they bark a lot?
Excessive barking is not generally typical of the breed. They usually give a warning bark to an unusual event that they feel needs your attention.
Will a male or female Labrador make a better pet?
Both sexes make good pets. In general, male Labradors are more dependent and females are somewhat independent. For example, if you are at home working on your computer, your male Labrador will probably sleep right under your feet while your female will probably sleep in the other room and just come in and check on you periodically. For most people, a male Labrador will probably make the best pet!
How do I choose a puppy?
You need to make some decisions about what sex and color you'd like. What you plan to do with the dog. What kind of temperament you'd like. Once you have some answers to those questions, you should discuss your concerns and ideas with breeders. After you have found a breeder you like, then allow the breeder to help you select your puppy. Most breeders have a know of what the puppies' personalities are like and will guide you to a good choice.
