The Labrador Retriever is one of the known gun dog types, such as pointers and settlers to find and retrieve birds and other hunted animals.
Labradors have a reputation as a very even-tempered breed and an excellent family dog. This includes a good reputation with children of all ages and other animals.
Apart from this dog being a family favourite, they are also well known for their ability to train easily, making them perfect therapy dogs by helping people with autism and the blind.
Their waterproof coat sheds twice a year, but it could vary depending on the climate that they live in. Labrador hair is usually short and straight, and the tail is quite broad and strong. They have webbed toes which makes them excellent swimmers.
Hypoallergenic (Prone to allergies) : No
Mass: 25 – 32 kg
Life span: 11 years
Origin: Canada
Temperament: Outgoing, Even Tempered, Gentle, Agile, Kind, Intelligent
Colours: Yellow, gold, butterscotch, brown.
What are the health conditions that the Labrador Retrieve are most prone to?
- Skeletal problems, as in many large breed dogs, Labradors are prone to elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia.
- Most Labradors love swimming. This can aggravate skin problems and make them more prone to ear infections.
- Labradors are often food orientated. They love to chew and eat! This makes them prone to obesity and weight related diseases like diabetes, joint problems and certain fatty tumours. They also like to scavenge which will increase the risk for recurrent gastrointestinal upsets (vomiting and diarrhoea).
- Laryngeal paralysis is not a common diagnosis but some older Labradors are more at risk compared to other breeds.
Thank you to our online vet Dr Adel for sharing with us ailments which she is exposed to as a vet on a daily basis.
Other Top Dog Breeds in South Africa:
Yorkshire Terrier, English Bull Terrier, English Bulldog, Golden Retriever, Shetland Sheepdog, Miniature Schnauzer, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, Chihuahua
