If you are looking for a good first dog for your family, who looks sweet, runs, and plays. Then you are at the right place.
Labradors could be the right choice for you. A Labrador is a loyal, working dog. It is most popular among Americans. It is and most intelligent pet dog for first pet owners. They are cute and engaging from their faces.
Labradors are good friends and very patient dogs. They do not show any sign of aggression unless provoked. They are good watchdogs and protectors. They bark loud when they see something wrong.
A young Labrador stands about 21 to 214 inches in height and weighs about 50 to 80 pounds. Usually, they have a life cycle of 10 to 20 years.
All about Labrador
Like golden retrievers, Labradors are also an affectionate, outgoing, and social friend. In this article, we have provided you with all the necessary information about Labradors. So keep reading it, it will prove helpful for making decisions for your first dog.
History
Labradors were found fist time in Newfoundland, Canada. They were rare at that time. They were popular for their keen sense of smell. This breed was also used to fetch items from the water.
Labradors arrived in North America in the 20th century. Now, the modern Labrador is a member of the sporting group. They have found a place as working dogs, taking a role in many different sectors, such as;
- guide dogs
- Therapy dogs
- Detection dogs
- Service dogs
- Show ring stars
- Assistance dogs
- Search and rescue dogs
Health
“Health is wealth” is a well-known saying and your dog’s health should be your first priority. A healthy Labrador weighs about 50 o 90 pounds and life span of 10 to 13 years. Generally, they are healthy breed but they have to face some health problems.
Hip dysplasia: a genetic problem causes hip joint issue in dogs.
Elbow dysplasia: an inherited disease cause abnormal development of elbow joint structure.
Progressive retinal atrophy: It affects the photoreceptor cells of dog’s eye.
Cataracts: cause imperfections in eye’s lens.
Osteochondrits: in this condition dog’s joints are failed to form bone in particular areas.
Degenerative ACL: a tendon condition can cause soft tissue injuries.
Size and Appearance
Usually, they are large in size. They vary in size from 21 to 24 inches tall. They have heavy weights from 50 to 90 pounds. Black, chocolate, yellow, red, and silver are available colors in Labrador.
A family pet
Labradors are friendly dogs. They need to your time at least two hours in a day. Play their favorite games with them to make them happy.
Temperament
Labradors are companions, and social friends of humans. They have keen interest to play with small children. They are the easiest outgoing breed.
They feel energetic and happy when they are out of home.
Exercise
As we all know, Labradors are energetic and traditionally working dog. They need more energy than other breeds. They need a lot of exercise. Labradors can become overweight, if you do not provide them a healthy exercise. Overweight may cause health problems to your Labrador.
Labradors are full of energy. That’s why they need exercise to bun off. Exercise for Labradors must be for two hours.
Living condition
Labradors are family-oriented dogs. They do not like isolated environment and love to live in a cozy dog crate. Mostly, crates are specially made for Labradors, available on market.
Training
Training sessions are essential for Labradors. They should be confident about things, people, and places. You must introduce your Labrador to other dogs after proper vaccination.
Obedience training is also important for dogs. Your dog should be socialized.
Nutrition and Food
Good food gives healthy life. Always choose healthy food for your Labrador. Feed the proper amount of food to your dog. They need food according to age adult, or senior.
Breeders and Puppy Costs
Beware of buying a cheap Labrador puppy. You’ll need to know where to start your search for a puppy. The price of a Labrador depends on several factors. Usually, it may cost around $800 to $1200.
Which one is Better Male or Female Labrador?
If you are feeling difficult to find which gender of Labrador is best for you. So, let’s overcome the difficulty. While, there is a difference between male and female Labrador.
If you are finding a good guard and joyful protector then male Labrador is a good choice. Or if you want an attractive personality dog then you can buy a female Labrador.
Male Labradors are goofier and naughtier than female. They need more attention. Labs can be trained hardly, as they are very sharp minded dogs. Maintenance is also necessary for their body. Males are protective and playing more than females.
On the other hand, females are prettier and gentler than males. It is more attentive and sensitive gender. They attract more attention of people. Females get mature faster than males. You can train them easily.
Pros and Cons about Labrador
Like other dogs, Labradors also have pros and cons. Owner of a dog has many benefits of dog but in the same way they have to face many disadvantages too.
There are some pros of Labradors mentioned below.
- Labradors have a pleasant personality
- Labradors are fast learners
- Labradors are friendly and peaceful dogs
- Labradors are great with children
- Labradors have an average to long lifespan
- Labradors are friendly with other pets
- Labradors are great company for outdoor fun
Cons about Labradors are also here in this article
- Labradors are food-motivated
- Labradors are heavy shedders
- Labradors can suffer breed-specific health conditions
- Labradors have a doggy smell
- Labradors are prone to separation anxiety
- Labradors need lots of space
- Why Labrador called worst dog?
No doubt, Labradors are good for first dog owners. But there are some negative points on the personality of Labradors. Which make them worst. People also don’t like them due to these reasons.
- Labradors love a lot shedding that can be annoyed for owners.
- Labradors need too much time for daily exercise.
- Labradors get genetic problems very quickly.
- Labradors are expensive than other breeds.
- Sometimes Labradors are not good around young children
- Labradors are vicious guards
- Labs are more affectionate than other dogs
- Labrador is a common breed dog
All these have bad effects on human life. Mostly, people give prefer other dog breeds on Labradors.
Top Best Breeds for First Time owners
When you are selecting something (especially for dogs) it is not good to rely on one thing. Searches on kinds, breeds, sizes, colors etc. are necessary.
But you do not need to go anywhere. We are providing you the top best breeds, if you are going to be a first dog owner.
- Boxer; they love to be with people. Their first desire for humans is affection, especially from children.
- Poodle; they are the smartest breed of dogs. They love trainings and sport activities.
- Labrador retriever; they are the most popular breed among dogs. Americans love to take Labradors along them.
- Papillion; they are small in size but friendly with people.
- White Soft coated terrier; a medium sized breed. They are happy by nature.
- English spring spaniel; they are good and cheerful for house pet. They love neat and clean mats.
- Cavalier king Charles spaniel; a trainable and affectionate dog breed
- Shih Tzu; they have a lively and friendly attitude. They do not require excessive exercise.
- Whippet; they have cool personality with long hairs. Their natural attachment with humans makes them happy.
Conclusion
Everything has its own advantages and disadvantages. Alternatives of such things are also available in the market. Animals also liked and disliked by people for many reasons. In the same way, Labrador retrievers also have pros and cons.