| The Labrador retriever is a favorite dog breed of | | | | family activities and don't let him get lonely then you will |
| many families and it's easy to see why as this | | | | have a fine pet. These dogs are very smart, very loyal |
| intelligent and loyal dog makes a great family pet. | | | | and can also be high spirited. They have a gentle |
| Originally from Newfoundland this dog's initial job was | | | | temperament and are great with other dogs as well |
| to jump into the icy waters to help pull in the fishing | | | | as children. Since they are intelligent, they can very |
| nets. Today they are used for many other things | | | | easily be trained. |
| including seeing eye dogs, working with the disabled | | | | This breed has very few health issues that can be |
| and sniffing out drugs. | | | | prone to hip dysplasia in the eye disorders. |
| Part of the American Kennel Club sporting group, the | | | | Even though the Labrador Retriever is a very active |
| Labrador Retriever was admitted into the AKC in 1917. | | | | dog they can adjust to apartment living as long as |
| According to the breed standards this dog should be | | | | they are given sufficient exercise. It is better, though, if |
| between 21 and 24 inches tall and weigh between 55 | | | | you have an average sized yard that the dog can run |
| and 75 pounds. With proper care, the dog's life span | | | | around in. Regardless, you'll need to take him for walks |
| can be 10 to 12 years. | | | | and if you can find a place for him to play in the water |
| There are actually two types of Labrador Retrievers, | | | | even better. |
| the English and the American. The American breed is | | | | The short coat is easy to groom and merely needs to |
| taller and leaner than its English counterpart but both | | | | be brushed regularly using a firm bristled brush. The |
| have solid muscular bodies with a short water resistant | | | | dog should only be bathed with either wet or dry |
| double coat. This dog is characterized by a broad | | | | shampoo when it is absolutely necessary. |
| head and wide muzzle and has a very powerful neck. | | | | It's easy to see why the Labrador Retriever with its |
| The Otter shaped tail and webbed feet help the dog | | | | intelligent and gentle disposition and easy to groom |
| be the excellent swimmer that it is. The Labrador | | | | coat is a favorite family pet. If you are considering |
| retriever comes in three colors solid black, yellow or | | | | adopting one into your family, just be sure that you will |
| chocolate. | | | | have the time to spend with it as this dog does need a |
| This lovable and patient dog often gets bad marks | | | | lot of human interaction. Also, be willing to commit to |
| because it can be destructive if left alone. He needs to | | | | give them the proper veterinary care that these |
| be part of the family and if you include him in your daily | | | | wonderful pets deserve. |