Research undertaken by rover.com in 2021 concluded that Labrador Retrievers are currently ranked the Number ONE pedigree dog breed in the UK. Having two Labradors at home and seeing iconic figures such as the Andrex Puppy, Marley and Old Yeller, I can see why the breed has claimed the top spot for so long as they are such a loyal and lovable dogs.
Labradors originated in Newfoundland, Canada back in the 1500s. Small white dogs were bred with Newfoundlands and named after the nearby Labrador. Imported into the UK in 1800s, they were seen to be ideal for shooting sports. You can find out more about their origin here https://www.bil-jac.com/the-dog-blog/posts/breed-history-where-did-labrador-retrievers-come-from/
Looking at general breed traits is great but a real-life low-down is also beneficial. If you’re considering welcoming a Labrador into your life, or have a young puppy, here are our 10 things every Lab owner knows…..
1 – They like to eat!
It’s common knowledge that Labs are human dustbins, eating anything and everything without thinking. Anything could be a potential food source - therefore we have to be quite careful to ensure they do not eat foods that can make them unwell, and monitor their weight carefully (more on that later). It’s important to ensure rubbish bins are protected, food items and leftovers are put in the bin straightaway and not left on worktops for easy pickings.
2 – Chewing your slippers!
Labs are often connected with chewing up your favourite slippers or your TV remote (maybe it’s linked to eating everything?!). They do have a strong desire to chew both as a puppy and an adult dog. Whilst this is expected from younger dogs and has many benefits to them, it can be difficult to manage as their jaws get stronger and can cause more damage. Providing enough chewing opportunities to satisfy their need will help to protect your furniture from teeth marks.
3 – Social Butterflies
We come across many Labs (they are the no1 breed after all) and it’s safe to say they are the party-going social butterflies of the canine world - usually wanting to say hello, be friends and play with everyone they meet, whether it’s human, canine or any other species. Whilst this is a lovely trait to have, it can come with its own host of tribulations and therefore careful management of social interactions and good manners are required from an early age.
4 – Labradors were originally bred to help fisherman collect fish that had fallen off hooks into the water and pull the fishing nets in. Their water-repellent coat and webbed paws make them natural swimmers, therefore it stands to reason that the majority of Labradors LOVE water and swimming – the dirtier the better - so do expect a smelly, dirty Labrador on a winter’s walk.
5 – Most Labradors will run and greet you holding something, anything, in their mouths. This is an inherent trait that is naturally self-rewarding due to generations of the breed being taught to hold and retrieve items to their humans. Many items they choose to pick up will be things we may class as unsafe or forbidden, and rushing to take these items from them can, unintentionally, create resource-guarding tendencies. To prevent this becoming a problem, aim to exchange items for something better to hold rather than just take it away.
6 – The clue is in the name – they love to retrieve! Whether it be a ball, toy or pheasant - it’s what they were bred to be good at and enjoy. It’s worth noting that retrieving should be undertaken with some restrictions in place to ensure it remains fun and doesn’t create any unwelcome side effects. https://www.potterpaws.co.uk/blog-post/to-fling-or-not-to-fling/
7 – Weight Control
We mentioned earlier that Labradors LOVE food and there is a reason that could explain this. Studies have shown that some Labradors have developed a gene mutation which means they always feel hungry. With this in mind, and canine obesity being an ever-increasing problem, keeping your Lab’s weight under control can be a real challenge. Ensure you feed as healthy a diet as possible, undertake regular gentle/appropriate exercise and regular weight checks to help keep on top of this.
Read more about the study here https://www.newscientist.com/article/2086840-why-are-so-many-labradors-fat/
8 – Hair in your dinner!
There is something about Labrador hair that seems to make it appear in the most unlikely of places – I find it everywhere – my clothes, my car, in kitchen cupboards and even in my dinner! Despite being short haired, Labradors do generate a lot of hair and benefit from regular brushing and de-shedding to keep them looking tip-top and as comfortable as possible.
9 – Don’t underestimate them
Despite being a popular dog breed with families, Labradors are very clever dogs who need a lot of stimulation, both physically and mentally. The level of stimulation will vary depending on whether you have a show line or working line Labrador. Show lines typically will require less whereas working lines will require a LOT of mental stimulation!
10 – You won’t regret it!
No matter how much they eat, how often you have to search for your slippers or shoes that have been carried around the house, or how dirty they get – you’ll love how loyal and affectionate your Labrador is!