Labrador Retriever

A quick history lesson!

The Labrador retriever can be traced back to Newfoundland in Canada in the 15th century. Originally the large breed known as the Newfoundland was found but then later a smaller version with short course hair and an easier ability to swim in cold water was discovered. From it’s abilities to retrieve rabbits, birds and fish by huntsmen and therefore the breed became known as a Labrador retriever. It is unknown whether they are natively from England and came to Newfoundland on a boat or whether they are natively found in Newfoundland. They quickly became a very popular breed to own, whether you wanted them as a pet or for a working capacity. Labradors would be the most popular breed for a gun dog as they have a perfect temperament and naturally have a willingness to please their owners. They are therefore been labelled as a gun dog breed.


Labrador retrievers come in three main colours, black, chocolate brown and golden or yellow. The Golden/yellow Labrador can range in there colour from bright yellow to a dark nearly reddish colour. The black and golden/yellow colours are the most popular especially in breeding. Labradors are also renowned for their floppy ears.


A Labrador would fit into almost any home environment once the owner is willing to devote their time as much as the Labrador shows them. Although a Labrador is naturally a dog that wants to please it becomes more difficult to train them if you don’t start early on. Labrador’s have a huge amount of energy, that’s why they make such good gun dogs running around so much. A Labrador owner should take this into consideration and have time regularly to bring them for walks and for playtime.


Labradors have a short coat that is dense and shed all year round, particularly in spring and autumn. Labradors would require minimal grooming. Regular brushing would be recommended to avoid excessive shedding and bathing would only be required when necessary, always use appropriate shampoo to avoid skin irritation


Labradors are traditionally a gun dog. This means that as a pet they are very willing to please and a quick learner. This also makes them an excellent contender for a guide dog and because of their superb sniffing skills and retrieving skills; it makes them excellent sniffer dogs. Labrador’s are naturally are very friendly and playful dog that has a lot of energy throughout the day.

Labrador Retriever puppy


Good solid bodies, not too fat and not thin as this could indicate worms or incorrect feeding or both. They should look overall clean and be in good condition. Where they have been kept should also be clean. A bright clean and happy puppy with a wagging tail is best but don’t necessarily dismiss the pup that shy away as he may just be an observer.
On the side of caution – acquire your puppy from someone who is close by with a good reputation. It is always a good idea to view both parents and their registered papers. Inquire about their vaccinations and worming tablets but also get your own vet to look at the puppy once you have brought it home.

Labrador Retriever Adult:


Strong head with floppy ears, good shiny coat and strong muscular body with strong legs. A Labrador’s body is often very strong in the front with a lot of strength around their chest and neck. a labrador female will weigh between 30kg to 35kgs and a male between 35 to 40 kg, on average.With good diet and a healthy lifestyle, a Labrador’s coat should be nice and shinny and smooth. That’s why it is essential to do lead training early on. An adult Labrador’s personality will start to shine through from an early age, loyalty and the willingness to please.

In general, it would be considered that 13 years is a good life expectancy for a Labrador Dogs, in general, are considered adults when the reach about three years of age. As your dog gets older, their personality will shine through and their puppy madness will become less prevalent. They will still require and active life in the form of regular walks and runs to maintain a healthy dog lifestyle. But in general Labrador’s are a very energetic breed right up to an old age, that’s why they make such great gun dogs.

Health conditions Labrador Retriever's are prone to:

• Progressive Renal Atrophy (eyes)
• Hip Dysplsia (hips)
• Osteochondrosis (bones)

All of these conditions are usually tested and diagnosed before the Labrador is a year old.