Number one breed registered with American Kennel Club for 15 years. Originally from Newfoundland, this breed was trained to jump overboard into the icy waters to haul fishermanâs nets to shore.
Color: Black, Yellow, and Chocolate
Weight: Female 55-75 lbs Male 75-100 lbs
Life Expectancy: 10-14 years
Description: This breed is a solid, muscular dog, slightly longer than tall, with a short, easy-care, water-resistant double coat. They have a broad head, thick nose, and scissors bite. The muzzle is fairly wide and the neck is powerful. Eyes are chestnut or hazel with an intelligent expression. Medium-sized ears flat to the head, an otter tail thick near the body that is used as a rudder in water, and webbed feet to aid in swimming.
Temperament: Loving, affectionate, very patient, highly intelligent, loyal and high-spirited. Lively and good-natured, they love to play, especially in water, friendly, superb with children and other dogs. They crave human attention and need to feel part of the family. Easily trained, may be reserved with strangers unless well socialized â will bark, and are great watchdogs (not guard dogs). They can become destructive if left alone too much; crating is encouraged until they can be trusted. This breed is high maintenance and will stay very puppy like until 2 years of age.
Exercise: They will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are moderately active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized fenced yard. They are energetic dogs, delighted to work and play hard. They need a lot of exercise. Labs are big eaters and need regular exercise and moderate rations to avoid a tendency to become overweight. A one â two mile walk/run daily, suitable toy retrieval (tennis balls, durable toys), and swimming when possible are wonderful ways to keep this breed fit.
Grooming: Comb and brush regularly with a firm, bristle brush, paying attention to the downy undercoat. They will shed regularly. Limit bathing to only when needed using a moisturizing shampoo to keep the dander down. Nails should be trimmed as needed, ears to be cleaned weekly, and sterilized bones are a great treat and will help to cut down on the tartar.
Health Problems: Prone to hip and elbow dysphasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) blinding disorder, and anal gland sacs may need to be expressed if stool is too soft. Feed premium dry food, low fat treats, no table scraps, and senior formula recommended for dogs over 5 years of age.
For additional information on this breed, you can contact Greater Dayton Labrador Retriever Rescue and Referral at
