Labrador retriever

Bred initially as a fish and duck retriever, these gun dogs are a great example of man’s best friend. The Labrador Retriever is a medium/large breed that has a temperament all its own. They are kind, loyal, curious, and love the company of their humans. Today, they do well in homes with room to roam as long as they get ample playtime and mental stimulation.

The American Kennel Club describes the Labrador Retrievers to be:

“The sweet-faced, lovable Labrador Retriever is America’s most popular dog breed. Labs are friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited companions who have more than enough affection to go around for a family looking for a medium-to-large dog.”

Labrador Retriever Appearance

This sturdy, loveable breed is eager, friendly, and active. With a dense coat, tapering “otter tail,” and broad head, not many humans can resist the eyes of a Labrador Retriever. They are great family pets that bond quickly and love to play.

Average Height: 21 – 24.5 inches

Weight: 55 to 80 lbs.

Coloring: yellow, black, and chocolate

Life Span: 8-12 years or even more

Not sure if your rescue fits this description? Give us a call to find out at Animal Care Center.

Lab puppy

Labrador Retriever Care

Labrador Retrievers are trainable, and kind and they are active dogs with a desire to please. As with most dogs, socializing your Labrador Retriever for a good disposition is always worth it. Although, they love to be with both humans and other dogs.

Nutrition

Labrador Retrievers are prone to becoming overweight if no exercise adequately. So, they should be fed high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age and activity level. And remember that treats are great for training, but there can be a point where too many treats are not suitable for dogs. And clean, fresh water should always be available.

Grooming

The lab has a thick and water-resistant coat that does shed. So an undercoat comb can help reduce the amount on your sofa. And they can get stinky, so baths are needed. Other than that, they will need nails trimmed, and teeth brushed. But, overall, they are easy to care for.

Labrador Retriever

Exercise

An owner may have the biggest issue with the Labrador Retriever if they do not give them ample time to run and play. You see, they are prone to misbehaving to release energy if they are pent up all day.

Additionally, they love to swim, participate in agility routines, play fetch, and more. The Labrador Retriever is also one of the types of dogs utilized as service animals.

Health

Labrador Retrievers are relatively healthy dogs. A condition labs are prone to is what is called bloat. Owners should be aware and watch for the symptoms. In addition, the National Breed Club recommends the following Breed Testing:

  • Hip Evaluation
  • Elbow Evaluation
  • Ophthalmologist Evaluation
  • EIC DNA Test

Furthermore, the best care you can give your Labrador Retriever is to have an excellent veterinarian to rely on. That is what Animal Care Centers is all about, providing the best care for pets and their owners.

Animal Care Center Welcomes All Furry Family Members

We think you’ll agree, from the moment you enter the Animal Care Center, you’ll be among the friendly staff, owners, and pets who prefer Dr. Williams. The total preventative care of your pet is our pleasure. So, you need not worry one bit. What’s more, the team will welcome your pet with open arms putting your loved ones at ease.

The best care for your furry family member is at the Animal Care Center. We provide complete care for your pet’s health needs, including dental care, internal medicine, and emergency care.

Caring for the total pet is our specialty. From eyes and ears to testing and surgery, the people of Smyrna, Georgia, and the Greater Atlanta Area can count on the fantastic staff at Animal Care Center and our own Dr. Williams.

Labrador Retriever