Read About Labrador Retrievers AKC FDSB

Labrador Retrievers AKC FDSB (Field Dog Stud Book) is the oldest purebred dog registry in the United States. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Labrador Retrievers AKC FDSB - Facts

1. AKC Group:

   The Labrador Retriever is in the AKC Sporting Group.

2. Size & Weight:

   Retrievers grow to 55-80 pounds, and 21.5-24.5 inches at the withers.

3. Coat:

   The Labrador Retriever's coat should be smooth, short, straight and very dense, with a hard feeling to the hand. The undercoat should be soft and weather-resistant.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   The head of a Labrador Retriever should be wide and well-developed, with eyes are set well apart, and floppy ears. The muzzle is powerful in profile.

5. Body:

   The Lab's body should be short-coupled, with a chest that tapers between the front legs.

6. Colors:

   The coat colors of a Lab are black, yellow, and chocolate. Any other color is a disqualification.

7. Life Expectancy:

   A Labrador Retriever lives between 10-12 years.

8. Popularity:

   The Lab is very popular, both as a hunting dog, and as a household pet.

9. Habitat:

   The Lab needs plenty of room to run.

Labrador Retrievers AKC FDSB - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   The Labrador Retriever originated in Canada.

2. Lineage:

   The Lab was imported to England in the early 1800's, where it was bred by aristocratic British sportsmen.

3. Date Admitted to AKC:

   The Lab was admitted to the AKC in 1917.

4. Historical Information:

   The Labrador Retriever was originally developed to help prison labor fishing camps in Newfoundland.

Labrador Retrievers AKC FDSB - Defining Characteristics

1. Training Ease:

   A Lab is one of the most trainable dogs.

2. Temperament:

   Labs are eager to please and non-aggressive.

3. Child Friendly:

   Labs are great with children.

4. Behavior:

   A Labrador puppy has a lot of energy and is very anxious, and loves to tear things apart.

5. Habits:

   A Lab is easily bored, and needs a lot to keep his attention.

Labrador Retrievers AKC FDSB - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Labrador Retrievers are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems, epilepsy, allergies and skin problems.

2. Feeding:

   It is important not to underfeed or overfeed a Labrador.

3. Exercise Needs:

   Labradors are very active dogs, and need a lot of room to run.

4. Grooming Needs:

   The Lab requires no special grooming.

5. Special Household Needs:

   A Lab that is left alone at home needs plenty of toys to keep his attention.

6. Travel Needs:

   A large kennel should be used to transport a Lab.

7. Getting Along With Other Pets:

   Labradors generally get along well with other pets.

Labrador Retrievers AKC FDSB - How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   A healthy puppy has clear, shiny eyes, glossy coat, and will be alert and playful.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   A new puppy should have a cage, door gates and backyard dog fencing. A Lab puppy needs lots of toys and room to run.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Keep anything you don't want your puppy to destroy out of his reach!

4. How to Make your New Puppy Feel at Home:

   Try to bring possessions from the breeder's home to ease loneliness. Feed him the food he is used to eating and feed and exercise him at regular times.