Labrador Retriever: Character, Health, Feeding, Price, and Care

The Labrador retriever breed originated from the island of Newfoundland, located off Canada's eastern coast. Labradors are among the most popular dog breeds in the world, and their popularity is driven by their friendly personalities, active lifestyle, and intelligence.

The Englishmen first discovered the Labrador during their visits to the area in the early 1800s and thought to bring some back with them. It is assumed that these dogs are descendants of either the St. John's Water Dog or St. John's Retriever.

Let's look at the Labrador Retriever in terms of their character, health, feeding, price and care.

What Is a Labrador Retriever?

They were originally bred as working dogs, aiding fishermen in retrieving nets and ropes from the cold water and fetching fish. But their talents don't stop there - Labradors also make wonderful family pets, thanks to their kind and friendly personalities.

For a reason, Labradors are one of America's most popular breeds- they're hardworking, good-natured, and always up for a game of fetch! Whether they're working as retrievers for hunters, assistance dogs, or show competitors, Labs are always eager to please. They're also an invaluable resource in search and rescue operations.

What Is Labrador Retriever Size?

Their size varies depending on their gender, but they are generally a medium-sized breed. Males will stand between 22.5 and 24.5 inches tall and weigh between 65 and 80 pounds. Females will be a little smaller, standing between 21.5 and 23.5 inches tall and weighing between 55 and 70 pounds.

Labrador Retriever: Average Lifespan

Labrador Retrievers have an average lifespan of 12 to 12.5 years; however, a recent study suggests that chocolate Labs have a significantly shorter lifespan of 10.7 years. Many factors influence the lifespan of Labradors, including exercise, diet, and healthcare.

How to Take Care of Your Labrador Retriever's Health?

Like all dog breeds, Labradors can be prone to specific health problems. However, they can easily live long lives with proper care and regular veterinary visits. Some of the conditions that Labs are more likely to suffer from include:

• Obesity: Labradors are prone to obesity due to their high metabolic rate and love of food.
• Hip Dysplasia: Canine hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the femur bone and hip joints, usually resulting in arthritis and lameness. It can be prevented by selecting puppies from parents with low hip scores and ensuring your Labrador is not overweight.
• Nasal hyperkeratosis: This is a condition where the nose becomes thickened and dry, often causing it to take on a black coloration. It can be controlled with supplements and moisturizers, as well as avoiding extreme temperatures.

With health care precautions in place, Labs can easily live a long life.

• Socializing your pet from an early age will help them be around other animals and people without being anxious. Labs are known for their intelligence, so with some time and effort, you'll see positive results.
• Because labs are full of energy, they need to be active for long periods each day. Their preferred exercises are swimming and retrieving items, like in a game of fetch, but they also take pleasure in participating in sports such as agility.
• Finally, ensuring that your Labrador is eating a balanced diet and taking regular trips to the vet will keep them in good health. Also, make sure that they are up to date with all their vaccinations.

What to Feed Your Labrador Retriever?

Labradors are known to love food and have difficulty restraining themselves, so beware of overfeeding your pet. This can create additional health risks like diabetes or arthritis, which will likely shorten their lifespan.

However, Labrador Retrievers require a significant amount of food; the right amount for your dog will depend on their age, gender, size, and activity level. Typically, Labs require approximately 1.5 cups of dry dog food per day, divided into two meals. 

Therefore, it's crucial for owners to monitor meal portions and – if needed – consult veterinarians about developing a feeding schedule customized to their pet's unique needs.

How Much Does a Labrador Retriever Cost?

The average cost of purchasing a Labrador Retriever puppy from a breeder ranges from $800 to $1,200. This may seem like a lot of money, but these dogs are beloved for a good reason.

Final Thoughts on Labrador Retriever

Buying a Labrador Retriever is a big commitment, and it's important to factor in the cost of owning one before you make the decision. But if you're willing and able to provide a loving home, you'll be rewarded with a loyal companion who'll be a part of your family for years to come. With proper care, training, and nutrition, a Labrador Retriever can provide you with many years of joy.