There are many reasons why Labrador retrievers remain one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States, Canada, and beyond. Start with their notoriously friendly demeanor and sloppy kisses, and then move on to their intelligence and mad fetching skills and then…keep going? However you slice it, Labs deserve all the love.
Want to know more about labs? Read on for 11 fun facts about one of the world’s most beloved dog breeds.
1. Labs are the cutest puppies
Look up “cute puppy” and you’re almost certainly going to see a photo of these rollicking, adorable bundles of fur. Who can resist that face? Yellow labs, chocolate labs, black labs, silver labs…they look great in all their coat colors.
To find an adorable Lab puppy of your own, check out the American Kennel Club (AKC) to find a breeder near you.
2. You better mean it when you throw that stick
Because your pup isn’t going to stop returning it to you, again…and again…and again…
The Labrador retriever was bred for (you guessed it) retrieving. Also known as a retriever gun dog, this class of dog was trained and selected to work tirelessly, finding and returning game to hunters. So when your Lab wants to play fetch all day, remember that they’re just doing their job.
3. They need something to chew on
And it doesn’t even have to be food. Labs will chew on anything! Whether it’s rawhide or a durable chew toy, you might want to invest in a lot of something to gnaw on if you have a Lab. That way your furniture will stay intact. Be sure to leave extra enticing chewables whenever you leave the house because it’s a bored Lab that chews the most.
4. They’re balls of energy
Labs are known to be boisterous, which makes them super-fun, but also means you need to give them the proper amount of exercise (i.e. a lot). Labs were bred to be high energy working dogs, so if you’re not up for all that mojo, think about adopting a slightly older Lab for a mellower experience.
But if you want to make the most of this sporting dog’s enthusiasm, keep an eye out for the health of your Lab’s joints. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are health problems that are common to Labs. Check with your breeder and vet for more information, and consider supplements for joint health.
5. They want to please you—and everyone
These people-pleasers love having a task that you ask them to do, which is why they’re so good at fetching! Their enthusiasm and easygoing spirit also make them an ideal companion. It’s also why they make such great working dogs. Labs are expert service dogs of all kinds: guide dogs, therapy dogs, and even search and rescue dogs skilled in tracking and detection.
6. That kind, outgoing, friendly nature
It doesn’t matter your size, shape, or age—Labs are ready to love you just the way you are. Kids are especially drawn to their sweet and loving personalities, which makes Labrador retrievers a popular breed among families. As family dogs, Labs are famously great with kids, with patience and playfulness in abundance, even if you have trying little humans.
7. Shedding is a fact of life
Do Labs shed? Yes, they do. Labs can’t help but leave a little of themselves (a.k.a. hair) all over the furniture, toys, and you. Their water resistant double coat makes a great swimsuit, but also means regular brushing and the occasional blowout. Powerful grooming tools are a Lab owner’s best friend. Pro tip: if your pet seems to be shedding an insane amount, try adjusting their diet or giving supplements in consultation with your vet.
8. Known to be escape artists
There is one downside to being so clever. If you’ve got a listless Lab on your hands, you might also have a runaway. Whether it’s a fenced in yard or your very own house, Labs are experts at breaking free. You can keep a closer eye and tighten the perimeter, but you should also make sure your Lab is microchipped and wearing tags with your current address, just in case, so they’ll be safe and returned to you quickly.
9. They’re the whole package: brains AND beauty
Don’t let that luxurious coat and those sweet eyes distract you from the facts—these dogs aren’t just a pretty face, they’re also super intelligent. Labrador retrievers have been ranked among the brightest dogs, which means they can learn a command in five or fewer repetitions and obey a command almost every time. That kind of smarts and focus has helped them as working dogs, and will help them listen, even to your toddler, when it’s time to sit or stay.
10. Watch that tail!
Yes, it’s lovely that they’re so wag-happy, but watch out. That otter-like tail has coffee table-clearing abilities. Their tail originally served a very important purpose as water dogs, to help them steer, like with a rudder. But on land, that tail strength is no joke. Clear away breakables, or do your best to get your dog excited far away from the china cabinet.
11. Always up for a swim
You’ll never need to ask these pups twice if they’d like to go for a dip! Labs are true water dogs, originally bred in Newfoundland from the St. John’s water dog, a breed used for waterfowling. Even now, a Labrador retriever’s webbed feet and an adventurous spirit make them take to the water like, well, fish to the…water. Oh, and don’t say we didn’t warn you about that shake.