Fun Facts About Labrador Retrievers

Labrador Retrievers, or simply Labradors, are the favourite breed in many countries due to their beauty and adorable personality. They are perfect companions because they are gentle, affectionate, intelligent, and loving.

There are a few things that people don’t know about these fabulous dogs. Here are some:

The Intelligent Nanny Dogs

Labradors are a favourite breed worldwide because of their patient and passionate nature. They are the first choice for households with children because they are loyal and caring. Though considered large breeds, they are playful but gentle buddies, especially for kids.

Labs are also one of the most intelligent breeds. They quickly learn and are compassionate, so they are constantly trained to become guide dogs, members of the K9 unit, and support dogs.

Bred for Water

Labrador Retrievers were originally bred in Newfoundland, Canada, where they helped fishermen pull nets and ropes and retrieve fish in the 17th century. The name “Labrador Retriever” was taken from the Labrador Sea, where they were used as rescue or working dogs.

Labradors are built for water. They have a double coat - dense, long hair and short, soft ones - that acts as insulation that keeps their bodies warm. Their coat and natural oil prevent water from penetrating. They are practically water-proof!

Their rubber-like tail and webbed feet make them excellent swimmers, making them incredible partners for people who love outdoor activities like beach cruising, boating, and swimming.

Descendants of an Extinct Breed

The St. John's water dog, the most similar breed to Labradors, was already extinct. It’s a crossbreed between the Newfoundland and other smaller water dogs. The Second Earl of Malmesbury was fund of the breed and kept a kennel.

Soon, the dog was bred with British hunting dogs, creating our beloved Labrador Retrievers.

Labs Almost Went Extinct

Labradors are popular breeds in many countries, such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, because of their overall looks and personality. However, the breed almost didn’t make it because of government greed.

In 1800, the government of Newfoundland wanted people to raise sheep. So, it implemented a one-dog-only rule and penalized people for owning more than one dog. Higher taxes were imposed on female dogs.

As a result, people killed female puppies from the litter, and Labadors almost went extinct in Canada. These laws also led to the extinction of the St. John’s water.

Fortunately, some kennels have already brought Labador puppies to some countries. In the UK, the breed persisted and became one of the most popular household dogs. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Labrador Retriever as an official breed in 1903.

The Lifespan

Labrador Retrievers are considered large breeds and will reach senior status at six to seven years. Their average lifespan is from 10 to 12 years old. Your lab can surpass the average life with proper nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care.

The oldest Labrador recorded is Bella. She was 29 when she crossed the rainbow bridge.

There are 7 Colours

The American Kennel Club recognizes only three colours of the Labrador Retrievers. They are black, yellow, and chocolate. However, some colours are claimed to be purebred and are now gaining popularity worldwide.

The light cream, almost white, and deep golden yellow labs are considered a yellow variation.

The silver Labradors have the same genetic makeup as the black ones. However, many countered that this is just the result of crossbreeding.

Lastly, the fox red Labradors have a deep reddish brown colour. Though it is also considered a shade of yellow, it is precious because of its rarity.

Labs Need Exercise

Labradors are built to hunt and are considered athletic breeds. They need at least 2 hours of exercise daily. They are always ready to go and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, playing in the park, swimming, and boating.

There are some days or seasons when outdoor activities are not possible. You’ll need to exert some effort to stretch them out and provide mental simulations during these times. Otherwise, they might channel their energies to furniture and curtains.

Treat dispensing toys are one of the best things for your Labradors. They are designed to keep them busy while exercising and having some fun. 

Labs Don’t Feel Full

If you own a Lab, you know that they are ferocious eaters. It appears that they don’t feel full at all. Well, Scientifically speaking, it’s true! This is due to a specific gene.

In 2016, a study entitled Cell Metabolism found that Labrador Retrievers have a gene mutation absent in other breeds. This disrupts β-MSH and β-endorphin coding sequences and is associated with greater food motivation and obesity.

So portion control is vital for your Labs because they don’t realize they are full.

Other Crazy (But Fun) Facts

• The film “Maley & Me,” which covers 14 years of a dog, was filmed with the help of 22 yellow Labradors. 
• A Labrador is one of the dogs who helped the 101 Dalmatians escape.
• Labrador is a favourite dog in the United States until 2022. The French Bulldog took the top spot.
• The first dog on the cover of Life Magazine was a black Lab named “Blind of Arden.” 
• Reese Witherspoon, Dua Lipa, Anne Hathaway, and Arnold Schwarzenegger own a Labrador.
• The first dog trained to detect diabetes was named Armstrong, according to Guinness World Records.