🐕 Labrador Retriever (or Labrador, Retriever of Labrador)
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dogs in the world, valued for its friendly nature and ability to adapt to family life. Originating from England, it descends from the St. John's dog of Newfoundland, used to assist Canadian fishermen. It is primarily selected for its retrieving qualities, making it an excellent working dog.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Name: Labrador Retriever (or Labrador, Retriever of Labrador)
- Origin: England, descendant of the St. John's dog of Newfoundland
- Type: Working dog, companion
- Hypoallergenic? No ❌
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 30-35 kg
- Female: 28-33 kg
- Height:
- Male: 54-61 cm
- Female: 52-56 cm
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Exercise needs: 1.5 to 2 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (can adapt but prefers outdoor space)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Hunter: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Independent: ⭐☆☆☆☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (very suitable for families with children)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (high compatibility with other animals)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (very sociable and friendly)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (can adapt to a smaller space but prefers outdoor access)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Care frequency:
- Grooming: Weekly brushing is recommended to keep its short coat in good condition and prevent shedding.
- Hygiene: Regular ear cleaning and teeth brushing to avoid infections and maintain healthy teeth.
- Exercise: The Labrador is very active and needs a lot of exercise, ideally one to two hours of walks per day to stay healthy.
- Specific care:
- Exercise: This is an energetic dog that loves to play, so games and exercise are crucial for its well-being.
- Diet: A balanced diet is essential to maintain its weight, as Labradors tend to gain weight easily.
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 1000-1500 €
- Average annual cost (veterinary, accessories, food): 1450-1550 €
🏡 Important note
The Labrador Retriever is a sociable, playful, and affectionate dog, highly valued by families. It adapts well to urban life but needs enough physical activity and time with its owners to be happy. It is essential to provide an environment where it can express its energy. Pay attention to its dietary and exercise needs to prevent any health issues, particularly obesity.
The Labrador is an excellent choice for active owners, especially those with children, looking for a loyal, affectionate, and energetic companion. 🌟🐾
