Why are labrador dogs most popular of all?
To start with, labradors have got bags of personality, and they love making friends with practically anyone! They're eager to please, kind-hearted, and often retain a puppy-like nature well into their senior years. In other words, the labrador is a real people dog, making them a perfect companion for elderly owners or the ideal addition to a family with young children.
Are labrador retrievers intelligent dogs?
Labrador retrievers were first bred as water dogs and hunting companions. They were trained to fetch birds and other game shot down by hunting parties. As such, they were selected for obedience and intelligence. And because they spent so much time around people, they quickly developed into highly social animals.
Their combination of intelligence and sociability makes them excellent working dogs, and many of today's labradors earn their dog food as guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, and therapy animals.
A short history of the labrador
According to the American Kennel Club, the earliest labradors originated from North America and Canada. UK owners have the Earl of Malmesbury to thank for bringing these wonderful dogs to our shores. The 19th-century aristocrat and statesman came across the breed during a trip across Canada. He immediately spotted their potential as working dogs and started importing them onto British soil. He then set the first-ever UK breeding programme, and the labrador breed has never looked back since!
Are labradors friendly?
Labradors aren't just friendly; they're super-friendly! In fact, you might get a little bit jealous over just how much your dog seems to love other people. Don't worry, though - you'll always be their favourite human!
Is a Labrador a good first dog?
Labradors are great for first-time dog owners. They're relatively easy to train, naturally obedient, soft-natured, and extremely affectionate. Labradors make a perfect family dog or a best friend for life for single owners.
That being said, these enthusiastic dogs are bursting with energy and require lots of vigorous exercise. You'll need to schedule at least one hour a day for playtime. The occasional stroll through the park is OK, but these dogs need to run, chase, fetch and even swim to be truly happy.
Labrador facts
Fact #1
Labradors come in a range of colours. You can choose from yellow labs, chocolate labs, or black labs
Fact #2
All Labradors have webbed feet. It's what makes them such great swimmers!
Fact #3
These dogs are notoriously greedy. So go easy on the doggy treats!
Fact #4
They're the most popular dog breed by ownership in the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, Israel, and Australia!
Fact #5
Labradors have a double coat made up of a glossy outer layer and a dense undercoat designed to keep them warm during the winter or when they go for a dip in icy water.
Fact #6
Former US presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush both owner labradors. Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin is also a confirmed labrador lover!
Fact #7
In 2002, a labrador named Endal won the PDSA Gold Medal for animal bravery. After Endal's owner passed out, the super pooch pulled his human into the recovery position, covered him with a blanket, and then went to get medical assistance!
As you can see, labradors are pretty amazing animals. They make great companions, excellent working dogs, and are more than willing to put themselves on the line for their favourite people. All they want in return is a full bowl of dog food every night and lots of love and snuggles! Now that's not a bad deal at all!
