Information about Labradors

The Labradors are among Australia's favourites. They are also referred to as Labrador Retriever. The name “Labrador” comes from the region where the breed originated, in Labrador, Canada.

There are some visual differences between various Labradors, the key difference being their coat colour. There are black Labs, chocolate Labs, and golden Labs. Additionally, American Labradors tend to be leaner, while English Labradors have a slightly heavier build and are specially bred for show purposes.

Labrador breed information

If you’d like to get to know the breed a little more closely, here are a few key traits and facts about the Labrador:

How long do Labradors live?

Labradors usually live for up to 10-12 years.

How big do Labradors get?

A male Labrador stands at 57 to 63cm height and weigh between 29 and 37kg. Female Labradors stand between 54 and 60cm height and weigh between 24 and 32kg.

Do Labradors shed?

Labradors have a thick dense coat that requires regular brushing, with coat colours ranging from black, chocolate and yellow.

Should I get a Labrador?

Should I get a Labrador?

A Labrador may be a great addition to your family. They are generally intelligent, easy to train and they love to work with people. Labs can be friendly and enjoy human company, and they usually don’t like to be left alone for long periods of time. They can make vibrant companions for children. It takes patience and training to manage Labradors. Labrador Retrievers are very strong dogs and tend to require early training for discipline. 

Labrador personality

Labradors usually have a good temperament, being loyal and patient with children and adults, and love to spend time with their families. Labradors tend to quickly develop love and care for their family, especially when adopted as puppies.

It's common to adopt Labradors as puppies. Labrador puppies should be microchipped and its information recorded on the CAR or AAR database with its unique identification details, like all dogs in Australia before they are 12 weeks of age.

Taking care of a Labrador

Grooming

Labradors shed frenquently, and might need brushing often. It's important not to over-wash your Lab with soap-based shampoos that remove natural oils from the fur.

Exercise

The Labrador Retriever was first bred for physically demanding work and usually has the high energy of a working dog. They will need at least 30-60 minutes of exercise each day. Without exercise, they may release their stored energy in barking and chewing.

Diet

Labradors usually love to eat, and will eat too much if you let them. This can quickly lead to obesity. To help keep them in healthy shape you could limit the amount of treats you give them and try multiple small meals instead of large meals, as well as plenty of exercise.

Common Labrador health conditions

Like most dog breeds, Labradors are susceptible to certain health conditions. Here are some examples:

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a hereditary skeletal condition seen in medium to large dog breeds. The condition creates a deformity in a dog’s hips as they grow, leading to reduced mobility and range of motion. Early signs of hip dysplasia in a dog can be limping, abnormal walking patterns, and loss of muscle in the hind legs. Breeders registered with the ANKC (Australian National Kennel Council) should have their puppy's parents x-rayed to screen for hip and elbow dysplasia before registering a litter.

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia is another common condition in large dog breeds. It’s an inherited condition that results in developmental abnormalities and affects a dog’s elbow joints. Early signs of elbow dysplasia include reduced - range of motion, forelimb lameness, and fluid build-up in the joint.

The cost of insuring a Labrador

If you’re thinking about getting pet insurance for your Labrador, factors like age and location could affect the cost of your premium. Everyday Pet Insurance offers Basic, Standard, Comprehensive and Comprehensive Plus cover that helps protect you and your furry friend. Check what each insurance cover includes.

Need Pet Insurance for your Labrador?

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