Sunday, April 28, 2013

English Labradors Are Just Adorable

By Flossie Gibbs


There are two basic types of Labradors, English and American. English Labradors are heavier and thicker than their American cousins. They come in solid black, yellow and chocolate color, and their eyes should be gentle and dark brown, surrounded by a black line. Chocolate version sometimes might have hazel eyes as well.

This is a medium size breed, with up to 24 inches at the shoulder. Females usually weigh 65 to 70 pounds. Males are bigger, they weigh somewhere between 70 and 80 pounds, but some larger males can weigh over 100. Their expected life is ten to twelve years, but they can live a little longer if they get enough exercise and if not over-fed.

Heavy built English Labs have wide and strong bodies and equally strong heads and necks. Their hanging ears are medium-sized and covered with smooth, thick hair. Their tails are long and strong as well, fully covered with hair and normally relaxed down.

Their smooth, thick coats are easy to maintain. Daily combing or brushing will be enough to keep your dog tidy, although he sheds, but not too much. Their ancestors are Newfoundland dogs that were brought to England in the 1800s. They were crossed with setters and other retrievers until become like they are today. Anyway, your Lab will enjoy playing in water immensely.

Labs have very good nature and constant desire to please. They are very obedient and easy to train. They really enjoy company and make perfect family dogs. 30 to 45 minutes of exercise a day will be perfectly enough to fulfill their exercise requirements and to keep them calm and satisfied. If they don't get enough exercise, they could express their feelings by chewing your furniture.

Besides being ideal family dogs, Labs excel in other disciplines as well. They make perfect watch dogs, blind persons' guides, hunters, trackers or police dogs. Their sensitive noses are just perfect for detecting various narcotics. They also make very good show dogs, thanks to their obedience and intelligence. American type is still the most popular breed in the United States, but Labs are popular worldwide.

Labs need a leader, but puppies have to be socialized very early. Every good breeder will make proper puppy socialization and habitation his priority. Although they are obedient and kind by nature, you need to train them properly. Your dog has to be trained to heel beside or behind you during your walks and accept you as a leader, and you won't have any problems with him.

Labs are generally healthy, but they prone to some diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia and different eye disorders. Don't overfeed your dog, because it will shorten his life and make him more prone to mentioned health conditions. Regular veterinarian check-ups, plenty of exercise and an adequate diet will keep your dog healthy and strong.

American type requires more exercise, and it looks a little different. English Labradors are very gentle dogs, with nice personalities and friendly nature. Smart and obedient, Labs are widely popular among all generations, and you won't make a mistake if you choose to buy one. Always choose a good breeder, and you will have a great furry friend.




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