The Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog in the United States, and for good reason. His physical capabilities and outgoing, eager-to-please temperament make him an ideal family pet and sporting dog. Contrary to his name, the Labrador Retriever doesn't come from Labrador, but from Newfoundland. There, it is thought, small water dogs were bred with Newfoundlands to create the prototype for the modern Lab. Today’s Labrador Retriever is beloved by hunters and families, alike. If a Lab were a high school student, you can just imagine the accolades he’d be noted for in his yearbook.
1. Best Looking—The Labrador Retriever is a beautifully built sporting dog. With his “otter” tail, dense weather-resistant coat, and friendly expression, he radiates quality and substance. Even better, Labs come in three beautiful colors: yellow, black, and chocolate.
2. Most Popular—Year after year, the Lab is ranked as the most popular breed in the United States, according to AKC registration statistics. Hunters appreciate his endurance and abilities on land and water. Families love his kind, outgoing nature, and active outdoorsy people enjoy having a companion that’s always up for the next adventure.
3. Friendliest—The Lab’s temperament is a hallmark of the breed. He’s outgoing and friendly to humans and other dogs. Intelligent, trainable, and eager to please, it’s no wonder everyone likes him!
4. Most Helpful—The Labrador Retriever’s willingness to please makes them outstanding search and rescue dogs, as well as guide dogs for the blind. They often work with search and rescue teams to aid law enforcement, and as therapy dogs. In fact, Labs are the breed of choice as guide and rescue dogs.
5. Most Athletic—Labs are high-spirited dogs, with the muscle, energy, and endurance to work hard and play harder. Take your dog hiking, jogging, swimming, or for an endless game of fetch, and you’ll have a happy dog.
6. Most Likely to Succeed—With their combination of physical ability, intelligence, and eagerness to please, Labrador Retrievers excel at dog sports like rally, tracking, field trials, obedience and agility. As we mentioned above, Labs are also one of the most desired breeds for use as assistance dogs.
7. Most Likely to Steal Your Lunch—The list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning that Labs love to eat . . . and eat and eat and eat. Your Lab loves to eat his food, your food, toys, garbage, shoes, and anything else within range. Labs are also more prone to obesity than other breeds. It's important to feed your dog a balanced, nutritious diet and give him plenty of exercise to balance out that appetite. In fact, studies have shown that dogs fed a restricted diet to keep them lean actually live longer than obese dogs.
Of course, as any lover of the breed knows, the Lab is all these things and more: the most loving and lovable canine companion anyone could ask for!
For more information on the Lab, check out our video below!