Trained Labradors For Sale? Best 51 Answer

There is no debate that Labradors are loved and loved all over the world. However, there is a debate about which color is the best!

Three famous Labrador colors are black, yellow and chocolate. But there are also rare colors like silver, white and red.

Lab enthusiasts argue that color affects their behavior, health, or pedigree status. In this article, we share our opinion and present you with the facts so you can decide which Lab color is the best!

Labrador Colors Explained

According to the American Kennel Club, there are only three colors of Labrador Retriever. These colors are black, yellow and chocolate. However, as Labs grew in popularity, other colors such as silver, charcoal gray, and red were also recognized.

There are now six recognized Lab colors:

Black

chocolate

Yellow

Silver

Red

White

The science behind coat color is complicated and the result of various genes.

Black and chocolate labs have a dye in their fur called eumelanin. Eumelanin determines what shade their fur will be. A dog that produces a lot of eumelanin will end up being a black dog, while a dog that produces little eumelanin will end up a chocolate dog.

Whether a dog produces a lot or a little eumelanin all depends on its B genes.

The big B, the dominant gene, encodes high levels of eumelanin and results in a black coat. The small b, the recessive gene, encodes low levels of eumelanin and results in a chocolate coat.

Dogs inherit two B genes, one from each parent. A Labrador with BB or Bb will have a black coat, while a dog with bb in its genome will have a chocolate coat.

Yellow lab coats are determined by the E gene. Just like the B genes, there are two genes at this location, one from each parent. E genes determine whether or not the B genes are expressed.

The large E gene is dominant and does not interfere with the B genes. The small e gene is recessive and masks the B gene. This masking results in a yellow coating instead of a black or chocolate colored coating.

Labradors with EE or Ee in their genome are either black or chocolate colored (depending on their B genes), but dogs with ee in their genome have yellow coats:

Dogs with EEBB, EeBB, EeBb or EEBb genes are black.

EEbb or Eebb dogs will be chocolate

eeBB, eeBb and eebb are yellow.

Breeding two yellow Labs will always result in yellow puppies.

Two chocolate labs can have chocolate or yellow puppies.

A pair of Black Labs may have black, yellow, or chocolate brown puppies. When you mix Labradors with other dog breeds, it gets even more complicated!

Another complicated part of their genetics is the idea of ​​diluted genes! The D genes can be either Big D, which is a dominant gene and results in a non-diluted coat, while Little D is a recessive gene, resulting in a diluted color.

A Chocolate Lab with DD genes would be chocolate. However, a Chocolate Lab with dd would have a color that looks like diluted chocolate. They appear silver in sunlight. This dilution can also be done in yellow for making champagne or black for making charcoal labs.

Breeders often do genetic testing on their breeding animals to accurately predict the possible lab colors of their puppies. Other breeders skip this expensive step and just opt ​​for a nice surprise of puppies that can be just about any color possible!

Genotype Color Dilute EEBB Black Charcoal EEBb Black Charcoal EeBB Black Charcoal EeBb Black Charcoal EEbb Chocolate Silver Eebb Chocolate Silver eeBB Yellow Champagne eeBb Yellow Champagne eeBB Yellow Champagne

Labrador colors

1. Black Labrador

Most black Labs are all black. But some have a white patch or two on their fur. This break in their solid black coat is due to genetic traces left by their deceased ancestor, the St. John’s Water Dog. Johanniswasserhunde had a lot of white in their fur.

The black Labrador Retriever has historically been the most common coat color. Even today, almost half of all Labradors are black!

When retrievers were first bred, black-haired dogs were the only puppies that were considered acceptable. Their popularity was fueled by two reasons:

Black is the most popular coat color for hunting. Four out of nine gene combinations result in a black coat.

Unfortunately, by the 20th century, all other lab colors were euthanized shortly after birth. They weren’t valued as much as Black Labs.

Black Labs were perfect for their original purpose, hunting.

Their dark coat color helped them blend in and move stealthily when hunting or participating in field trials. These Labs tend to have the strongest hunting instincts as their black coats were historically bred for hunting. To this day, they are focused, hard workers.

These shiny, sleek dogs are not only popular on the field, but also make wonderful family pets.

Many owners consider Black Labs to be the calmest and most affectionate of all Labrador colors. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.

2. Chocolate Labrador

Chocolate Labs are the rarest of the three major Lab colors. These dogs are rarely used for hunting or work, but are masters in the show ring! Her color amazes the judges and earns high marks in conformation shows.

The shade of brown that Chocolate Labradors can be varies.

Some are rich chocolate while others are a dark brown color known as liver. Some even have a beautiful shade of red in their brown fur! Chocolate color exists on a spectrum and can vary widely due to genetics.

Many owners have made assumptions about Chocolate Labradors’ personalities that are not supported by facts. Some of these assumptions are widely accepted in the Labrador community.

Chocolate Labs are said to be the wildest with a little too much energy for their bodies! These puppies are brave and often difficult to train, which might explain why they are not used as companion dogs.

While these Labs can be a bit energetic and naughty at times, their affectionate nature and goofy personality make them just as popular.

The unfortunate truth about Chocolate Labradors is that they often suffer from more health issues than other Labrador types.

Some of these health concerns are minor and include hot spots (skin irritation) and ear infections. However, some are more serious and can shorten their lifespan. On average, Chocolate Labs have a 10% shorter lifespan. They often live a year and a half less than the other Labradors.

3. Yellow Labrador

Yellow Labs may not be the most popular Labrador Retriever color, but they are the most popular. Many owners claim that Yellow Labs are the friendliest and most outgoing.

Their excellent reputation is reinforced by their strong presence in everyday life!

Yellow Labs are often seen in movies, such as the adorable Lab who played Marley in Marley and Me or the sweetheart who starred as Old Yeller. The media has also increased their popularity, as well as their recognition as general service, search and rescue, and therapy dogs.

Much like chocolate, the yellow coat color exists on a spectrum.

Some yellow labs are tan or tan, others are yellow like a lemon, and then there are cream labs. There are also fawn Labradors. Fawn Labs are darker but not quite red. The Yellow Lab is possibly the Labrador Retriever with the most variation in its coat color!

Yellow Labs are just as hardworking as Black Labs, although they are not used for hunting as often. Very similar to Black Labs, they are just as trainable, affectionate, and hardworking.

4. Silver Labrador

Silver Labradors are by far the rarest of all colors. These dogs are light gray to blue in color that looks silver in sunlight.

These Labradors are often confused with Weimaraner mixes because of their silver coat.

Silver Labs actually have the same genetics as any type of Lab, although they look very different. They are just as smart, fun and loving as any other retriever.

They have a diluted gene that overrides the designated chocolate coat color. Rather than being chocolate, these dogs have a silver or blue coat color.

The same coat color thinning can occur in both Yellow Labs and Black Labs. Diluted yellow rennets are known as champagne and diluted black rennets are known as charcoal. However, silver is the most unique. Due to the recessive nature of the Dilute gene, there aren’t many Silver Labs.

Silver Labs are undoubtedly stunning, but they have a higher potential for developing health issues. They often develop color dilution alopecia, which shows up as itchy skin or patchy fur.

5. Foxy Labrador

Fox Red Labs have the same genetics as a Yellow Lab, but their coat is only a deep yellow or brown hue. This deep brown looks rusty red and makes her look like a fox.

Labrador retriever fans love chestnut labs for their friendly personality. They affectionately named these dogs Ruby Labradors. Clifford, the beloved big red dog, is even based on a fox red Labrador.

The red color gives them a rugged look that many owners love!

That love doesn’t extend to the American Kennel Club, however. The American Kennel Club does not recognize fox red as a unique color and registers these Labrador Retrievers as yellow Labs. Judges often consider this dark pigmentation a serious fault, so it is unlikely that a chestnut Labrador would ever win a conformation show.

Some people are very suspicious of the fox red color.

They often argue that Fox Reds are not purebred and that they are mixed with Golden Retrievers. That is not true.

These beautiful gold/red colored Labradors are still purebred. It’s all the beauty of a Golden Retriever without the high maintenance and long coat that Goldens are known for.

6. White Labrador

White Labs are just a variation of the Yellow Lab. They have the same genetics as a Yellow Lab, only they are much paler.

White Labs are the lightest shade of yellow possible. This color exists at the opposite end of the spectrum from fox red Labradors. The shade of their fur is typically a pale yellow that looks white in sunlight. They can also have brown or yellow ears and paws that are darker than the rest of their fur.

Their white fur gives them a royal aura.

Like any Yellow Lab, White Labs are considered friendly dogs who love everyone they meet. They make terrible watchdogs as they befriend everyone and quickly trust any stranger they meet! They often get incredibly spoiled and spoiled.

There are no known health issues associated with this color unless their white coat happens to be the result of albinism. It is not common for retrievers to be born with albinism, but it is possible. Albino Labradors can suffer from deafness, blindness, and shortened lifespans.

Frequently Asked Question

Does coat color matter?

Discussing Labrador Retriever colors can be controversial.

Are silver and red labs purebred? Do personality traits differ between different colored Labs? Should silver, red and white have their own color category?

The answers to these questions are not easy.

Scientists and dog experts argue that color has no bearing on a dog’s personality. They say behavior is determined by genetics, socialization, training, and health. In their opinion, coat color is just cosmetic.

On the other hand, there are owners and breeders who argue that coat color affects a Labrador’s personality.

These owners and breeders have lived and interacted with Labs of all colors. In their opinion, coat color is associated with distinctive personality traits. These lab lovers agreed:

Black Labs are the calmest and most experienced at hunting.

Yellow Labs are the friendliest and do best with people and children.

Chocolate Labs are the most rowdy, energetic and difficult to train.

From a scientific point of view, color does not affect a Labrador Retriever’s behavior.

However, breeders and owners have recorded the behavioral traits associated with each coat color.

It’s up to you to decide if color is important to Labrador Retrievers or not!

Which is the rarest color?

Silver is the rarest lab color. Silver is rare because it can only come from a unique genetic makeup. The dilution gene needed to create this silver hue is a recessive gene and is often masked by the genes for a chocolate coat.

If you ever see one of these silver beauties, take the time to really admire them as you may never see another one again!

Which color is the best?

This is definitely an opinion question with no right answer!

Each color of the Labrador suits a specific type of owner:

Athletic hunt owners will want a black Lab.

Yellow Lab owners claim that their dogs are the best because of their friendly personalities.

Chocolate Labs win most prizes at conformation shows.

Silver Labs are the rarest, to further complicate the argument.

It is up to each owner to decide which color he likes best. For each Labrador color, an argument can be made as to why that color is the best.

Which lab color is the calmest?

It is generally accepted among Labrador owners that black Labs are the calmest. This could be a result of their industrious hunting instincts causing them to be much more focused and level headed.

Chocolate Labs parading around show rings are often the wildest.

If you ask the experts, the answer will be that coat color has no effect on Labrador behavior. They claim that each dog’s genetics, environment, training, and socialization shape their personality.

However, if you read various Labrador Retriever websites and forums or speak to lab owners, you may hear a different story.

Whether or not you believe this claim is up to you! There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that black labs are the calmest labs.

summary

Each color of the Labrador Retriever is beautiful and unique in its own way.

Silver Labs are rare, Black Labs are sleek and elegant, Yellow Labs have a friendly aura, White Labs are elegant, Red Labs are dedicated to their work, and Chocolate Labs are beautiful and ready for the show!

Experts argue that color has no bearing on a Labrador’s personality. They say behavior is determined by genetics, socialization, training, and health.

Labrador coat colors are the perfect example that beauty really is in the eye of the beholder.

Want to learn more about Labs? Read: English vs American Labrador: The Top 10 Differences.

What coat color is your favorite and why? Let us know in the comments below!

Article overview

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To choose a Labrador Retriever, choose a puppy if you have the time to train him, or an older dog if you want him to be housebroken and already have some training. Additionally, choose a female Lab if you already have a male dog at home, as male Labs can become aggressive towards other dogs of the same sex. Once you know what you’re looking for, contact an animal shelter, rescue organization, or AKC-recommended breeder to help you find your new Lab. Read on for more tips from our veterinary co-author, including looking for signs of good health in your prospective pup!

Which Labs are calmer – Black, Red, Yellow, Chocolate, White?

09/01/2016

By Julie Morrill

This is certainly a frequently asked question and we have answered it on our FAQ page, but in this blog I will try to be more detailed in my answer.

What about black labradors? First, calm does not depend on color; it is breed dependent. If the father and mother are calm, their puppies will be calm. However, if you have observed that Black Labs tend to be more energetic than Labs of other colors, your powers of observation are not without value. More black Labs have been bred for field trials than any other color. This means that more Black Labs in the United States tend to be higher energy than Labs of other colors.

What about yellow labradors? Are they calmer than other color labs? Again, rest depends on breed, not color. More yellow Labs have been bred to be therapy and companion dogs, meaning they were bred to be quiet. Many Yellow Labs also come from English Labrador Retriever pedigrees. English Labs are quieter than American Labs. If you observe that more yellow Labs “out there” tend to be quieter than Labs of other colors, you’re probably right.

What about Chocolate Labs? Unfortunately, most chocolate breeds in the United States today are what we call “backyard breeds.” From our observation there does not appear to be any consistency in temperament. Some chocolate labs are quiet; some are more energetic. (Please note that we have nothing against many families who choose to home breed their dogs and witness the whelping process. If we hadn’t first acquired the knowledge and enjoyment of breeding and giving birth to puppies in our own homes, we wouldn’t be where we are today. However, we oppose the unplanned, random, irresponsible way in which many dogs are bred because they are not spayed/neutered.)

What about Red Labs? I think the jury is still out on Red Labs. Red Labs are actually dark yellow Labs. On the one hand, given the nature of most Yellow Labs, you might expect Red Labs to be calmer than other colors. So far, however, we have observed higher energy levels in Red Labs. This is probably because reds with the best pedigrees and health clearances happen to be found in the field trial world. Like all of our dogs, we try to breed our calmer Labs with our higher energy Reds for more even-tempered, calm offspring that are great for both family and hunting.

What about white labradors? White Labs are actually light yellow Labs. Again, you can expect white Labs to be calmer than other colors. However, we have not observed any consistency in White Labs energy levels to date. We bought a White Lab a few years ago and it had very high energy levels. The occasional light yellow “white” Labrador puppies produced in our kennel were all very well balanced and of medium energy.

What about Marble Mountain Kennels Dogs? Personally, we like the super frenetic, frantic, energetic trait present in your typical Field Trial Labrador Retriever. They have their place and do very well in a competitive environment or as sniffer dogs. However, our customers share our opinion of preferring a calmer dog. As such, all of our dogs are bred to have a balanced temperament – not super high energy and not so low energy that they lie around like couch potatoes all day. We often mate one of our more energetic dogs to a calmer dog to produce offspring that have a more peaceful, even temperament. The result is usually a dog with the coveted on/off switch that makes him relaxed around people around the house but can kick the juice on outside when it’s time to run, play, or work.

If you’re still not sure what the difference is between a High Energy Field Test Lab and our Hunt and Companionship Labs, first let me explain that both our Labs and Field Test Labs are bred for high intelligence, which is reflected in their strong Hunt Champion – shows pedigrees. This allows them to be trained well for any purpose, be it basic obedience, therapy, tracking, or hunting. But to make it clearer to you, allow me to give you an example of the difference between the energy of a field test lab and the energy of one of our labs: You can see the high intensity and focus of attention in our mountain of marbles kennel dogs every time we meet get ready to throw a ball or stick for them. With our dogs, you’ll find every muscle in their body tensed as they sit still, waiting for you to act. A field-bred Labrador, on the other hand, is usually totally spastic, jumping and running in circles while waiting for you to throw a ball or stick. Yes, you can teach the high-energy field test dogs to have patience and control on the hunt, but we prefer the natural, instinctive patience, control, and intensity in our dogs. This means they require less work for us in the training process. Does this mean that we never produce lively, lively and energetic Labs in our kennel? no They show up in litters from time to time and are very easy to spot. However, most of our puppies will possess a more balanced, medium energy.

I hope this answers one of your most important questions. If you have any other questions, please send us an email. We are happy to hear from them!

Some of the questions about a dog’s intelligence can arise from being exposed to a family dog ​​of a certain color who may have been challenged a little. But then, as humans, we will probably think that similarly colored Labs will therefore behave in the same way. It’s just not like that! Almost weekly we hear as breeders that a chocolate lab is not as smart as a black or yellow lab. Some people may think yellow labs are smarter than a chocolate lab or a black lab; The list goes on. But this is all based on nothing more than someone’s personal experience with these dogs.

For example, Black Labs are highly regarded as working dogs and are therefore generally considered to be the smartest and quickest learners. Another example is if you have a yellow lab friend who is well trained and follows instructions to the letter, and a chocolate lab friend who regularly runs away and damages their home, then it’s easy to see why you might think there is a difference in intelligence. If you’ve been around a lot with service or therapy dogs, you’ve found that yellow labs are smarter. If you are around hunting or police dogs, you might think that black labs are more intelligent. But actually it depends on the breeding and the training and not only on the experiences that you have had with the dogs. If you are looking for a Labrador Retriever puppy, you need to know the facts and delve into proper breeding practices.

In the US, you may have experience with some lab puppies who appear to be less intelligent and don’t have the best temperament. In some cases, this may all be in your imagination. In other cases, it may be due to irresponsible dog breeding. For people who are just out to make money selling dogs, they will take any dogs that make the best coat color and breed them, rather than choosing the brightest, most intelligent, and those with the best temperament. As such, choosing your lab puppy from a responsible breeder is one of the first things you should do. When this happens, you’ll find Labs of all sorts of colors that are calmer, smarter, and more even-tempered.

How do you know which dogs are the smartest?

When you look at puppies in a litter, it can be difficult to tell them apart. At eight weeks of age, her personality has just begun to form. They are pretty much exactly alike with subtle differences that have evolved over their playtime with their littermates. But all dogs with higher levels of training and even things like championship prizes are only achieved by the smartest dogs. This will continue as this higher intelligence will be evident when these dogs have offspring.

selective breeding

A dog’s intelligence comes from a selective breeding process by professional breeders. The professional breeders will constantly select the smartest lab puppies to breed again and again; Toss after toss. Any labs that seem smarter, and those you may have even come across yourself, are usually because they have some of the right training. We humans can often just blame the dog for not being smart or not doing things the way we want them to. But even after a selective breeding process, dogs still need proper training, and this is where a clear understanding of positive reinforcement training comes into play. This can make a big difference.

Positive reinforcement training

Positive reinforcement training when it comes to your dog can go by a few names such as: B. reward-based training, pain-free training and science-based training and so on. But no matter what you call it, the theory behind this mindset will remain the same. So what is positive reinforcement training?

If you give your dog a treat, e.g. B. Praise or a treat, when he does something good and responds to you when he should, it shows him that when he does, he is rewarded and makes a positive connection to that action. As a result, the behavior is much more likely to repeat itself. Our dogs learn a lot this way, and if you feel like your Lab is “not as smart” as some others, then no matter what their coat color is, it might be time to review your training methods or supplement them with positive methods train reinforcement training.

It is important for any Labrador enthusiast who wants a Labrador of a specific color, considering the dog’s genetics, and being knowledgeable about selective breeding. The choice of fur color is ultimately a matter of taste and has nothing to do with the intelligence of the dog. Yes, you will likely choose the one whose looks you prefer, but that doesn’t mean the dog is any less intelligent or more intelligent based solely on coat color. There’s so much more at play than just that. Their temperament and intelligence are defined by good breeding rather than just their coat color. In fact, Black Labs, Yellow Labs, and Chocolate Labrador Retriever puppies can all come from the same litter and have the same two parents. Regardless of color, Labrador Retrievers are a popular breed because they have a kind, hard-working, lovable, and intelligent adult that helps train them to do what you want them to do.

With so many beautiful Labrador Retrievers in the world, how do you know which color maze to choose?

There are three main colors of Labradors accepted by breeders, trainers, and the American Kennel Club: black, yellow, and chocolate.

Is there a color smarter, simpler, or healthier than the rest?

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What color Labrador is best?

There is no particular Lab color that is best, although there are certainly strong beliefs and differences between all three colors. There are characteristics of each Lab color that are slightly different, so you may prefer a particular color due to health issues or other factors. You should choose the color you want based on breed traits and personal preference, and remember that temperament and health are everything.

Let’s dwell on that.

The three main colors of the Labrador (and other sub-colors)

The three main recognized breed colors of Labrador Retrievers, as mandated by the Labrador Retriever Club and the American Kennel Club in the United States, are black, yellow, and chocolate.

There are several other colors of Labradors that you may also find mentioning from breeders, trainers, owners, and in online communities.

Beautiful colors you may hear about including fox red, white, English cream and Dudley Labs are all a form of the Yellow Lab.

Silver Labs and Charcoal Labs fall under the Chocolate Labrador and Black Labrador category, respectively.

The breed standard set by the AKC allows only solid color dogs with an allowable small white patch on the chest, with no patches in other areas or mixing of colors.

Labrador owners can have a passion for their dogs, and some definitely have a color preference and strong beliefs about the dog’s personality based on these three primary colors.

To help you decide which color Labrador is best for you, we cover some of the common beliefs about each color lab and the reputation that sometimes goes with it.

Beliefs about Black Labs

Black Labs are the most popular color of Lab. They are usually solid black with no other colors, markings, or spots except for an allowable small white spot on the chest.

The black color in Labs is the dominant color gene and you will therefore be more likely to see black Labs.

Historically, black Labs were the most commonly bred and most commonly seen, and often at dog shows, field championships, and hunting, you will still see the black dogs most commonly. Black Labs are also often considered service dogs.

Because they are the dominant color, black Labs are easier to find and breed. This can result in many of the positive breed traits being bred and passed on, such as: B. Gentle temperament, intelligence and excellent retrieval performance.

For example, if you are a breeder looking to breed your black Lab, you may have many more choices for a partner dog than a breeder of other colored Labs, who may have fewer choices for a partner.

This may mean that Black Lab breeders have historically had more choice when breeding out undesirable traits and have been able to be more selective about the positive traits they are breeding for, which could result in fewer health issues and better behavioral traits.

Black Labs have the usual life expectancy for Labs of around 11-14 years.

This ability to be more selective in breeding could lead to better dogs with better overall health. Much of this, however, depends on the actual breeder you use and the health and characteristics of their individual dogs.

Yellow Lab Beliefs

Yellow Labs are the second most common color of Labrador Retrievers. They can vary in depth of color for most of the three main Labrador colors.

You can see Yellow Labs ranging from very pale or light white in color to darker reddish and tan colors. Sometimes these shades are referred to by names like Fox Red or English Cream Labradors.

You may also see a special breed of Yellow Lab called the Dudley Lab that lacks dark pigmentation around the gums, eyelids and nose. You’ll find these areas on a Dudley Lab Pink instead of the typical dark brown or black.

Yellow Labs have a reputation for being playful, friendly, and sociable. You’ll see them most often at work as companion dogs and emotional support dogs.

Yellow Labs also have the same expected lifespan as Black Labs, which can be around 11-14 years. Of course, much of a dog’s health depends on its breeding and parenting history.

Beliefs about Chocolate Labs

Ahh, the chocolates. Their beautiful, glossy coats typically range only slightly between milk chocolate and dark chocolate colors.

Chocolate Labs are the least common main color of the Labrador Retriever and the most difficult to breed. They have a reputation (not always deserved) for being the most boisterous, hyperactive, and extremely energetic lab.

At a veterinary practice with our extremely friendly chocolate lab, we were once chatting to another lab owner who laughed and said, “You know, the chocolates are the craziest!”

Yes, we’ve all heard the stories, and their reputation in the Lab world is definitely well known. However, we have had chocolate Labs that were softer, calmer, and easier to train than other colored Labs.

In an Australian study of Labradors published in the Journal of Canine Genetics and Epidemiology, researchers found no evidence that chocolate Labs were more aggressive or hyperactive than black or yellow Labs.

As for field hunting, we had Chocolate Labs who were so well trained in retrieving upland game and waterfowl that other local hunters offered us money to buy our dogs (and we turned them down).

It is not the color that decides whether it is suitable for hunting, but the training.

There are some health differences with Chocolate Labs, but it’s worth bearing in mind if you’re considering one.

Because they are the rarest primary color and are more difficult to breed, Chocolate Labs have a shorter than average Lab lifespan of 10.7 years and tend to have a higher prevalence of health issues such as retinal problems, stress-related collapse, and severe allergies.

We always recommend doing thorough research to find an excellent and reputable lab breeder if you are considering getting a puppy, but this is especially important if you are looking for a chocolate lab.

When adopting a Rescue Chocolate Lab, ask as many questions as possible about the dog’s health history and review the rescue vet’s assessment of the dog’s health status.

This is also true if you are getting a designer mixed breed dog like a Labradoodle who may have a chocolate lab parent dog.

How breed and temperament influence your decision

Aside from stereotyping Labradors by color, which may or may not apply to your next dog, there is something more critical to consider.

You can’t generalize about a dog just by its color, but you can look at its breed line and parental history, as well as some environmental factors that contribute.

A far more important factor than color in determining your dog’s individual personality and temperament is the breed and inherited traits of the parent dogs.

You can have a smooth black, yellow, or chocolate colored Lab, or you can have an extremely energetic, hyperactive, and hard-to-manage version of all three. This also applies to the subset colors.

Our experience is that it is breed and temperament that determines your dog’s personality and easy attitude, not colour!

Make sure you ask the breeder what personality traits the puppies from previous litters (from the same parent breeds) have displayed. B. to health problems and behavioral characteristics of mother and father dogs.

If personality and temperament are important to you, ask the breeder if you can speak to one of the owners of puppies from previous litters to get a feel for what their dogs personality will be like as they grow up. It doesn’t guarantee you’ll get the exact same personality, but it can be a strong indicator.

You need to make sure your breeder has tested the parent dogs for health issues and issued you with health certificates from a veterinarian.

For more information on what to ask a breeder when trying to choose the best puppy, read our Breeder Guide for everything you need to know.

Summary – What color Labrador is best?

All Labrador Retrievers are wonderful dogs and there is no one color Labrador better than everyone else. The best thing to do is to consider what color is your personal preference and what personality traits suit you best?

Keep in mind that stereotypes about Labradors are not always true because of their color and that inherited traits passed through breeding, such as temperament and personality, will affect your life with your Labrador more than color.

However, be aware of certain health issues that are more common in chocolate labs.

Choose the Labrador color you love and do thorough research on a breeder or rescue to find the dog’s temperament and personality that will best suit you overall. It is the best way to guide happiness and success for you and your next dog.

How Long Can Dogs Hold Their Pee?

The topic of bathroom supplies often comes up when we talk about the appropriate amount of time that our pets can be left home alone. So how long can a puppy hold his pee? Dogs are usually able to hold their bladders for long periods of time, but it’s important to know how long is too long.

We don’t always think about how long we’re asking our dogs to hold it. If you frequently deal with “accidents” around the house or have never had a problem, this article will help you fully understand your dog’s bathroom needs and make the best decisions to support their urinary health.

How long dogs can hold their urine depends on a few factors:

Make sure you understand your dog’s toilet needs and create routines that prevent him from having to hold him for too long. Keep in mind:

Age

Age is the most well-known variable for how long your dog can wait between toilet breaks. Younger dogs, especially puppies, who are not fully potty trained cannot hold their urine as long as most adult dogs. This is partly due to their undersized and underdeveloped bladders and urinary tract.

It’s also more than just holding capacity. The muscle that contracts to hold and release the dog’s bladder takes time to develop. As a result, some puppies need toilet breaks more often than others. Part of potty training your dog is helping them build those muscles and learn how to control their bladder.

Even older dogs can lose this muscle control as they age. Muscle weakness, inflammation and restricted mobility through to kidney and liver function can contribute to more frequent trips to the toilet.

Here’s a quick chart to help you roughly determine how often your dog needs to pee at different ages:

Puppy (<6 months) = 1-3 hours Puppy (>6 months) = 2-6 hours Adult (<7 years) = 6-8 hours Senior (>7 years) = 4-6 hours Senior (>12 years) = 2-4 hours

These estimates are a good starting point, but may not be accurate for every dog. Adult dogs can hold their urine for up to 10-12 hours if necessary, but that doesn’t mean they should. The average adult dog should be able to relieve itself at least 3-5 times a day. That’s at least once every 8 hours.

size

The size of your pet is also an important factor. A small or toy dog ​​will have a very small bladder compared to a larger dog. That doesn’t mean all larger dogs have the ability to pee longer, but it might help with potty and house training success. How Long Can a Dog Hold Its Pee?

It is estimated how often dogs pee about 10-20 ml per pound of body weight. So a 5 pound dog pees between 1.7 and 3.5 ounces a day. That’s not much, but how much can their tiny bubbles hold? Half an ounce? An ounce at most?

Every dog ​​is different and their toilet habits are unique too. Our guidelines are general estimates, but your dog may fall well short of, or even exceed, these averages. Be sure to create a bathroom plan that best suits your individual pup.

Health

Many health conditions can contribute to more frequent urination. Urinary tract problems, kidney problems, diabetes and even weight problems can be a factor.

Medications also play a role. Some medications can have a diuretic effect, meaning they encourage more frequent urination.

If you’re concerned that your pet is peeing more than usual, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian. It could be a symptom of a health issue that needs to be addressed.

diet

The type of food you feed plays an important role in your urinary health. Moisture-rich foods, such as raw and wet food, can increase the amount and frequency of their peeing. Hydration is good.

Although your dog may need to pee a little more often, a moist diet helps with digestion and can flush out toxins and bacteria that have built up in their body. Dogs on a strict dry diet, like kibble, may pee less, but that doesn’t mean they’re healthier.

Just like humans, the color of their urine can indicate dehydration. Dark yellow urine is not a good sign. If you notice your dog’s urine is very dark, then it’s time to increase its moisture level with water, broth, wet food, or even raw bones.

The importance of a bathroom routine

We mentioned earlier that adult dogs can hold their pee for quite a while. On average they can hold their pee for up to 10-12 hours if they have that too. If necessary and your pet is home alone for that long, most adult dogs will make it, but asking them to do it on a regular basis can have some negative consequences.

Forcing your dog to hold their bladder for too long on a regular basis can increase the risk of the following:

Urinary Tract Infections – Part of the urination cycle is to help the body flush out bacteria and toxins that build up in the kidneys, bladder, and urethra. If they hold back their pee, the bacteria can continue to colonize the urinary tract. This can lead to crystal or stone formation and blockages that can quickly become life-threatening. For dogs prone to urinary issues, try a urinary tract support product like Cranimals to reduce bacterial build-up.

s – Part of the urination cycle is to help your body flush out bacteria and toxins that build up in the kidneys, bladder, and urethra. If they hold back their pee, the bacteria can continue to colonize the urinary tract. This can lead to crystal or stone formation and blockages that can quickly become life-threatening. For dogs prone to urinary issues, try a urinary tract support product like Cranimals to reduce bacterial build-up. Urinary Cancer – Carcinogens in urine have more opportunity to interact with cells the longer they are in contact with the bladder. This is a less common issue but should still be considered when deciding how long your pet will have to wait for a pee break.

– Carcinogens in urine have more opportunity to interact with cells the longer they are in contact with the bladder. This is a less common issue but should still be considered when deciding how long your pet will have to wait for a pee break. Incontinence – It’s more common in aging pets, but incontinence can occur in dogs of any age. When dogs are repeatedly made to hold their urine for too long, the bladder can over-distend and damage the muscle and surrounding tissues, leading to leakage. This damage can be irreversible, so prevention is key.

If your dog is having trouble going to the toilet, you must contact your veterinarian immediately. Not peeing, trying to pee, peeing way too often, leakage, and blood in the urine are all common signs of a much bigger problem.

Problems with potty training

If your dog keeps having accidents around the house, you may need to consider why. The first thing you should do is contact your veterinarian to rule out a medical problem. If your dog is a healthy dog, the problem could be behavioral.

excitement pee

Excited peeing is common in puppies and even young adult dogs. This is commonly referred to as a puppy piddle. When you walk through the door, does your dog pee right away? It doesn’t always mean he just can’t take it anymore. It probably means he’s overwhelmed with excitement at seeing you. How many times a day should a dog pee?

You can train this behavior out by simply ignoring your dog until he is calm enough to reward him with attention. This takes time, patience and consistency. Fortunately, many younger dogs outgrow this habit on their own.

mark

Territory marking is another reason your dog may have accidents indoors. It’s most common in non-neutered male dogs, but stuck dogs of either sex can contract this bad habit.

The psychology of territory marking is rooted in their natural instincts. It’s a game of control. Often this habit forms when a new pet or person is introduced to the home, making your dog feel that his position in the hierarchy is under threat.

Marking behaviors in intact dogs can usually be resolved by repairing them. Talk to your vet about whether spaying or neutering your pet is the best option.

Fixed dogs that mark usually do so out of fear. Stimulating your pet both mentally and physically will reduce stress, anxiety, and fear. Anxiety relief products, like the Thundershirt, can also be a helpful tool to control tagging behavior. For more information about this great product, see the link below.

Balancing your dog’s life and needs

If your work schedule requires your dog to be home alone more than 8 hours a day, there are ways to take care of your dog’s urinary health. Choose the options that best suit your dog’s needs.

Pee pads – these are especially helpful for young puppies and kennel trained dogs. Indoor Bathroom – For free-roaming dogs, an indoor potty training system can allow your dog to relieve himself whenever he needs to. Like a litter box for dogs. By the way, there is one. Dog Door – If you have a secure, fenced yard, consider installing a dog door. Your dog can come and go as he pleases and you no longer have to worry about leaving him alone without bathroom breaks. Dog Sitter/Dog Walker – Having a professional drop by in the middle of the day to check on and walk your dog is a great way to manage his toilet schedule and prevent destructive boredom behavior. Dog Daycare – If your dog needs constant attention or cannot be trusted around the home, then dog daycare is the right choice. This fun and engaging environment allows him to run and play all day while being supervised by trained professionals. Lunch Break Check – This option is only suitable for those who live close to their place of work. If you can, try ducking home on your lunch break to meet up with your pooch. You can manage his bathroom needs and give him some extra attention and exercise to break up his day. Bring your dog to work – of course, this isn’t feasible for most, but if you can, bring your dog to work. This is the best of both worlds for anyone lucky enough to have this option. Your dog doesn’t have to be home alone and you can hang out with the coolest co-worker ever.

How long is your dog home alone? If you have any tips or issues with managing your dog’s toilet breaks, let us know in the comments below.

Bringing two labrador puppies home together seems great. That the two dogs will be good company for each other while they are busy and growing into great friends and playmates. But is that really a good idea? In this article, we will look at the challenges that come with raising two puppies. Let us help you decide if this is the right decision for your family.

Should I get two puppies from the same litter?

It’s natural to ask yourself when looking at a pretty Labrador gang, “Should I have two puppies from the same litter?”. The idea obviously caught on. You might disagree with your family about which puppy is best and think this will settle the dispute. You may think that two are equally adorable. Or even worry that he’ll feel lonely when you have to leave the house. But there are many factors you need to consider to make the right decision.

bond with your pup

Two puppies of the same or similar age make a great bond. Unfortunately, this bond often comes at the expense of a bond with the owner. Your littermate puppies may be so infatuated with each other that they will have little time for you.

Why is that important?

It is important because building a bond between you and your dog is very important if you want to be successful in dog training. To have a great relationship with your dog, you need to be the center of his universe. When you have two puppies at the same time, this is difficult to achieve without constantly separating the dogs.

Littermate Syndrome

Litter mate syndrome is the term for certain behaviors exhibited by a pair of puppies from the same litter. It is not a condition that has been extensively studied scientifically, but rather one that arose from observation in these scenarios. Littermate syndrome describes two dogs who are overly fixated on each other. They show little interest in their human family or other dogs. They are often very nervous and isolated.

When dogs are allowed to bond to this degree, they can become very distressed even for short periods of time when separated. This can include living with them in terms of training, exercise and dealing with forced separation e.g. B. visits to the vet, very challenging.

Littermate syndrome is not a definitive outcome of littermate adoption, nor is one that has been studied beyond anecdotal evidence. However, it describes behaviors that could potentially occur if two puppies are allowed to become dependent on one another all the time.

Rearing two puppies from different litters

You might hope to avoid littermate syndrome by raising two puppies from different litters. Unfortunately, this is not a guaranteed solution to this problem. Two puppies of similar age can become dependent in the same way as two from the same litter. Nor does it avoid the other more practical pitfalls of buying two puppies at once. Like the trouble with the training sessions.

Training two puppies from the same litter

All puppies need training. Even family pets need to learn basic commands and house manners. You have to teach them not to back down, not to jump up, to walk well on a leash. They also probably need to learn to sit and stay, not to mention come when called. You can’t train a dog in the early stages while his brother is jumping over him or catching his attention.

Dogs must be trained individually, separately from other dogs, until the training reaches a point where they can be trained together. This happens much later, often months if not years later. Two puppies are an incredible distraction for each other. To teach even very basic skills, you need to have a puppy well out of sight and hearing.

So instead of spending ten or fifteen minutes a day dog ​​training, you commit to twice that, plus the time it takes to get to and from where you train/train the dog, with each of them separately . You need to make sure you have time to train both dogs if you want to commit to bringing home a pair of puppies.

Do I have time for two dogs?

Puppies are a lot of work, and two puppies can be more than double the work of one. Your enjoyment of the first few weeks of having a puppy can be severely affected if you have to split your time between the two. Think carefully about the other commitments in your life and whether you not only have the time but also the energy.

Can you logistically handle two sets of potty training? Do you have the patience to work quietly with not one but two chewing, biting, crying puppies?

Walking two dogs at the same time

If you’re considering raising two puppies, you need to decide what to do about walking them. Walking two dogs at the same time can be a joyful experience if they have good memories and can walk without a leash. However, you can only do this reliably once you have left the examination phase of the training far behind.

Early walks are about developing good behavior and focusing on training. Especially with large breeds like Labs who can grow up outdoors if you don’t do the right basics. If you pick up two puppies at the same time, they must be run separately. Or at least managed by two different people on the walk.

This is fine if you don’t mind walking separately as you probably won’t be able to keep up with both dogs’ pace. They might also find the sight of each other terribly distracting and need to be guided in different ways first.

My breeder recommends that I take two puppies

No reputable and experienced dog breeder will ever sell two littermates to a family unless the buyer is an experienced dog trainer who houses the dogs separately. If your chosen breeder recommends you buy two puppies at once, I’m afraid she’s probably doing so for one of two reasons:

Because she needs the money.

Because she is unaware of the problems it will cause you.

Either way, you may want to reconsider if this is the right breeder for you. They may not have the ethics or experience that a good Labrador breeder needs to help a new puppy parent make the right decisions.

Successfully rearing two puppies

Successfully raising two puppies takes time, patience, space and money. Unless you have a lot of free time and some dog training experience, having two puppies at the same time can be a very challenging experience. While the first few days might be easier, the next six months could have you tearing your hair out. So think carefully before you do it.

For most families, it is much easier to wait until your puppy is over a year old before adding another dog to the household. That way they will all have your full attention when they are little and will form a good bond with you that is stronger than the bond they have with each other. You’ll probably get a lot more enjoyment out of it for the first few days, too.

And you? Have you brought home two littermates yet? What do you think are the pros and cons?

More information about puppies

For a complete guide to raising a healthy and happy puppy, don’t miss The Happy Puppy Handbook.

The Labrador site’s founder, Pippa Mattinson, is the bestselling author of The Happy Puppy Handbook, The Labrador Handbook, Choosing The Perfect Puppy and Total Recall. She is also the founder of the Gundog Trust and the Dogsnet Online Training Program Pippa’s online training courses launched in 2019 and you can find the latest course dates on the Dogsnet website

Published in April 2014, the Happy Puppy Handbook covers all aspects of life with a little puppy. It will help prepare your home for the new arrival and give your pup a great start with potty training, socialization and early obedience. You can buy The Happy Puppy Handbook on Amazon by following this link. If you do this, The Labrador Site will receive a small commission which is greatly appreciated and will not affect the cost to you!

Labradors are incredibly friendly dogs and love to be around their family. But there are times when you might need to leave them alone to run an errand or go to work. Since it’s not always possible to spend every minute with your Labrador, you may be wondering how long you can leave him alone.

Labradors cannot be left alone for more than 4 hours as they can experience separation anxiety. Lab puppies should stay even less – one hour for each month of life – back up to 4 hours. Labs should by no means be left alone for 8 hours or all day as they become destructive and fearful.

In this article you will learn:

How long can Labs be left alone as puppies, adults, or seniors?

How to entertain your labrador when he’s alone.

Alternative solutions to leave your Labrador alone.

So if you want to learn all about leaving your Labrador alone, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s start!

Want to see the latest dog products for your Labrador that are popular right now? You can find them on Amazon. You can also click the button below. Click here to see the latest dog accessories on Amazon

Can Labradors be left alone?

You just got a new Labrador and are wondering if it can be left alone.

Labradors can be left alone, but you cannot leave them alone all day. They are very social and suffer from separation anxiety if you leave them for too long. Labs also need bathroom breaks, exercise, interaction, and access to clean water and food.

Labrador puppies are naturally curious and can get into all sorts of mischief if left alone. Unfortunately, they can also come to harm.

In older, well-behaved and socialized dogs, on the other hand, it’s not so bad. So let’s review how long you can leave Labradors alone at their different life stages.

How Long Can Labradors Be Left Alone? (by age)

young puppies

Puppies are quite curious and need to be watched constantly. Although they can sleep up to 18 hours a day, when they wake up they are full of energy, fun and constantly hungry!

Labrador puppies also need to pee regularly as they cannot hold their bladders for very long.

A Labrador can generally hold its bladder for an hour every month of life. So if you bring your pup home at 8 weeks of age, he can hold him for about two hours, although young puppies should relieve themselves every hour. By the age of 6 months your Labrador should have full bladder control.

Labrador puppies should not be left alone for too long. Below is a chart showing how long they can be left home alone in the first six months.

Age of Puppy Alone 8-10 weeks 1 hour maximum 2-3 months 2 hours maximum 3-4 months 3 hours maximum 4-6 months 4 hours maximum How long to leave a Labrador puppy alone by age

Adolescent Dogs

Once your pup has reached puberty, around 6-8 months of age, and his bladder has developed, he may stay longer as long as it is a gradual build up.

That being said, the limit should never exceed four hours. Labradors do not respond well to being left alone for long periods of time as they are very social dogs that need company and stimulation.

adult

Labradors reach adulthood between 18 and 24 months. They are very independent when they need to be, but they also love the company of others. They enjoy their work and want to be part of the family.

You definitely can’t let your new best friend down all day because he won’t be your best friend for long! Some dogs may have a higher tolerance level, but don’t leave them longer than the recommended four hours if you want to feel guilt-free.

senior citizens

Older Labs over the age of 8 or 9 should not be left alone for too long as they may need more bathroom breaks. Even if they suddenly become ill, they need someone to be there, as serious problems can develop very quickly.

Even older dogs with health problems should not be left alone for too long. Labradors with joint issues such as hip dysplasia can experience aches and pains and may require additional care.

Make sure your lab has an orthopedic bed like the Big Barker. I like this one as it is made specifically for large dogs and has been clinically proven to reduce joint pain and stiffness and prevent arthritis and other mobility issues. You can also check out my review of the Big Barker.

Can Labradors be left alone for 8 hours?

It’s a question I get asked a lot, “Can labradors be left alone for 8 hours?” When we think about why someone is asking this question, I assume they’re really asking if they can keep their lab quiet all day can leave while he is at work?

Labrador Retrievers cannot be left alone for 8 hours as they suffer from separation anxiety and cannot hold their bladder for 8 hours during the day. You should get a dog sitter, use a dog sitter, or take your Labrador to doggy daycare.

Legalities to leave a lab alone

No federal law specifies exactly how long dogs can legally be left alone. However, there are various state animal neglect and animal cruelty laws. The general rule in North America is that you shouldn’t leave dogs alone for more than four hours at a time.

There is the Animal Welfare Act, a federal law that regulates the handling of animals. However, this only applies to dogs bred for commercial sale and transported or imported.

Similar guidelines exist in the UK. Veterinary experts also recommend four hours as the maximum time all dogs can be left alone. This is set out in the Codes of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs Guide to the UK Animal Welfare Act, which sets out how all animals should be cared for.

“Some dogs become restless and suffer if left alone for even a short period of time. Experts recommend four hours as the maximum period.” Code of Conduct for the Welfare of Dogs

In addition to age, other factors to consider when deciding how long to leave your Labrador include socialization, training, housing, living conditions, and previous experiences of being alone.

How to leave a lab alone: ​​10 tips

If you leave your Labrador alone, keep calm and don’t let him see that you are sad to leave him. It has been scientifically proven that dogs can recognize emotions in humans, as this study proves.

Stay relaxed and confident and follow these important tips once you’ve puppy-proofed the area:

Exercise your pup first to tire him out.

Play games as mental stimulation is essential.

Let him take a bathroom break.

Make sure he’s not hungry.

Provide access to clean, fresh water.

Leave him interactive toys or chew toys.

Use a crate, playpen, or put up dog guards.

Play soothing music when he’s stressed or anxious.

Start slow, a few minutes here and there, and work your way up.

Avoid unnecessary hassles on departure and return.

Learn How To Leave Your Puppy Home Alone In This Video… How To Leave Your Puppy Home Alone | Tough

Watch this video on YouTube

7 Guilt-Free Solutions When You Leave Your Labrador Alone

If you’re worried about leaving your Labrador alone while you go to work, there are several solutions. You can combine these where possible so that every day is different.

Here are 7 guilt-free solutions to leaving your Labrador alone:

Before you go to work, take your lab for a walk. An hour-long walk before you leave the house is an excellent way for your dog to burn off some energy while you maintain your close bond. As soon as you get home, take your Labrador for a second walk or, even better, walk off-leash. Play some games like fetch or frisbee. Hire a dog sitter or dog walker. Dog sitters are not too expensive and can visit for a few hours instead of the whole working day. You will help give your Labrador some much-needed company and interaction. You can also hire a trusted dog walker to take your dog for a long walk. Get friends and family to visit. Make sure family or friends can call throughout the day. Just 15-30 minutes is enough to keep your lab happy and entertained. It would be great if they could take him for a fun walk, but a quick game of fetch will be enough to burn off some energy and end any loneliness. Visit your lab during your lunch break. If you’re lucky enough to work close to home, visit your dog at lunchtime. You can come back and play a game of fetch to give him some fun exercise. Flexible working is also a great solution and you can plan when you need help. Drop off your dog at a dog daycare center. You can usually find these in most areas. With plenty of other dogs to play with, your Labrador will have no shortage of fun while you’re away. Remember to introduce them to daycare as young as possible as they will quickly get used to being abandoned. To work from home. With thousands of jobs moving to mobile workspaces, being able to work from home part of the week is a great idea. This allows you to play with your lab during your breaks throughout the day. It also saves you paying for a dog sitter or friend. Get a dog camera. Dog cameras are pretty popular and easy to set up. They offer a perfect solution for interacting with your Labrador without actually being there! I just love Amazon’s Furbo as you can talk to your dog and even launch treats, all controlled from your phone!

How to entertain your labrador when he’s alone

There are several ways to keep your Labrador Retriever entertained while you’re away. Check out the following options:

Leave a choice of toys. If your lab gets bored easily or easily distracted, a toy or two may not be enough. Always keep four or five of their favorite toys on hand. I like KONG toys such as Amazon’s KONG Classic Toy. These interactive chew toys are great for keeping your dog entertained for hours. You can even stuff treats in some of them to keep them occupied.

If your lab gets bored easily or easily distracted, a toy or two may not be enough. Always keep four or five of their favorite toys on hand. I like KONG toys such as Amazon’s KONG Classic Toy. These interactive chew toys are great for keeping your dog entertained for hours. You can even stuff treats in some of them to keep them occupied. Play soothing music. Playing music has been shown to reduce stress levels in kennel dogs. This study showed that music genre can make a difference, in this case soft rock and reggae! You can try leaving the TV tuned to a dog station designed to pique your pup’s interest.

Playing music has been shown to reduce stress levels in kennel dogs. This study showed that music genre can make a difference, in this case soft rock and reggae! You can try leaving the TV tuned to a dog station designed to pique your pup’s interest. Get another dog! This might seem extreme, but a pal might be what your Lab needs to help them feel less stressed and lonely. But getting a second dog is a big commitment that you need to think about carefully. If you decide to do this, make sure your Labrador is past puppyhood and trained. Experts also recommend getting a dog of the opposite sex.

Do labradors get lonely?

Labradors should not be left alone for too long as they can suffer physical and emotional damage. Unfortunately, many dog ​​owners don’t recognize the obligation to care for a Labrador.

This is one of the sad reasons why they are often abandoned, rehomed, or euthanized. Do labradors get lonely?

Labradors get lonely. They are very social dogs and if left alone for long periods of time they may suffer from separation anxiety or engage in destructive behavior out of boredom. Regular activity, exercise, and mental stimulation are must-haves for this energetic, loyal, and easy-going breed.

It is worth remembering that the domesticated dog descended from the gray wolf. Wolves are pack animals that live together to survive. Dogs see us as part of the pack. They experience many emotions and when deprived of company, they feel lonely.

Consequences if you leave your lab alone for too long

Here are some consequences of regularly leaving your Labrador alone for too long:

separation anxiety. Labradors are prone to separation anxiety. This means they will show signs of stress and/or destructive behavior if they are away from their owner or family for too long. Symptoms may include uncontrollable barking, whining, howling, pacing, chewing, digging, drooling, urinating, defecation, or attempting to escape. Check out this interesting recent study from the University of Lincoln, UK, which concluded that separation anxiety in dogs should be viewed as a symptom of underlying frustrations rather than a diagnosis.

Labradors are prone to separation anxiety. This means they will show signs of stress and/or destructive behavior if they are away from their owner or family for too long. Symptoms may include uncontrollable barking, whining, howling, pacing, chewing, digging, drooling, urinating, defecation, or attempting to escape. Check out this interesting recent study from the University of Lincoln, UK, which concluded that separation anxiety in dogs should be viewed as a symptom of underlying frustrations rather than a diagnosis. destructive behavior. This can occur due to lack of exercise or boredom. The signs are similar to separation anxiety, but the dog is simply trying to cope with being unstimulated. Examples include chewing on your shoes and belongings, destroying wooden furniture like a table leg, or tearing up your couch!

This can occur due to lack of exercise or boredom. The signs are similar to separation anxiety, but the dog is simply trying to cope with being unstimulated. Examples include chewing on your shoes and belongings, destroying wooden furniture like a table leg, or tearing up your couch! Shows extreme restlessness during evening. Your lab may be restless in the evenings due to lack of exercise and stimulation throughout the day. If he suffers from energy explosions also known as zoomies, you need to take him for a long walk and play some games with him. After all, a tired dog is a happy dog.

Many adverse consequences result from not taking proper care of your Labrador and not keeping him happy and entertained. Long-term neglect, including leaving your dog alone all day, can also lead to these other health problems:

depression

blood pressure

heart disease

Gastrointestinal problems

bladder infections

You must never punish your Lab for showing distressing signs of separation anxiety or destructive behavior out of boredom.

Related: Should You Let Your Labrador Puppy Sleep With You? Bids and prohibitions

How Much Exercise Do Labradors Need?

Labradors were bred in Britain from fishing dogs imported from Canada to capture waterfowl for hunters due to their strength, endurance and work ethic. They need to be properly exercised before they are left alone. How Much Exercise Does a Labrador Need?

Adult Labradors need at least two hours of exercise a day to stay fit and healthy. Puppies need five minutes of exercise per month of life, twice a day, until they are fully grown. Senior Labs may only be able to handle 10-15 minutes.

Puppies, especially large breeds, should not be overexerted as this can lead to joint and bone problems as they develop. The most important thing is that you get to know your individual dog.

Some days your lab may need more exercise than others. If your dog doesn’t get excited when you pick up his leash, he’s tired and wants to rest. Dogs aren’t machines, so you should listen to what he’s trying to tell you!

When my dog ​​gets tired during a walk, he will stop, sit down and look up at me. I know she’s had enough and wants to go home.

Exercise should also consist of other activities, not just walking on a leash. For example running without a leash, retrieving, tug of war, frisbee, swimming or agility.

Are Labradors indoor or outdoor dogs?

If you have the ability to leave your Lab outside when you go to work, it can give them plenty of space to run around and relax. However, is it okay to leave Labs outside or are they in dogs?

Labradors prefer to be around dogs as they are very social and enjoy being around people. However, they can live outside as they have a double coat to protect them from the elements. However, they must be accustomed to being outside from an early age and a shelter such as a shelter must be available. B. a kennel, are provided.

If you’re not sure where to leave your Lab, let’s dive into the pros and cons of leaving your Labrador indoors or outdoors:

Pros and cons of keeping your lab indoors

Pros of Inside Cons of Inside Less likely to bark at outside distractions such as birds, people or dogs resulting in no noise complaints from neighbors.

Your dog may engage in destructive chewing when suffering from separation anxiety or boredom. Prevents your lab from being damaged if you live in an area where wild animals might attack. You could face noise complaints if you live in an apartment and your dog barks and howls constantly due to separation anxiety. Your dog can’t dig up your yard when indoors or try to run away when he’s an escape artist! Your puppy needs to be toilet trained. Pros and Cons of Leavein a Labrador Inside

Pros and cons of leaving your lab outside

Benefits of Outside Cons of Outside Labradors are strong shedders. If you spend more time outside, you’ll have less to clean up! You need a lot of space for your dog to feel comfortable. A small garden is not enough. A bark from your own yard every now and then is actually a good thing to ward off strangers. Your dog may chew on tree roots or destroy flowers. Make sure he can’t eat anything poisonous, like rotten apples or wild mushrooms. To learn what is toxic to Labs, read this article. Your dog can release pent-up energy, especially if you invest in a canine agility class or do one yourself! Your dog may be feeling unhappy and less part of the family. There is also an increased risk of fleas or ticks. Pros and cons of Leavein a Labrador Outside

Where exactly you should leave your lab at home

If you let your Lab indoors when you go out, you can still control his surroundings by keeping him in a specific area of ​​the house.

Here are a few suggestions on how to house your lab in it:

Use a crate. Labradors need a crate no smaller than 42 inches. This size of the crate is enough for your dog to move around and stretch out comfortably. I like Amazon’s Midwest Homes for Pets Icrate as it is all inclusive and has everything you need. My dog ​​loved her crate and often went there to relax or play. Check out my step-by-step Easy Labrador Puppy Crate Training guide to learn more about crate training. Use dog guards. You can use dog guards to cordon off an area of ​​your home to keep your lab safe. These allow you to section off different no-go areas so you can decide how much space your pup can have to run around. Dog guards are a great alternative if you don’t like leaving your Lab in a crate. There is also a wide range to suit your decor. Check out Amazon’s Carlson Extra Tall Pet Gate to get an idea. The extra large feature is excellent for Labradors. Use a playpen. Puppy playpens are perfect for housing your young Labrador and he will have plenty of space to play safely. You can even connect some playpens to a crate for a great combination of a cozy resting place and space to roam. Some are more durable and can even be used outdoors, such as B. the BestPet Dog Pen from Amazon. You can configure this into multiple forms without using any tools. It is lightweight, foldable and easy to move.

PRO TIP! Check out my recommendations for the best dog crates for Labradors (and playpens), including soft crates, travel crates, and furniture style.

There will come a time when you can let your lab run the house. Most Labrador owners eventually try this route. You will know when your dog is ready! My dog ​​was two years old before she was allowed to roam around the house.

Final Thoughts

Labradors are wonderful dogs to own and they make a good first dog for many families. Anyone who has experienced their kindness, playfulness, and affection knows that they are easily worth the many hours you spend with them.

Here are a few takeaways from the article:

Labradors should not be left alone for more than four hours, and older dogs even less.

Puppies should not be left alone for more than an hour each month of life.

Make sure your lab is properly trained before leaving.

Leaving your lab alone for too long can cause them to suffer from separation anxiety and other health issues.

Consider alternatives such as hiring a dog sitter, dog walker, dog daycare, or enlisting the help of family and friends.

I hope this article gave you a good idea of ​​how long Labradors can be left alone at home. If you implement many of the suggestions and alternatives, you no longer need to feel guilty when you leave your dog and see those wistful puppy eyes!

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Chocolate Labrador Retrievers live significantly shorter lives than other labs, a finding that surprised researchers from Sydney and London who examined more than 33,000 UK veterinary records about the breed.

According to the study, published Monday in Canine Genetics and Epidemiology, dogs with yellow or black coats live about 10 percent longer than their chocolate counterparts. The median life expectancy for all Labradors is around 12 years, while the median age for chocolate Labs was 10.7 years.

Overall, Labrador retrievers are still one of the longest-lived dog breeds, another recent study reported. (Learn more about breeds in How to Make a Dog.)

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A basset hound.

A basset hound. Photo by Joel Sartore, National Geographic Photo Ark

But compared to other labs, chocolate labs appeared to be more likely to suffer from certain non-life-threatening illnesses. “Skin and ear diseases were significantly more common in chocolate dogs than in black or yellow dogs,” the researchers wrote.

This doesn’t necessarily mean the pigment genes are linked to a shorter lifespan, the researchers warn. Instead, breeding for the chocolate color may have inadvertently carried genetic consequences for the dog’s health, lead author Paul McGreevy, of the University of Sydney, said in a statement. Chocolate color is a recessive trait, meaning both parents must have the gene that produces the color to produce a chocolate lab pup. (Related: Why Siberian Huskies Have Those Gorgeous Blue Eyes.)

“As a result, breeders targeting this color are more likely to only breed Labradors that carry the chocolate coat gene,” McGreevy said. This narrows the gene pool and can lead to a higher proportion of genes that favor ear and skin conditions, he said, and could ultimately affect longevity.

Chocolate dogs, for example, had twice as many cases of “hot spots” on their skin as other labs. These are self-inflicted wounds caused when the dog reacts to irritation from pests such as fleas or lice, or when trimmed with clippers.

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Coat color has already been linked to health in some animals. For example, some researchers suggest that the gene that causes black fur in wolves might also be linked to reducing inflammation and fighting infection.

“Human research has suggested a link between inflammation and both life expectancy and quality of life,” McGreevy said. “Perhaps through a similar process, the repetitive inflammatory skin and ear infections that we’ve found chocolate dogs are prone to piling up to create an immunological burden that effectively shortens their lives.”

The researchers found that coat color was associated with aggression in some dog breeds, as well as markers for higher rates of deafness and blindness.

Overall, Labs were also one of the most obese dog breeds, the study found. Almost nine per cent of UK Laboratories were overweight or obese. Notably, neutered males were more likely to be obese (11.4 percent of neutered males versus four percent of intact males), although the researchers found that neutering also has health benefits, reducing the risk of testicular disease and other conditions. Castration was not associated with obesity in female labs.

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The researchers concluded that the finding could help veterinarians spot potential health problems more quickly and ideally could influence breeding practices to produce healthier, longer-lasting dogs.

“Labrador retrievers are reportedly susceptible to many medical conditions, but accurate information on how prevalent certain health conditions are in the general pet population is lacking,” McGreevy said.

“This is the first study to include a large number of Labrador retrievers based on records from hundreds of UK veterinary clinics,” he said. “It provides owners with information on the issues to look out for in Labrador retrievers.”

It is well known that people can have preconceived notions about dogs’ personalities based on their appearance. For example, previous work has shown that dogs perceived as cute are more likely to be perceived as friendly [3]. Based on appearance alone, dogs with a yellow coat color are rated as more affable, conscientious, and emotionally stable than dogs that are otherwise identical except for the black coat [4]. Likewise, dogs with floppy ears are considered to be more agreeable and emotionally stable than dogs with pointy ears [4].

Coat color is determined by melanocytes, which produce either pheomelanin, resulting in a yellow or red coat; or eumelanin, resulting in a brown or black coat. The three recognized coat colors in Labrador Retrievers are black, chocolate, and yellow. Observable within-breed variations between coat colors are determined by two genes: MC1R (melanocortin 1 receptor) and TYRP1 (tyrosinase related protein 1). Black is the dominant color at the TYRP1 locus, while brown coat color is recessive. Yellow Labs are homozygous for an MC1R recessive mutation (R306ter), a nucleotide change that causes a premature stop codon at amino acid 306 of MC1R, resulting in a blockage of eumelanin production such that only the red and yellow pheomelanin colors are seen [5 ,6,7 ]. This is also known as the e-locus. Labradors with the recessive bb genotype at the B locus of TYRP1 can be chocolate or yellow, while those with the BB or Bb genotypes can be black or yellow. Multiple mutations at the brown locus can cause the brown phenotype [5].

Yellow has recently overtaken black as the most popular color among registered Labradors in the United Kingdom (Kennel Club registration data). Chocolate Labradors’ popularity has consistently been far lower than black or yellow, but varies: 7% in 1988, 22% in 2008, and 9% in 2018 (Kennel Club registry data). Unfortunately, similar data was not available for Australian or American Labradors, preventing regional comparisons. A British study found that Chocolate Labradors (21%) weighed an average of 1.4 kg more than Black (49%) and Yellow Labradors (27%) [8]. Recent research suggested that of 2,074 Labs with medical records, Chocolate Labs were more likely to suffer from otitis externa and pyo-traumatic dermatitis than Black or Yellow Labs. Longevity data from 173 Labradors showed that the median lifespan of chocolate Labs was significantly shorter than that of non-chocolate Labs (10.7 years versus 12.1 years) [9]. Whether the increased propensity for skin or ear infections is related to longevity remains to be determined. It is also currently unclear whether the same differences are characteristic of Labradors in other countries.

The mechanism by which coat color may affect behavior has yet to be definitively determined, but hypotheses abound. Melanocortins such as adrenococorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) bind to the melanocortin-1 receptors in the skin responsible for coat color, but also bind to other melanocortin receptors [10]. MC2R mediates the effect of ACTH on adrenal steroid secretion. MC3R and MC4R are expressed in the brain, particularly in the hypothalamus. MC5R has been associated with aggressive behavior in mice [10]. Consequently, melanocortins may be involved in many behavioral and physiological functions. Lines of mice carrying TYRP1 mutations also showed behavioral abnormalities. For example, Tyrp1b-1FGHLc/Tyrp1b-1FCHLc mouse strains have brown pigmented eumelanin, decreased eye pigment, decreased body size, and are described as jittery. (http://www.informatics.jax.org/allele/genoview/MGI:3719250?counter=1).

The aim of this study was to test claims about Chocolate Labrador Retriever differences in temperament compared to other coat colors. To do this, we used dogs for which results are available for both array-based genotyping data and behavioral traits assessed by their owners using a standardized questionnaire. By using the allelic haplotypes at the two relevant genes and not just the observed phenotypic coat color, we were able to observe the association of allelic dose at each locus and the relative effects of different genetic backgrounds on behavior.

Labrador coat colors made easy! Find out how we get chocolate, black or yellow puppies and what color puppies we could get by mixing labs of different colors.

In fact, there are only three different types of Labrador colors: Black Labs, Brown Labs (commonly referred to as Chocolate), and Yellow Labs.

These are the three colors recognized and accepted by the Kennel Club

In practice, there is a wide range of yellow Labrador shades, from pale cream to rich fox red.

But what makes a Labrador brown or black or yellow? And what about Silver Labradors? Where does this new and controversial coat color come in?

I will answer your questions about what color puppies we can expect when mating two Labradors in any of the different color combinations.

And I’ll also explain the genetic code that causes each of the colors in the first place.

I’ll try to keep it as simple as possible!

Understanding how a Labrador’s coat color is inherited begins with understanding how the three primary colors are passed from one generation to the next. So we’re going to tackle that first.

Where Do Black and Chocolate Labs Come From?

The information that determines whether or not your Lab is basically black or basically chocolate is passed through a pair of genes.

We can call these the “bee” genes.

Every Labrador dog inherits two “bee” genes, one from each parent.

There are two types of “bee” genes.

One we call Big B (this is the dominant gene) and it causes a black Labrador coat

And one we call Little B (that’s the recessive gene) and it causes a brown or chocolate colored Labrador coat

There are three different combinations of bee genes that a Labrador can inherit from its parents (one from each)

bb

bb

bb

Let’s take a closer look at these – I’ll explain how they affect your dog’s coat color.

Why black is a dominant color:

It is normal for dominant genes to turn off or override recessive genes. And that’s exactly what’s happening here.

A dog with BB genes will be black because they don’t have a small b gene that gives us a brown coat.

But a Bb dog will also be black because if the dominant black gene is present, it will turn off the brown gene.

How Chocolate Labradors are made:

Two black (BB) genes make a black Labrador

One of each (Bb) also gives you a black labrador

Two brown genes (bb) result in a Chocolate Labrador

Although a dog will inherit a small b gene, the dog will only appear brown if there is no black gene (B) at all. Here are these three possible combinations of “bee” genes that a dog might inherit, with the resulting coat color.

Remember that the black dominant gene always turns off the brown gene, so only the dog below actually looks brown.

Generation after generation of black dogs can continue to have only black puppies if dogs with the Bb gene are bred only to dogs with BB genes.

Keep in mind that the dog in the middle of our list above looks black, but passes the brown gene to about half of all their offspring. But things are never that simple, are they? Because of course some Labradors are neither black nor brown.

How Yellow Labs Are Made:

Having told you all of the above I will now confuse the issue and tell you that there are times when a BB or a Bb dog will not be black at all

And if a BB dog isn’t brown!

The genetic information that creates a yellow coat comes from a different pair of genes.

We can call these the “eee” genes.

And these genes have a different kind of power. They have power over the “bee” genes.

How yellow can oust black and chocolate

Small eee genes are able to affect, or in certain cases “turn off” the “bee” genes that cause black and brown fur. Every dog ​​inherits two “eee” genes, one from each parent. There are two types of “eee” genes.

One we call Big E (that’s the dominant gene) and it doesn’t interfere with the “bee” gene

And one we call little e (that’s the recessive gene) and it has the potential to mask or “turn off” the “bee” gene that would otherwise give us black or brown coats. The result is a yellow dog

But little ee is recessive, and when the dominant E gene is present, it turns off the masking gene.

All you need is a large E gene.

So the dog will only appear yellow if there is no large E gene at all.

Every dog ​​inherits one of these “eee” genes from each parent. There are three possible combinations of eee genes that a dog could inherit. it would have

Two dominant genes (EE)

Two masking genes (ee)

One each (Ee)

Only the middle one of these three dogs will be yellow. In the first and third dogs, the E gene turns off the e gene, and the dog’s color is determined by its “bee” genes.

Do not forget that these are different and additional genes than those responsible for black and brown. Every Labrador born has a combination of “eee” and “bee” genes. There are nine different possible combinations.

Nine different possible Labrador genotypes!

The table below lists them (genotype is the dog’s genetic makeup, phenotype is the dog’s appearance).

Genotype Phenotype EEBB Black EEBb Black EEbb Brown EeBB Black EeBb Black Eebb Brown eeBB Yellow eeBb Yellow eebb Yellow

Predicting Labrador Puppy Color:

Trying to figure out what colors Labrador puppies will be is difficult without knowing the genotype of the parents.

Because as you can see, the second dog on the list might look black but he might litter brown puppies, and the fourth dog on the list might look black but he might litter yellow puppies.

The fifth dog on the list is also black, but he could litter yellow or brown puppies.

Mating of two yellow labradors

Two yellow labs mated together will never produce brown or black puppies. All their offspring will be yellow.

That’s because yellow dogs don’t have the large E gene needed to turn off the masking effect.

Mating two Chocolate Labradors:

Two brown dogs bred together will never have black puppies because brown dogs don’t have the black gene.

But two chocolate dogs can produce yellow puppies if both parents carry the small e gene – see box below right.

The color of puppies produced from parents of other color combinations is a bit more complicated.

It all depends on the genotype of the dogs involved. Let’s look at a few more examples

Can Two Black Labs Have Yellow or Chocolate Puppies?

Depending on their genotype, two black Labs may actually have yellow or chocolate brown puppies.

Recalling our grid above, there are four different possible genotypes for a black Labrador. The genotype refers to the genetic code that the dog carries.

Four ways to go black

In the diagram below, I’ve placed the four possible genotypes at the top to represent a parent – the mother, for example. And the four different possible black genotypes on the side to represent the father. Inside the grid are the pups that could be born from any combination.

If and only if both carry a small e gene then some of the puppies may be yellow. Remember that your pup needs two little ees (one from each parent) to be yellow.

If only one of the two black dogs carries the small e gene, all puppies will be black, but half will carry the yellow gene, so the color can skip a generation

Same goes for the small b gene, if both black labs carry a small b gene about a quarter of the puppies could be chocolate depending on whether the double ee gene overrides the bee combos or not!

Is it possible to get all three colors from two black dogs?

Yes, look at the square at the bottom right of the diagram above. Note that this can only happen if the two black dogs have this genotype: EeBb

In other words, they both carry a lowercase e and a lowercase b

Mating a Yellow Labrador with a Chocolate Labrador:

Now let’s look at what color the puppies will be if you breed a chocolate Lab to a yellow Lab

This is a good example of how complicated and unexpected Labrador colors can be. Depending on the genotype of the parents, there are six different possibilities for the litter color combination. You can even get a litter of all black puppies from a chocolate mother and yellow father (or vice versa).

Here are the color options

Yellow and black puppies All puppies are black Yellow, black and chocolate puppies Black and chocolate puppies Yellow and chocolate puppies All puppies are chocolate puppies

Let’s take a closer look and find out why – in the chart I’ve placed the possible Yellow Labrador genotypes at the top and the Chocolate genotypes at the bottom of the page.

There are three ways to be yellow and only two ways to be chocolate. A Chocolate Labrador can be either Eebb or EEbb. That’s nice and easy.

A yellow dog can be one of three different genotypes: eeBB, eebb, eeBb – because whenever two little ee get together, they knock out the three different possible combinations of bee genes.

So if you look at all the possible color combinations, you will see that there are possibilities for all three colors in a litter of puppies from eeBb mated to Eebb

On the other hand, if we mate EEbb to eeBB, all the puppies will be black because they will all have a capital B and a capital E

Black Labradors crossed with Chocolate Labradors:

Now let’s look at what happens when we cross a black Lab with a chocolate Lab.

We’ve seen that there are four different ways to be black, but that chocolate dogs only come in two different genotypes.

This gives us 8 possible outcomes. The chart below shows the different black Labrador genotypes at the top and the chocolate genotypes at the bottom.

Finally, let’s look at the last possible combination of standard Labrador colors. Black crossed with yellow.

Black Labradors crossed with Yellow Labradors:

Since there are four ways to be black and three ways to be yellow, there is quite a range of color puppies for a black Lab to yellow Lab mating.

Last but not least, you may want to know how silver labs get their coat color.

There is one other pair of genes that we haven’t looked at in this article, and those are the “dee” genes.

Capital D and small D

These D genes have the potential to override all other colors, albeit in a subtle way.

When two small dd genes are mated together, they dilute the coat color of the Labrador that carries them.

On a black dog, this results in a softer, charcoal gray coat color, on a yellow dog, a paler “champagne” yellow, but on a brown dog, the result is the striking silver coat that is currently causing such controversy among Labrador enthusiasts.

Summary:

It is not uncommon for people to be quite surprised at the color of the puppies in a litter they have bred.

But as you can see, like certain diseases, colors and other inherited traits can be hidden from one generation to the next. Potentially many generations in a row if carried by a recessive gene.

And if you think Labrador genetics is complicated, try finding out a cocker spaniel’s genotype.

It comes in a veritable variety of different color combinations.

It’s enough to make your head spin!

Source: adapted from thelabradorsite.com

How long does it take to train a dog?

Many dog ​​trainers would answer this question simply, “How long is a piece of string”. But actually asking how long it takes to train a dog is a reasonable question! Training a dog is a pretty big deal for most of us, especially the first time. So it’s perfectly understandable that you want to know when you can expect the work to be completed.

Break down variables

There are a few factors that we need to consider if we want to come up with a fair estimate of the time spent. These include:

the desired result

the time you are willing to invest

how skilled you are

how old your dog is

and your dog’s temperament.

Let’s take an example

Let’s say you are looking for a basic level of good manners in your dog, that you have ten minutes twice a day and that your dog is currently three months old. The perfect age to start really structured training sessions. You need to spend four to five weeks developing good attention and concentration skills in your pup. Bonding, playing structured games, and if you’ve never trained a dog before, learning the skills you need to teach your dog the skills he needs.

Then you need another four to five weeks to work on some core skills like leash walking, sitting and retrieval. And another four to five weeks to start basic proofing. (This is the part where you train your dog to respond to your cues in more and more situations, adding some distractions to entice the dog.)

At this point you are looking at a six to seven month old puppy with some good basic skills in not too difficult conditions. Of course, experienced coaches get to this point sooner, and it may take some of us a little longer.

job done? Not quite!

Now it’s time for the icing on the cake – the advanced test that will teach your dog highly reliable responses to your cues in all sorts of challenging and tempting situations. This can take another three to six months. Therefore, a well-trained, well-behaved dog by its first birthday is a reasonable goal for some of us. But as you can see, I chose the simplest assumption or result in each of the five variables listed above.

Now let’s see what happens if we make one of them less straight forward.

1. The desired result

For example, if you’re training for a sport like gundog or herding, you’ll need to add many more skills to the list above.

Your dog is expected to understand cues like turning away and stopping. They must follow directions from their handler at a great distance. They may need to learn to hunt and fetch and so on. And, of course, to resist enormous temptations, such as fast-moving live animals and birds, while working.

It should also be noted that physically demanding activities should be avoided by dogs that are not yet physically mature. For example, most experts advise against encouraging dogs to jump until the growth plates in their joints have fully hardened. Which for all but the smallest breeds probably won’t be much before the end of the first year.

2. The time you are willing to invest

We all lead busy lives. Like many enthusiasts, I train up to five times a day, many days of the year. This is not practical for many pet parents. Some don’t make it once a day or more than three or four times a week. That doesn’t mean you won’t make progress, but it does mean it will take you longer than someone who puts in more hours.

3. How good you are

The skill of the trainer is inevitably a factor in how long the training takes. BUT it is by no means the most important factor. And you should never let your own lack of skills stop you from training your own dog. When, for no other reason than everyone else, you care about your dog’s well-being. But you should be fair to yourself and take the time to familiarize yourself with the skills and techniques of modern day dog ​​training.

Therefore, in the first course of my online dog training program, I focus on these skills – basic knowledge. Because the more skillful you are, the better off your dog will be and the faster he will learn.

4. How old your dog is

It’s not about puppies learning faster or older dogs being more focused. It’s about the bad habits of older dogs. Almost every dog ​​older than six months has learned that sometimes being cheeky pays off. Many dogs have learned that humans cannot catch them in full run. And that chasing animals, balls, people or bicycles is worth the consequences when they are eventually caught.

Many other dogs older than six months have learned that to walk them you first have to drag a human on the end of the leash for quite some distance, or that jumping up on toddlers or old people gets them a lot of attention. And it’s important that we never underestimate the value of attention to a dog. Even angry attention is better than being ignored.

It takes much longer to “train” these bad habits than it does to train an untainted puppy the first time. So be patient with yourself and your dog when you start over.

5. Your dog’s temperament

Some dogs are very relaxed. Nothing is too big a deal. The people are okay, but not particularly exciting. Other dogs are greeted calmly and the day just goes by in a comfortable haze of eat, sleep, walk, sleep, eat more, sleep more and a few cuddles. What bliss. These dogs usually belong to someone else.

Your dog may either be running across the county to greet every stranger who comes by, or get into an anxious mess every time another dog walks by. Many dogs have challenging personalities. Many of the world’s most popular dogs are sporting breeds that are often very energetic and playful. Many others are herding dogs, which can be shy or even nervous.

Your dog is what he is and you need to deal with that. But knowing that thousands of other pet parents are in the same boat can be helpful. Reactive or overly friendly dogs may take longer to train simply because everything IS a big deal to them.

How long does it take to train a dog?

So there you have it. An owner who has a problem-free dog and a gentle temperament will have it easier than you or me. And a person who is able to put in the time to train twice a day, starting with an unspoilt puppy and has no aspirations to excel at a particular sport, could have a very well trained dog by the age of about a year .

The rest of us might have to wait a little longer! In any case, this is a long process and that’s why it’s so important that we enjoy it! All of it. Because like life, the journey we embark on when we set out to train our dogs is just as important, maybe even more important, than the destination.

Photo credits: © Depositphotos.com / Steph_Zieber

Sometimes you have a quick question that you just want a quick and easy answer to. Well, if you don’t want to sift through an epic few thousand word article to find one basic fact, then this article is for you.

Below we’ve compiled many of the most frequently asked facts and questions about Labrador Retrievers, providing just a short, hard-hitting answer before moving on to a more in-depth discussion for those who want more information.

This article will be constantly updated as more questions are received. So feel free to add your own to the list by leaving questions in the comments section below the article.

QUICK RECOMMENDATION: We have read many books and magazines about Labrador Retrievers. One of our favorites, Your Labrador Retriever Puppy is a great resource for all lab owners.

Where does the Labrador Retriever come from?

Labrador Retrievers are the ancestors of various British and Portuguese working dogs that were brought to the northern Canadian island of Newfoundland in the 16th century.

Years of breeding these immigrant dogs has produced, among other things, the St. Johns dog breed – a direct ancestor of the modern Labrador Retriever.

The first written mention of ‘Labrador’ in relation to the breed dates back to 1887 in a letter from Britain’s Earl of Malmesbury, although they are believed to have been associated with the term long before that.

Theories as to the origin of the name vary, although it is likely that the island of Newfoundland, in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, where the dogs originated, may have had an important influence.

You can read more about the history of the Labrador Retriever by clicking here.

What is the Typical Temperament and Personality of a Labrador Retriever?

Labradors are known to make excellent companions because of their calm temperament and lovable, loyal personality.

They are consistent and patient with a kind hearted disposition and also get along very well with other dogs and children, making them perfect for a busy household.

Labradors are known for being enthusiastic dogs, eager to please and amenable to training. It will take you a lot of energy to keep up with your Labrador as – just like a puppy – they are bouncy well into adulthood.

They need plenty of daily exercise to keep their energetic temper in check – without it, you might find them becoming wilder and more destructive towards household objects.

Their pent-up energy can lead to heavy chewing and excessive barking.

Are Labradors good with children?

Labrador Retrievers are known for their patience, playfulness and ability to “roll with the bats” so they are generally very good with children – although play should of course always be supervised.

Caution should also be exercised with very young children; Although Labradors are not prone to aggression, their relatively large size and playful demeanor means they can be a bit clumsy and agitated at times.

Read more about Labradors and children here: http://allaboutlabradors.blogspot.com/2010/06/why-labrador-retrievers-are-good-for.html

How long do Labradors live on average? What Is the Lifespan of a Labrador?

Lifespans will inevitably vary from dog to dog, but in general you can expect a healthy Labrador to live between 10 and 13 human years.

The oldest recorded age of a Labrador Retriever is that of Adjutant, who died in 1963 at the advanced age of 27 years and 3 months.

Read more about the expected lifespan for Labradors here: https://www.labradortraininghq.com/labrador-breed-information/how-long-do-labs-live-labrador-lifespan/

How Big Do Labrador Retrievers Get? How large? What’s your weight?

While Kennel Club authorities dispute the details of the ideal height of the Labrador Retriever, in general you can expect male Labradors to stand between 22 and 24 inches when fully grown and females between 21 and 23 inches.

Weight will vary with height, diet and exercise habits, but generally males should weigh between 65 and 80 pounds and females between 55 and 70 pounds.

For more information on the Labrador standard, see our article on Labrador breed standards.

What colors do Labrador Retrievers come in?

The Kennel Club authorities only recognize 3 colors in Labrador Retrievers: black, brown (often referred to as “chocolate”) and yellow.

In reality, there are a variety of shades between these standards, as well as white, red, and even silver coats.

Silver Labrador Retrievers are a hotly debated topic right now – while they certainly look like a typical Labrador, their unusual color has led many to doubt their origins.

Learn more about the different types of Lab colors here: http://www.thelabradorsite.com/labrador-colour/

And please click here if you want to read more about the “controversial silver Labrador”.

How Much Exercise Do Labradors Need?

Labs are known for being an energetic breed and a ‘normal’ healthy adult Lab needs about an hour of good exercise each day – they certainly won’t settle for a walk around the block!

The most active Labrador may need over 90 minutes of exercise every day. Without good, regular exercise, you may find that your Labrador’s behavior is becoming more unruly and their weight may be increasing.

Here’s a more detailed guide to finding out how much exercise your lab needs each day: https://www.labradortraininghq.com/labrador-health-and-care/how-much-exercise-does-a-labrador-need/

Do Labradors like to swim?

Although Labradors are generally considered water lovers and excellent swimmers, this is not always the case.

Some Labrador Retrievers are anxious around water and will need to be persuaded to swim, while most will need at least a little tuition and encouragement before they have enough confidence to play in the water.

If possible, teach your Labrador to swim while they are still puppies to build that confidence at an early age.

Remember – never force your dog into the water as this could result in him developing an aversion to it that is difficult to overcome.

It’s best to let your lab learn at its own pace and let it float on its own time.

Check out these handy tips for teaching your Lab to swim: https://www.thelabradorsite.com/teaching-your-labrador-retriever-to-swim/

Do Labradors need a lot of grooming?

Not really. With their short haired coats, Labradors are relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming, only needing bathing when they are visibly dirty.

While her hair never needs detangling, it’s dense enough to require regular brushing as it sheds year-round, with two big “breakouts” in fall and spring.

Male Labradors are rumored to have a coarser, thicker coat than their female counterparts and therefore require a little more grooming – but this is hotly debated!

Here is a useful overview of Labrador grooming: https://www.labradortraininghq.com/labrador-health-and-care/labrador-retriever-grooming-overview/

How Much Do Labradors Lose?

While it’s impossible to quantify exactly how much Labs shed, rest assured it’s a lot – get ready to suckle a lot more than normal!

Labradors shed when their puppy hair gives way to their adult coat, and regularly twice a year thereafter.

The reason for this is that they have a double coat – beneath the glossy hairs we see above, Labrador Retrievers also have a warm, inner coat that insulates them during the winter and regenerates regularly.

More information about Labrador shedding can be found here.

Is it okay to have a Labrador if I live in a hot country?

The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds around the world, including in hot climates like Brazil and Israel.

Labradors are highly resilient to both hot and cold weather extremes, remaining energetic, affectionate, and playful in all weathers.

You can bet your Labrador will love running on the beach with you and will love diving in the ocean with you too!

Of course, there are factors to consider when owning a rennet in a hot climate – for example, it’s imperative that they stay cool, avoid over-exertion and heat stroke, and drink plenty of water.

Do labradors bark a lot?

Just like most dog breeds, Labs bark, and for a variety of reasons. Without much physical stimulation and social interaction, Labs will bark more than normal, possibly excessively, due to their pent-up energy.

If your Lab is highly stimulated but still barking, it could be because they are scared, frustrated, guarded, or even suffering from separation anxiety.

There is one breed of dog on the planet that cannot physically bark: the Basenji. Although not mute, they can only “woof” softly.

This article is a great breakdown of what the different dog barks mean: https://www.labradortraininghq.com/labrador-behavior/what-do-different-dog-barks-mean/

Are Labradors good watchdogs?

No – unless they have aggression issues that are not representative of the breed. Labs have a number of qualities that just don’t lend themselves to guarding a home effectively.

Firstly, they are great at socializing with people as they are so friendly, gentle and patient.

They are also not known for being territorial – chances are your Labrador will befriend an intruder before scaring them off!

This article goes into more detail: http://www.clublabrador.com/labrador-general/do-labradors-retriever-make-good-guard-dogs/

At what age can I bring home a Labrador puppy?

The best age to bring your Labrador puppy home is 8 weeks old.

We recommend 7 weeks as the absolute minimum age and no reputable breeder would normally allow you to bring your new puppy home earlier.

Puppies learn a number of valuable qualities from their mother and littermates during these first few weeks, such as: B. the bite resistance and what is acceptable when playing.

Without this early learning, behavior problems could develop later in life.

For more information see this article https://www.labradortraininghq.com/labrador-puppies/the-best-age-to-bring-a-labrador-puppy-home/

When should I start training my Labrador puppy?

There is much debate about the best age to start training – one camp believes 6 months is best when your pup has built up some mental and physical strength, while the other camp believes gentle training at 8 Weeks can begin when you first receive your puppy Labrador puppy home from its mother.

We believe gentle training should start as early as week 8 as they will be learning from you once they leave their mother anyway.

There are many positive, gentle training techniques available today to help your Labrador puppy get started with training – such as:

A Discovery Channel poll found Labrador Retrievers to be the #1 cheekiest pet. Don’t let this dubious distinction deter you from your training, though – labs are known for being happy to please and open-minded about training.

They earned first place because of their tendency to chew anything in sight – all the more reason to start training right away!

For a deeper dive into Labrador puppy training, check this out: https://www.labradortraininghq.com/labrador-training/when-to-start-training-a-puppy/

Should Labradors live indoors? Can they be outside of dogs?

Although Labradors can withstand varying temperatures due to their double coat, they are fundamentally social creatures that need plenty of mental and physical stimulation with their human family to stay happy and healthy.

As such, they will thrive indoors and probably won’t receive the same level of bonding and stimulation if they live outside.

If your lab has to live outside, you need to consider a number of factors related to its safety, such as: B. Shelter, water supply and possible dangers.

Check out this RSPCA guide on how best to handle this: http://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/environment/livingoutside

Do Labradors usually have genetic issues?

Unfortunately, although reputable breeders take the time to lab test for genetic defects prior to breeding, puppies sometimes develop or inherit diseases and defects—just like humans.

Genetic issues associated with Labrador Retrievers include PRA blindness, epilepsy, and hip and elbow dysplasia.

For a detailed look at how these diseases are inherited, see this page: http://labradornet.com/geneticdefects.html

Is it true that there is a difference between American and English Labradors?

There are indeed differences in temperament and appearance between American and English Labs, although officially there is only one Labrador standard recognized by the UK and American Kennel Clubs.

Due to different breeding purposes and lineage, American Labs tend to be slimmer with longer legs than their English counterparts and have a more energetic disposition.

English Labradors, on the other hand, are generally bred for show and therefore look more like the Labrador standard with a heavier gait and shorter legs. They are also generally gentler than their American cousins.

Keep in mind that the distinction between American and English Labradors is not official and there is a wide range of overlap and exceptions.

Read more about it here: https://www.labradortraininghq.com/labrador-breed-information/the-difference-between-american-and-english-labradors/

Are men or women better pets? Why?

Labs of both sexes make great pets and there are very few notable differences between them other than a few subtle personality traits.

Females tend to be a bit more independent and learn faster, while their male counterparts are often more exuberant – it’s entirely an individual preference as to which gender suits your family better.

Regardless of gender, it’s worth spaying or spaying your Lab before they reach maturity to avoid the less than desirable traits their gender brings.

For example, males will no longer feel the need to mark their territory or “hump,” while females will no longer be locked into the 6-month estrus cycle.

There’s a saying about male and female Labs and the differences in their personalities: While males will approach and say “love you,” females will approach and say “love me”!

This article goes into more detail on the subtle differences between “girl and boy” Labs: https://www.justlabradors.com/forum/lab-chat/78671-male-lab-vs-female-lab.html

Still craving more information about Labrador Retrievers? One of our favorite books is Your Labrador Retriever Puppy. It contains tons of information about our favorite breed.

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For a list of all the supplies we receive for our new service dog puppies, see our New Puppies Checklist on the PuppyInTraining.com blog.

Labradors are incredibly friendly dogs and love to be around their family. But there are times when you might need to leave them alone to run an errand or go to work. Since it’s not always possible to spend every minute with your Labrador, you may be wondering how long you can leave him alone.

Labradors cannot be left alone for more than 4 hours as they can experience separation anxiety. Lab puppies should stay even less – one hour for each month of life – back up to 4 hours. Labs should by no means be left alone for 8 hours or all day as they become destructive and fearful.

In this article you will learn:

How long can Labs be left alone as puppies, adults, or seniors?

How to entertain your labrador when he’s alone.

Alternative solutions to leave your Labrador alone.

So if you want to learn all about leaving your Labrador alone, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s start!

Want to see the latest dog products for your Labrador that are popular right now? You can find them on Amazon. You can also click the button below. Click here to see the latest dog accessories on Amazon

Can Labradors be left alone?

You just got a new Labrador and are wondering if it can be left alone.

Labradors can be left alone, but you cannot leave them alone all day. They are very social and suffer from separation anxiety if you leave them for too long. Labs also need bathroom breaks, exercise, interaction, and access to clean water and food.

Labrador puppies are naturally curious and can get into all sorts of mischief if left alone. Unfortunately, they can also come to harm.

In older, well-behaved and socialized dogs, on the other hand, it’s not so bad. So let’s review how long you can leave Labradors alone at their different life stages.

How Long Can Labradors Be Left Alone? (by age)

young puppies

Puppies are quite curious and need to be watched constantly. Although they can sleep up to 18 hours a day, when they wake up they are full of energy, fun and constantly hungry!

Labrador puppies also need to pee regularly as they cannot hold their bladders for very long.

A Labrador can generally hold its bladder for an hour every month of life. So if you bring your pup home at 8 weeks of age, he can hold him for about two hours, although young puppies should relieve themselves every hour. By the age of 6 months your Labrador should have full bladder control.

Labrador puppies should not be left alone for too long. Below is a chart showing how long they can be left home alone in the first six months.

Age of Puppy Alone 8-10 weeks 1 hour maximum 2-3 months 2 hours maximum 3-4 months 3 hours maximum 4-6 months 4 hours maximum How long to leave a Labrador puppy alone by age

Adolescent Dogs

Once your pup has reached puberty, around 6-8 months of age, and his bladder has developed, he may stay longer as long as it is a gradual build up.

That being said, the limit should never exceed four hours. Labradors do not respond well to being left alone for long periods of time as they are very social dogs that need company and stimulation.

adult

Labradors reach adulthood between 18 and 24 months. They are very independent when they need to be, but they also love the company of others. They enjoy their work and want to be part of the family.

You definitely can’t let your new best friend down all day because he won’t be your best friend for long! Some dogs may have a higher tolerance level, but don’t leave them longer than the recommended four hours if you want to feel guilt-free.

senior citizens

Older Labs over the age of 8 or 9 should not be left alone for too long as they may need more bathroom breaks. Even if they suddenly become ill, they need someone to be there, as serious problems can develop very quickly.

Even older dogs with health problems should not be left alone for too long. Labradors with joint issues such as hip dysplasia can experience aches and pains and may require additional care.

Make sure your lab has an orthopedic bed like the Big Barker. I like this one as it is made specifically for large dogs and has been clinically proven to reduce joint pain and stiffness and prevent arthritis and other mobility issues. You can also check out my review of the Big Barker.

Can Labradors be left alone for 8 hours?

It’s a question I get asked a lot, “Can labradors be left alone for 8 hours?” When we think about why someone is asking this question, I assume they’re really asking if they can keep their lab quiet all day can leave while he is at work?

Labrador Retrievers cannot be left alone for 8 hours as they suffer from separation anxiety and cannot hold their bladder for 8 hours during the day. You should get a dog sitter, use a dog sitter, or take your Labrador to doggy daycare.

Legalities to leave a lab alone

No federal law specifies exactly how long dogs can legally be left alone. However, there are various state animal neglect and animal cruelty laws. The general rule in North America is that you shouldn’t leave dogs alone for more than four hours at a time.

There is the Animal Welfare Act, a federal law that regulates the handling of animals. However, this only applies to dogs bred for commercial sale and transported or imported.

Similar guidelines exist in the UK. Veterinary experts also recommend four hours as the maximum time all dogs can be left alone. This is set out in the Codes of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs Guide to the UK Animal Welfare Act, which sets out how all animals should be cared for.

“Some dogs become restless and suffer if left alone for even a short period of time. Experts recommend four hours as the maximum period.” Code of Conduct for the Welfare of Dogs

In addition to age, other factors to consider when deciding how long to leave your Labrador include socialization, training, housing, living conditions, and previous experiences of being alone.

How to leave a lab alone: ​​10 tips

If you leave your Labrador alone, keep calm and don’t let him see that you are sad to leave him. It has been scientifically proven that dogs can recognize emotions in humans, as this study proves.

Stay relaxed and confident and follow these important tips once you’ve puppy-proofed the area:

Exercise your pup first to tire him out.

Play games as mental stimulation is essential.

Let him take a bathroom break.

Make sure he’s not hungry.

Provide access to clean, fresh water.

Leave him interactive toys or chew toys.

Use a crate, playpen, or put up dog guards.

Play soothing music when he’s stressed or anxious.

Start slow, a few minutes here and there, and work your way up.

Avoid unnecessary hassles on departure and return.

Learn How To Leave Your Puppy Home Alone In This Video… How To Leave Your Puppy Home Alone | Tough

Watch this video on YouTube

7 Guilt-Free Solutions When You Leave Your Labrador Alone

If you’re worried about leaving your Labrador alone while you go to work, there are several solutions. You can combine these where possible so that every day is different.

Here are 7 guilt-free solutions to leaving your Labrador alone:

Before you go to work, take your lab for a walk. An hour-long walk before you leave the house is an excellent way for your dog to burn off some energy while you maintain your close bond. As soon as you get home, take your Labrador for a second walk or, even better, walk off-leash. Play some games like fetch or frisbee. Hire a dog sitter or dog walker. Dog sitters are not too expensive and can visit for a few hours instead of the whole working day. You will help give your Labrador some much-needed company and interaction. You can also hire a trusted dog walker to take your dog for a long walk. Get friends and family to visit. Make sure family or friends can call throughout the day. Just 15-30 minutes is enough to keep your lab happy and entertained. It would be great if they could take him for a fun walk, but a quick game of fetch will be enough to burn off some energy and end any loneliness. Visit your lab during your lunch break. If you’re lucky enough to work close to home, visit your dog at lunchtime. You can come back and play a game of fetch to give him some fun exercise. Flexible working is also a great solution and you can plan when you need help. Drop off your dog at a dog daycare center. You can usually find these in most areas. With plenty of other dogs to play with, your Labrador will have no shortage of fun while you’re away. Remember to introduce them to daycare as young as possible as they will quickly get used to being abandoned. To work from home. With thousands of jobs moving to mobile workspaces, being able to work from home part of the week is a great idea. This allows you to play with your lab during your breaks throughout the day. It also saves you paying for a dog sitter or friend. Get a dog camera. Dog cameras are pretty popular and easy to set up. They offer a perfect solution for interacting with your Labrador without actually being there! I just love Amazon’s Furbo as you can talk to your dog and even launch treats, all controlled from your phone!

How to entertain your labrador when he’s alone

There are several ways to keep your Labrador Retriever entertained while you’re away. Check out the following options:

Leave a choice of toys. If your lab gets bored easily or easily distracted, a toy or two may not be enough. Always keep four or five of their favorite toys on hand. I like KONG toys such as Amazon’s KONG Classic Toy. These interactive chew toys are great for keeping your dog entertained for hours. You can even stuff treats in some of them to keep them occupied.

If your lab gets bored easily or easily distracted, a toy or two may not be enough. Always keep four or five of their favorite toys on hand. I like KONG toys such as Amazon’s KONG Classic Toy. These interactive chew toys are great for keeping your dog entertained for hours. You can even stuff treats in some of them to keep them occupied. Play soothing music. Playing music has been shown to reduce stress levels in kennel dogs. This study showed that music genre can make a difference, in this case soft rock and reggae! You can try leaving the TV tuned to a dog station designed to pique your pup’s interest.

Playing music has been shown to reduce stress levels in kennel dogs. This study showed that music genre can make a difference, in this case soft rock and reggae! You can try leaving the TV tuned to a dog station designed to pique your pup’s interest. Get another dog! This might seem extreme, but a pal might be what your Lab needs to help them feel less stressed and lonely. But getting a second dog is a big commitment that you need to think about carefully. If you decide to do this, make sure your Labrador is past puppyhood and trained. Experts also recommend getting a dog of the opposite sex.

Do labradors get lonely?

Labradors should not be left alone for too long as they can suffer physical and emotional damage. Unfortunately, many dog ​​owners don’t recognize the obligation to care for a Labrador.

This is one of the sad reasons why they are often abandoned, rehomed, or euthanized. Do labradors get lonely?

Labradors get lonely. They are very social dogs and if left alone for long periods of time they may suffer from separation anxiety or engage in destructive behavior out of boredom. Regular activity, exercise, and mental stimulation are must-haves for this energetic, loyal, and easy-going breed.

It is worth remembering that the domesticated dog descended from the gray wolf. Wolves are pack animals that live together to survive. Dogs see us as part of the pack. They experience many emotions and when deprived of company, they feel lonely.

Consequences if you leave your lab alone for too long

Here are some consequences of regularly leaving your Labrador alone for too long:

separation anxiety. Labradors are prone to separation anxiety. This means they will show signs of stress and/or destructive behavior if they are away from their owner or family for too long. Symptoms may include uncontrollable barking, whining, howling, pacing, chewing, digging, drooling, urinating, defecation, or attempting to escape. Check out this interesting recent study from the University of Lincoln, UK, which concluded that separation anxiety in dogs should be viewed as a symptom of underlying frustrations rather than a diagnosis.

Labradors are prone to separation anxiety. This means they will show signs of stress and/or destructive behavior if they are away from their owner or family for too long. Symptoms may include uncontrollable barking, whining, howling, pacing, chewing, digging, drooling, urinating, defecation, or attempting to escape. Check out this interesting recent study from the University of Lincoln, UK, which concluded that separation anxiety in dogs should be viewed as a symptom of underlying frustrations rather than a diagnosis. destructive behavior. This can occur due to lack of exercise or boredom. The signs are similar to separation anxiety, but the dog is simply trying to cope with being unstimulated. Examples include chewing on your shoes and belongings, destroying wooden furniture like a table leg, or tearing up your couch!

This can occur due to lack of exercise or boredom. The signs are similar to separation anxiety, but the dog is simply trying to cope with being unstimulated. Examples include chewing on your shoes and belongings, destroying wooden furniture like a table leg, or tearing up your couch! Shows extreme restlessness during evening. Your lab may be restless in the evenings due to lack of exercise and stimulation throughout the day. If he suffers from energy explosions also known as zoomies, you need to take him for a long walk and play some games with him. After all, a tired dog is a happy dog.

Many adverse consequences result from not taking proper care of your Labrador and not keeping him happy and entertained. Long-term neglect, including leaving your dog alone all day, can also lead to these other health problems:

depression

blood pressure

heart disease

Gastrointestinal problems

bladder infections

You must never punish your Lab for showing distressing signs of separation anxiety or destructive behavior out of boredom.

Related: Should You Let Your Labrador Puppy Sleep With You? Bids and prohibitions

How Much Exercise Do Labradors Need?

Labradors were bred in Britain from fishing dogs imported from Canada to capture waterfowl for hunters due to their strength, endurance and work ethic. They need to be properly exercised before they are left alone. How Much Exercise Does a Labrador Need?

Adult Labradors need at least two hours of exercise a day to stay fit and healthy. Puppies need five minutes of exercise per month of life, twice a day, until they are fully grown. Senior Labs may only be able to handle 10-15 minutes.

Puppies, especially large breeds, should not be overexerted as this can lead to joint and bone problems as they develop. The most important thing is that you get to know your individual dog.

Some days your lab may need more exercise than others. If your dog doesn’t get excited when you pick up his leash, he’s tired and wants to rest. Dogs aren’t machines, so you should listen to what he’s trying to tell you!

When my dog ​​gets tired during a walk, he will stop, sit down and look up at me. I know she’s had enough and wants to go home.

Exercise should also consist of other activities, not just walking on a leash. For example running without a leash, retrieving, tug of war, frisbee, swimming or agility.

Are Labradors indoor or outdoor dogs?

If you have the ability to leave your Lab outside when you go to work, it can give them plenty of space to run around and relax. However, is it okay to leave Labs outside or are they in dogs?

Labradors prefer to be around dogs as they are very social and enjoy being around people. However, they can live outside as they have a double coat to protect them from the elements. However, they must be accustomed to being outside from an early age and a shelter such as a shelter must be available. B. a kennel, are provided.

If you’re not sure where to leave your Lab, let’s dive into the pros and cons of leaving your Labrador indoors or outdoors:

Pros and cons of keeping your lab indoors

Pros of Inside Cons of Inside Less likely to bark at outside distractions such as birds, people or dogs resulting in no noise complaints from neighbors.

Your dog may engage in destructive chewing when suffering from separation anxiety or boredom. Prevents your lab from being damaged if you live in an area where wild animals might attack. You could face noise complaints if you live in an apartment and your dog barks and howls constantly due to separation anxiety. Your dog can’t dig up your yard when indoors or try to run away when he’s an escape artist! Your puppy needs to be toilet trained. Pros and Cons of Leavein a Labrador Inside

Pros and cons of leaving your lab outside

Benefits of Outside Cons of Outside Labradors are strong shedders. If you spend more time outside, you’ll have less to clean up! You need a lot of space for your dog to feel comfortable. A small garden is not enough. A bark from your own yard every now and then is actually a good thing to ward off strangers. Your dog may chew on tree roots or destroy flowers. Make sure he can’t eat anything poisonous, like rotten apples or wild mushrooms. To learn what is toxic to Labs, read this article. Your dog can release pent-up energy, especially if you invest in a canine agility class or do one yourself! Your dog may be feeling unhappy and less part of the family. There is also an increased risk of fleas or ticks. Pros and cons of Leavein a Labrador Outside

Where exactly you should leave your lab at home

If you let your Lab indoors when you go out, you can still control his surroundings by keeping him in a specific area of ​​the house.

Here are a few suggestions on how to house your lab in it:

Use a crate. Labradors need a crate no smaller than 42 inches. This size of the crate is enough for your dog to move around and stretch out comfortably. I like Amazon’s Midwest Homes for Pets Icrate as it is all inclusive and has everything you need. My dog ​​loved her crate and often went there to relax or play. Check out my step-by-step Easy Labrador Puppy Crate Training guide to learn more about crate training. Use dog guards. You can use dog guards to cordon off an area of ​​your home to keep your lab safe. These allow you to section off different no-go areas so you can decide how much space your pup can have to run around. Dog guards are a great alternative if you don’t like leaving your Lab in a crate. There is also a wide range to suit your decor. Check out Amazon’s Carlson Extra Tall Pet Gate to get an idea. The extra large feature is excellent for Labradors. Use a playpen. Puppy playpens are perfect for housing your young Labrador and he will have plenty of space to play safely. You can even connect some playpens to a crate for a great combination of a cozy resting place and space to roam. Some are more durable and can even be used outdoors, such as B. the BestPet Dog Pen from Amazon. You can configure this into multiple forms without using any tools. It is lightweight, foldable and easy to move.

PRO TIP! Check out my recommendations for the best dog crates for Labradors (and playpens), including soft crates, travel crates, and furniture style.

There will come a time when you can let your lab run the house. Most Labrador owners eventually try this route. You will know when your dog is ready! My dog ​​was two years old before she was allowed to roam around the house.

Final Thoughts

Labradors are wonderful dogs to own and they make a good first dog for many families. Anyone who has experienced their kindness, playfulness, and affection knows that they are easily worth the many hours you spend with them.

Here are a few takeaways from the article:

Labradors should not be left alone for more than four hours, and older dogs even less.

Puppies should not be left alone for more than an hour each month of life.

Make sure your lab is properly trained before leaving.

Leaving your lab alone for too long can cause them to suffer from separation anxiety and other health issues.

Consider alternatives such as hiring a dog sitter, dog walker, dog daycare, or enlisting the help of family and friends.

I hope this article gave you a good idea of ​​how long Labradors can be left alone at home. If you implement many of the suggestions and alternatives, you no longer need to feel guilty when you leave your dog and see those wistful puppy eyes!

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The Labrador Retriever has been the most popular breed in the US for 5 years. To hold the top spot as America’s most popular dog, it’s clear that Labradors make great pets. However, some Labrador owners are still concerned about these dogs’ temperament—some may be wondering, “Are labs aggressive?” Labs are large dogs, so an aggressive Lab could be difficult to manage.

Nobody expects their gentle Labrador baby to become aggressive

Labrador temperament

Luckily, Labradors are not known to be aggressive dogs. In fact, they’re generally known for having a laid-back, friendly, and patient personality—making them a great family pet. However, some Labradors can have behavioral problems. Remember that just like humans, every dog ​​has their own personality and how the dog has been trained and handled will have an impact on their behavior.

So let’s take a closer look at the beloved Labrador and learn more about its behavior. In particular, we will answer the question “Are Labradors an aggressive breed?”

Are Labradors Aggressive?

Labradors are generally not aggressive. In fact, a study published in 2008 found that they were one of the least aggressive breeds of the group of dogs involved in the study.

The answer to the question “Can Labradors be aggressive?” is a little different. As with any dog, traits inherited from parents and life experience have an impact on an individual’s personality. So while it is possible to come across an aggressive Labrador, keep in mind that this is not a trait of the breed.

The Labrador’s history confirms the fact that aggression has never been a trait favored in the breed. Let’s take a quick look at where the Labrador originated from.

Labrador background

The Labrador’s ancestors were working dogs called St. John’s Water Dogs. Their main task was to help the fishermen. Aside from helping the fishermen catch fish, they also helped haul in nets and ropes. These dogs were specially bred to withstand the chilly conditions of working on the water in their native Newfoundland.

English nobles who had traveled to Newfoundland and observed these dogs were impressed by their fine temperament, great water skills, and work ethic. As a result, some St. John’s Water Dogs were brought to England in the early 1800’s and bred as hunting dogs. This is when today’s Labrador appeared.

Unfortunately, the St. John’s Water Dog is now extinct. But we can still see remnants of these fine dogs in the Labradors of today. This brief look at the Labrador’s background and breeding shows us that aggression has never been a trait required or encouraged in the breed.

Do you have an aggressive Labrador puppy?

As we mentioned earlier, just like humans, dogs have distinct, individual personalities. It can happen that a puppy is a bit grumpy because that’s the way it is. However, the good news is that it is actually very rare to come across a truly aggressive Labrador puppy. And to be clear, a puppy that playfully growls and bites is actually a normal puppy. Such behavior is not a sign of aggression.

What Causes Labrador Puppy Aggression?

A really aggressive puppy is actually a scared puppy. Before attacking, an aggressive pup will crouch and hide, perhaps accompanied by a low growl. If their efforts to evade you have been unsuccessful, attacking is usually the last resort.

There are ways to deal with an aggressive puppy. And there are also steps you can take when choosing a puppy to reduce the chances of ending up with an aggressive Lab.

Choosing a happy puppy

If possible, meet the parents of the puppy you are planning to bring home. In some cases it may not be possible to meet the father, but you should be able to meet the mother. The mother dog should be happy to meet you – wagging her tail and smiling (as only Labradors can). Unfortunately, if mom is aloof, scared, or worse – aggressive – her puppies will not grow into well-adjusted dogs.

But not only the genes passed on from the parents influence the character of your dog. The socialization of the puppy also plays a role. As such, a puppy who has not been raised in a happy, healthy environment is likely to have behavioral issues throughout their life.

What kind of training is best?

Gone are the days when establishing yourself as the “pack leader” was the best way to train your dog. Positive reinforcement has been shown to be the most effective way to train a dog for the health and welfare of both dog and owner.

Aggressive Labrador Retriever – Does Lab Type Make a Difference?

Some people believe that your Labrador’s color affects their temperament. Is that the case? If there is a difference in temperament between different colored Labs, it is not the coat color that matters. However, due to pedigree, there may be some differences in temperament.

As the Labrador breed evolved, two distinct types emerged – the American Labrador and the English Labrador. In short, the American Labrador is more of a working breed, while the English was bred with more of a focus on showing.

It’s interesting to note that according to a 2011 study, athletic dogs were more trainable than their non-athletic cousins. How does this relate to black and brown labs?

Are Black Labs aggressive?

Black Labs generally come from the American Labrador bloodline, which means they are bred to be working dogs. This means they are likely to be more trainable. While this doesn’t mean they’re any more or less aggressive than their yellow or chocolate counterparts, training can be more successful given their athletic canine pedigree.

Are chocolate labs aggressive?

Conversely, it is common for Chocolate Labs to be bred from the English line. This means they may pose a greater challenge to train. While this does not equate to an aggressive dog, it can mean that your Chocolate Lab is more distractible, less accepting of correction, and less willing to obey commands than its American Labrador cousins.

What if you suddenly find your Labrador aggressive?

It is a stressful situation for any dog ​​owner when a normally calm and peaceful dog suddenly becomes aggressive. You may worry that you now have a “problem dog” on your hands and drastic action may need to be taken. But before you hit the panic button, remember that there can be many reasons your dog is behaving this way. With a little observation and professional help, most dogs can be treated successfully.

Causes of Sudden Labrador Aggression

When your dog is in pain, he may become aggressive. It is therefore worth checking in the first place whether your dog is ill or has sustained an injury. They may not let you near the painful area, so don’t put yourself in danger trying to investigate. A good suggestion is to make a video of your dog’s behavior. Take the video with you when you go to the vet as your dog may not exhibit the same behavior at the clinic.

Even if pain is not the cause of the problem, consulting a professional is the best way to deal with a dog that has become aggressive out of the blue. While the behavior may seem strange or sudden to us, most veterinarians will have encountered similar situations over the years. They can help find the trigger and address the problem.

Are Labradors Aggressive?

So are Labradors aggressive? Usually no. But can labs be aggressive? Oh well. As any dog ​​can when threatened or mistreated. So it is really up to the owner to train their Labrador appropriately and avoid situations that will confuse and frighten their dog. However, you can rest assured that Labradors are naturally friendly, gentle, outgoing, and fun-loving dogs who will delight their families with years of loyalty and companionship once they find the right environment in which to thrive.

find out more

On this website you will find a wealth of information about Labradors and how to train them successfully. If you want to know more, be sure to take a look at some of the articles below.

references

Have you had an experience with an aggressive Labrador?

Is there something we haven’t covered in this article that you’d like to learn more about? Be sure to let us know in the comments section below.