About Labrador Retrievers
Generally speaking, Labs are happy, friendly souls, but they are very easily bored. Labs have above average intelligence and learn quickly. Labrador Retrievers make great family members, usually get along well with children and other pets. They will alert you to strangers, but are not "guard dogs", although they will offer protection to the best of their ability. Above all, they give unconditional love. Your Labrador Retriever deserves love and respect from their family.
Labrador retrievers come in three solid colors: black, yellow, and chocolate. Do not confuse the yellow labrador retriever with the golden retriever. They are two separate breeds.
The AKC Standard
Show Quality
The labrador should be short, stocky, and strong. Should have a wide skull, wide deep chest -sort of a box type look. Most noticeable traits:
- TAIL - should be thick towards the base, tapering towards the tip, medium length, free from feathering - "Otter" tail.
- COAT - short and dense without wave (occasionally you will find a longer softer coat)
- EARS - medium size, close to head - be sure ears do not go up and then drop down, and triangular in shape.
- FEET - webbed, especially on back feet. Toes should tuck under, not be long and thin.
Field Quality
These labs are usually of taller stature, with a leaner body and a longer nose.
- TAIL - should still be as described above - no feathering.
- COAT - the coats may vary, some may be the same as above, others may be longer and wavy
- EARS - same as above
- FEET - same as above, although often longer and slimmer.
Read more about the Labrador Retriever in detail (Reprinted from the Project BREED Directory Series).