The more you learn about Labrador Retrievers the easier it is to see why they are why they are one of the most popular breed of dog in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Labradors, often called Labs, are very friendly, good natured and intelligent dogs. They eagerly respond to praise and positive attention, which is partly why they are considered one of the fastest learning breeds of dogs: making training a very rewarding experience. Due to its keen sense of smell, it is frequently used for drug detection by Law Enforcement. This working dog is also used for rescue operations, and is a worldwide choice for Guide Dog Programs.

The first thing most people notice about Labrador Retrievers is that they truly are great looking dogs with a sturdy and athletic build. Labs come in three colors; Black (a solid black color), Golden (from a white, to yellow, to a fox red), and Chocolate (medium dark brown). Golden Labs have black or pink noses, while Chocolate and Black Labs have noses that match the color of their coat.

Labs are fairly large: the height and weight of an adult differs from males weighing from 60 to 80 pounds, and the smaller females weighing between 45 to 70 pounds. Males are usually 22-24 inches tall while the females are 21 to 23 inches tall. Eye color ranges from dark to mid brown, depending on the color of their coat. Labradors tend to shed hair throughout the year, and their short, thick, interwoven coats are fairly waterproof providing them with protection from water and weather. This combined with webbed feet and an otter-like tail help to make them natural swimmers, and most Labs love to swim and play in the water.

What I like most about Labrador Retrievers is their wonderful temperament. Because they are exceptionally friendly and well balanced; they make great family dogs. They are good with children and other pets, and are very obedient. They are not usually aggressive but they are very protective of their family, and will growl at strangers or anyone they think is a threat. These dependable companions are intelligent and very easy to train. Training this breed should be started early on, and proper dog care requires plenty of exercise. As the name suggests they are excellent retrievers. They will tirelessly chase a ball or a stick and they are champion Frisbee players as well as top retrievers for duck hunters.

When it comes to health issues, there is good and bad. Unlike other dog breeds, Labrador Retrievers are not prone to: aggression, territorialism, insecurity, nervousness, destructiveness, or hypersensitivity. However, like other large dogs, Labs are subject to developing elbow or hip dysplasia which can lead to arthritis, mobility problems, discomfort and swelling.

Ear infections are another common problem you'll find among Labrador Retrievers, because their floppy ears tend to trap warm moist air. Checking the ears regularly will help to avoid problems. A healthy Labs ears should look clean and light pink inside. Darker pink, red or brownish deposits are a symptom of ear infection. Usual treatment is cleaning the ear once or twice a day and sometimes even medicated ear drops for severe cases.

A key point to always remember about Labrador Retrievers; they love to eat. They are very persuasive and persistent when they want food. Owners must be careful not to let them overeat to avoid obesity and other health problems which can lead to the development of arthritis, hip dysplasia and diabetes, and overall reduced health in latter years of life. The average life span of a Labrador is somewhere between 10 to 13 years.

What professional dog trainer's love about this animal is just how well they respond to dog training. Due to their extreme intelligence, they will vigorously learn, and love to work for their owners. The real challenge when training Labrador Retrievers, is that they don't mature for a very long time, so for this dog to obey you completely can take a while. Labradors are sensitive to the tone of your voice so if you remain firm and fair, you will do well. Due to their size and weight when they are full grown; you would do well to discourage them from pulling on the leash from early on. A trained dog is a truly a happy dog, so if you are not a professional trainer, do yourself a favor and buy a book about dog training. There are many books available, and in today's world information is easily available on the internet: you can find the best at my website for training Labrador Retrievers or any other dog.

One last comment about Labrador Retrievers: this high energy breed needs regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy, and daily exercise will help them to control their weight. They have a natural desire for play and love to retrieve balls or sticks, and this type of play provides mental stimulation as well as needed exercise.