Your Labradors Introduction
First things first I'd better introduce myself. My name is Gemma, I have designed this website for anyone who is thinking of owning (or already owns) a Labrador. I'm basing it on my own experience as an owner and breeder. I've read pretty much every book possible on dog training. And I have taken note of all the information I have found myself in need of. So, instead of rushing out and buying every book possible take a look around Your Labradors site.
Labradors breed info
History of the Labrador breed
It is thought that Labradors were developed on the Island of Newfoundland in the 16th century. The Labrador was created by crossing a Newfoundland with a small water dog. The very early version of the Labrador was originally known as the St John’s water dog.
The St John’s water dog was used by fishermen to help carry in the nets from the water. In return for helping the fishermen the Labradors were fed on fish scraps. Some historians claim the Labradors were only fed in Winter and left to hunt for themselves in Summer. This would explain the Labradors very healthy appetite!
The Labrador we know and love today was further developed in the late 1800’s after interbreeding with Retriever breeds. It later acquired the Labrador name in the early 19th century. They quickly became a popular breed because of their ability to retrieve in water and on land, they were very popular with hunters.
Description of the Labrador
As you will probably know there are three colours of Labrador, Black, Chocolate (liver) and Golden.
The coat should be a solid colour although in Golden Labradors there is often slight shading over the ‘saddle’ area. Sometimes Labradors can have a small white spot on their chest. This is not desirable in the ‘show dog world’.
General appearance should be strongly-built, well-balanced, very active dog, strong in loin and hindquarters.
Labradors Temperament
The Labradors easy-going, friendly nature makes them a very popular choice for a family pet. The Labrador is very adaptable and can live in almost any home, providing all their exercise needs are met.
Your Labrador should be good-tempered, agile, alert and eager to please.
Labradors are always wanting to be helpful and are always looking for jobs like, bringing your morning paper or slippers. This is probably down to their hard working fishing days
Health problems in Labradors
Labradors have very few breed-specific diseases compared with most pure breeds. When buying your pup you should always ask if they have any hereditary disease in their line of breeding. They tend to suffer with three main problems –
- Orthopaedic problems
- Eye problems
- Epilepsy
Orthopaedic problems...
Because Labrador is a sporting dog they do suffer from joint and bone problems such as, Hip Dysplasia. Other problems include Osteochondritis Dissens and Cruciate Ligament Rupture.
Hip Dysplasia, this results in abnormal looseness of the hip joints. Affected Labradors may find it difficult to get up, they may appear to be taking more weight on their front legs. This can then result in arthritis. When buying a puppy you should always ask if the parents have been scored for hip dysplasia.
Osteochondritis Dissens, This affects growing cartilage in the joints and can result in loose cartilage in their joints. This can occur pups between 4 and 8 months old. Your pup may show signs of lameness and pain. This can be treated with medication or surgery or both in some cases.
Cruciate Ligament Rupture, this affects ligaments in the Labradors knee joint. The two ligaments attached to the femur and tibia bone seem to be weaker in the Labrador breed. This can result in them snapping which can cause sudden pain and an in-ability to bear weight on the leg. When exercising your Labrador you should always warm up with a walk before allowing them to run wild.
Eye Problems...
Various hereditary eye conditions effect the Labrador breed. There are schemes in America and the UK to try and eliminate the problems.
Cataracts is one major problem which can result in eventual blindness. This is due to the increasing opacity of the lens.
The retina can also effect the Labrador, total blindness can be the final outcome, but night blindness is usually the first sign of retina problems.
Retina dysplasia can also occur, its mild form involves multiple folding of the retina. In more severe cases the retina can become detached and result in blindness.
With the elimination schemes in place there is a good chance your puppy will be free from these hereditary eye diseases. Although, you should always ask about any faults within the breed line.
Epilepsy in Labradors...
Epilepsy can occur in Labradors, this can sometimes be down to liver, renal or cardiac problems.
Although, Labradors can suffer from idiopathic epilepsy, which is when fits or seizures occur with no apparent abnormalities. Fits in bitches are most likely to occur when they are in season (heat). If this is ever the case you should consider neutering your Labrador. You should always consult your vet when fits or seizures happen.
