How to Identify a Labrador Retriever

When you think about a Labrador Retriever, an intelligent, friendly, outgoing dog with kind eyes should come to mind. The American Kennel Club ranks the Labrador Retriever as the most popular dog breed in the United States, and recommends the Lab as a great companion for children. When you are choosing a new member of your family, be sure to be familiar with the traits that identify a Labrador Retriever.

Labradors were originally from Newfoundland and were bred as retrievers, working alongside fishermen and catching any fish that escaped from the fishing lines. They were then crossed with Setters, Spaniels and other retrievers and became a hunting breed efficient at retrieving game on land and in the water.

Labs come in three colors: yellow, black and chocolate. Yellow and black Labs have brown eyes with black rims. Chocolate Labradors’ eyes are brown or hazel with brown eye rims.

The hair is short, dense and weather resistant. Labs have an otter-shaped tail, which never hangs down or curls up; it is level with the body. The breed has a double coat that sheds seasonally; however regular grooming, at least once a week, will keep its coat at its water-resistant best. 

The average weight of the Labrador is 55 to 77 pounds. It’s a strongly built, medium-sized dog with a well developed chest, well sprung ribs and a level back. It is generally 1 foot, 9 inches to 2 feet tall at the shoulder. The Lab has a large head with a broad skull and strong jaws. They have a black, wide nose. Ears are close to the head, but far from the face.

Most of all, a Labrador Retriever is well balanced. It’s a dog of character, intelligence and good temperament. The life span of the Lab is 10 to 12 years.

The Labrador aims to please. It makes a great service dog, an ideal sporting dog and the best family pet.