It must be nice to keep a coveted title of “Most Popular Breed” year after year. Edging out the Golden Retriever and German Shepherd by a few hairs, the Labrador Retriever holds that title.
It’s easy to see why these sweet-tempered, family-friendly dogs remain a favorite and why so many owners also have pet insurance for this breed.
Description and Size
The Labradors’ coat color is black, yellow, or chocolate brown. They are a medium-sized, strong dog with an athletic, well-balanced body. They are referred to as a “short-coupled” breed—the body being the same or just a bit longer than it is tall.
Their shoulders are set back and form a 90-degree angle with the upper part of the foreleg. This enhances the mobility of their legs and gives them a strong forward reach. They have a wedge-shaped head and their eyes are medium-sized, set far apart and either brown or hazel. The Labrador Retriever’s coat is short, straight, very dense, and weather-resistant. Females are 21-24 inches tall and males are 24-28 inches. They weigh between 55 and 100 pounds.
Character and Temperament
Because of their sweet, easy-going nature, Labs are very good family companion dogs. They are also one of the smartest dog breeds. They do best with a “job” that will keep them physically active and mentally alert. So it’s vital that the Labrador gets plenty of exercise. They love water and are great swimmers.
Pet Health Issues
The Labrador is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia like other larger dogs. The average life span is 10—12 years. Keeping a Lab’s weight under control will help them stay healthy. For more information about dog insurance coverage for Labradors, visit Pets Best Insurance.