Labradors: Pros and Cons of Apartment Living, Owner Reviews

Large, powerful, and beautiful, Labradors are one of the most popular breeds. They have a wonderful personality and are easy to care for. They are considered gundogs by breed standards, making them obedient hunters. And, most importantly, they are a true and loyal companion.

The History of Labradors

The breed's history begins in 1494 on the island of Newfoundland (now part of Canada). The local inhabitants primarily fished and hunted, and the dogs that lived with them retrieved game from the water.

Two types of dogs—those with thick, short hair and those with long, wavy manes—were given the name retriever, which derives from the English word "to retrieve"—to search for and retrieve prey. The majority of the entire population were short-haired Labradors.

They appeared in foggy Albion in the 1830s and 1840s, and immediately gained great popularity thanks to positive reviews of their hunting skills. But in 1885, imports of Labradors ceased, and breeding continued only with previously imported animals.

In 1903, the Labrador breed recognized by the Kennel Club and gave it an official name. The breed's centennial anniversary in 2003 was celebrated with great fanfare. The largest dog show hosted over 1,000 participants.

Labradors are often used as service dogs. They are often in demand in the following areas:

1. Guides for visually impaired people.
2. Mountain rescuers.
3. In search of narcotic and explosive compounds.
4. Assistance to various rescue services.

Labradors are also capable of pulling long sleds. But the main advantage of these dog breeds is their character. wonderful, devoted friends, favorites of all family members.

They participate in all aspects of their owners' lives, not just hunting. Dogs are completely devoid of aggression and get along well with children. Owner reviews indicate that Labradors are characterized by boundless devotion to their owners.

Labradors' character and behavior

The Labrador is an active dog that craves its owner's undivided attention, long walks, and attentive handling. Dogs possess with great patience and endurance.

Labradors get along well with children, do not show aggression, are very friendly and easy-goingThis dog can be safely left in a room with a small child without fear of harm. Owner reviews prove that children and Labradors can become best friends.

Labradors get along well with almost all pets. Some difficulties may arise only with birds, as dogs have a highly developed hunting instinct.

Dogs can become very sad when left alone for long periods of time, miss their owners locked in an apartment. But when you meet them, they pour out such a flood of joy and happiness that it's impossible to remain indifferent. Playful, optimistic Labradors are wonderful allies and devoted friends.

Characteristic features of the breed

By international standards, the average lifespan of Labradors is 10-13 years. Owners report that they are strong dogs with a broad chest and a level back. powerful paws and a developed neck.

A large head with a wide skull looks massive, a rather sharp transition from the nose to the forehead, friendly brown (with a hazel tint) eyes, hanging ears, set wide apart, a thick tail tapering to a point, and covered with harsh hair. All the Labrador's movements exude power and strength, scope and majesty.

The color of these animals can be of three types:

• pale yellow;
• brown;
• black.

The fawn color includes all varieties from light cream to red.

Rules of care and training

Labradors don't require much grooming. Their coat should be brushed with a rubber brush to remove excess hair and massage the skin, which is essential for proper circulation. Dogs often enjoy this treatment.

For washing, regular clean water and brushing are sufficient. There is no need to use special shampoos. After bathing, it is necessary wipe the wool dryThese dogs are very prone to obesity, so special attention should be paid to their nutrition.

While overcoming your natural compassion, don't indulge your dog's every whim. The menu should be balanced and the amount strictly limited. Adult dogs needs two meals a dayYou can feed them both dry food and natural products (meat, cereals, fermented milk products).

Special training for Labradors is required if they plan to participate in shows, hunt, or other formal events. For home use, standard commands and instructions are sufficient. These dogs are very easy to train and obey owners.

Pros and cons of apartment living

Owner reviews of Labradors are generally positive. They are unique, friendly dogs that bring joy to otherwise dull lives.

Keeping these dogs in an apartment is no different from keeping a dog in your own home: the dog will still sleep either with you or near your bed. Animals enclosures are contraindicated, and even more so sitting on a chain: these dogs are domestic and cannot be kept separately from you.

The advantages of the breed include the following:

• easy care;
• obedience and endurance;
• kind and lively character;
• beautiful appearance.

The disadvantages of Labradors are primarily determined not by the dog's breed, but by its upbringing. The following are among the disadvantages of keeping dogs in an apartment:

• The energy and activity of young dogs requires long and varied walks in any weather.
• Potential damage to property. A puppy needs space to roam, and if not provided with adequate space, all of its owners' personal belongings will be damaged.
• Expensive food.

But all these disadvantages pale in comparison to how much goodness and happiness a Labrador brings to every home. Adult dogs turn into in stately, beautiful dogs, which evoke admiration from others and pride in their owners.

Labrador Retriever Owner Reviews