History: The Labrador Retrievers roots, depending upon which theory you adhere to, either started in England or Newfoundland. Most theories suggest that the origin of the Labrador Retriever dates back to Newfoundland in the 1700s, where they were originally considered a smaller version of the Newfoundland, and might even have been a partial cross of a now extinct St. Johns dog and the larger Newfoundland. By the 1800s, the Labrador began making its way to England and European countries, but compliments for refining the breed as a hunting and retrieving dog go to the English breeders. They are known for being black in color originally, with the first yellow and chocolate colored Lab's being recorded around the end of the 19th century.

To this day the Labrador Retriever was and still is used for bird hunting and retrieval of birds in the water. Even though today the Retriever is a natural when used for bird hunting, they were in the past, excellent at retrieving fish too, and still show their love for a good swim. Said to have originated in Newfoundland, there are those who speculate that the Labrador name comes from the Canadian Province of Labrador. Popular among breeders in Canada around the 1800s, the Labrador Retriever only made it's way to America in the early 1900s, where it was finally registered with the American Kennel Club in1917.

Description: Thriving in all types of weather, the Labrador Retriever has a thick, resistant to water coat, that comes in the various flavors of yellow, black or chocolate brown. Female Labrador Retrievers weigh in at around 55-75 pounds, while the larger male tips the scale at between 65-80 pounds. the height of the Labrador can range from 21-24 inches tall. Some of the beautiful features that this dog possesses include their muscular hind legs combined with an otter like tail, most often recognized while in their stance. They are also known for their proud, powerful looking head.

Life Span: 10-13 years

Common Ailments: May be prone to Hip and Elbow Dysphasia which might cause problems with mobility and arthritis in it's later years. otherwise, this is a hardy dog breed. Another possible ailment known to this breed is called Retinal Atrophy which is a progressive disease that results in reduction or complete loss of vision.

Suitability with Children: Yes, a very even tempered breed as well as gentle natured.

Suitability with Other Pets: Yes

Living Conditions: Labrador Retrievers do best in a home with a large yard or with land. They are easily adaptable though, and would also do well in an apartment or with a small yard if received plenty of exercise on a daily basis.

Training: This breed is easily trainable as a puppy. Combining their intelligence with their easy trainability makes them one of the most powerful combinations as a superior working dog and excellent sporting dog, as well as a wonderful family pet. Remember that Labradors need consistency and reinforcement from the time they are puppies and they will grow into a strong and gentle family pet.

Exercise Required: High

Expense to maintain: Low

Breed Temperament: Being definitely a favored breed in America, just about every puppy in the pound will state they have some Labrador in their blood. If not, many owners will make the claim that they do because of their gentle nature despite their size, as well as their extreme intelligence and ease at training. There is no doubt about it, the Labradors loyalty, agreeable temperament and affectionate nature are what causes this to be one of the most popular dog breeds around.

Keep in mind that Labradors find their greatest happiness when they are outdoors sporting or exercising on a regular basis. While Labrador Retrievers can adapt to almost any living environment, owners will find they are most content when they are regularly exercised. If not regularly exercised, especially as a puppy, owners could find that they will turn towards destructive habits, like chewing furniture. Also, Labs that are not regularly exercised show a tendency to put on weight, as they sure love to eat.

All things considered, Labrador Retrievers will make a wonderful family pet with a little extra TLC, and along with the tender loving care, don't forget the extra running, fetching or swimming!

When Richard Livitski isn't busy digging up information on Labrador Retrievers, he's working on his dog names website http://www.dog-names-and-more.com where dog names as well as other helpful dog related topics can be found.

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If you have small children do you have time to take on a puppy and train him? Parents should always supervise interaction between a dog and their children. Children need to be taught how to respectably treat a puppy. Usually after seven years of age children are ready to have a dog to love and play with. There are many breeds that are good with children. Learn the different characteristics of different breeds and decide what suits your child.

If you're not looking for a puppy consider finding a dog that has been raised with young children. Another option could be a young dog (a year or under) who is gently, not afraid of children, and look for his tail wagging when a child approaches him.

LABRADOR RETRIEVER – Gentle breed with outgoing nature, very friendly, good for active families, needs lots of exercise, loyal and devoted family member.

GOLDEN RETRIEVER – Highly intelligent, friendly, good-natured, even-temperament, good choice for families who enjoy outdoors and needs lots of exercise.

STANDARD POODLE -Intelligent, makes excellent pets, playful, active, low shedding, love to play, faithful. Does come in three sizes.

IRISH SETTER – Eager to please and a good companion.

BOSTON TERRIER – Loyal family pet for less active families, obedient and loyal.

COLLIES – Intelligent, patient, docile with children and has lots of energy.

BEAGLE – Great tracker and hunter, good for active families, cheerful, friendly and like to play games.

BICHON FRISE – Faithful, obedient, happy, needs regular grooming.

PUGS – Clown at heart, great family dog, playful, loyal and even-tempered.

BASSET HOUND – Calm, good companion, stubborn, loyal, sweet, friendly, gladly play with children.

Even if a breed is suppose to be good with children there are always exceptions. Remember dogs need to be trained and socializated.

This is a site basically about small dog breeds but I have listed bigger dogs for children if that is what you want. Good luck in finding the perfect dog for you.

Sandy has a web site on small dog breeds with information on small dog breeds, choosing a dog, choosing a breeder, bringing puppy home, dogs good with children and seniors and much more. http://www.small-dogbreeds.com 
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sandra_Oberreuter

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The ownership of dogs in general comes with its own set of challenges; a family must make way for a new resident in their home – a resident whose care can feel initially overwhelming to those who have not owned dogs in the past. The Labrador Retriever, especially, can be a bit of handful in the beginning. But ownership of this bright, beautiful dog has its own reward.

The Labrador Retriever is a medium sized dog recognized by its short, water-resistant coat, otter-like tail, square jaw, and broad head. It was originally bred for hunting because of its boundless energy, natural intelligence and ability to be trained. Today, the Labrador Retriever is still used for hunting purposes, but its amiable nature and loving personality has made it a more popular household pet. Owners of the Labrador Retriever report of its sweet personality, fun-loving spirit, and high-energy antics. It’s no wonder that this special breed of dog is loved by families far and wide.

There are some things that must be considered before you choose to bring a Labrador Retriever into the home. First and foremost, the Labrador Retriever is a considerable size of dog with a lot of energy. It needs adequate living space and frequent access to outdoor areas in which to run around. If you have a smaller living environment, you may want to consider another breed of dog. It is important – and most fair to the animal – that you have adequate space for its needs.

Further, the Labrador Retriever is a social dog that enjoys and seeks out the company of humans. If your schedule does not allow you to be home a large percentage of the time, then it would not be fair to own a Labrador Retriever. This breed does best in a family situation where someone is home most of the time. It’s no surprise then that larger families – with ongoing activity – tend to gravitate to the Labrador Retriever. Most families find that this loving dog fits right in!

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Size matters. Very much so, because a large dog can obviously not be kept in a two bedroom apartment in a city where the open space is squeezed to limits. So if you have a small home go for a small dog, like a chihuahua.

If you have kids at home, take a gentler dog. Size has nothing to do with the temperament of dogs. Even toy dogs like Chihuahua may not be the best suited for a home with kids due to their high strung behavior while relatively bigger dogs like Labradors are found to be quite affectionate and easy going with the kids. Labradors, in particular, are known to be very tolerant of the kids and can take a lot of rough kiddie treatment before losing temper. However, dogs like Doberman are not so tolerant though some of them turn out to be exceptions. But then, they are individual cases of good dogs. So, you may safely settle for a Labrador.

Another important factor is time. How much time are you willing to spend taking care of the dog? If someone stays home all day long, there is no problem at all. However, in case both the spouses work and the dog is left alone for the whole day, it is very likely that it will be rather irritable in the evening. Dogs do not like being left alone over extended periods of time. Consistent loneliness may also cause some serious psychological problems to your pet. So bring the animal home only when you can take care of it.

Dogs are active animals. So, you must consider your schedule and whether or not you'll be able to spend some time outdoors or indoors playing with your pet. You may have to fall in a habit of getting up early to walk the dog. Of course, that's healthy for you too. And if you cannot manage it in the morning, consider evenings.

Dogs are responsible affectionate companions but demand attention and care. Take care of them and they'll reciprocate.

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What can you afford? Large dogs are considerably more expensive than a small one.

Do you have children in your family? Consider getting a breed that is good with children – Labrador, Boxer, Terrier come to mind.

Are you alone and need a loyal companion? – Boxer, Terrier, Dachshund, Spaniel, Collie, Corgi and Pug to name a few.

Are you looking for a Guard Dog? – Bull Mastiff, Dalmatian, Doberman, German Shepherd, Great Dane and Rottweiler are popular guard breeds.

Do you want a dog good for serious training? – Border Collie, Australian Cattle dog, Dobermann, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Labrador, Schnauzer are good picks.

Don't overlook mixed breeds – some of the best dogs are in this range…and do cost less to buy.

How much time do you have ? – be careful not to take on a strong, potentially fierce dog that will need firm handling and careful training, if you already have a busy committed life.

So What are the Costs of Having a Dog?

Initial Outlay – Bed, Indoor or Out door Kennel, Food Bowls, Collar, Harness and Lead, Toys – for chewing, fetching and so on.

Food – more dog…more food!

Neutering…more costly for females than males.

Immunisation and Boosters – essential that these are kept up to date.

Veterinary Bills – Illness or accident.

Professional clipping and grooming – essential in certain breeds.

Training classes – really recommended.

Securing the property…fencing (if not already in place)

Replacing any damaged (probably chewed) items…eg Dad's new slippers!

So all considered, taking on a new puppy should not be taken lightly – but with some thought and planning, a new puppy will be a joy to you and your family. Have fun – enjoy the experience!

Nancy Lavender
http://www.your-dogs.com
I have a passion for animals and the countryside and all it offers. I feel a responsibility for the preservation of what we have in our world for the generations to come.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nancy_Lavender

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