6 reasons why you should choose a Labrador Retriever

For 31 years the Labrador Retriever has topped the AKC's popularity list, but there are many owners all over the world who are proud to own a Labrador. Fans of the Newfoundland-bred breed say this friendly, intelligent dog is the ideal companion for almost any dog owner.

An appropriately bred Labrador Retriever has an impeccable temperament and boundless sweetness. So let’s see what you need to know about it!

1. It has a switch

According to experts and Labrador owners, perhaps their best feature is that they adapt very easily to their owners and their environment. This means that when you want to go hiking, swimming, playing ball or going for a walk, your Labrador will be wagging its tail and will enthusiastically go with you. But if you want to curl up on the sofa for a movie marathon or do a little gardening at home, your dog will be just as happy to follow you. It’s intuitive, so it can easily tune in to your current mood and activity level.

2. Empathetic and helpful

What makes a Labrador a Labrador is its relaxed nature and warm heart. It approaches people with an extraordinary sensitivity and attentiveness, which makes the breed an ideal assistance or therapy dog. Each breed has its own strengths, but clearly in the case of the Labrador, empathy is the superpower.

3. Universal

Do you need a dog that is gentle with children? But of course it would be nice if it could get on well with the family cat and the other older four-legged friend or other pet? Do you spend a lot of time with your elderly parents or grandparents, so it’s important that your dog is careful, cautious and attentive around them? Do you think that’s impossible? A well-mannered and well-breed Labrador Retriever can do all of these things. And it’s not hard for them!

4. Easy to train

While it is true that all dogs like to please their owners, this is even more true for the Labrador. This characteristic combined with intelligence makes a fantastic combo. Even a novice owner will have no difficulty training a dog if they are prepared to give it gentle but firm direction. And it is guaranteed that in this case the training will be a great pleasure for both of you.

5. Grooming is a breeze

Caring for a Labrador bred by a responsible breeder does not require too much effort on the part of the owner. No need to bathe or brush too often, as the water-repellent coat maintains itself beautifully. (Every specimen is different, as an owner you will see whether a thorough grooming every month is enough or whether more/less is needed.)

The claws should of course be trimmed and the ears and eyes kept clean, but in general these areas do not need extra attention if you have bought from a reliable breeder.

6. More and more tests available

There is always the possibility of overbreeding in popular breeds. But the Labrador retriever popularity is exactly the reason why it is often the focus of research groups and veterinary universities. This will allow thousands of the breed to be tested for certain genetic diseases. This will make the tests more accurate and the results easier to use. As a result, breeders have more tools to help them detect hereditary diseases.