It might be difficult to compile a list of fun facts about pit bulls, rottweilers, that are met with an element of hesitancy or nervousness from the general public, but that’s certainly not true of Labrador retrievers. It’s possible the word “fun” was invented for this particular dog breed, due to their fun-loving nature, bright personalities, and the assortment of fun colors they come in.
Whether you’re hoping to purchase a Labrador retriever for yourself, or you’re simply hoping to equip yourself with a series of fun facts to impress a Labrador-owner in your life, this list will be sure to wow any audience or convince you, as an aspiring dog owner, that a Labrador is a good fit for you. Don’t let these lesser-known fun facts fall under your radar. Spice up any conversation with a dash of Labrador trivia.
Neapolitan litters
Unbeknownst to most, it’s possible to have a litter that features all three possible colors of Labrador retriever puppies (yellow, chocolate, and black), regardless of the parents’ colors. The pup’s color is determined by three genes, which you can learn more about in this helpful guide from Snowy Pines White Labradors.
Interestingly enough, chocolate and black Labradors have noses to match their coats. With these light, medium, and dark variations, these litters of lab puppies look like a tub of Neapolitan ice cream (with really big scoops). Imagine the fun of mentioning a Neapolitan litter in any dog-related conversation. People who are only well-versed in German Shepherd, Chow-Chow, or mutt trivia simply don’t have this luxury.
Instant entertainment
Lab puppies are little bundles of energy. There’s no need to entertain a Lab because they will entertain you. They’re eager for any and all types of activities: running, biking, swimming, hiking, you name it. Whether your plans involve riding in a car, making a trip to the pet store, hunting, playing fetch, or simply sprawling across your lap at the end of a fun-filled day, your pup will be sure to go with the flow.
If you’re trying to entertain your pup on a budget, you’ll be able to satisfy your pup by plopping a chair on the lawn and playing fetch for anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, for only the cost of a tennis ball or a single plastic toy. Owning a dog can be costly with accompanying veterinary bills and food costs in mind, but keeping your puppy active doesn’t have to be expensive.
Shades of duck
Labradors have webbed toes, a well-known trait of aquatic animals, so they’re destined to be excellent swimmers. The webbing also acts like a snowshoe in the winter months. Along with their webbed feet, a Labrador’s double coat is water-resistant and light which allows them to tolerate cold water for extended periods of time.
With these traits in mind, Labrador retrievers are often used as fishing and game dogs. Their soft mouth allows them to retrieve game birds and hold them gently. St. John water dogs, though a larger dog, are their direct ancestors and responsible for both the aforementioned traits.
Faithful helpers
Labs are often trained as guide dogs for those with visual impairment and mental disabilities such as autism. They also make great therapy dogs. Their desire to please and their loyalty to an owner make them excellent candidates for service dogs. Along with their loyalty, Labrador retrievers are very trustworthy and determined to stay on task.
This breed of dogs also has a great sense of smell which makes them an asset in law enforcement and military tasks. Due to their determined nature, when tracking a scent, a Lab will persevere until they’ve located it. For military personnel seeking war dogs, though this breed is loyal, trustworthy, and ready to track a scent, a Labrador retriever won’t be a reliable guard dog. They might be more apt to strike up a friendship with an intruder rather than scare him or her off.
Celebrity appearances
The first known photograph of a Labrador Retriever is from the mid-1800s. The dog’s name was named Nell, and she belonged to the Earl of Home in Scotland. Since that feature, the breed’s popularity grew throughout the years. Later on, a black Lab named Blind of Arden was actually the first pup to appear on the cover of Life magazine in 1938.
Top dogs
Labradors are the most popular breed in the United States because of their friendly personality, loyalty, and intelligence. CNN recently confirmed the Lab’s status as Top Dog for 29 years running.
Wrap-up
If you are considering adopting a Labrador puppy from a reputable breeder or even from a shelter (if you are fortunate enough to find one there), here are some ways to know if this particular puppy is for you. Don’t hesitate too long, or you may miss your chance to adopt this friend for life.
You and your family will become a Labrador retriever’s tribe and their forever family. A Labrador will adopt you as your loyal guardian and will never let you forget you that you’re loved, treasured, and needed. It’s hard to go wrong with this beloved breed.