Black Labrador Retriever

Golden Labrador puppy

The original breed of Labrador Retrievers was dogs colored in black. Some says that the Black Labrador Retriever is the result of interbreeding between St. John’s dogs and the Newfoundland dogs, while others consider the Labrador retriever to be a modern variety of the St. John’s dog – not a cross with the Newfoundland. In the 18th century, the Black Labrador retriever almost became extinct, but thanks to a number of Black Lab aficionados the breed was saved and enhanced by breeding Black Labrador retrievers other Retrievers. As of today, the Black Labrador Retriever is one of several Labrador Retrievers acknowledged by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

The Labrador retriever is known as one of the friendliest and most loyal family pets and the black Labrador retriever is certainly no exception. It is the kind of dog that loves to be adorned by people. Today, Labs are owned not only by pet-loving families but also by sportsmen and hunters. They are even used for search and rescue operations. Some handicapped people uses this dog for assistance since it is clever, easy to train and has a good temperament. Because of its remarkable qualities, Black Labradors are among the most registered dogs in the American Kennel Club.  

Black Labs (all Labs for that matter) has two separate lines. First one is the field line where the breed’s priority is its hunting competence. The other one is the show line where the emphasis of the breed is the dog’s figure and disposition.

An adult female Black Labrador Retriever stands from 21 to 23.5 inches and weighs from 55-70 pounds. The male Black Labrador Retriever is slightly bigger, standing from 22-24.5 inches and weighing from 65-80 pounds.

The American Kennel Club gave certain standards for this kind of dog. Black Labs should be in solid color and spotted markings are not allowed. The nose, which has well-developed and wide nostrils, should have the same color as the coat.

This dog has a double coat where one layer is made up of downy undercoat which allows the Black Labrador retriever to stay warm in cold water and weather. The second layer is a hard outer coat which allows Black Labs to repel water. The black Labrador retriever is also famous for its distinctive “otter” tail that has a thick base that narrows down to a fine point. The eyes of the Black Labs are one of its outstanding features; these dogs have expressive brown eyes that are set well apart. By looking into their eyes you can see how affectionate, smart and outgoing these dogs really are.

Since Black Labs are naturally athletic dogs and meant for work, they are extraordinarily healthy. However, due to interbreeding, many are becoming prone to genetic health problems. This includes different kinds of dysplasia (most common is hip dysplasia), eye problems, cold tail and laryngeal paralysis.

If a Black Labrador Retriever is left untrained, it will be a very hard task to keep it manageable, whether indoors or outdoors. That is why most breeders recommend owners to train their Labrador Retrievers as early as possible. If you are interested in adopting or buying a Black Labrador Retriever of your own, you should also have an allocated time for your dog’s exercise. If a black Labrador retriever is not provided with adequate mental and physical stimulation, it can easily develop destructive habits.