yellow labrador retriever

Yellow Labrador Retriever

Whether chocolate, yellow or black, the Labrador Retriever is often considered America’s favorite dog breed, holding multiple first place registration honors over several years according to the American Kennel Club’s statistics. Loyal, loving and a true hunter’s companion, the Lab has firm footing as a real “American” pooch despite its Newfoundland (Canadian) origins. If you are considering owning a Labrador, be prepared for an enthusiastic and energetic dog. 

The Labrador Retriever is a medium to large dog. As with many large dog breeds, hip and joint concerns should be on your ask-about list if you are purchasing a Lab from a breeder. If aquiring a Labrador from a kennel or shelter, look for bright eyes, a cheerful and outgoing demeanor and a “happy” expression for some initial health assessment guides. That’s not to say you should ignore the sad Lab in the corner. All dogs need love.

In considering pet health insurance, you are in luck. Labs tend to be healthy breeds. In listing possible health issues associated with Labradors, we want to emphasize that these are simply possibilities associated with a specific breed. They aren’t common but you should be aware of these possibilities (howerver remote) both in the process of purchasing or adopting a Lab and also in the process of evaluating if a particular veterinary pet insurance policy will be beneficial to you. Some possible health concerns include: 

You should also be prepared to provide plenty exercise and/or close monitoring of food consumption. Left to their own devices, Labradors will often approach eating with the same enthusiasm they apply to play. Lacking regular exercise and proper feeding schedules, these playful pups can really pack on the pounds.

As active and outdoor-loving pets, Labs should be checked often for ticks. Also take the time to keep nails appropriately trimmed and check the pads of your dog’s feet for injury after a long romp in the woods.