The popular Pedigree Labrador comes from fishing industry background and were historically used to help the fishermen retrieve nets and lost lines. They were also used to pull carts loaded with fish on routes between England and Canada – explaining their stocky/muscly build. The fisherman dogs, also known as “St John’s Dog” were typically smaller than the famous looking Labrador breed of today.
It’s thought that these smaller breeds were crossed with hunting dogs taken by English traders and fisherman, together forming the ‘modern Labrador’ that we all know and love. Some of these dogs were taken back to England where their retrieving skills were recognised by the sporting gentry, before one of the early patrons of the breeds gave the breed its name – “Labrador”. The Labrador is now known for his loyal companionship and that’s why they have remained at the heart of the pet owners home for so long.
Breed Characteristics
His popularity comes from his versatility as a family dog, service dog, guide dog and working dog. Their typically relaxed temperament makes the breed an ideal pedigree to welcome into your home with children and other pets.
Their intelligence and fun-loving nature makes for an extremely sociable breed of dog. Although their nature as puppies can be rather boisterous, their trait of wanting to be everyone’s best friend remains throughout their life – the Labrador certainly isn’t a ‘one-man’ dog!
Breed Bio
Breed Group: Gundog
Size: Large – between 30kg and 45kg
Recommended Grooming: Once a week
Average Lifespan: Over 10 years
Common Sensitivities: Allergies to common dog food additives such as; beef, corn, soy, fish, wheat, chicken and eggs.
Common Symptoms to Sensitivities: Usually skin irritation including itching around the muzzle or face possibly causing hair loss and ear infections.
Want to understand more about the symptoms associated with dietary sensitivities? Take a look at our article ‘Is My Pet Sensitive?’
You May be Wondering…
Which Wafcol recipe should I be feeding my Labrador?
Wafcol Adult Salmon & Potato for Large and Giant breeds is great for Labrador’s weighing between 30kg and 45kg. The food uses a singular source of protein of Salmon which means it’s a great exclusion diet for dogs with sensitivities.
Am I able to feed my puppy Wafcol dog food?
Yes. Wafcol Puppy Salmon & Potato for Large and Giant breeds is great if your Labrador puppy is starting to show signs of dietary sensitivities.
How much dry kibble should I be feeding my Labrador each day?
This all depends on your dog’s adult weight, but we recommend between 395g and 620g of kibble per day for large dogs (25kg-45kg).
