How many types of Labs are there?

There is one breed standard for the Lab, as set forth by the American Kennel Club. However, there are two distinct "lines" of Labradors, show line or conformation Labs, and field Labs. Show line Labs have been bred with an emphasis on conformation and correct "Lab" temperament while Field line Labs have been bred with an emphasis on hunting ability. While the two groups may disagree on which "line" of Lab is "better" the truth is that dogs from both types can be wonderful pets, faithful companions and hunting partners.

Are black and yellow Labs the same kind of dog?

There are three recognized Labrador colors. They are black, yellow and chocolate. Yellow encompasses all shades from the very light almost white to a deep fox red color. Chocolate refers to a Lab with brown fur. A Lab is a Lab in spite of the coat color, and you can see all three colors among pups in the same litter.

Do Labs shed very much?

Oh yes!!! Labs have a double coat, which means that they have a very soft undercoat and an outer coat made of longer, heavier guard hair. The double coat is designed to keep the Lab warm and dry while swimming in cold water. Labs usually do their major shedding, or "blow their coats" twice a year, although they do shed throughout the year. Lab owners must resign themselves to frequent vacuuming!

Do Labs need a lot of grooming?

Labs should be brushed at least once a week to keep them clean and to help keep the shedding under control. They do not need to be bathed very often – as a matter of fact, frequent bathing strips the coats of necessary oils and can cause their skin to dry out. Usually, if your Lab is muddy or has been swimming in the ocean, you can just rinse him off with plain water. Save the shampoo for times when the he’s been rolling in "cow pies" and smells bad!

You will need to keep your Lab’s nails clipped regularly, and should also plan to keep his ears clean, as many Labs suffer frequent ear infections unless an effort is made to keep their ears clean and dry.

What is butt-tucking?

This is an activity that typically occurs when your Lab is very excited. He’ll round his hips, thus "tucking" his butt under, and run as if being chased by his tail! When your Lab butt-tucks, you can be sure you’re looking at a very happy dog! Just be sure you stay out of his pathway, as getting bowled over by a butt-tucking Lab can be a painful experience!!!

Why did my yellow Lab’s nose turn pink?

If your Lab’s nose was black, but now is pink or much lighter, don’t despair. Your Lab has "winter" or "snow" nose. Many yellow Labs have noses that are dark during the summer and fade during the winter, but don’t worry, the black will come back. (Only to fade again though!) A Lab with "winter nose" will still have correct, dark pigmentation on his eye-rims and lips, and usually around the outer edge of his nose.

A Lab with light or pinkish nose, eye rims and lips has chocolate Lab pigmentation. This is considered a Dudley, and is a fault in the Lab.

Will a Lab make a good watch dog?

Not as a rule. Some Labs are protective, and most will bark if they hear or see something they don’t like, but a Lab is more likely to back a thief into a corner trying to lick him than trying to bite him! If you really want a guard dog, a Labrador is not a good choice.

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