How many years do Labradors live at home. Labrador: a complete description of the breed

The black Labrador Retriever is moderately well-fed, big dog, the maximum height of a male at the withers is 57 cm, weight - 40 kg. He has a short, smooth coat with a thick, waterproof undercoat. The physique is strong, knocked down, a wide skull, a deep and wide chest. The small ears fit snugly to the head, the tail is thick at the base, of medium length.

The island of Newfoundland, discovered by Europeans in the 15th century, is considered the birthplace of the breed. The dogs, which could swim well, were used by the locals for hunting game. There were two varieties - with short and long hair. The ancestors of the breed were short-haired dogs, which were taken to England at the beginning of the 19th century. The Kennel Club officially recognized the Labrador in July 1903.

The Labrador Retriever is characterized by a calm disposition and the ability to perform certain types of service.

Areas in which Labradors have shown their working qualities well:

  1. Their keen senses and innate instinct to carry game make them excellent hunting dogs.
  2. They are used to look for drugs and explosives at customs checkpoints.
  3. Dogs are often employed by mountain and water rescuers.
  4. The poise and prudent nature of the breed are in demand to help blind and visually impaired people. Labrador Retrievers account for 80% of guide dogs.

Story

Accurate data on the origins of the Labrador breed are not available. Her ancestors are dogs that lived on the lands of the Indians of North America. Europeans first discovered them in the early 19th century on the Canadian island of Newfoundland. Dogs, named after the islands of Newfoundlands, have become faithful helpers of man.

John's Newfoundlands were introduced to Europe in 1830. They began to be bred in the UK, primarily as field hunting dogs. The Labrador Retriever breed developed forty years later, and in 1903 the English Kennel Club recognized it as independent. Initially, the fawn shade of the Labrador was considered a marriage. Standardized in 1924 and is now very popular with Labrador owners.

breed standard

There are currently two official standards for the Labrador Retriever breed:

  1. English. Approved in 1988 by the official kennel club of the United Kingdom (Kennel Club).
  2. American. Approved in 1994 by the American Kennel Club.

These standards fix the main physical parameters and mental qualities characteristic of this breed. Since the English code was approved earlier, it is considered a priority in the evaluation of Labradors. However, slight deviations in some standard indicators are not a sign of deterioration of the breed.

When evaluating dogs, the main indicators are the exterior and condition:

  • the exterior includes appearance, harmony of proportions;
  • the condition includes the physiological indicators of the individual: fatness, the state of the muscles, coat, etc.

The condition of Labradors is divided into two types:

  • exhibition (differs in massiveness);
  • working.

Signs characteristic of the Labrador breed:

  • broad head, mainly in the region of the cranium;
  • ears of medium size, drooping, set slightly behind;
  • massive, powerful neck;
  • wide, voluminous chest;
  • rounded paws, with leathery membranes between the fingers;
  • the tail at the base is massive and gradually tapering towards the tip, covered with hair;
  • short and dense coat with water-repellent properties, with a well-developed undercoat.

The traditional color of the Labrador Retriever is black. As a result of selection, other colors were bred, which, in turn, may also include various shades.

Black

Characteristic features of the breed variety: solid black coat and hazel eyes. If there are pronounced light spots on the body, then this indicates the uncleanness of the individual. The exception is a white spot on the chest.

The black dog is considered one of the oldest varieties of the breed. He gained particular popularity among dog breeders not only due to the intelligence and skills of an assistant, but also due to his incredibly beautiful black coat, shimmering in the sunlight.

Chocolate

The shade of wool of this variety of breed can be both dark and light. Allowed to be on the chest white spot. Eye color is yellow or dark hazel.

It is believed that the darker the eye color of a Labrador, the better its breed. However, it is worth noting that the eye color of Labradors is finally established only after two years of life. A sign of non-standard in this variety of the breed are white or black blotches of coat color.

Pale yellow

This variety of Labradors was included in the breed standard only at the beginning of the 20th century. The color is found in several variations: golden, cream, red fox, as well as pure fawn and pigmented.

The Labrador of this variety has black eye rims and a black nose. Sometimes the nose of fawn dogs may turn pink. Usually, this happens in winter when the temperature is low. In summer, the pigmentation of the nose becomes the same again. The defects of this variety include black or brown spots.

Breed types

There are 3 varieties of Labradors, differing in color:

  • chocolate color;
  • black;
  • pale yellow.

Representatives of the breed, regardless of variety, have developed skills as a hunter, helper and protector. This is a very loyal and helpful dog, which has gained popularity around the world due to its character traits and aristocratic appearance.

On the Internet you can see many offers from breeders selling silver or charcoal dogs. It is worth knowing that these are not purebred breeds, but a mixture of a Labrador with a Weimaraner.

How many live at home?

The life span of a Labrador is 10-14 years. How many years your pet will live depends largely on nutrition, maintenance and care.

Balanced diet, regular exercise and physical exercise, examinations at the veterinarian, a friendly attitude - all this can guarantee a healthy and long, within the normal range, life of your four-legged friend.

Most dog breeders are sure that the fatter the Labrador will be, the less he will live. In many cases, dogs that are lean and toned do indeed live longer. So if you want your pet to live long life, then you should monitor his diet, keep him on a special diet and give only high-quality food.

Education and training

There are no problems in raising a Labrador puppy due to a stable psyche. The dog is quick-witted and agile, easily trained in basic commands. Those owners who want their pet to win at exhibitions, help in hunting, be a good companion, visit training grounds. In addition to the OKD course, there are special programs for preparing Labradors for rescue, search service and other activities.

The educational process at home begins immediately after the appearance of the pet. It is good if an experienced cynologist is involved in training with a Labrador. The age of 4-6 months is the best to start learning.

The puppy must master the commands:

  • at 3 months: “Place!”, “Lie!”, “Fu!”, “Sit!”;
  • at 4 months: “Come to me!”, “Next!”, “Stand!”, “Give me a paw!”;
  • at 5 months: “Voice!”, “Wait!”, “Place!”;
  • at 6 months: "Aport!", "Show your teeth!".

According to owners, 3-4-month-old Labradors are superior in learning ability to 6-8-month-old adolescents of other breeds. The Labrador puppy has difficulty following the “Fu!” command, so special attention must be paid to reinforcing it.

Two-month-old pets are taught to relieve themselves on a diaper or in a tray. When signs of search and excitement appear, the puppy is taken to his toilet, calmed down and waiting for the result. After fixing the puppy, be sure to praise. In the future, for the morning toilet (after getting up) make a walk for 5-10 minutes.

Rules of upbringing

For the harmonious development of the dog, you need to follow some rules:

  1. The puppy needs a personal territory where he will feel protected. This is his place to sleep and rest, a refuge from danger. Punishments here are unacceptable, it is undesirable to invade here without a reason. In order for the pet to become interested and get used to its place, treats and toys are placed there.
  2. The puppy must clearly learn its subordinate role. The owner must become a leader for him, who has the right to dictate requirements that must be met. Submission should be joy for the dog.
  3. Each correct action or execution of a command is reinforced by encouragement - treats or affection, approving intonation.
  4. A dog should never be punished physically, even for misdemeanors. To express censure, they use a formidable tone, a shout, any sharp sounds. In extreme cases, it is permissible to shake the puppy by the withers, lightly click on the nose.
  5. The punishment for wrongdoing and the reward for right action follow immediately. Only in this way can the pet's logic establish a direct link between cause and effect.
  6. Compliance with the rules of feeding. Before eating, the owners need to feed the dog and remove it from the dining room. Guests are warned not to give the animal handouts.

Gross mistakes in education:

  • training in skills unusual for the breed - in particular, sentry protection;
  • rudeness, blows during training;
  • a puppy is allowed what an adult dog is punished for;
  • load, unbearable for a puppy.

Socialization

Socialization involves teaching the dog how to behave appropriately in the environment.

At 6 months, the puppy is taught:

  • recognize a leash, collar, muzzle;
  • beware of vehicles;
  • do not accept food from strangers and do not touch the one that was found on a walk;
  • do not participate in dog showdowns.

A trained dog accompanies the owner on the street, adapting to his movement, executes the command "Near!". She should not react to passers-by, other animals, vehicles. This quality is especially important to bring up in a Labrador with his innate sociability.

The video shows the rules for training a Labrador. Filmed by the WalkService channel.

Labrador Retriever is an amazing dog, which is especially popular among dog breeders. Thanks to his good-natured and completely non-confrontational disposition, he is perfect for the role of a companion and an ordinary pet. Therefore, it is increasingly being turned on by residents of city apartments and families with children. In today's article, we will tell you how Labradors look and how many years they live.

A bit of history

Experts have not yet been able to establish the exact origin of this breed. According to one of the most plausible versions, their homeland is localized in the eastern part of the Canadian coast. According to this theory, Labradors appeared as a result of crossing Basque dogs and Viking dogs. The Europeans who accidentally landed on the island were captivated by the working qualities of these animals and their ability to act equally effectively both in the water and on the shore.

In the future, these dogs were divided into two branches, very different in appearance. The first had a large body covered with long shaggy hair. The local population actively used them to transport goods. The second had not such a massive body, but a short hard coat. They were characterized by incredible dexterity and love of water. It was these animals that became the ancestors of modern Labradors.

In 1830, they began to be brought to England and bred as a separate breed. To consolidate the required qualities, they were crossed with foxhounds, setters and an independent breed, they were recognized in 1904, and twelve years later an official standard was developed according to which only black dogs had the right to exist. A little later, changes were made to it, allowing you to breed fawn and chocolate dogs.

Appearance

Those who are interested in how many years Labradors live should understand that they are considered enough. large dogs, which means that their age will be slightly shorter than that of their small counterparts. However, representatives of this breed cannot boast of outstanding dimensions. Depending on gender, their height ranges from 50-57 cm, and their weight is 25-36 kg. On a wide wedge-shaped head with well-defined superciliary ridges, flat cheekbones and a moderately convex forehead, there are brown almond-shaped eyes framed by fully pigmented eyelids, and triangular hanging ears of medium size.

Under a tightly built rectangular body with a taut groin line and a deep chest there are two pairs of strong straight limbs with arched fingers. A straight, not too long neck smoothly flows into a pronounced withers, a wide elongated back, a relatively short loin and croup, ending at the base of a gradually tapering tail.

Wool and color

Representatives of this breed were bred to work in the water. Therefore, how many years Labradors live depends largely on the type of their coat. It should be rigid, water-repellent and as close as possible to the body. Too soft an awn and a poor undercoat will quickly get wet and the dog may get sick, which will significantly reduce his age.

As for the color, the standard allows the existence of black, chocolate and fawn individuals. In the first case, there may be a small white mark on the dog's chest, in the second, the shade varies from liver to dark brown, in the third, the color intensity changes from almost white to deep red.

Behavioral features

Representatives of this breed are very active and cheerful animals. They quickly become attached to their owners and do not tolerate forced separation well. For those who want to find out what affects how many years Labradors live at home, you need to remember that a dog that is regularly left alone can develop stress, shortening his already short age.

These are real family dogs who love to frolic with children and are able to coexist peacefully with other animals, including cats. They are very loving and friendly. These dogs are ready to give their attention to everyone around them and never show aggression. They are very balanced, reliable and intelligent. However, due to their non-confrontational and kind disposition, they are not suitable for the role of guards. Instead, they do an excellent job as companions, nannies, guides, rescuers, and hunters.

Features of care

How many years Labradors live at home depends on the conditions in which they are kept. Before you bring a puppy, you need to take care of his safety. Since the small representatives of this breed are very active and curious, all wires, sharp and small objects should be removed away. Otherwise, the dog may be injured and even die.

In general, Labradors are unpretentious animals that easily adapt to the urban environment. They do not require special conditions of detention. You can settle them both in an apartment and in a covered aviary, equipped with an insulated booth. As for the care that determines how many years Labrador Retrievers live, it comes down to regular processing of wool with a special scraper. This simple manipulation allows you to get rid of dead awns and down. You need to bathe the dog as it gets dirty with a shampoo bought at any pet store. It is also important to systematically trim your ward's nails and clean his ears.

Diet is one of the most important factors influencing how many years Labradors live. Mestizos and purebred dogs should be provided with a quality and well-balanced diet.

If you prefer to give your pet industrial food, then it is important to opt for products from trusted manufacturers. The composition of high-quality dry food necessarily contains meat, but there is not a single gram of corn, wheat and artificial preservatives.

Those who prefer to give their four-legged pet natural food should remember that the basis of such a diet is fresh raw meat (poultry, lamb or beef). In addition, it is recommended to diversify the animal's menu with buckwheat, rice, vegetables, sour milk, eggs, offal and low-fat sea fish. It is strictly forbidden to treat a Labrador tubular bones, chocolate, muffins, legumes, smoked meats, pickles, potatoes and onions. There should not be river fish, pickled spicy and fried foods on the dog menu.

Training

Education also affects how many years Labrador dogs live. Out of control dog many dangers await not only in the house itself, but also beyond its threshold. Therefore, it is extremely important to set certain limits in a timely manner and explain to your ward the rules of conduct. FROM early age the puppy must remember his nickname and learn to run up to the owner at the first call. It is also important that he is calm about the leash and collar.

By the age of one, your dog should know and unquestioningly carry out at least basic commands, such as “Come to me”, “Place”, “No”, “Next” and “Stand”. Unconditional obedience will save both you and the dog from many troubles. Therefore, do not be lazy and devote to training at least half an hour a day.

Predisposition to diseases

For those who want to find out how many years Labradors live before buying a puppy, it will be interesting that on average this figure ranges from 10-12 years. These dogs are comparatively different good health but they are also susceptible to some diseases.

Often, modern Labradors are diagnosed with knee arthrosis and dysplasia. hip joints. Both of these diseases are hereditary or age-related in nature. They are accompanied by lameness and severe pain. And he and the other disease is not cured by medication. The only way to get rid of it is through surgery.

Also, representatives of this breed are prone to progressive retinal atrophy, oncology, atopic dermatitis, epilepsy, panosteitis, osteochondrosis, cataracts and ichthyosis.

When a small puppy appears in the family, which brings so much joy and laughter to the family, we want him to please us as long as possible. Unfortunately, the lifespan of dogs is too short, but we can do our best to try to extend it.

If in choosing a four-legged friend you settled on a Labrador, it is unlikely that he will ever give you a reason to regret it, because it is difficult to imagine a better companion than retrievers.

With ready-made food, things are easier with the definition daily allowance, since the manufacturers have already done this for you and usually the information is indicated on the packaging. When choosing food, constant access to water is important, if possible, give only purified water.

Labradors can be incredible gluttons and even have a sweet tooth. Do not indulge their preferences and overfeed. This will cause them to put on weight quickly, which can affect their lifespan.

prone to disease

Regular health monitoring is directly related to how long Labradors live. Dogs are prone to certain diseases, including:

  • hip dysplasia or elbow joints(sometimes leads to lameness or causes severe pain when walking);
  • retinal atrophy (progressive degeneration of the retina that can lead to blindness);
  • lymphoma or lymphosarcoma;
  • licking granuloma (ulcers appear on the paws caused by constant licking);
  • ear problems (otitis and others).

Most diseases can be inherited, so it does not hurt to study the pedigree in order to eliminate the risk of occurrence. In order to avoid unpleasant consequences, it is necessary to have an examination by a veterinarian from time to time so that in case of a disease, treatment can be started as soon as possible.

Proper care

Labradors, like other breeds, require some care.

Attention should be paid to:

  • wool;
  • ears;
  • skin;
  • eyes.

This breed has an almost waterproof undercoat and a thick, short coat. You can comb out once a week, during periods of molting, daily combing is necessary. Bathe as needed, in general, Labradors are clean dogs, but they may not deny themselves the joy of falling out in a puddle or swamp.

The ears need more care. Dogs with floppy ears are more prone to pollution and various kinds of inflammation. Regular cleaning and examination will help to avoid diseases associated with the ears or that may live inside.

The following symptoms may be the reason for contacting a veterinarian:

  • the dog constantly scratches its ears or shakes its head;
  • bad smell from the ears;
  • discharge;
  • scratches.

Do not forget about examining the skin for redness, allergies, bald patches, fleas, or even worse, ticks. The dog will scratch, lick a paw or other part of the body, and behave restlessly. At the first symptoms, do not self-medicate.

In Labradors, the eyes usually do not require as much care as breeds with flattened muzzles. A small discharge may appear, which can be wiped off with a clean cotton swab or with the addition of a special eye cleaner.

It is important to see a doctor periodically to rule out the risk of progressive retinal atrophy, which was mentioned above, and cataracts, which are more common in aging dogs.

Conclusion

In general, Labradors are considered quite strong and healthy dogs. Kind, loyal and intelligent animals that will be true friends for the whole family. Do not leave your pet alone at home for a long time, Labradors can hardly endure loneliness.

These sunny dogs, being the most popular dogs all over the world - ideal and reliable comrades. A magnificent golden retriever whose breed description indicates the presence of a large number positive qualities of the animal, is really able to bring a sea of ​​\u200b\u200bjoy and happiness into the house.

Story

This breed was recognized not so long ago, only in 1931. Regardless of the youth of this breed, the history of its discovery is shrouded in numerous secrets. There are a number of versions of how these dogs appeared.

  • The breed is the result of a mutation when a black wavy and smooth retriever had brown and yellow puppies.
  • According to the second version, the progenitors of this breed are Russian Shepherds, which were circus dogs performing in Scotland. Lord Tweedmouth turned his attention to these animals, who acquired six individuals of this breed from the owner. This happened in the 19th century, at the end of the Crimean War. Dogs, which are yellow in color, were used on the estate to hunt deer.
  • And this version is considered one of the most reliable. It was told by the grandson of the 3rd Lord Tweedmouth. He said that the 1st Lord in 1860, while walking, turned his attention to the cobbler's dog. The animal had a yellow color, and was the only puppy with this color from the litter. It was later established that the puppy was born in 1864. It is likely that this particular dog is the true progenitor of the golden retriever.

The puppy, as well as his offspring, were subjected to numerous crosses to improve the character and fix the color - a magnificent golden hue. Spaniels, which were used in the process of hunting on the water, were in a special account on the estate. They differed in rather long limbs and tea color.

Water dogs are the first dogs with which the lord crossed his new pet. The litter was dominated by yellow babies, and black babies were culled. In accordance with the records of the lord, it became known that in order to obtain a different breed, the blood of Bloodhounds and Irish Setters was mixed.

After that, the Lord's friends turned their attention to the breed. Until 1907 in England, no one knew anything about the breed. This is indicated by the fact that R. Layton, the cynologist, did not mention anything about this breed. However, since 1908 this injustice has been corrected. These dogs began to be actively exhibited.

Until 1913, the Golden Retriever breed was not singled out as a separate breed, until the GOLDEN RETRIEVER CLUB was opened, in which the standard for these dogs was formed.

Description and disposition

Individuals of this breed have an amazing appearance. They are perfectly built, have a proportional, good build, powerful body. Dogs have straight, powerful limbs, paws - large, rounded. The movements of the representatives of the breed are active, impetuous, the dogs run very easily without spending an excessive amount of energy.

The main decoration that a golden retriever dog has is its coat. It can be straight or slightly wavy, cream or golden in color. The presence of a waterproof, dense undercoat is necessary for an animal to hunt on the water.

To date, individuals of this breed are actively used not only as hunters. The main qualities of the animal include:

  • fast reaction;
  • determination;
  • friendliness;
  • peacefulness.

All this makes it possible to use the dog as a rescuer to search for explosives or drugs. Also, these animals are excellent guides for blind people and great helpers for people with limited opportunities. These pets can be kept both in the house and in the apartment.

Before answering the question of how long golden retrievers live, it should be noted that these dogs are excellent hunters who can show all their qualities in any terrain. Having an excellent flair, representatives of the breed bring game to the owner. In particular, this animal is indispensable for hunting waterfowl.

In individuals of this breed, the character at an early age can be characterized by disobedience. However, good training and responsibility of the owner this shortcoming are easily removed. If the dog does not throw out the accumulated energy, then he will direct it to spoil the furniture and other property in the house.

A well-mannered dog is affectionate and gentle dog. He is very playful and at the same time calm, not prone to dominance, for this reason he is friendly to other pets. Representatives of the breed are very intelligent and delicate, they have no aggression at all, for this reason they can be started in families with small children.

Diseases

In individuals of this breed, ailments are predominantly hereditary. Unlike diseases that are acquired in nature, hereditary diseases can be detected in the initial stages and the treatment process can begin. These dogs may suffer from von Willebrand's disease, epilepsy, dysplasia, retinal atrophy, dermatitis, hypothyroidism.

Features of care and maintenance

An excellent dog breed, the Golden Retriever does not require any special care. Much attention is required to the thick fur of the pet. It should be combed every day, during the molting period - more often. The result of quality hair care is its purity and silkiness.

You should bathe your pet no more than three times a year. The undercoat of the animal is waterproof, and with frequent bathing and shampooing, the protective properties of the coat decrease. You also need to take care of your eyes. If in the morning the dog has discharge from the eye, then this should definitely be alarming, as this can act as the main symptoms of certain diseases.

When the owner takes the pet on a hunt, then at the end of it, it is imperative to treat the eyes with a special antiseptic solution to remove dust, pollen and all kinds of contaminants.

You also need to take care of your ears. Once a week it is necessary to inspect the ears for the presence of dirt, discharge, smell. As a preventive measure, you can use hydrogen peroxide, which should be dripped into each ear. Regularly it is necessary to inspect the limbs, cut the claws. Teeth should be brushed to prevent plaque formation. Teeth yellow color act as an obstacle to participation in competitions, for this reason for hygiene oral cavity you need to use special brushes and pastes.

Upbringing

These dogs are very obedient, smart, quick-witted. These qualities greatly facilitate the process of education and training. For individuals of this breed, training is significant. These dogs are non-aggressive, they do not pose any danger to strangers, however, the owner needs to teach the pet basic commands.

In the process of education, methods of both encouragement and punishment should be used. However, caresses should be at least five times more than punishments. This must be remembered.

The Golden Retriever dog, whose life expectancy is about 10-14 years, must respond to his nickname from an early age.

The appearance of a puppy in the family is very fun event for kids, they begin to grow up before our eyes, taking care of their ward. But, parents need to prepare their child in advance, tell and explain how they should behave with the animal so that it pleases them for a long time.

How long do Labradors live

If you listen to the advice of experienced dog breeders, they recommend choosing the Labrador breed. A dog of this breed will become both parents and children the best friend and companion. She is loyal and devoted to her master.

Description of the breed

Labradors were discovered on the island of Newfoundland, which is why they were originally called that. They conquered everyone with their strength, efficiency and endurance, as well as their instinct. They tried to help the sailors in every way in any weather, and they just love the water.

Knowing about all their addictions, no one will refuse such a companion in the family. The dog is loyal and intelligent, has a calm character. Loves attention and is very sociable. It can be started both in private houses and in apartments.

Labradors are considered one of the most popular breeds in the world, and all this is due to their excellent qualities. The color of the dog may be:

  • pale yellow;
  • black;
  • chocolate.

The breed is large adult male weight can be up to 40 kg, and knots - up to 35 kg. The height of the dog at the withers is 50-60 cm. Such an animal needs enough space for movement, maximum comfort for sleeping and eating.

How long do Labradors live? Under normal household conditions, a dog lives from 10 to 14 years.

Despite the fact that the breed is quite large, apartment owners are not afraid to start it. Before deciding to take such a step, you need to think in advance about where the dog will sleep, where he will walk and where his “dining room” will be.

Any secluded corner in the apartment is suitable for relaxation, the main thing is not on the aisle, not in a draft and not next to the battery. Bedding for your beloved animal should be prepared in advance, taking into account the fact that the puppy will grow very quickly.

The "dining room" of the dog should be located in the kitchen, in the same secluded corner. There should be at least two bowls, since one of them should contain pure water. Many owners, due to hygienic reasons, arrange a dog "dining room" in the hallway. There is nothing wrong with that, the main thing is to keep it clean.

Need a labrador puppy toilet training. As soon as you notice suspicious movements, immediately spread out the newspapers and put the puppy on them. At first, he will only go to the toilet in this way, and in this particular place. After each trip to the toilet - praise your ward, give him goodies. So you can accustom him to cleanliness.

Try to take your puppy for a walk as often as possible, because an active dog needs space. You can walk with a puppy 5-6 times a day, and when he grows up - 2-3 times is enough. When he is 2 months old, you need to accustom him to the collar.

Your yard will give enough space for the movement of the animal, the final one is the best option than a city apartment. Here the dog can be outside all day, and even live.

In order not to cause trouble to the neighbors, it is not enough just to put a dog mat in front of the door. In this case, the growing animal will dig holes in the yard and under the fence, run to the neighbors and scare them.

Labrador needs spacious aviary with a large booth in which the animal can live when it grows up. If in winter the dog will live on the street, then the booth needs to be insulated so that there are no through holes and drafts in it. The Labrador is not a breed that tolerates cold well.

Even if your dog is constantly on the street, in an aviary, you must definitely walk with it, give it freedom outside the yard. In the face of a person, a Labrador, first of all, sees a companion.

If there is no urgent need, then dog can be kept in the house and not on the street, in an aviary. But for this she needs to be trained.

How long do Labradors live

Factors affecting the lifespan of a dog:

  • decent care;
  • complete nutrition;
  • taking vitamins;
  • regular walks;
  • daily physical activity;
  • the presence of toys in the house;
  • the attention of the owners;
  • regular visits to the veterinarian.

The average lifespan of a Labrador is 12-14 years. During this time, in addition to a balanced diet, the dog needs regular health checks. Growing up, the dog's body begins to surprise. You can not self-medicate, so as not to ruin the dog at all. You need to seek the advice of an experienced veterinarian in a timely manner.

From the reasons described above, it becomes clear that the life expectancy of a Labrador depends entirely on the person. With a good attitude towards the dog, she can live more than 14 years, but if you feed it poorly, do not give vitamins and do not pay attention, then such an animal is unlikely to live 10 years.

If you decide to start a Labrador, then you need to buy a puppy only from an experienced proven breeder. Appearance puppy, his cockiness - these are the first signs of good physical health. How long a dog will live is up to you.

Physical exercise

The dog is recommended to take daily walks and exercise to eliminate the problem of excess weight, which will affect his health. A short walk near the house will not be enough for the Labrador, as he considers himself a puppy for almost 3 years. Need long runs and active games.

Minor physical activity should be present already from the first walks with a puppy. This is very beneficial for the young growing body of the dog. It is advisable to train a Labrador on a large spacious area where the dog can run and jump freely. During training, a strong contact is established between the dog and its owner.

Any achievement of the dog should be encouraged. In addition to verbal praise, you can use different treats that the dog really likes. And for a small puppy, for whom at first not everything will turn out - you should not be offended, because he is like Small child, will be constantly distracted.

A specialist will help determine the number of required loads, but dog better not to overload.

Diseases

Like any living creature, a Labrador can get sick. From diseases it is possible to allocate:

  • dysplasia of the hip and elbow joints;
  • bloating;
  • perianal fistula;
  • lipoma;
  • cataract;
  • lymphosarcoma;
  • allergy;
  • epilepsy.

Not necessarily your dog should be ill with all diseases, because each dog is individual. If you feed him quality food and do not allow him to eat what he found on the road, then the likelihood of bloating disappears.

The dog is very active He loves to jump very much. To do this, she needs a lot of space. The Labrador is excellent on the water, loves to swim and loves the water. If you are going to the river with your pet, choose a gentle slope so that it is convenient for the dog to enter and exit the water.

Only a veterinarian can determine the condition of the musculoskeletal system of an animal. In order not to have to turn to him for advice, you must initially correctly compose the diet of the Labrador. Be sure to include collagen-containing foods and daily exercise. They will help develop ligaments and joints.

The Labrador should start jumping over obstacles no earlier than at 10 months, so as not to injure himself. It's all about his fragile spine and limbs, which become stronger only by 10 months. If you put a Labrador on a chain, then his character will change for the worse. He will no longer be so cheerful and sociable.

Once a week, the Labrador's coat should be combed and inspected for rashes, mites, and other pests.Dogs tolerate heat worse than people therefore, in the hot season, training should be done early in the morning. And if you are going to the river, be sure to take the Labrador with you - he will be very happy.