According to Time Magazine, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular breed of dog in the country and it’s easy to see why. Labradors are high-spirited pups with an eager-to-please disposition. They’re gentle enough to be a family dog and intelligent enough to be a guide dog or search and rescue dog.
How do You Know If a Labrador Retriever is a Good Fit for You?
These dogs work well in a variety of lifestyles. If you have children, their loving disposition means your child will have a companion who loves to play.
If you enjoy being outside and exercising, a lab is a wonderful friend. They’ll happily spend time playing fetch, running, and frolicking in the yard. If you’re the kind of person who loves swimming, hiking, and running, a Labrador won’t leave your side as you go off on adventures.
Why Might Labrador Retrievers Be a Bad Fit for You?
That said, these dogs are large. Female Labrador Retrievers stand up to 22 inches tall and males stand up to 24 inches. They’ll weigh 55 to 75 pounds and need room to move. If you live in a tiny apartment it may be a challenge to find space to house your dog along with its bed, kennel and food and water.
They also shed a great deal. That’s because Labs have a thick double coat and it has a distinctive smell. They’ll blow their coats twice a year and they’ll shed everywhere. If dog hair doesn’t bother you, then a Labrador Retriever may be right for you.