If you've ever seen a Labrador Retriever up close, then you've come pretty close to knowing what doggy perfection looks like.

No matter the color of their coat, this is a good-looking breed of dog.

Because Labs were bred as working dogs, their build is naturally strong and athletic. They're excellent with running over long distances, and they make great swimmers as well.

Depending on the sex, they can grow between 21 to 25 inches tall and can weigh up to 65 to 80 lbs. Labs are well-proportioned animals with an agile build. However, British Labs are slightly wider with thicker necks and fuller chests.

COAT COLOURS

Labrador Retrievers have a lush, water-repellent coat that keeps them looking sharp. This means you have to give them the occasional bath to keep them clean, and they tend to shed throughout the year.

According to the Labrador Breed Standard, the officially recognised Lab coat colours are:

1. Black
2. Yellow/ Golden
3. Chocolate

Although, Silver Labrador Retrievers are gaining popularity even though they remain somewhat controversial.

TEMPERAMENT

First-time dog parents are always concerned about a dog's temperament, and a lot of people ask whether Labrador Retrievers are aggressive. That's a valid concern, especially for families with little kids.

But, that's what is so great about Labs - they're not aggressive at all. As a matter of fact, Labs are considered to be the most gentle and sweet-natured dogs out of the lot. They're outgoing and eager to please. Additionally, they're also very intelligent, which also makes them easy to train.

However, you should also know that Labs are extremely active, and they need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to stay fit.

Most canine experts don't separate intelligence from trainability. Not to mention, Labs' enthusiastic nature and high energy level make them highly trainable. 

However, to take full advantage of their easygoing nature, it's important to invest in puppy training classes and early socialisation.

Labrador Retrievers are devoted companions and love to be included in family activities. That's why slowly exposing puppies to new people and places will help your furry pal develop into a well-mannered, and adjusted adult.

DIET

Generally, a dog's diet depends on its age, size, metabolism rate, activity level, and build. For instance, an active dog with a high metabolism rate will need more food than a doggy's that's not. Also, the better the quality of the food and treats you buy, the more filling it will be, and the less you'll need to feed your pet.

The recommended daily diet for adult Labs is around 2.5 to 3 cups of top-notch dry dog food - divided into two meals. But, not all Labs are created equal, and that's why you should always consult a vet regarding your canine's diet. Labrador Retriever puppies tend to grow at a fast pace between 4 to 7 months, and that's why you need to pay special attention to their diet and treats.

HEALTH PROBLEMS

Labrador Retrievers are healthy and fit dogs overall but like most breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions. Again, not all Labs will develop these diseases, but you need to know about them.

Always approach a reliable breeder when you're thinking about getting yourself a Labrador puppy. Responsible breeders will generally screen their stock for conditions like heart disorders, hereditary myopathy, hip, and elbow dysplasia, and exercise-induced collapse (EIC).

Like other large-breed dogs, Labs are also prone to developing life-threatening conditions, like bloat, and you should educate yourself about the symptoms of this condition if you own a large-breed dog.

EXERCISE

It's a well-known fact amongst Lab parents, that this breed loves to eat.

But, unfortunately, Labradors are also prone to weight gain, which can be detrimental to their health.

Thankfully, Labs are highly energetic and need plenty of exercise every day. Dogs who don't get enough physical activity can develop behavioral problems and become hyperactive. 

Labradors are partial to swimming and love retrieving things (no pun intended). They also love going on walks, hiking, and going on hunting trips. A solid hour of exercise, playing fetch, or jogging is great for most young Labs.

GROOMING

Labs aren't very high-maintenance, and grooming them doesn't require a lot of effort. However, Labs have a luxuriant double coat that sheds a lot - which means you need to brush them daily (and perhaps invest in a vacuum cleaner).

Labradors will only need to bathe once every two months unless they go rolling around in dirt and mud. Although, when it comes to oral hygiene, you need to brush your Labrador's teeth at least three times a week to avoid issues like bacteria and tartar build-up.

Finally, nails have to be trimmed twice a month if you want to avoid scratches - on your floors, or your legs.

You've probably figured out the answer to the question, ‘do Labrador Retrievers make good pets?’ is a resounding ‘YES!’.

Labs are low maintenance, childishly exuberant, steadfast, and very accommodating - what more could you ask for in a pet? Our advice is, don't waste any more time, and get yourself a Lab, as soon as you can. You can be sure your Labrador will love you with all its heart and will bring more joy to your life.