Thursday, October 10, 2013

Understanding And Caring For English Labradors

By Angel Dudley


Many people, when they begin thinking about buying a dog, consider buying a Labrador due to the fact they are great with family, friends, and small children. Many buy a breed of retriever without understanding there are some basic differences in the American and English Labradors.

Knowing what these differences are will help owners and pets alike have a good experience, and not become frustrated or restless. Doing a bit of research to understand the animal is the first step to understanding if the breed of dog is right for the family. Consider if the family schedule and lifestyle can accommodate the needs of the pet.

While there are many similarities between the American Labrador and the English, one of the very important differences in these two breeds is the fact the American and English versions were originally bred for different purposes. While many people don't consider the history of the breed, and what they were originally bred for, this is very important when consider personality, and the needs of the pet. For instance the American Labrador is bigger in size and muscle structure. This is mainly because this version came about as a working dog, whose purpose was literally to work.

Because the breeds are not used to a high level for the original purpose, many people have forgotten the original instinct in the dog is still ingrained into the pet's personality. Working dogs left to themselves for long periods of time, and without the proper exercise and attention, will quickly become acrobat artists, chewers and jumpers. This quality makes them great super sleuths for the police department, but probably not a great quality for sitting around the house.

Their English counterpart, on the other hand, tend to be less active, smaller, and were bred as sitters, and followers, and were trained for pet environments. They have an excellent temper, but shouldn't be considered for working dog projects. While initially the original reason for the two different species being bred may not seem significant in reality it is.

For those not sure how to distinguish between the breeds pay attention to elements of personality and in their physical appearance. For instance a tall dog will almost always be an American version. Many of them have longer faces and noses, and are much more active.

English dogs are smaller, not as active, and are more athletic in build. They also are mild natured dogs, and have a block appearance. They are better house dogs, and friends to the elderly, who can't get out and heavily walk the dog as easily.

Deciding prior to purchasing one of these dogs what the purposes are in owning the dog will go a long way in providing the best environment for the dog and the family. Considerations between the breeds and the family lifestyle should be a strong point. If it isn't possible to exercise and walk the dog on a regular basis, then the English version might be better. If the reason for the dog is for working dog purposes then the American version might be better. Consider these differences before purchasing American or English Labradors.




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