vc_rowvc_columnvc_column_text title=”How’s it Hangin’???? (Cryptorchidism: One Testicle)” What Exactly Is This Odd and Oddly Named Condition? (Does neutering dogs cause cancer?) Rated PG! Cryptorchidism is the scientific term for a condition in male dogs in which one or both testicles (testes) fail to descend into the scrotum, which is the pouch or sac that holds the testicles (in the case of neutered dogs, it shrinks over time and pretty much disappears). The condition affects approximately 1% – 3% of dogs and is probably inherited since it is commonly seen in families of dogs; however, the exact cause is not fully …
A black and tan Lab is an unusual sight, and can be quite controversial! Labrador Retrievers with black and tan markings can be achieved in two ways. Either, they can be crossed with another breed to achieve this pattern, creating a Labrador mixed breed. Or, a purebred Lab can receive the recessive genes required for …
A black Lab Chow mix dog has one black Labrador Retriever parent, and one Chow Chow parent. Because these two purebred dogs are quite different, one black Lab Chow mix can be very different to the next. Many breeders hope to get black fur, by using a black Labrador. But, this mix is also generally …
vc_rowvc_columnvc_column_text title=”Guest Blog: Interview with Labrador Lover and author, Annette Whipple: “WOOF!“”Tell us about your first dog, the name, and how this influenced you to write “WOOF!” I have such fond memories of my first dog! He was a golden retriever lab mix named Dog. He was a constant companion and friend. One of my favorite memories is dancing with him to one of my dad’s old records: “Hooked on a Feeling” by B. J. Thomas. When I was brainstorming animals that I could continue with The Truth About series after Whooo Knew? The Truth About Owls was finished, dogs …
vc_rowvc_columnvc_column_text title=”What does the word “IN-BRED“ mean?”I bet this conjures up a visual image of an extra toe or tail—but it’s MUCH deeper than that when you ask the professional breeder about what this term implies– and what it really means. Strap on your ‘knowledge craving’ part of your brain and here we go into my world! (CLICK ON ANY OF THE IMAGES TO ENLARGE!) As breeders, we spend a lifetime’s work building our bloodlines so that we have not just the AKC breed standard, but also passing health clearances going back at least 5 generations. But, just like the …
Spotting the signs of an over excited puppy What to do if your puppy gets overly excited during play Tips for managing over excited puppy biting Living with an over excited puppy isn’t easy. And every puppy has the potential to get themselves worked up. Today we’re going to look at how to calm a puppy …
vc_rowvc_columnvc_column_text title=”Fox-Red Labradors: Their origin and features”What is a FOX RED Labrador—its rise and fall in popularity over the years Above Photo: Fox Red Labradors courtesy of The Field Magazine, UK Of course I resisted the temptation to name this blog “50 shades of Yellow”—I believe that one is already taken! But I’d love to delve into the development of this part of our wonderful Labrador breed. “The Kennel Club formally acknowledges only three colors: black, yellow and liver – which has mutated to chocolate and thereby boosted the appeal of the brown version considerably. Black, everyone agrees, is black; …
vc_rowvc_columnvc_column_text title=”What does the word “OVER-BRED“ MEAN?”If I had a dollar for every time I heard a pet parent use the word “over-bred”, I’d be a millionaire. I hear it from pet owners, veterinarians, groomers, rescue parents, and from people who generally don’t understand what this really means—NOR WHAT THEY ARE IMPLYING WHEN THEY SAY IT. Here’s some possible misconceptions about this phrase/word’s meaning: *”It means that breeders interfered too much in the breeding of retriever dogs and, while they may have achieved some characteristics they wanted, they also caused some inherited problems…” (usually caused by breeding with dogs that …
vc_rowvc_columnvc_column_text title=”Her Majesty, the Queen’s Sandringham Labradors (UK)”The Queen’s gundogs are respected throughout the Labrador world, especially when it comes to highly skilled gun dogs I have to admit, I’ve always liked that the Queen loves dogs and horses–as do I!!! But when I found out she bred LABRADORS I had to research it–and how FUN that research is for those interested in the history of the English/British/UK Labrador. (CLICK ON ANY OF THE BELOW PICTURES TO ENLARGE THEM TO SEE THE ORIGINAL CAPTIONS!) THE QUEEN’S GUNDOGS Miss Elizabeth Walton, of The Field magazine says, “Norfolk was, as the natives …
vc_rowvc_columnvc_column_text (Pictured Above: Meet historic and expert breeder, Mary Roslin Williams) I’m excited to dig into the history books of Labradors and let you peer into the very beginning of the breed and its most dedicated mentors, including the famous, ADVANCED breeder of Labradors, Mary Roslin Williams. I tried to bid on her book “Reaching for the Stars”, written in 1988, at our World Labrador Specialty and it went for $1,400! BUT I have a rag-tag copy I keep that I call my LABRADOR BIBLE! Any breeder who has put their heart, soul and blood into the dedication to this …
What is a dog warden and what sort of person suits this job role? Dog wardens work closely with animals and humans alike. Their job involves helping stray, lost, and mistreated dogs, but also educating owners and enforcing dog-related legislation. Although this career appeals to many, it doesn’t suit everyone. Dog wardens need to be …
Before you commit to owning one, you might want the answer to the question “do Labrador Retrievers drool a lot?” Labradors are not a breed typically associated with being very drooly. But as for all dogs, there are some things which will trigger them to start drooling more than usual. Occasionally, if your Labrador drools …
Can dogs eat peanut butter safely? And is peanut butter good for dogs? Peanut butter is a popular treat for dogs. But, it is high in fats and salt, which can be bad for dogs in large amounts. Plus, some peanut butter brands contain xylitol. This is an artificial sweetener that is toxic to dogs. …
A black Lab Rottweiler mix has one purebred Labrador parent with a black coat, and one purebred Rottweiler parent. There’s no guarantee that puppies will have a black coat even with a black Lab parent. But it’s much more likely if both parent breeds have black fur. The black Lab Rottweiler mix is loyal, intelligent, …
What is a champion bloodline dog and are they any better than a non-champion bloodline dog? Champion bloodline dogs have a champion title winning dog in their family tree. This could be a parent, grandparent, or a dog that is generations above them. Champion bloodlines don’t guarantee that your dog will be a champion themselves. …
Can dogs eat cheese? If so, how much? Are any cheeses bad for dogs? The Labrador Site team takes an in-depth look at the truth about dogs and cheese. Cheese contains a number of nutrients and minerals that are beneficial to dogs. But it can also be high in salt. And some dogs are allergic …
“What grooming does a Labrador need?” is an important question for all new Labrador owners. Labrador grooming is easier than some other breeds, but they still need regular brushing and bathing to keep their coats clean and healthy. Regular grooming will also help to control Labrador shedding. Labradors need regular brushing, and may need brushing …
The black Lab Beagle mix combines a purebred Beagle with a purebred black Lab. Breeders often breed these two dogs in the hopes of getting Beagador puppies with black fur, or mostly black fur. A Beagador with a black Lab parent will be a medium to large dog. They are intelligent, affectionate, and full of …
A double coated dog has two types of fur in their coat. A soft, dense under layer and a longer, coarser outer layer. Double coats protect dogs from extremes of temperature, water, and injuries. But they tend to shed profusely, and need a lot of brushing. Almost all Labradors have double coats, so in this …
The black Lab Border Collie mix will be energetic, intelligent and friendly. It often has a black coat with some white markings. But, there’s a chance it could be all black, or even brown and white. The only way to know is to see what puppies look like when they arrive. If your heart is …
Can dogs eat cucumbers? The Labrador Site team investigates whether cucumber is good for dogs. Cucumbers are safe for dogs to eat in moderation. They contain lots of water, and some important vitamins and minerals. And are low in fats and calories. But cucumbers can be a choking hazard if incorrectly prepared. And too much …
A black Lab German Shepherd mix dog is a large, athletic cross, with a thick, double coat. Labs and German Shepherd Dogs were originally bred to fulfil quite different purposes, which means their mixed breed puppies can have very variable temperaments. But for adaptable owners with a passion for training, they can be great companions. …
Dogs can drink most types of tea in moderate quantities without ill-effects. But, dogs do not need tea. For most dogs, plain fresh water is the only kind of hydration they need. And, some added ingredients in tea can harm our dogs. For instance, if tea is sweetened with xylitol, or with a milk substitute …
Can dogs eat mango? The Labrador Site team take a look at how to safely serve mango for dogs. Mango is sweet and delicious. It’s only natural to want to share this nutritious fruit with your pup. But dogs can only eat mango flesh, and only in small amounts. Mango skin and the pits of …
The black Lab Golden Retriever mix is still a Goldador. But, by using a black Lab parent, many breeders aim to get puppies with a black coat. A black Lab Golden Retriever mix will have the same general traits as any other Goldador. They will be friendly, energetic, and playful. Black Lab Golden Retriever mix dogs …
vc_rowvc_columnvc_column_text title=”How to keep your Lab from being dropped from you PET INSURANCE POLICY!! (A must read!!!)”These days its really hard to afford veterinary expenses, and the go up every year. Its gotten to the point where PET INSURANCE is a necessity unless you have thousands of dollars flying out of your ears. And now that there are more and more canine specialists, prices almost double if you need one of these types of veterinarians. And as everywhere, insurance companies are tightening the belt. As I hear clients report back I’ve learned some REALLY good tips to be sure you …
Can dogs eat oranges? The Labrador Site team takes a look at how to safely share oranges with your dog. Oranges are not toxic to dogs. And you can safely give small amounts to your pup. However, they are not very good for your dog. They are high in sugar, and the seeds and peel …
Can dogs eat celery? The Labrador Site team takes a look at the pros and cons of celery for dogs. Celery is safe for dogs to eat in small quantities if it is correctly prepared. If prepared incorrectly it is a choking hazard. Not all dogs will like celery. And celery is high in fibre, …
vc_rowvc_columnvc_single_image image=”12041″/vc_column/vc_rowvc_rowvc_columnvc_column_text title=”WHAT IS “VOLHARD” PUPPY TESTING?”WHAT IS THE “VOLHARD” PUPPY APTITUDE TEST? Years ago this test was developed by an individual (Wendy Volhard) that felt it could predict the temperament of a puppy or dog by assessing the litter at a young age. Just so you get an idea of what it entails, here is an overview: (Source) “Top Dog Tips: The ideal age to test the puppy is at 49 days of age when the puppy is neurologically complete and it has the brain of an adult dog. With each passing day after the 49th day the responses …
Labradoodle vs Goldendoodle – it’s a tough choice! These popular Poodle mixes are similar sizes, with similar coats and temperaments. But the Labradoodle is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. A Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. So, how do these mixes differ? And which one is …
