by Anna Hofman

Created on: April 12, 2010

Labradors get on incredibly well with young children, and that trait alone is very sought after, as if you are yourself a loving parent, you obviously couldn't bear it if you brought a dog into your life that hurt one of your children - or any family member. Labrador Retrievers are intelligent, playful, "happy" dogs, and it isn't even debatable that they are one of the most gentle medium-large sized god breeds in the world.

Labradors, also known as "labs", are one of several varieties of retriever - a type of gun dog. They were, and some still are, used to retrieve hunted prey, hence earning the name "Labrador Retriever". They have webbed feet which makes them excellent swimmers, which is ideal if you are located near a beach or have a picture in your mind of you and the family having days out on the beach with the family dog.

This wonderful breed is one that I am particularly passionate about, and I truly believe they deserve their rightful place as the USA's most loved and most popular dog. They are every inch as beautiful within as they are externally, and should be shown off shamelessly by every one who owns one. Basically, they are they perfect family pet. Brilliant with children, loyal, friendly and laid-back. But also happy, light-spirited, playful dogs who just love to be out and about exploring.

 As a short-haired breed they do not shed their coats or moult very much, you can groom them as much as you like but once or twice a week will be absolutely fine.

Labradors are one breed of dog that you can take anywhere with you - to other friends and family's places, on holiday (providing you have a doggy passport), camping, the beach, a weekend away in the city... You name it, the labrador will be more than happy to stay by you side, pretty much any place in the world. They are so obedient they will rarely, if ever, show you up in public!

One thing that you have to bear in mind is that although this is a particularly brilliant breed, and, in my opinion, the best family dog that money can buy, they do need a lot of attention and exercise. Keeping this breed cooped up with no one or nothing to play with and very little interaction is cruelty - and you have to thnk of the dog more than yourself, don't just think of what you want in a dog, but what you can give the dog (truthfully) and then base your choice around this. If you are, as an individual, or as a family, a very active unit, then I would recommend this dog straight away, but if you have difficulties getting out and about and do not have the time or energy for such an active dog then simply look at other breeds - there are so many out there! This dog will quite simply not be happy at all if it doesn't get regular exercise. They will get bored easily so if your going somewhere they cannot and you are leaving them with no people in the house, ensure they have plenty of squeaky toys and things that they can entertain themselves with.

 Another excellent benefit of this breed is they are so easy to train. They do not exhibit stubbornness particularly and are quite willing to learn anything you want to teach them. If you are persuaded to buy this breed then definitely buy a book of tricks to go with him! You'll have so much fun together, and they pick tricks up very quickly - especially if there's a treat involved.

 I cannot stress enough how fantastic this breed of dog actually is: fast learners, playful, intelligent, stunningly beautiful and gentle natured animals, Labrador Retrievers will leave you love-struck and completely fulfilled.

Learn more about this author, Anna Hofman.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.