PetAide

Handsome, athletic, goofy: these are the three adjectives we would use to describe Labrador retrievers. These pups make a great addition to every home, as they are excellent with kids, love to cuddle, and will do anything to make their owners happy. They are medium-to-large sturdy dogs with excellent balance, obedience through the roof, and an adorable face. Keep scrolling to see the cutest photos yet and discover mind-boggling Labrador retriever trivia.

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Labrador Retrievers Have a Nickname

Cheryl94Photos / Flickr / Used With Permission

The name “Labrador” stems from their Canadian heritage, but they’re known as "labs" for short. Despite their name, Labrador retrievers originally came from Newfoundland, not Labrador.

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Water Is No Obstacle

Elena Lemonis / Flickr / Used With Permission

Labs love swimming. They were bred as water and hunting dogs, so it’s no wonder they’re naturals. It’s their true calling. A Labrador retriever’s coat is even water-resistant with natural oils to repel excess water and keep their skin dry.

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They Come in Different Colors

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The three color variations seen in Labrador retrievers are black, brown, and yellow. Yellow labs are often associated with Guide Dogs for the Blind, black Labs are associated with gundog work, and brown or “chocolate” labs are more common as pets and show dogs.

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The Labrador Retriever Is America’s Most Popular Dog Breed

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That’s according to the American Kennel Club. Though they’re very active, these famously friendly pups love a good cuddle session with their family members.

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Labs Bring Endless Laughter

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Their goofy antics and lovable behavior will have you in constant giggle fits. There’s nothing better than coming home to a friendly lab at the end of a long day.

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Want an Obedient Dog? Look No Further

beartheblacklabrador / Instagram

To say the least, Labs are eager to please. A little training will go a long way. Positive reinforcement is every dog’s favorite way to learn, and labs are typically very treat-motivated, making your job easy.

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You’ll Need Plushies

the_labmoments / Instagram

Labs were bred to retrieve birds after being shot during a hunt, giving them naturally gentle jaws and soft mouths. It may require some training, but their instincts will know how to handle soft items. Labrador retrievers go crazy for plush toys and are often found napping with their favorite ones.

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Get Ready to Play

hershey.lilo.thelabs / Instagram

These fun-loving dogs will stop at nothing when it comes to playing games with their friends.

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Labrador Retrievers Are Workaholics

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Jobs give labs purpose. Guide Dogs for the Blind currently uses yellow and black Labrador retrievers as well as golden retrievers and lab/golden hybrids. The agency says their health, temperament, size, coat type and adaptability makes these dogs perfect for the job.

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Did We Mention They Love to Swim?

la_lunas_starlight / Instagram

Their rudder-like tails, often called “otter tails,” make them glide seemingly effortlessly in the water. If you need a dock-jumping buddy, look no further. They especially love diving in to fetch floating toys thanks to their retrieving instincts.

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There Are Plenty of Famous Pet Labs

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U.S. President Bill Clinton has had multiple pet Labrador retrievers. His first, Buddy, was his furry friend in the White House during his presidency, along with a cat named Socks. Buddy and Socks had somewhat of a feud and were often kept in separate quarters.

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Family Is Everything to Labs

Adventuresofsammie / Instagram

Most dog breeds are known for their loyalty, but labs go above and beyond. If you choose them to be your four-legged friend, they won’t leave your side. Though they aren’t particularly aggressive, labs will bark when they feel their family needs protecting. When it’s time to settle down for the evening, they are happy to squeeze into your lap for a snooze.

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One Lab Was an American Hero

Molly & Stitch / Flickr / Used With Permission

Jake, a hard-working black lab, burrowed his way through rubble and ran through toxic air to rescue victims in the September 11 attacks in New York City. That evening, he was treated to a free steak dinner underneath the table at a fancy NYC restaurant. Labs are known for their search and rescue skills.

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If You Hunt, There’s No Better Companion

Elena Lemonis / Flickr / Used With Permission

As their name suggests, Labrador retrievers have a knack for retrieving. They were bred as hunting dogs and fishing companions, so they know their way around both water and hunting grounds. Their high level of obedience makes them great candidates for hunting companions and their soft mouths make them even better.

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Exercise, Exercise, and More Exercise

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Labs are highly active and need lots of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy. Try giving them a puzzle toy, going for a swim, or heading on a hike to tire them out on a regular basis. Feeding them the proper amount of food for their weight will help maintain a healthy figure, too. Don’t let their persuading puppy eyes and hefty appetites fool you into giving them extra food!

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Labrador Retrievers Get Along With Everyone and Everything

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Labrador Retrievers simply love life and don’t seem to feel threatened unless they have a good reason to. They get along well with friends, neighbor pets, and visiting kids with ease. Labs are often famous for becoming “unlikely friends” with exotic animals like lions and tigers.