The Labrador is a solid dog with easy to care for, water resistant double coats. They coat does not have waves and is available in black, chocolate and yellow. There is also a rare gray or silver color, but it is not recognized by the AKC. These dogs are prone to a few health issues including:

• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• PRA
• Eye Disorders

The lab's life expectancy is generally twelve to thirteen years. They should not be brought home before they are eight to ten weeks old. The breed is relatively healthy, but they do have a few inherited conditions that they are known for.

Hip and elbow dysplasia are common in this breed, especially in the larger dogs. If you intend to breed your lab, it is recommended that you have hip scores completed first. Another issue they suffer from is a luxating patella. This is where the knee and leg is bow shaped.

There are several eye conditions that the breed is known for including progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, retinal dysplasia and corneal dystrophy. It is also recommended that you have a veterinarian perform an eye score before breeding.

Hereditary myopathy is a muscle condition that is inherited as well. It is a deficiency in the Type II muscle fiber. Other conditions that have been recognized in the breed, although they rarely occur, include deafness and autoimmune diseases.

Labs have floppy ears and this often makes them prone to ear infections. This can be easily controlled, but the ears should be regularly checked to ensure that their not a problem that is occurring because it is unseen. Some dogs also have allergies to food and other environmental factors.

Because of their tenacious appetites, it is often a common occurrence for these dogs to be overfed. (note: that dog obedience training helps prevent this from happening.) Obesity is a common issue with dogs because they love their treats and their food. A healthy lab should have an hour glass shape to his or her body and be light in appearance, rather than heavy. Excessive weight gain can also increase the occurrence of hip dysplasia as well as diabetes. Arthritis is common in older dogs.

These dogs are well known for their appetite. Some even eat things that aren't edible, like toys and rocks. Owners should be proactive in ensuring that their young Labrador's do not eat things they should not eat. At the same, time it's important that they eat only moderation portions of dog food. These dogs are often labeled as being "food and fun" oriented. Prior to three years of age they are particularly active and as they age, they tend to slow down, but will remain active dogs throughout their lives. Leash training early is recommended and they should be trained to not pull. As they grow, they get stronger and leash pulling can cause the dog to walk you rather than you walking the dog. Exercise is generally easy for these dogs because they are willing to do just about anything you want to do, whether it be go on walks, runs or training.

These dogs are easy to care for requiring an occasional bath, good brushing and regular checking of the ears.