Many people like to make up things or assume certain things about Labrador Retrievers. There are many misconceptions about this breed. Everyone thinks that all labs are calm, friendly, playful family dogs. Although they do have these characteristics, there are some myths about some things as well. Below are listed 5 myths about Labradors which many people make the mistake of believing to be true.
1) Silver Labradors
Labradors only come in the colors of black, yellow, and brown or chocolate. Genetically, it is impossible for labs to carry silver coat traits. A Labrador must have mated with another breed to make this color emerge. Many say that a dog breed called, Weimeraner, Therefore, silver Labradors are a myth.
2) Dudleys
Normally, yellow labs have a black nose. A yellow Labrador with pink or liver colored nose is nicknamed “Dudley.” Dudlies lack pigmentation in eyes, eye rims, and muzzle as well. This trait is very rare and emerges only in yellow Labradors. These labs have coat colors that may vary from light to dark yellow or dark brown or red. If one of the dogs that are bred have a liver color pigment, it is very likely to emerge in their children.
3) Labradors do not shed a lot
This is incorrect because short hair does not entitle them to not shed a lot of hair. Labradors have two coats, one on the outer surface that is hard, and a softer one under that. The soft one underneath tends to shed out in clumps sometimes. This can be managed, however, if your lab is bathed on time. They don’t have excessive shedding; however, they shed no less than the average dog. It will get on your furniture, clothes and carpet. So, if seeing dog hair everywhere will be disturbing to you, you might want to keep this in mind that labs are guaranteed to shed.
4) Labradors are very calm
Labs are actually very energetic and hyper at times. Due to excess amount of energy, labs can be quite destructive. They need to exert this energy by running and jumping around everywhere. You must have lots of energy to play catch and other games with your lab every day. When they are young, they are extremely active and it does not stop until they are at least 8 years old. If you think you do not have all that energy stored up, you might want to reconsider getting a Labrador. However, with good training they might learn to tone it down a bit.
5) Labradors are not good watch dogs
Many people think that because watch dogs are sweet and friendly they would not make very good watch dogs. On the contrary, however, labs can make very strong and protective watch dogs. This innate talent does not show up until a Labrador’s second birthday. If your dog shows some sign of being aggressive, do not leave your lab outside unattended because he might startle someone or actually hurt them.
