miniature french bulldog puppies for sale california

miniature french bulldog puppies for sale california - As with most purebreds, French Bulldogs have in-built health issues. This causes some major problems when it comes to giving birth, and special care is needed if you are to avoid the pitfalls and dangers ahead. The mother needs to be given medication to let her body know that her babies have been born, as the natural hormones would not have been released. She may not bite through the birth sacs or the umbilical cords, so you should be prepared to help out here. Special DAP Dog Appeasing Pheremone collars are often used to combat the problem of mother dogs not bonding with their puppies, usually starting several days before the C-section. However, the owner or breeder should be fully prepared to step in and take over the job of caring for these tiny bundles of joy. They will need all the help and love you can give them. Some breeders and owners prefer to allow a natural birth, despite the risks. Being Prepared Preparation is key to the safe and successful delivery of the puppies. It pays to have everything on standby in case the mother begins to whelp before the scheduled C-section appointment. Although the date can be predicted pretty accurately, the time can be out by about 24 hours. However gentle they usually are, they might snap at little hands that get too close. Plastic whelping boxes are lightweight and easier to keep clean than wooden ones, which can harbor parasites and germs. Make sure the box is large enough for the mother to stretch out but small enough to keep her precious puppies close, with easy access for her to get out without the puppies escaping. Any equipment you use should preferably be sterile. Placing a plastic sheet around the whelping area and under the box will help. What To Expect Photo from: ansem. As the hour approaches, she will pant a lot and become restless before lying down, upon which she will begin trembling. Soon after this, she will begin to push. The best sign of the start of labor is a sudden drop in body temperature, from around .Once she starts to push, the first puppy should appear within twenty minutes. If there is no sign of birth after this time, then call for assistance immediately as there is a good chance that puppy number one is stuck. Hopefully, all will be well, and the puppy is born safely. Help momma dog out if she needs it by cleaning and cutting cords. She should lick her babies clean as this will help her bond as the scent causes hormones to be released. The birth process is exhausting for the mother, so help her whenever you can. If at any time she becomes distressed, or things go wrong, call for help immediately, or both she and her Frenchie baby could be at serious risk of death. Clean up the area as much as you can without disturbing them, and leave them to it. But your work, in some senses, has only just begun! Caring For A Newborn French Bulldog Whether whelped at home or delivered by C-section, both mom and her new babies will need your help. One new puppy is a challenge. You might have two, three, or more, plus their tired mom to look after! However, in some cases, the mother may not naturally take to feeding. This can be a problem when the birth has not been natural. If you need to step in, ready-made puppy formula is available, or you may wish to make your own. Allow enough flow to let them feed easily without it overflowing around their mouth and nose. For the first week, they need to be fed every two hours. This can be extended to three or four hours in the second week, especially if they look healthy and are a good size. Potty Training Like any newborn baby, they will look to their mother for guidance, but you will most likely have to lend a hand. They will not poop or pee of their own accord, and mom has to stimulate this action by licking them. After this, you will obviously have to clean them up. Newborn French Bulldog puppies lack the ability to regulate their own body temperature in the first week of their lives. Overheating can be fatal. Check the areas for drafts and plug any gaps where cold air is flowing, but do make sure there is a slightly cooler area for mom and her babies to escape to if they want to. Frenchies, in general, due to their flat face, can be prone to overheating throughout their lives, so you should always keep this in mind. Keep Them Clean Any newspaper that becomes soiled should be replaced as soon as possible, and blankets or sheets should be washed regularly. These precious pups are vulnerable to staph infections and can get sick really quickly. Diarrhea or vomiting are serious problems, leading to dehydration, which can be a killer. If they are feeding naturally from mom, they will be getting the nutrition they need and protection in the form of antibodies to help fight infection. Development They will need to nurse or be fed formula for about three to four weeks before weaning. By this time, they will have changed significantly. When born, and for the first week, they are blind, deaf, and only able to move by wriggling. They will also react to sound even though their ears are just starting to open. By now, they are able to defecate and urinate by themselves, without help. This is a good time to begin things like toilet training. Place a shallow water bowl within reach, and be sure to remove any small objects from the area as they are likely to choke on them! They will be more independent and will play with their siblings, sometimes getting pretty rough. By the sixth week, they should be fully weaned and eating good-quality puppy food. As well as interacting with their siblings and mother, they should be showing interest in humans too. This is the time to book them in for vaccinations. Up to this point, the puppies have been courageously investigating their little world, their natural curiosity overcoming any fears. Now, however, they should start to display caution, especially with new objects or experiences. An eight-week-old French Bulldog puppy should now be fully formed, with deep brown eyes and weighing between 5 and 7 pounds. As loyal, fun, playful, and cute as they can be, this breed faces a host of health issues. They require special care and consideration, and you should only take them on if you are prepared to do what it takes to keep them healthy and give them the love they deserve. Home » Blog » What happens with your Frenchie in their first few weeks What happens with your Frenchie in their first few weeks You certainly want to know about every minute of your sweet puppy. Last year we did a documentary about our breeding program in which we showed where our Frenchies live and we also wrote about how our program has grown over the years. In this article, we share with you how we help our little puppies on the TomKings Puppies farm, from the first moments of their lives until we find a forever loving family for them. The vet checks if everything is fine and we take them home. The average birth weight of a Frenchie is 0. Their size strongly depends on the size of the litter; when there are a fewer of them they can be as big as a two-week-old puppy from an other litter. Newborn puppies are deaf and blind and absolutely helpless so we are here to assist their mother to nurture them. In the first two weeks They are breastfed every 3 hours, and then their mom stimulates them to pee and poo. Not all mothers are eager to do this, in which case we assist them with a dam, warm cotton towel. The puppies spend the rest of their time sleeping they often seem to be dreaming! Subscribe to our weekly blog newsletter: Subscribe to our blog newsletter! First name Email They are so cute as they love to huddle together, but we also keep them warm with an external source like an infra lamp. As the puppies are very small, there is a threat that the mom accidentally smothers one or more of them. In the first 4 weeks We make strict precautions to keep the newborn babies sterile to avoid the risk of them being infected. They sleep in the house with us, and only a small circle of carers are allowed to touch them who use lots of hands sanitizing. As the mother has less and less milk we gradually switch to give them milk from a bottle and then crushed food. The puppies open their eyes when they are days old, and then they are able to hear — a whole new world opens up for them. At the age of weeks, the little explorers start crawling and then the first few shaky steps. At this stage, they are already very playful and start love-biting each other. The early care and environment of the French Bulldog newborn puppy are very important. Reasons a French Bulldog puppy might die early on are usually due to difficult whelping, congenital or genetic defects, environmental factors i. However, the following formula is cheaper and provides all the nutrition. Many use it instead of evaporated milk — both can be found in the bakery section of your grocery store. If this seems to be, change to bottled water to make the formula. Keeping the litter box tempature between degrees with no drafts for the first few days is usually adequate. Other sources of warmth can be heating pads or heat lamps. If using a heating pad, monitor the intensity of heat, as pups have been known to cook on pads set on high settings! There are many excellent heat lamps on the market, but remember that caution is needed. Heat lamps have been known to start fires! The temperature on the French Bulldog puppies 1 inch above the bottom of the box should be about degrees with a corner that is slightly cooler and allow them to scoot to wherever they like best. There should also be plenty of clean blankets, as this will allow for regulation of temperature. Hydration is one of the most important things to monitor in new Frenchie pups, as it can be one of the first signs of problems. Check hydration by by pinching the skin on the back of the neck or on the top of the back. If the pinched skin stays creased, the French Bulldog puppy is dehydrated and needs fluid replacement. Dehydration can either be a result of inadequate nourishment, too much heat, or sickness. It is strongly suggested that you use regular newborn or infant bottles and nipples. The ones available for purchase for cats, dogs, ferrets, etc. Bottle feeding is far more preferable. The sucking on a nipple, the handling and holding of the French Bulldog puppy is so very important to their overall development. The French Bulldog puppy should be held with his head upwards and his body and tail down in a 45 to 90 degreee angle when bottle feeding. If French Bulldog puppies and their blankets are not kept clean, it is very easy to come down with a staph infection and diarrhea — which is serious, as Frenchie puppies can go downhill quickly. As mentioned before, it is equally serious if the French Bulldog puppies get chilled so avoid drafts. Even if you have them in a basket with a heating pad, you need to cover the basket with a towel to keep out drafts. A chilled French Bulldog puppy must be warmed up. There are lots of little ways to accomplish it. Priority should be to get the Frenchie puppy warmed up slowly. Newborn French Bulldog puppies cannot regulate their body temperature or body functions like urinating and stools. It is important that they are pottied at each feeding. They might not have a stool each time, but they will urinate. This is what the mother does when she licks them. After that, she will become a good mommy. Some might start off being good, then after a few days, or even a couple of weeks, not want to be bothered and might even be nasty to the puppies such as snapping and biting them. Always be careful and watch. If the mother will not clean the babies, you must be sure to do it. Using a kleenex, gently rub the area to stimulate their potty. Then be sure to clean them well. Make sure to check them even if the mother cleans them. Often the stool will get stuck to the tail and be dry. If that happens, or if the French Bulldog puppy seems to be straining and constipated, try the following: Run warm water in the sink slowly. Put a drop of soap on their behinds, and wash and massage their behinds; it will get the tail and poop unstuck, clean them up, and cause them to potty very well. If the little bottoms are red and sore, use some Desitin ointment. You may see green puppy stools and stools that have an appearance of bunches of tiny seeds. If all else seems normal, this seems to be harmless and short-lived. However, watery diarrhea can be very serious if left unchecked. Diarrhea together with vomiting usually means infection. It should be broken into feedings every 2 hours 5cc per feeding. If it is a good sized Frenchie puppy 1 lb. Towards the end of a week, you should increase the food needed to about cc or more. For the first week they should eat every two hours. If they are good size Frenchie babies, you can sometimes go longer. An average weight for newborn French Bulldog puppies is around ounces. Good size puppies are oz.

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miniature french bulldog puppies for sale california - Can a yellow lab have green eyes? What color will my labs eyes be? Eye color should be brown in both yellow and black Labradors, and hazel or brown in chocolate labs. Yellow or black eyes are undesirable as they give a harsh expression. Eyes being too small or set close together are also not typical of the breed. Do all labs have brown eyes? Labrador Retrievers may be black, chocolate, or yellow, and all colors can appear in a single litter. The exception to this is that some Chocolate Labs have hazel eyes. What color are yellow labs eyes? The medium-sized eyes are set well apart. Eye color should be brown in yellow and black dogs and hazel or brown in chocolate dogs. Some Labs can also have green or greenish-yellow eyes. In silver dogs the eye color is usually gray. Do Silver Labs eyes stay blue? When born, Silver Lab puppies usually have blue eyes and their eyes will change to a light yellow as they mature at around the age of 8 months to a year old. In rare cases, some Silver Labs retain their blue eyes into adulthood or have light green eyes instead of yellow. What is the rarest eye color? The production of melanin in the iris is what influences eye color. More melanin produces a darker coloring, while less makes for lighter eyes. Green eyes are the rarest, but there exist anecdotal reports that gray eyes are even rarer. Will my labs eyes stay blue? At what age do puppies stop biting? The most important thing to remember is that for the vast majority of puppies, mouthing or play biting is a phase that they will typically grow out of once they reach between three and five months of age. Are White Labs rare? Yes, White Labradors are very rare. White Labs are at the extreme color range available for these pooches, and it is required that both parents have and pass on the genes that allow for this extremely light color. What is a silver Labrador retriever? Do yellow labs have brown eyes? All yellow labs are born with pink noses. A full-grown lab will most often have a black nose and amber to dark brown colored eyes. What is a blue Labrador? Silver Labs are just like any other type of Labrador: loving, intelligent and energetic! Of course, there is one big difference; they have a striking coat color. Their silver-grey-blue coat means they stand out from the usual crowd of Labs. Can a purebred lab have green eyes? Purebred labradors can only have brown, black or yellow eyes. However, some mixed-breed chocolate-colored labradors can be born with hazel, green or yellow-green eyes. Are there 2 types of Labradors? The two different types of Labradors are American Labradors, also known as field bred or working Labradors, and the English Labradors, bred for showing. Dudley Labradors will have light-colored eyes to match their noses, usually blue or teal. Their eyes will never be described as green, as this is not a color recognized for Labradors by the Kennel Club. The only purebred dog recognized as having green eyes is the American Pit Bull Terrier. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Can chocolate Labradors have blue eyes? This is a very popular question here at Ruffwood Labs. The chocolate Labrador Retriever, initially known as the "ugly duckling" is now among one of the most in-demand dog breeds. With his endearing personality and willingness to please; the chocolate, along with yellow, fox red, and black Labrador, have won first place among the hearts of millions of dog lovers. History of the breed The chocolate Labrador Retriever was admitted to the breed long after the yellow and black Labrador. It was not until the twentieth century that these dogs were recognized in the United States. Until that time both chocolate and yellow were considered outcast. These colors, when compared to the black Labrador, were not considered to be "show quality," when it came to exhibitions. The chocolate color in Labs is not a simple recessive gene. It is even more difficult for breeders to determine a pattern to constantly produce chocolate colored Labs with the same dark shading and color intensity. Many geneticists think that this breed is produced through the action of partial dominant genes. The temperament of a chocolate Labrador Like all Labradors, the chocolate-colored ones have a soft and sweet behavior. The eyes are the passage to the soul of a Labrador. Friendly and loyal, the eyes of a Lab tell the story of this attractive breed. Raised to hunt, recover and rescue, this dog has resilience and energy to spare, which makes it a good hunting partner. Easy to train, these Labradors excel in field trials, agility and obedience. Stable and reliable, this breed is notable as rescue and search canines, assistance for the physically disabled and guide dogs for the blind. His intelligence, kindness, and ability to adapt, make him popular as a family pet. Labradors are among the most popular dog breed in the world. Eye Color Any dog breed can have almost any color eyes. It mostly depends on their genetics. However, for a Labrador to have blue eyes, the genetics has to be very poor. According to basic breed standard Friendly eyes means the dog will have a good temperament, alertness, and intelligence. Yellow or black eyes are undesirable as they give a harsh expression. An eye rim without pigmentation is considered a disqualification. It is hard to disagree, that the green, hazel or golden eyes of the Lab give it a truly outstanding presence. And the different shading in the coats from the light chocolate to the dark chocolate color attracts many owners to the Labrador breed. Ruffwood Labs would love to pair you with your next best four-legged friend, no matter what eye color or coat color you prefer. Post not marked as liked2 Featured Posts. Blue Labs with blue eyes? In fact, there are very few ways for dogs to have blue eyes, and none of them occur naturally in the Labrador breed. But can you picture their eyes without looking at a photo? Chocolate Lab eye color Eye color in Labradors falls broadly into two categories: brown, and hazel. Of course, a little natural variation is allowed between individuals. So brown eyes can vary from dark espresso to warm sepia, and everything in between. And hazel eyes can have varying proportions of green, amber and brown in them. At the furthest possible end of the spectrum, you might even occasionally meet a chocolate lab with green eyes. This is true of the chocolate English Labrador belonging to show lines, and the American Chocolate brown Lab bred from working lines. When there is lots of melanin in the eye it absorbs light, and we see the color brown. When there is very little melanin, light scatters around the tissues of the iris instead, and we perceive that scattered light as being blue. Green, yellow, grey and amber eyes are caused by an intermediate amount of melanin, so that we see a mix of both phenomena. There are four ways dogs can have so little pigment in their eyes that they appear blue, but none of them are associated with Labradors. The blue eye gene Some dogs carry a specific gene for blue eyes called ALX4, which determines the amount of pigment in the eyes independently of the genes determining coat color. Huskies are a well-known example of a breed carrying this gene. Merle coloring Merle coat coloring is closely associated with blue eyes. Dogs with the merle gene have patches of diluted pigment in their coat, and often one or two blue eyes. Common examples include Australian Shepherds and Great Danes. Albinism Albinism is a genetic condition which inhibits pigment formation anywhere in the body. Albino dogs have white fur, and blue or pink eyes. Dogs with white patches covering one or both eyes are also less likely to make pigment in those irises. What about Lab with blue eyes? They are highly pigmented dogs, and that includes their eyes! However, some Labradors with the color dilution gene do make less pigment than others. Silver Labs are chocolate Labs with the color dilution gene. Their coat is lighter brown than a traditional chocolate Lab — think more chocolate milkshake than chocolate brownie. Their eyes are lighter too — usually somewhere between amber and pale green. Baby chocolate Lab with blue eyes All Labrador puppies are born with blue eyes to begin with. The earliest you might start to see their final eye color appearing is about a month old, and it can take a further two months for the pigment to finish developing. They could have inherited the blue eye gene from a Husky ancestor and combined it with the genes for a brown coat. Or, they could have inherited the merle gene from a merle ancestor. If they have the merle gene they will also have a merle pattern coat, so have a look for tell tale patches of dilute fur color. What about a blue Labrador with blue eyes? Blue Lab puppies are something our readers often ask about, meaning dogs with grey fur. Could this be an alternative route to a Labrador with blue eyes? Blue dogs are black dogs with color dilution. Black Labs with the dilution gene are known as charcoal rather than blue. They are not terribly common, and their pedigree status is often subject to heated debate. When bringing a new Labrador Retriever into your home, it is important to know if you are getting a purebred or if you are getting a mixed Labrador. Can Labradors have blue eyes? All brown Labradors have blue eyes when they are born. When they are about 4 months old, their blue eyes change to hazel or brown. Labradors, according to what kind of Labrador they are, will have different colored eyes. A chocolate lab will have hazel or brown eyes; a yellow lab will have brown eyes, and a black labrador will also have brown eyes. Even though it is very rare, some Labrador Retriever dogs will have green or yellow-green eyes. When a puppy is born, its eyes stay closed for usually up until 14 days. Their color will start to show up, even though it might not completely take over the whole eye at this point. To start with, Labrador puppies have blue eyes. Until they have pigment, puppy eyes are blue for a week or two after they open. About a month old, you can start to see the final eye color forming, and it will take another two months until the pigment is fully developed. If you are thinking about getting a Labrador but you do not know what color Lab to get, here are some tips of what is different between all of the different Labs. Each of these types of Labrador has been associated with different jobs. Yellow Labrador The Yellow Labrador is associated with being a guide dog for people that are blind. This type of Labrador usually has a very good personality and is known to be easy to train and to love everyone that they meet. Even though Yellow Labradors are often times made to be guide dogs, these types of dogs are also very good at just being a pet. These Labs are different only because they have an orange tint to their coats. Even though they do not have their own color category, they are considered to be part of the Yellow Lab group. Even though it is considered a Yellow Lab, many breeders will refer to it as a Fawn Labrador. Chocolate Labrador Chocolate Labradors are known for being either pet dogs or dogs that are show dogs. Chocolate Labrador dogs are known for being show dogs in circuses and in the ring for many years. Now though, Chocolate Labradors are known to be good hunters. Many of the owners have seen a difference in what their Chocolate Labradors can do and many of them have begun to win awards. Black Labradors Black Labradors are known for being good hunting dogs. The great thing about Black Labradors is that they have become very amazing companions and they are perfect pets. Even though we think they are very cute, they are one of the least picked Labrador colors out of all of the other Labradors. Beyond the three popular Labrador Retrievers, there are other Labs that are not as common. The Silver Labrador has come about because they have had their genes diluted which causes some people to not want to have this type of Lab. It is important that you talk to the breeder or our vet before you decide to purchase a Lab that has diluted genes. Even though choosing a certain color is a preference, the real question should be if you want to get a show or a working Labrador. A show Labrador will most likely be a little smaller because and will not be as muscular as working Labradors. They will be lighter, and they will not be as hard of workers as working dogs. A working Labrador is going to be larger and more muscular. If you are looking for a Labrador to be your partner in activities such as playing and long-distance running, then having a working dog will be a better choice for you. Should I Get a Rescue Labrador? Anytime that you are able to get a rescue dog, it is better than purchasing from a breeder. The first reason is that these dogs that are at rescue centers need a forever home. If you decide to take a rescue, you are giving the dog to have a happy life for the rest of its life. Another reason to get a rescue Labrador is if you are looking for a dog that is past its puppy stage and is in adulthood. Rescue dogs will love their new homes and they will work hard to make sure that you are pleased with them, making their life better and making them easier to train and get used to their new home. Rescue dogs are loveable and happy when they get in their new homes because they are desperately looking for a forever family to call their own. Labrador retrievers can be a variety of colors, but most of them have the same type of body. They are considered to be medium-to-large dogs, and they are known for the dual coat that they have. Labrador retrievers have large bodies, up to 24 inches long, and some of them are as heavy as 80 pounds. Labrador retrievers have long legs and webbed feet. Labrador retrievers have medium-sized ears that hang down and a thick tail. They are covered with short hair that sheds a lot in the winter and in the summer months to help them stay healthy and warm. Most Labrador Retriever dogs are very popular because of their amazing personalities. Most Labs are known for being loving, kind, patient, fun, happy, eager, energetic, caring, and loyal. Labrador Retrievers love to play and be energetic. They crave attention and being around their humans. Most Labrador retrievers are able to get along with other animals and pets because they love to be sociable and to get to know new people and other animals. Even though puppies and Labrador Retrievers can be a little bit destructive, if you learn to understand their personality and give them a lot of exercise, your Labrador puppy will learn to be calm and make an amazing pet. Since Labrador retrievers are so large, they are very active. It is important that you take time out of your day to make sure that your Labrador has plenty of exercise and fun. As a rule of thumb, most Labrador dogs that are adults, need to have at least an hour and a half of exercise on a daily basis. If you find that you are not able to give your Labrador the exercise that he or she needs, you will find that your dog will become bored, agitated, and will have a lot of extra energy. This can lead to your Labrador being aggressive and destructive. Choosing the right Labrador Retriever should not be based on what color Labrador you want or based on his or her eye color, but it is important to figure out if you want to have a show dog, a working dog, or just a pet. All of these things can determine what type of dog you are getting. Sometimes, people are looking to be helpful ,and purchasing a Labrador Retriever from a rescue home can be very beneficial both to the Lab and to their new home. Rescue dogs sometimes have the best personalities, and if you want a dog that will be forever grateful, then get a rescue dog. Black and yellow labradors will have brown eyes, and you will find that chocolate labradors can have a mix between Brown and Hazel. Of course, you will see some variations as this is only natural. Brown eyes can vary slightly between a dark brown and light brown color. There are different proportions of green, amber, and brown in hazel eyes. You may see a chocolate Labrador with green eyes toward the other end of the spectrum. This is when you might notice the chocolatey tones making their way through. The process, however, takes time and does not occur overnight. Their eyes can go from blue to grey to blue again, or they can change from blue to grey to brown over the course of a month or so. By the time your dog is about 6 months old, their eye color is likely set and will not change as they get older. Generally Do purebred Labs have blue eyes? In fact, there are very few ways for dogs to have blue eyes, and none of them occur naturally in the Labrador breed. Eye color should be brown in both yellow and black Labradors, and hazel or brown in chocolate labs. Yellow or black eyes are undesirable as they give a harsh expression. Eyes being too small or set close together are also not typical of the breed. How long does it take for puppies to get their true eye color? Blue eyes during puppyhood All puppies have blue or bluish eyes when they first open them. What is the rarest eye color for dogs? Brown eyes contain a high concentration of melanin, while green or blue have less. Most dogs have brown eyes, but there are breeds with pale blue, speckled, golden, or hazel colored eyes. The rarest color of all is green. How long do puppy eyes stay blue? Do all black Labs have brown eyes? Labrador Retrievers may be black, chocolate, or yellow, and all colors can appear in a single litter. The nose of the dog will match its coat. Labs usually have brown eyes. The exception to this is that some Chocolate Labs have hazel eyes. What is a Dudley Lab? A Dudley Labrador is a Yellow Labrador that is born without any pigment in their nose, eye rims, and feet, so they appear pink. They will have pale-colored eyes as well, usually blue or teal. Will chocolate Labs eyes stay green? Angie, some chocolates are born with blue eyes which pass through a green phase before they turn amber. Most likely these people have see a pup in that transition phase or have seen a photo of one. How rare is green eyes for dogs? Is it rare for a dog to have green eyes? It is! Although there are no official statistics about the number of dogs with green eyes, only two breeds tend to have them: the American pit bull terrier and the pomeranian husky. Green eyes are somewhat more common in puppies. What color are my dogs eyes? Most dogs have brown eyes, but there are breeds with pale blue, speckled, golden or hazel colored eyes. Some dogs are odd-eyed, having one eye that is blue and another eye brown. What age do puppies fur change color? Our final color is anywhere from a light silver blue to dark slate blue. Our puppy coat had a different texture than our adult coat too. The puppy coat was more open and softer in texture. How common are blue eyes in dogs? The blue-eyed trait is recessive and most often related to coat color, specifically in those with merle mottled patches of color or piebald white coat with spots of color. Dog breeds that naturally have blue eyes include: Siberian husky. Article References…. What are the genetics behind Labrador Retriever eye color? The genetics the variation of inherited characteristics behind eye color is that at least eight genes determine the color of the eyes. Eye color is dependent on the amount and quality of melanin in the front layers of the iris. Eye color, and hair color, in Labradors are determined by the amount and type of a pigment called melanin. The more melanin, the darker the eyes. Most dogs have brown eyes although they may have lighter eyes at birth. Light-colored eyes do not have light pigment, they just present as light due to less melanin in the iris of the eyes. The breed standards allow only for brown eyes in black and yellow Labradors, and brown or hazel eyes in chocolate Labradors. Labs with blue or other eye colors are not pure-bred Labradors. Eye and coat color in Labradors: Chocolate Labradors have hazel or brown eyes, Yellow Labs have brown eyes, Black Labradors have brown eyes. Eye color may be different in Labrador cross-breeds such as Labradoodles. Color vision All dogs have dichromatic vision, they can only see blue and yellow. What colors your Lab sees: Red appears dark brownish-gray or black, Yellow, orange, and green all look a bit yellowish to a dog, They see blue really well, but purple looks the same as blue to them. When you play fetch with your Labrador, it does not see the color of the ball. A dog distinguishes balls by the smell of the ball. Dogs do not see well when the object is stationary but they see very well when something moves. Their eyes are sensitive to light and motion so they see much better in bad light than humans Can Labrador Retrievers have blue eyes? Yes, Labradors have blue eyes when they are puppies , but blue-eyed Labradors do occur but cannot be registered with the AKC. The blue, or light, color is because the melanin is still light and will develop into a dark or hazel brown. Labrador genetics prescribes that pure-bred Labradors have dark brown or hazel eye color, so if your Labrador has any other color eyes, it is not a pure-bred Labrador. At this stage, their eyes are still blue but around 12 weeks their natural eye color starts to show, and at 16 weeks the permanent eye color is visible. The most common eye disease in Labradors One of the most common Labrador eye problems that Labrador Retrievers suffer from, is cataracts. It is a leading cause of vision loss in Labradors. Labradors and Jack Russel Terriers are amongst the breeds in the UK that suffer the most from cataracts. Post-operative complications occurred more in dogs with cataracts in advanced stages. This means that any question about how well your Labrador especially older Labradors can see, should be referred to a Vet without delay. Signs that your Labrador has cataracts Changes in eye color: Black Lab eye color should be brown, Yellow Lab eye color should be brown, Chocolate Lab eye color should be brown or hazel. Changes in pupil size or shape. Cloudy pupils in one or both eyes. Difficulty seeing in dimly lit areas. Reluctance to climb or jump. Rubbing or scratching of the eyes. Signs of vision loss, such as bumping into furniture or not recognizing familiar people. Unsure footing, misjudging distances, or an unusual, high-stepping walk. Watery eyes. Cataracts that do not receive attention eventually lead to blindness. Blindness is an expensive price to pay for something that can be cured with an uncomplicated operation. Cataract surgery may lead to cancer in Labradors Melanoma of the eye eye tumors sometimes occurs in dogs, also in Labradors. The tumors grow from the tissues of the iris. The presence of the tumor is observed when the appearance of the eye changes as cancer starts to grow. It is a slow-growing cancer Phacoemulsification, a cataract surgery method, may lead to glaucoma and blindness in Labradors. Labs are more susceptible to this cancer than other breeds. It appears as if some cancers of the eyes may be inheritable in Golden and Labrador Retrievers, but more research is needed.

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miniature french bulldog puppies for sale california - Conclusion: Why the Silver Labrador Retriever? How much does a Silver Labrador Retriever cost? If you find one for adoption, the cost will be lower. What Is a Silver Labrador Retriever? Silver Labs are Labrador Retrievers with gray, silver coats and haunting grayish eyes. Silver Labradors most likely developed from a recessive trait found in some Chocolate Labradors. However, there are many who believe that Silver Labradors are not true Labrador Retrievers at all. Major breed clubs including the Labrador Retriever Club Inc. Frances O. In this section, we will explore the most common Silver Labrador Retriever traits. However, please note that not all Silver Labs will be identical to each other in terms of personality. There will be differences between individual dogs. Still, this list will give you a basic sense of what to expect from the Silver Labrador Retriever temperament. Sporting Dogs are bred to work in partnership with humans as hunting companions, pointers, flushers, and retrievers. Therefore, these types of dogs thrive when they have a purpose or a job to do. Silver Labrador Retrievers are very active dogs, especially when they are young. They need an ample amount of daily exercise as well as mental enrichment. If you leave an energetic lab pup home alone for hours on end, be prepared to come home to evidence of destructive behavior such as chewing or digging. A young lab needs about an hour of vigorous exercise per day. If you are not able to provide that level of exercise, consider adopting an older Lab or Silver Lab mix. Silver Labrador Retriever exercise can include activities such as hiking, biking, swimming, or romping at the dog park. Doggie Daycare is another great way for Labradors to fulfill their daily exercise needs. Labradors were bred to work in tandem with their human guardians out in the field. Therefore, they are very attentive and eager to please. They may not be quite as clever as some of the herding breeds such as the Border Collie or the Australian Shepherd , but they are still very smart. They can be trained for all types of jobs including hunting, search and rescue, and police work. Silver Labs tend to get along well with other animals and children, especially with proper socialization. Of course, it is still advisable to supervise your Silver Labrador anytime he or she interacts with kids or other animals. Photo by Nilda Guzman These dogs are notorious for getting into mischief when left alone. Crate training is highly recommended, especially for puppies and young labs. Labradors are especially obsessed with finding food! Labs love to eat. Do not leave food accessible on countertops and make sure your trash can has a dog-proof lid. Joyful, Goofy, Fun One of the most beloved components of the Silver Labrador Retriever temperament is the joyful nature of this breed. Labs are happy, silly, fun-loving dogs. They enjoy romping in the snow and swimming in the summertime. Silver Labs love to play! They are especially fond of playing fetch with tennis balls for hours on end. If you add a Lab to your home, your home will soon be filled with laughter! Labrador Retrievers originated in Newfoundland , Canada. They were bred to work alongside hunters and fishermen as water retrievers. Their popularity began to soar in the s as specimens spread to Europe and America. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in .The Lab has held the highest-ranking since .The American Kennel Club recognizes three color varieties: black, yellow and chocolate. The Silver Coat Coloration Photo by Nilda Guzman The silver coloration first appeared within the last few decades and has caused great controversy within the Labrador community. It is not recognized as a distinct coloration. The silver color has become incredibly popular and desired because it is attractive and rare. Consumers are willing to pay exorbitant amounts of money for a silver lab puppy. Respected, responsible breeders discourage the practice of breeding specifically for a physical attribute. They argue that a good breeder should always prioritize health, function, temperament, and the improvement of the breed. When breeders are breeding solely for appearance, health and temperament are inevitably compromised. Size and Appearance The Silver Lab has the same general appearance as any other Labrador, other than the color. They are the same size and shape as other Labs. For example, the Silver Labrador Retriever weight range is between 55 and 80 lbs. Likewise, the Silver Labrador Retriever height range is between 21 and 24 inches at the withers. These measurements are the same for all coat colorations. Silver Labrador Retriever colors are described as gray or silver. They have gray noses, nails, and gray pads on the paws of their feet. The gray color occurs as the result of breeding two dogs that each carry a recessive gene for dilute coloration. How to Train a Silver Labrador Retriever? In fact, Labrador Retrievers are trained to do many important jobs including drug detection, search and rescue, and therapy work. They are also commonly used as service dogs for people with disabilities. There is no doubt that this is a very trainable dog. However, like all dogs, training a Silver Lab takes patience, effort, and consistency. Make sure you find a trainer that uses modern, positive, force-free training methods. There is no need to use painful training devices such as shock collars, pinch collars or choke chains. Instead, find a trainer that uses reward-based training. This type of training is more effective and more enjoyable for you and your pet. Once you have mastered basic commands, you can look into more advanced activities such as canine sports. Silver Labs can excel at sports including flyball, dock jumping , water retrieving, agility, tracking, nosework, Frisbee and much more! His online resource contains Hundreds of Excellent Dog Training Videos that will take you step-by-step through the process of developing a healthy, happy well-behaved dog. You will need to brush and bathe your Silver Labrador on a regular basis. However, professional grooming should not be necessary. Labradors are moderate shedders, so be prepared for some dog fur in your house. Are Silver Labrador Retrievers Hypoallergenic? Labrador Retrievers of all color varieties are NOT hypoallergenic. If you are looking for a breed that is hypoallergenic, check out this article for some possibilities. Silver Labrador Retrievers are prone to certain genetic conditions, and your vet can give you an idea about what to expect in terms of care and financial cost. For example, be on the watch for signs of the following conditions:. As mentioned, some breeding purists denounce any Labradors other than the three classics and believe that the emergence of other colors is due to cross breeding with Weimaraners. However, no solid evidence supports this theory, and a quick glance at the science reveals that the unique Silver Lab puppies, and their Charcoal and Champagne counterparts, come from a rare combination of recessive genes. A big D is considered dominant, while a little d is recessive. This is why the AKC allows Silver Labs to be fully registered as Chocolate Labs — they come from pureblood, they just have recessive genes. These are even more rare than the trendy Silver Labradors. Hunters loved them for their innate ability to retrieve ducks and after a whole century of developing the breed and meticulously recording characteristics of each litter, Labradors were formally registered with the AKC in .Most kennels strived to breed Black Lab litters, but records include documentation of tan, red and brindles, in addition to the traditional Yellow and Chocolate Labs. But Silver Labs? No one seems to know quite where they come from. They emerged seemingly from nowhere, only adding to their allure. This is because there are only 7 traceable bloodlines. The gene pool is small, and most responsible breeders only allow their female Labrador to produce litters before retiring her. Basic supply and demand keeps the price of Silver Labs very high. There are however, specific rescues geared toward finding the perfect home for Labrador Retrievers of all ages and coat colors. You may find your new Silver Lab puppy through an online search of local rescue organizations. Decade of Friendship: Labrador Life Expectancy When compared to other Labradors, Silver Labs have a typical life expectancy of years - with an average of .Labs generally are known for their friendly, gentle personalities and ability to bond with multiple family members. They are very patient and typically get along well with children and other pets. When socialized from a young age, they enjoy interacting with the whole family. Silver Labradors are well suited for an active household, as they thrive with at least 60 minutes a day of vigorous walking, running, playing, and swimming. As they are natural born swimmers and retrievers, Silver Labs will be happy romping and splashing through water, or chasing a tennis ball. Many owners love to combine the two! Start by finding a clean, safe source of water for your new pup. Then, let him practice his retrieving skills by tossing a ball or other toy that floats. Watch as your new furry friend blossoms into his instincts! Be sure to keep your new Lab puppy physically and mentally stimulated to avoid destructive behaviors like chewing. Puppy puzzles are a great way to provide entertainment without getting outside. The first step in avoiding an unexpected health concern is buying a Lab puppy from a reputable breeder. Still, any Labrador can develop these conditions. Overtime, this condition leads to pain, lameness, and even an altered gait. Though it sometimes requires corrective surgery, if caught early, it can usually be managed with medication and physical therapy exercises. Due to their diluted genes, Silver Labs have additional health risks. Color Dilution Alopecia CDA is a genetic disorder that causes flaky and itchy skin, as well as hair loss. The first sign is thinning coat, which usually occurs at 6 months old. You can also help by providing your puppy with a healthy, balanced diet rich in essential fatty acids and Vitamin A. Coconut Oil is a great supportive supplement! If there is food around, they will find it and eat it so keeping food secure is a must! Adult Labs require between and calories per day from a high-quality, protein-rich food. Most vets recommend splitting their daily needs into two meals, to make digestion easier. Both male and female Labradors are prone to unwanted weight gain and obesity. Monitoring their food and treat intake is essential to raising a healthy dog. Training Tips: Best ways to Teach a Labrador Labradors are a national favorite because of their trainability. They respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement, and reward-based methods, especially when rewarded with food or treats. However, they can get bored easily and training sessions should be kept short, but frequent. As mentioned above, they are highly food-motivated and should easily learn basic commands like sit, down, shake, stay, etc. Just remember to account for the extra calories! Their unique color is due to a simple combination of genes. They love to play and will live best in an active family where they are socialized from a young age. So what do you think? Are you team Silver Lab? Let us know! What Is a Silver Lab? The silver Lab is a variant of the chocolate Labrador Retriever. These colors are black, yellow, and chocolate. Other colors of the Labrador Retriever breed are merely variants of these three primary colors. For example, the red fox Lab and champagne labs are some of the variations of yellow Labs. The same is true for silver Labs. Silver Labs, however, are variations of the chocolate Labrador Retriever. Simply put, silver Labs are technically chocolate Labs! According to the AKC breed standards , chocolate Labrador Retrievers can vary in shade from light to dark chocolate. The greyish-blue color of the silver Labrador falls in between this range of shades. Nevertheless, they also have a double coat just like their other cousins. Are Silver Labradors Purebred? Up to this day, there is still an ongoing debate about whether or not the silver Labrador Retriever is purebred. Sure, AKC recognizes these pups as a variant of chocolate Labradors; however, many people still oppose this recognition saying that these dogs are a product of cross-breeding. Smith, there is no such thing as a silver Labrador. In one of his official statements, Smith warns buyers that silver Labs are merely marketed as rare purebreds so that breeders can sell them for a higher price. In reality, it is not at all that simple. It will always depend on who you ask. Ask a silver Lab breeder, and they will always tell you that their dogs are purebred. Unfortunately, there is no solid evidence that proves whether or not silver Labradors are purebreds. Of course, there is always the option to scrutinize their origin under the microscope. Still, even science can prove to be inconclusive at times. That said, you may still register your silver Labrador as a pedigree in major kennel clubs. However, most clubs such as the AKC require proof of at least three generations of purebred Lab breeding. If you can provide this proof, then you can very quickly have your silver Lab registered. Some of the most probable reasons for this are their high price tags and peculiar coat color. But what else is there behind this controversy? The Labrador Retriever breed was first recognized in the United Kingdom in .Meanwhile, the breed was formalized in the United States a few years later, in .Before the formalization of the breed, both in the United Kingdom and the United States, the silver Labrador was simply unheard of. News reports and magazine articles about it would have been published. But the silver Labrador Retriever did not make such appearances. It was also around this time when silver Labs first appeared in the literature. The controversial part of the story is that silver Labs carry a dilute dd gene. This dilution gene was not found in Labrador Retrievers during the time the breed standards were set. Naturally, this issue blew up in the pet community. Adding gas to the flame is the ridiculously high asking price of silver Labs at the time. This made skeptics believe that the silver Lab was only bred for monetary reasons alone. Some even believe that silver Labs are descendants of Weimaraners and Labrador Retriever hybrids. Except for their coat color, silver Labs share their appearance with the rest of the Labrador Retriever family. These pooches have broad skulls and wide chests. They also have well-defined muzzles and floppy ears. Moreover, silver Labs have an athletic stance. Their bodies are well-balanced, and their muscles are well-distributed. The topline of a silver Labrador is straight, and their tails do not curve upwards. In terms of colors, the silver Lab boasts an attractive grey-blue coat. Their color is closely comparable to that of the Weimaraners. However, some silver Labs appear closer in color to a rich chocolate Labrador Retriever. In addition, many silver Labs also have blue-colored eyes, especially during their younger years. However, the eye color of these puppies usually changes to dark yellow as they grow old. Silver Labs are comparable to other Labrador Retrievers in terms of size. However, gender brings some notable differences in size. In general, a male silver Lab will grow a tad taller and heavier than its female counterpart. Full-grown male silver Labradors grow about 22 to 25 inches in height and weigh between 65 and 80 pounds. Meanwhile, full-grown female silver Labradors grow about 21 to 24 inches in height and weigh between 55 and 70 pounds. All of these pooches are considered medium to large dog breeds. Many people believe that Labradors came from Labrador, Canada; however, this statement is only partly true. While Labrador Retrievers are indeed from Canada, they are from the province of Newfoundland. Labs are descendants of the St. Fishermen and hunters initially used Labrador Retrievers as working dogs in the s. Their intelligence, athleticism, and top-notch swimming skills made them one of the best working dogs at the time. In the s, migrators brought Labs to England. It was around this period when breeders put keen attention on improving the breed. After a few more years, they were registered with the AKC. However, it was only in the s when silver Labs first appeared in the picture. Before silver Labs, there were only three known colors of the Labrador Retriever — black, yellow, and chocolate. Unfortunately, the pet community is split with regards to the origin of the silver Labrador. Many believe that they share the same roots as other Labrador Retrievers, while others argue that they are a mixed breed. For starters, many factors affect the coat color of a Labrador Retriever. The majority of these factors are engraved in the set of genes passed on by the parent dogs to their puppies. Many types of genes affect the coat color of a dog. There are B genes, E genes, and many more. Since every Labrador carries two of these coat color genes, there are three possible combinations of the dilution gene — DD, Dd, and dd. Breeding a silver Lab is all about probability because of the existence of recessive genes. It is possible to have a silver Lab puppy by breeding chocolate Labs. However, for a higher success rate, breeders typically breed silver Labs together. Are Silver Labs Rare? Silver Labs are not as rare as they once were in the s. Since their early years, these dogs have gained many fanatics in the pet community. As a result, there are significantly more silver Lab breeders nowadays compared to the previous years. However, compared to other Lab colors, there are still fewer silver Labs. The most probable reason behind this is that many countries do not recognize silver Labs as purebreds. In turn, fewer pet owners consider having silver Labs as pets. The higher asking price of these pups and their difficulty in breeding also play a role in their rarity. In addition to all these, another possible reason why silver Labs are rare is that they are controversial. Many pet enthusiasts opt not to have silver Labs because they do not believe silver Labs are purebred. For these people, owning a silver Lab puts the Labrador Retriever breed at risk. That said, there are still many fans of the silver Lab breed. While they are rarer than their other Lab cousins, they are not impossible to find. The only requirement is that your silver Lab must have records of at least three generations of pure Lab breeding. If you have the files with you, you can easily register your pooch as a pedigree puppy. Similarly, an AKC registration means that your pooch is welcome to join any AKC-organized pet competitions and dog shows. However, if you reside outside of the United States, registering a silver Lab might prove to be challenging. That said, however, you may still try your luck on any of these kennel clubs. Similar to other shades, Labs with silver color are fantastic family pets. These pooches are loyal, easy to train, and very affectionate. Plus, they are incredibly intelligent as well! Moreover, silver Labs are also very friendly. They can quickly get along with kids and other people. If you have other pets in the house, a silver Lab might act strange around them during the first few days. Just give it some time, and they will get along eventually. Silver Labs are playful and often silly. They may chew up on random objects around the house, especially during their younger years. That said, they typically grow out of the habit. If properly socialized at an early age, a silver Labrador Retriever will grow up as a well-behaved family dog. You just need to be patient during their puppy years because these intelligent pooches can surely be naughty at times! The average life expectancy of the silver Labrador Retriever is 10 to 12 years. This means their lifespan is around the same as other Labrador Retrievers. For the most part, silver Labs, when well cared for, live long and healthy lives. However, much like other Labs, silver Labs are also at risk of some health issues. Furthermore, there is also one health issue that only develops in silver Labrador Retrievers. Below are some common health issues of the silver Labrador Retriever: Color-dilution Alopecia CDA : Color-dilution alopecia is a skin condition that affects dog breeds that carry the dilute gene. This health issue is characterized by poor coat quality accompanied by hair fall. Unfortunately, CDA is not a curable disease. Luckily, a silver Lab with CDA can still live a full life. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Canine hip and elbow dysplasia are widespread health conditions in Labs. More often than not, these health issues are brought about by genetics. A silver Lab with hip and elbow dysplasia will experience problems with their ball-socket joints, which sometimes leads to inactivity or excruciating pain when moving. Silver Labs with PRA will eventually go blind if left untreated. Unfortunately, compared to other dog breeds, Labrador Retrievers have a relatively high chance of developing PRA. If you decide to get a silver Labrador Retriever, these are some of the health issues you should look out for. As always, the best way to keep your silver Lab healthy is by giving it proper nutrition and exercise. Regular vet check-ups are also a must! In fact, these dogs are relatively low maintenance compared to other dogs. Good food, regular exercise, and occasional cuddles are enough to keep a silver Lab happy and healthy. Feeding and Diet Feeding your silver Lab does not require anything special. You just need to make sure you are giving the right kind of dog food for its age. However, during its first few years, you might need to try out different kibble brands to find which one suits your dog the best. Similarly, you can also feed your dog homemade dog meals. You may also give them fruits as alternatives to treats, but make sure you are not feeding your silver Lab anything from the list of toxic food for dogs. Cleaning and Grooming Silver Labs have weather-proof coats. Their coats are quick-drying and relatively easy to maintain. In terms of bathing, it is safe to bathe your silver Lab once every four to six weeks. However, if you take your dog on hikes or other activities, you may bathe it more often. You also have the option to take your silver Lab to a professional groomer twice a year for thorough cleaning. Training and Exercise Silver Labradors are active pooches. It is recommended to bring your dog for a walk for at least one hour per day. Alternatively, you may also engage your pet in other physical activities such as swimming, hiking, or a simple game of fetch. Engaging your dog in mentally challenging training is also a good idea. After all, silver Labs are working dogs. These pups love challenges! Typically, silver Labradors cost more than other Lab colors. The price of the silver Lab is about the same as the red fox Labrador. These pooches are a few hundred dollars more expensive than traditional, black, chocolate, or yellow Labs. The premium asking price of the silver Lab is due to their rarity. Since there are fewer silver Labs than other Lab colors, breeders face more challenges in breeding them. If you want to save a little bit of cash, you can always resort to adoption. Try finding silver Labradors in reputable shelters and rescues. Another way you can cut down on costs is by choosing a reputable breeder who bundles his Labs with freebies. Many breeders offer deals inclusive of some pet supplies. These freebies may range from dog toys and dog food to crates and beds. While these dogs are rarer than other Lab colors, finding silver Lab breeders is still reasonably easy. This breeder raises their Labrador puppies on a acre log cabin property. You can check out their available puppies from time to time to look for some silver Labs! This breeder specializes in charcoal, champagne, and silver Labs. Make sure to check out their listings of adult Labs and Lab puppies. This breeder is committed to raising and selling high-quality silver Labrador Retrievers. However, if you are looking to adopt a silver Lab, you might need a little more patience as these pooches are rarely found in shelters and rescues. Here are some services where you can find silver Labs for adoption: Adopt-a-Pet — Adopt-a-Pet is one of the most famous adoption websites. This platform has been around since and has helped thousands of aspiring pet owners. Petfinder — Petfinder is another reputable adoption website. This website aims to rehome abandoned dogs from shelters and rescues all over the country. Make sure to visit their website regularly to see if they have available silver Labrador Retrievers for adoption! When getting a silver Labrador, it is recommended to find one with a health guarantee. This way, you will have full support from the breeder or shelter if your dog encounters some health issues. On average, silver Labradors are considered moderate to heavy shedders because of their double coats. It is recommended to bathe silver Labrador Retrievers once every four to six weeks. Are Silver Labs Overbred? Many people argue that the silver Labrador is overbred. They blame overbreeding as the leading cause of the common health issues in silver Labs. However, this is not the case. The truth is Silver Labs are not overbred. They have the identical genetic make-up to the other Labrador Retrievers. The only difference is that silver Labs carry a dilute dd gene, which can sometimes increase their risk of some health issues. Some silver Labs develop a disease known as color-dilution alopecia. This skin condition is relatively rare in Labrador Retrievers except for the silver Labs. The main culprit behind this condition is the dilute dd gene, which silver Labs have. A silver Lab with color-dilution alopecia will have poor coat quality and severe drying of the coat. Moreover, parts of the coat where color dilution is most prominent will lose hair gradually. The Labrador Retriever is not known for carrying the dilute dd gene. The breed universally known for carrying this gene is the Weimaraner. This led many skeptics to believe that silver Labs have Weimaraner in them. That said, unfortunately, there is no conclusive way to determine whether or not silver Labs have Weimaraner genes. According to a joint statement from the Labrador Retriever Club and the American Kennel Club, this assessment is beyond the capabilities of parentage testing. On average, Weimaraners are taller and heavier than silver Labrador Retrievers. They also tend to be more active than Labs. What Is the Rarest Labrador Color? Among the three officially recognized Labrador Retriever hues — black, yellow, and chocolate, chocolate is the rarest color variation. However, if sub-colors of the Labrador Retriever are considered, then silver Labs are easily the most uncommon. The Labrador Retriever is a fantastic hunting dog and an amazing family pet. It is one of the most recommended choices for aspiring pet owners looking for four-legged best friends. Luckily, all the praiseworthy traits of the Labrador Retriever are present in silver Labs. Except for the controversy linked to their coat color, silver Labs are Labrador Retrievers through and through. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. January 20, 0 Comments WorldAnimalFoundation. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn More Labrador Retriever is a quite famous breed, topping the list of great family dogs due to their friendly and social personality. Now, what colors come to your mind when you think of the Labradors? Black, yellow, and chocolate. Silver Labrador Retriever is a beautiful color variation of traditional Labradors; because of the presence of a dilute gene. Their distinct coat color has caught the attention of many; however, not without some controversy. About the Breed Silver Labrador Retrievers are one of the rarest shades of labradors. They are a hyperactive breed with a compelling sporting nature. They respond well to training, enjoy exploring nature with you, love playing water sports, and are fond of the fetch game, making them perfect for active families. These beautiful dogs are well-known for befriending every creature they see without any degree of communication. They love being the center of attention and thrive on social interaction. A little clingy at times, but they deserve all that for their service just existing. Their agreeable personality and intelligence make them one of the most charming breeds. However, according to the breed standard set by Labrador Retriever Club, true labradors are yellow, black, and chocolate in color. Many breeders believe that the other colors are due to cross-breeding Labradors with Weimaraners. They were created in Newfoundland and were first introduced by the European to Britain settlers via the ships trading between Canada and Poole. Labs were initially bred for duck retrieving, assisting in fishing adventures, and as a hunting dog. But with time, their popularity grew more as household pets, and to this date, especially in the western world. They first started appearing, according to some sources, in , while others believe it was in the s. Now, it is clear that their distinct coat colors are due to the presence of the recessive dilute gene pair that has recently appeared in the Labrador gene pool. The source of that dilute gene is what makes their exact origin vague. This is why the profile of Silver Labs remains controversial for the most part. Silver Labrador Facts Silver Labradors have blue eyes as puppies. They are more prone to developing skin problems such as Color Dilution Alopecia than other Labradors. They are outgoing and social. They are intelligent and highly trainable Silver Labrador Appearance Just look at Silver Labrador slaying in this picture, like he was born to model. Silver Labs undoubtedly possess the most distinct silverish gray color that leaves an impact on the observer. Their eyes are a beautiful shade of yellow, on which a relatively small black pupil looks striking. They have long floppy ears that rest flat on the sides. Their nose, which is always in search of something to eat or sniffing butts , tends to be brown in color. These rare gray labradors have this indescribable charm that keeps winning people over. Owners tend to be drawn to their wide skulls and muscular build. The average height range for almost all grown Silver Labs is between .WeightThe male Silver Lab tends to have a slightly bulkier build in contrast to the female Lab. On average, the weight of a fully-grown Silver Labrador falls between 55 to 80 pounds. The weight range is 45 to 70 pounds in the case of female Labs. CoatSilver Lab has a double coat to protect them against harsh cold weather. Theirinner coatis denser and thicker as compared to their outer coat, which is thinand short. Their coat is overall smooth and shiny and feels euphoric to pet. Yellow and black are the most common coat shades in Labrador Retrievers, and silver and chocolate are the least common. Silver Lab Puppies A Silver Labrador puppy is one of the most aesthetically pleasing sights to the eyes in the world. The sparkly blue eyes and the smoky grey shade make a striking contrast. As time progresses, they tend to darken. Their eyes turn yellow after the Silver pups cross the age of 6 to 8 months. Silver Labrador Temperament and Personality Talking about Silver Lab temperament, just like other Labrador Retrievers, they too have friendly, affectionate, caring personalities. They are a very intelligent breed that makes the best companion to their human family. This high-spirited breed matures physically but remains child-like at heart, lifting the mood around the house by being jolly, goofy, jumpy, and adored by absolutely everyone. The Silver Labrador retriever has an easy-going personality, which means they enjoy every activity with you. They just want to feel your touch, no matter what you do. It is because of their attachment to their owners, which is why they are prone to exhibiting signs of separation anxiety when left alone on their own for too long. Moreover, it is a social breed that thrives on attention and being around people. These sweet creatures are the best friends of kids. Silver Labs are patient and gentle toward children; they can be their playmates for hours without getting tired. One of the best qualities of These dogs is they get along really well with other dogs and pets. On the contrary, they get excited at the sight of another human, hang out with them and try to impress them with how cool they are they actually are. They also tend to chewupon objects due to anxiety. The Silver Lab is an active breed, just like the black and yellow labs. In order to keep them away from destructive behaviors, they need to stay stimulated mentally and physically. They can be a little prone to nipping, so they do require a lot of your attention. Plus, if you enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, then Silver Lab will prove to be an extraordinary companion to you. Due to being double-coated, they shed a fair amount of hair, especially the Silver Labrador, because of skin problems. Grooming Requirements Brushing As we mentioned above, labs shed quite a bit. And by this, we mean you will be able to collect an adequate amount of hair from all over the house, especially during peak season. Using coconut oil at least once a month can keep their coat neat, shiny, and soft. Gently massage the oil for about five minutes and then clean it with a towel. Bathing Bathing your Labrador Retriever once a month is adequate. Use lukewarm water and mild shampoo; it will keep their skin maintained. However, if you start noticing scratching of nails against the floor while running, walking, or jumping around, trim their nails immediately. Ear Cleaning Their adorable floppy ears need to be checked and cleaned frequently to prevent any potential infection. Always include ear cleaning in their grooming session. Health Complications in Silver Labrador Every breed is likely to face minor or major health complications. And we have listed all the possible health conditions your Labrador Breed could suffer from. When getting a Silver Labrador, always look for a reputable breeder. Life Expectancy Silver Labrador dogs typically have a lifespan between 10 to 14 years. It can vary from dog to dog based on health issues, environment, and other factors. It occurs due to the presence of a recessive gene. In this condition, your dog suffers from skin problems, including hair loss or thinning in the form of patches, itchiness, scaliness, or flaky skin. Vets give treatments to tackle secondary skin infections. Avoid using brushes with harsh bristles. The deficiency of type II muscle fibers causes muscle weakness, resulting in symptoms like stunted growth, trouble swallowing, stiff arched back, shrunken muscles, and low tolerance to exercise. They progressively get worse and are the most prominent in 5 months old puppy. Sadly, most puppies with CNM are subjected to euthanization due to their inability to function normally in life. No dog owner should ever have to go through this painful experience. This developmental issue in both joints causes difficulty or friction in climbing stairs, jumping, running, and even walking. Exercise Induced Collapse Labradors and their unending love for playing and exercise is not something hidden; their energy drive is high. EIC refers to the recessive autosomal inherited trait. Your Labrador Retriever, despite feeling weak, will still try to be active. Then after five to ten minutes, they collapse. Extreme exercise sessions are to be avoided in dogs with this condition. This results in excessive discharge from ears, inflammation, itching, foul odor, and head shaking. Otitis Externais one of the most common ear infections in Silver Labradors, characterized by ear canal inflammation. Ear infections are unpleasant and painful and cause discomfort for your dogs. Consult a local veterinarian right away if you notice any of the above symptoms. Over Eating Labrador Retrievers are quite popular for being foodies. Some scientists associate it with a genetic mutation. Sometimes, overeating might also indicate an underlying serious health issue like hypothyroidism. Silver Labrador Diet and Nutrition Your high-energy Labrador Retriever needs a high-quality, nutritious, and protein-rich diet to function healthily. The amount of dog food you feed them may vary a little with their size and weight. For example, your Silver Lab of 50 pounds will need about 2 and a half cups of good quality dog food daily. The calorie requirement for an pound Silver Labrador is a little higher; they will need about 3 and a half cups of dog food to fulfill their 1, calorie requirement each day. Consider getting dog food that has adequate calcium for better joint development. And remember, it is always best to divide the meals into 3 to 4 intervals for better digestion. These greedy creatures tend to unleash their inner ever-hungry beast at the sight of food, which causes bloating. In order to keep them physically and mentally stimulated, 60 minutes of exercise every day is essential. And if your Lab is super active, make it 1. Labs love playing fetch, running, going on fast-paced walking, and being goofy. Thus, their exercise session can include any activity; just make sure they get enough exercise every day! Dedicate one hour of your time daily to your dog, and give them all your attention and love. Apart from playing and exercising, you can keep them busy by getting them interactive and stimulating toys. Those toys also help them in providing comfort when you leave them alone for a while. They are a highly intelligent breed and can be easily trained. They are a welcome addition to most families. Positive reinforcements work well with them; their love for food makes it easier to lure them into doing literally anything you want. All you need is a favorite treat, toy, or any complimentary food, and boom; your Lab becomes the most obedient boy in the world. As puppies, they are easier to control and manage, while the adult Labs are larger in size and can be a little stubborn. Conclusion Altogether, Silver Labrador dogs have all lovable characteristics, just like the traditional Labrador. They are outgoing, energetic, sweet, intelligent, and loyal furry friends. Their friendliness towards kids, strangers and other pets makes them great dogs for families. You might face a little difficulty finding reputable silver labrador breeders when getting a Silver Labrador. Follow your heart and go for it! Related Guide:. Many breeders dislike this variation, and others love it. However, not all breeders approve of breeding this color variation, and other breeders only try to breed this type. A famous breeder advertised a rare silver grey-looking Labrador back in the s, and many people were shocked because the Lab did not traditionally have this color before. The Silver Labrador remains a mystery, just like the Fox Red Lab that also takes on a rare color appearance. Unfortunately, this can sometimes make the Silver labrador hard to acquire. Overall, the Silver Lab still takes on the same amazing traits that Labradors have. Check out our list of breeders and potential rescues below. The Silver Labrador is a color variation in the Labrador that can be quite difficult to breed. However, the most skilled breeders can accomplish this. Each breeder charges something different based on their reputation, pedigree, and even what they include with the purchase of a puppy. If this still seems like too much for you, you can look down in our rescue section for a cheaper Silver Lab, but it will likely be much older and not a puppy. So if you really want a Silver Lab puppy, then you will have to purchase one from a breeder. Below are four reputable breeders to begin your search. Are Silver Lab Puppies Rare? Yes, the Silver Labrador is a rare color found in the Labrador dog breed. This type of coloring is not seen much and was made by two recessive genes. You may have never seen one in real life, but there are Silver Labs out there. Some breeders do not approve of this coloring on the Labrador, and others do. Is a Silver Lab a Real Dog? Yes, the Silver Lab, also known as the Silver Labrador, is a dog breed. As I have mentioned above, this is just a color variation of the Labrador dog breed and not an actual new dog breed. Here we have found four Silver Labrador breeders that are registered with the American Kennel Club and reputable choices for Silver Lab Puppies for sale. Check them out. The family has an excellent background with dogs, as they also provide training and boarding services. They are located on a acre farm in Central Texas. Their dogs are treated with a great deal of love and like family members. The puppies come with a limited American Kennel Club registration and a month health guarantee. The owners at Serenity Ranch Kennels breed various Labs in black, white, silver, and charcoal colors. They have multiple litters each year, so you should contact them to put a deposit down on a future litter if you are truly interested. They are located in the Greenwood area of Mississippi. All of their dogs and puppies are registered with the American Kennel Club. Puppies will be given a limited registration. Puppies also come with a month hip guarantee, so you can rest easy with that. They breed a variety of different colored labs from silver, charcoal, red, white, and black. They strive to bring you the best quality dog and companion. It is temperature-controlled and very cleaned. It gets inspected by the American Kennel Club to ensure it is safe and clean for dogs. The Kennel has a fenced-in outside area for the dogs to play around in. Then, the expectant mothers get moved into the birthing room to get ready to have puppies. They love all Labradors, but their focus in breeding is to breed the silver, charcoal, and champagne colored Labs. All the dogs are registered with the American Kennel Club, and each puppy comes with a limited registration. If you are truly interested in getting a Silver Lab, fill out their puppy application and get in contact with the owner. Their small family breeding operation is located in West Tennessee. Jeff and Rhonda have been breeding Labradors for twenty years now, and all their dogs are American Kennel Club Registered, and puppies come with a limited registration. They do not ship their puppies across the United States, so you will need to make arrangements to come to them to get your dog. The only drawback is that you will likely find an older dog instead of a puppy. The Lab Rescue is a non-profit rescue that rescues, rehomes, and takes in neglected or abused Labradors. They work with six different states to acquire these dogs and rehome them. They have many Labradors up for adoption. Look through their list and see if they have any Silver Labs that you might be interested in purchasing. Another great resource to check out is the Lab Rescue by State. This directory is really helpful as it gives you a map of the United States. In addition, it lets you click on the state you live in so you can see how many Labs need a new home. They have both purebred Labradors and some mixes. It can be very helpful and extremely affordable to go through a rescue. I hope you found these two Silver Lab rescues helpful. Summary Have you ever seen a Silver Labrador? Do you own one? Let us know in the comments below if you have one or plan on purchasing Silver Lab puppies for sale. I hope I was able to help give you a lot of information to help you begin your search in finding the perfect Silver Labrador puppy for you and your family. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates. November 22, There is no denying that Labradors have long been one of the most popular dog breeds. In this guide, we are going to reveal everything you need to know about Silver Lab puppies. Just like traditional Labradors, these dogs are adored for their outgoing and friendly personalities. They are lovable, sociable, loyal, and energetic. The only real difference is their unique grayish-blue color, which is adorable, to say the least. For the price of or to apply for one of our silver labs contact us at the bottom of this page here. You may be wondering how we have ended up with Silver Labs, and why they are the perfect family companion. Another feature of a dilute dog is the color of the eyes and the nose. The dilute gene is something that you will find in a lot of different dog breeds. Nevertheless, it has only appeared in Labrador Retrievers quite recently. The dilute gene and coat color The American Kennel Club recognizes three different Labrador colors: chocolate, black, and yellow. You will notice that three colors are missing from the list: champagne, charcoal, and of course, silver. Just like silver is considered a diluted version of chocolate, champagne is a diluted version of yellow, and charcoal is a diluted version of black. The way the dilute gene works A set of genes controls the coat color a Labrador has. When it comes to the silver color, it is the D gene that is at play here, acting as a type of switch. This means that a Labrador is going to require two copies of the dilute gene to have dilute fur. This means that a silver coat can only be produced with the final combination. Unless one little d is paired with another little d, it is not going to have any impact. There are some dog breeds whereby all of the individuals will have two little d genes, with Weimaraners being a prime example. Where do we get Silver Labs from? In the United States, reports of Silver Labradors were first seen from around the s. One of the earliest kennels to produce Labs in this new silver color was Culo Silver Labs. Our Silver Labrador Romeo Precisely how this new color came to be is a question that a lot of people debate, with a number of different opinions on the subject. How did Labradors end up with the dilute gene? There are a number of different options that can explain the appearance of a new gene in a purebred dog. This includes the following: Hidden genes Spontaneous mutation Mixed breeding The first and most obvious explanation is that there was a cross between a Labrador and a breed of dog that carries the dilute gene at some point. The capacity of a rare gene to stay hidden for an extended time period is a phenomenon that the majority of scientists are aware of. The explanation for the appearance of the Silver Labrador in the s is arguably the most valid alternative to the theory of cross-breeding. We know that some genes are more dominant than others, and can hide or mask them. These are known as recessive genes. A lot of diseases happen as a consequence of recessive genes, and they only appear when the unfortunate individual inherits two copies. Rare diseases that are carried by genes can actually remain hidden for years and years and years, only to appear when dogs that are closely related end up mating together. This is something that happens more regularly when the gene pools are small, as is the case in pedigree dog populations. Colors can be recessive or dominant as well The B color gene is one that determines whether or not a Labrador is brown or black, with black dogs being favored. Brown is a recessive color, and a Labrador is going to require two copies of the little b brown gene in order to end up with a coat that is brown in color. Brown Labs only became popular when breeders intentionally set about mating them to each other. Some people believe that the rare dilute gene has been present in Labs all along and that it only appeared when two dogs that were closely related were bred — as some rare diseases end up doing. It was not until that the AKC registered the first Labs. This includes the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, which is a breed that does have the dilute gene. Spontaneous mutation Another theory to consider is spontaneous mutation. It is not uncommon for genes to mutate. This is another way that an unusual or rare characteristic can appear in a family of dogs that were not affected by it previously. This is a theory that is not overly popular for the appearance of the dilute gene in the Silver Lab. The reason for this partly comes down to the fact that hidden genes are such a plausible explanation. For a mutation to be identical to a gene that exists already for unusual coat color in a different breed would be a coincidence. A lot of people feel that the spontaneous appearance of the dd dilution gene in the Silver Labrador Retriever gene pool is, to say the least, unlikely. However, this is not something that we can rule out. Mixed breeding A lot of people believe that the first Silver Labrador were, in fact, crossbreeds. This is a theory that is plausible, and there are evident motivates for dog breeders wanting to create a new color variation of an existing breed. Motives can include the allure of creating something new and the financial gain, although they may not have realized that Silver Labradors would be so popular. A lot of people that believe mixed breeding is at play here believe that Labradors were mixed with Weimaraners, creating a cross. However, it is worth pointing out that this theory has lost a bit of credibility as of late because of the genetic testing of Silver Labrador, which has not shown any connection to Weimaraners. The appearance of a Silver Lab Of course, the stunning silver coat is the first thing that people tend to notice about a Silver Labrador. This smooth, double coat appears almost like it is velvet, and it tends to be a faded brown or a slate grey shade. Another one of the defining features is their straight otter tail, which enables the dog to move through the water safely. They are built for both water and land, and they have long, muscular legs, which are made to suit swimming and running. Colors The Silver Labrador can come in a number of different shades. Typically, it is a bluish-grey or slate, yet, faded brown is another possibility. The coat is incredibly smooth, and when you stroke a Silver Labrador, it feels a lot like plush velvet! Size Once a Silver Labrador has fully grown, the girls are going to be between 21 and 23 inches tall, and the boys are going to stand between 22 and 24 inches tall. The females are between 55 and 70 pounds while the males are between 65 and 80 pounds. Silver Labrador longevity and health Silver Labradors suffer from the same health problems that other purebred Labs can experience, including over-eating and a predisposition to joint issues. Two studies that have been carried out record the lifespan for a Labrador at between 11 and 12 years of age, and Labs also have a higher cancer rate when compared with other breeds, i. On the balance, though, Labradors are a breed that is well-constructed and healthy, free from some of the different disabilities that plague a lot of other purebred dogs. However, this is a possible medical issue linked with the coat color dilution gene that you need to be aware of. Color dilution alopecia The color dilution gene — the dd gene that we have been referring to that causes the beautiful silvery coat — is sometimes linked with coat issues. Particularly, it may be connected to a type of hair loss. It is not typically a condition that is life-threatening, but it also is not curable either. It can result in progressive hair loss in young dogs and could cause a recurrent infection in the hair follicles. Coat dilution does not always result in skin issues. Not all dogs that have the dd gene are going to have the faulty alopecia variant. And, you will find that the majority of Silver Labradors do not have alopecia. However, it is important to be aware of the fact that this can be an issue. To date we have not seen it in our bloodline. In a lot of respects, therefore, the health of a Silver Labrador is a lot like any other type of purebred Lab. Silver Lab training and temperament No matter the origin of the Silver Labrador, the Silver Labs we see today are very much Labrador in both conformation and temperament. Training a Silver Lab puppy can be a great deal of fun. Of course, it will take a little bit of patience and time, as Labs can be a bit nippy when they are small, and rather bouncy when they grow into their teens. So, you are going to need to make sure you have a little bit of time every day for training. As long as you are able to handle the high energy that your Silver Lab has, you should not have too much trouble. Aside from the need for mental stimulation and high activity level, the requirements that a Silver Labrador has are very basic, even kids can learn to care for one. Grooming, training, and feeding do not need to go far beyond the needs of other dogs to be happy and healthy. It is not going to take too long for your friendly Silver Labrador to fit right in. Health considerations Chocolate and Silver Labradors are more likely to suffer from skin diseases and ear infections when compared with other fur colors. This dirty water can remain in their ears, which can result in an infection. There are a number of different symptoms that can arise, including crust and itching around the ear, and darkening and redness of the ear canal. Of course, your vet will be able to advise you. With Silver Labradors, you also need to be on the lookout for painful skin lesions that are known as a hot spot. These sorts of lesions happen when a dog picks or licks a spot of the skin that is injured. Sunburn, insect bites, and regular injuries can all form hot spots. For problems like this, anti-inflammatory medication tends to clear up the issue, yet you may need to place a cone on your dog to prevent him or her from picking at it. Nutrition Another important factor to consider when it comes to Silver Labs is that their nutritional requirements are different at different points within their lives. Once your dog has grown fully, it is going to require between and 1, calories each day. In terms of what you feed them, any premium quality kibble is going to be suitable. Never feed raw pork or beef to a dog. Healthy fats are next on the list. The last thing should be carbs. It is important to make sure that all of the ingredients are derived from natural sources instead of artificial fillers. Expected growth for your Silver Lab It is important to know about the growth stages for your Silver Labrador. Your puppy should weigh between 10 and 22 pounds when they are seven to 12 weeks old. When your dog is between 12 weeks and six months, it should be around 40 pounds, which is half of its adult weight. Between six and nine months of age, your puppy should be around three-quarters of his or her way onto the adult size. Puppies when they are this age tend to weigh between 50 and 65 pounds. Finally, your dog is going to be their full weight once they reach one year of age. This is between 55 and 80 pounds. Grooming Despite the fact that a Silver Labrador has short fur, they are not deemed a breed with low shed. If you do bring a Silver Lab into your home, you should expect to see a few of their silver hairs on the carpet and the couch. The dog will shed throughout the year moderately, and you will need to brush it at least once per week. Throughout the spring months, your Silver Labrador will drop a lot more hair than usual. The same goes for the fall, as they prepare for their seasonal coat. If your dog is active, you are generally not going to need to cut its nails. Just be sure to check their nails every fortnight. Silver Labrador exercise The Silver Labrador is a breed that has a lot of energy and will spend most of the day on its feet. They will want to jump and run for most of their waking hours. This is why it is critical to make sure they have a minimum of one full hour of physical activity each day. A game of fetch in the pool with your Silver Labrador can be heaps of fun. They can also enjoy games of chase, and you can even play tag with your fluffy friend. We would rank their activity level as a four out of five, and your Silver Labrador will need to have at least 60 minutes of activity on a daily basis. Some helpful tips on buying Silver Labs If you are thinking about buying a Silver Lab, we have a number of different tips and snippets of information that can assist you with your purchase: Make sure that your property has sufficient space to accommodate a Silver Labrador, as this is a breed that is very active. If you do not have your own garden, you are going to need to take your dog to the park for at least an hour per day so that they can let out their energy. Even it means paying a little bit more, it is important to be sure that you receive the Canadian Kennel Club CKC certification for the puppy. You want to be certain that your puppy is what you expect, and that they have been cared for properly as a youngster. A Silver Labrador can be more costly when compared with other common colors, so it is imperative that you budget effectively. There is often a waiting list that you will have to get onto and wait for your puppy. Established breeders have a greater demand for their dogs because of the quality of puppy they breed. Final words on Silver Labs So there you have it: everything that you need to know about Silver Labradors and the characteristics associated with this breed of dog. We hope that this guide has helped you to get a better understanding of Silver Labs, and why they make such good pets. If you are looking for a friendly, lovable, and unique dog to bring into your family, a Silver Labrador Retriever is well worth considering. In the end, the color of coat of any dog should not make a difference unless you plan to show it. Remember, a silver lab is a chocolate lab with only 1 more copy of the dilute gene. How could this make them unsuitable as a pet? So, our suggestion is as it always has been. Love your dogs not based on a superficial quality such as color of coat, love them because they love you unconditionally and will serve you until their final breath. FAQ about Silver Labs We are going to finish by answering some of the most common questions we receive about Silver Labradors, so you can get a better understanding of this breed. Are Silver Labradors rare? In some countries, Silver Labs are rare, as this is deemed a relatively new color variation. This is partly to do with the fact that registering silver puppies is not widely permitted. Although these sorts of dogs are not considered rare, Silver Labs are more unusual when compared with the likes of Brown, Yellow, or Black Labradors. How big do Silver Labradors get? The recommended breed typical height for a labrador is up to 23 inches and a half for females and 24 inches and a half for males. Nevertheless, individuals can vary a couple of inches to either side of this. With regard to body weight, the variations can be even more diverse, and a lot of this is going to depend on which of the two groups the Silver Lab falls into, i. English or American. Female Labs tend to reach about 60lbs in weight. Male Labs will often reach approximately 70lbs in weight. However, there can be a difference of around 20lbs to either side of that. American Labrador Breds, which are used for retrieving and hunting, tend to be taller and slimmer, and so they are often lighter than the chunkier English type, which you would see in a show ring. Do Silver Labs make good family dogs? Yes, Silver Labs are known as excellent family dogs. Ideally, a Silver Labrador Retriever is going to be suitable to an outdoor-loving, active family, with children over the age of five years old. As Labradors can be bouncy dogs when they are young, a Silver Lab puppy is not always the best choice if you have toddlers in your household or anyone who is unsteady on their feet. However, a calmer, older Lab can be ideal if you have a household with younger children. Labradors, no matter their color, are incredibly sociable. They are happy when they are in a family environment whereby there are people at home for at least some of the day, if not most of it. How much do Silver Labs cost? You may be wondering how much it will cost for you to add an adorable Silver Labrador to your family. We always suggest to find the best quality puppy you can find, not the cheapest. An investment into the health of a well bred silver pup is something that will follow. For more on what a quality Lab puppy looks like visit this page. The rarity of this breed of Labrador has pushed the price up. If you were to go for a classic Black Labrador or a Yellow Lab, you would not need to pay as much. Of course, it is all about finding the perfect companion for your family.