Labrador Retrievers, among the most popular breeds in America, are also known as simply, Labs.  Originating in Canada (Greenland), the breed became registered by the AKC in 1917 in the Sporting Group: Gundog Class.  They generally live between 10 and 14 years.  Females vary in size from 21.5 to 23.5 inches and 55 to 70 pounds.  They often have litters of 7 or 8 puppies.  Males are slightly larger.  They are usually between 22.5 and 24.5 inches and weigh between 60 and 75 pounds.  The desired colors for this breed must solids in the following colors: black, yellow, or chocolate brown. Close, short, and dense without waves or feathering. Their double coat is also waterproof. Labrador Retrievers have a double coat.  This is made up of a dense, water-resistant undercoat and a thick outer coat.  However, just a minimum light brushing of the Labrador Retrievers coat every once in a while will keep it in great shape. Labrador Retrievers are considered a hardy breed.  They do have some potential problems, such as hip dysplasia, epilepsy, Progressive Retinal Atrophy or PRA, arthritis and skin allergies.
Labrador Retrievers have medium length drop ears and a brown or black nose. Labrador Retrievers are easy to train and are good with children and other dogs. The Labrador Retriever is good natured, loyal and hardworking. Labrador Retrievers are use in many jobs such  as guide dogs and sniffer dogs, detecting drugs and explosives. The Labrador Retriever is rarely aggressive, they are good tempered and very agile and make a devoted companion who has a strong will to please. Labrador Retrievers love their masters and show it by enthusiastically wagging their tails. They are eager, alert and self-confident.  They love to please their masters.  While they are large dogs, they are not good watch dogs.  They would be more likely to wag their tales at a stranger, than to growl or bare their teeth. They are terrific with children and have a very high tolerance with youngsters.  They get along with other animals and many people.  Labrador Retrievers can be indoor or outdoor pets.  They do not like to be left alone, though.
They have both a very high learning and obedience rate.  They also have a medium to high activity rate. This simply means that indoors the can remain calm and when outside, they will become very active.  They love water and can swim.  The family would also provide daily exercise and excellent grooming.  Labrador Retrievers are at their best when out in the country, but are able to adapt to pretty much any living situation, as long as sufficient room and time is provided for exercise.  Labrador Retrievers are active and enjoy human interaction. Labrador Retrievers have wonderful qualities, both inside and out.  They just need a master who appreciates and adores them.