Labrador retriever weight by month girl

Labradors are a popular dog breed: smart and good-natured retrievers make excellent companions, loyal and sincerely loving pets. These magnificent animals are great for both couples with several children and single elderly people.

Before you bring home a shaggy, life-loving Labrador, you should carefully familiarize yourself with the standard characteristics, a set of specific, precisely established dimensions of the dog. Such parameters of a Labrador Retriever as weight, height and other overall dimensions are the most important factors necessary for monitoring conditions, organizing exhibition activities and solving everyday details of the life support of a toothy pet.

Getting to know the famous retriever branch begins with studying the breed's reference registry.

How much should an adult pet weigh?

Labradors grow up to a year, after which they practically do not change. Owners only need to worry about maintaining shape.

Labradors are prone to weight gain, and their diet and physical activity must be strictly controlled . Obese dogs experience heart problems.

Labrador boys weigh differently than girls.

For males, the norm is a weight of 28-36 kilograms; for females, a weight from 25 to 33 kilograms is considered normal..

Labrador is overweight

Being overweight or obese is a common problem for all Labradors. The fat layer can increase for several reasons:

• Food indiscriminateness. Such animals absorb any food in unlimited quantities. This is especially common when owners feed the dog food from the table.
• The presence of hypothyroidism, which is characterized by improper functioning of the thyroid gland. As a result, metabolic disorders occur.

Excess weight is a common problem for Labradors.

Excess weight in Labradors is a problem that requires urgent action. It negatively affects the dog's health and life expectancy. Therefore, if your pet is noticeably overweight, you should do the following:

• Review your dog's diet and portion sizes. An adult animal should eat no more than twice a day. As for the volume of food, it is determined from the ratio: 15 g of protein food (meat, offal, etc.) per 1 kg of body weight, 5 g of carbohydrates (vegetables, cereals), 2 g of fat.
• If the dog eats commercial food, it is necessary to feed it the amount recommended by the manufacturer. It is indicated on the food packaging and is calculated based on the age and weight of the animal.
• Dogs 9 years of age or older should be fed once a day. During this period, animals are especially prone to weight gain.
• The duration of walks should be at least 1.5-2 hours. During this time, the animal should be allowed to run at an average pace, play with other dogs, run after a ball or walk on a leash.

If excess weight is not associated with hormonal imbalances, these recommendations will help your Labrador get back into optimal shape.

Height and weight are the main parameters by which we can draw a conclusion about the correct development of a dog and its compliance with breed standards. The optimal ratio indicates decent maintenance, proper feeding and good Labrador genes.

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Health control

Systemic measurements are also relevant for non-show activity: a table of labrador retriever weight gain by month is an excellent tool for monitoring the health of labrador fry. The table showing the growth of a Labrador by month is an indicator of proper development.

Excess fat mass is a common occurrence in Labradors. Cheerful life-lovers are famous for their insatiable appetite and absolute omnivorousness. Obesity is a painful form that requires tough decisions and immediate action: excess weight is harmful to health and shortens a pet’s life expectancy. To diagnose obesity, it is enough to compare the reference age indicators and the results of weighing a toothy pet. If your Labrador’s weight per year exceeds the declared norm by more than fifteen percent, it’s time to urgently contact a veterinarian and nutritionist.

Excess weight that develops into obesity is a serious problem and a source of serious complications. Loss of physical activity creates a “vicious circle”: the dog needs to actively move in order to “throw off” those extra pounds, but the dog cannot do this due to health conditions.

Dimensions (height at withers, etc.) for an adult Labrador, depending on gender

There is an American standard, according to which the height of females is up to 55 centimeters at the withers, males - up to 57 centimeters.

You can measure your dog at home. The breed standards, in addition to general height and weight, include indicators of head length, cheekbone width, length of the body and front legs, chest girth, wrist girth, muzzle length, distance between the shoulder blades, and leg length.

The Labrador is considered a dog of medium height - not very tall and not too small - and quite large in build.

requirements :

1. Wedge-shaped large head.
2. Powerful muzzle with large nostrils.
3. Strong rounded jaws.
4. Straight and level nose.
5. The eyes are not very big.
6. The tail is moderately long, straight, wider at the base and narrower towards the end.
7. The hind legs are more developed than the front legs.

Expert opinion

Tolkachev Andrey Mikhailovich

veterinarian

If a Labrador's weight exceeds the norm (you can check the size chart and try on the dog yourself at home; on average, an adult dog is about thirty kilograms and half a meter in height), then this cannot be ignored. These dogs have a high appetite, they do not know how to control themselves, and apartment pets most often suffer from obesity. Closer to the age of 10, Labradors become overgrown with fat deposits, this can be avoided if the dog is loaded with physical exercise - running, long walks, swimming - one and a half to two active hours a day. You can check for excess weight by lightly pressing the ribs with your fingers: they should be palpable, but individual ribs should not be visible. If a Labrador does not grow more than forty centimeters for a long time - for example, up to a year - then it is too early to panic, perhaps the dog has not yet matured: adult individuals sometimes grow up to one and a half years.

Puppy weight and height by age

• In the first month, the kitten is born very tiny and weighs about 400 grams. Every day he gains an average of 100 grams, and in a week his weight changes by 1 kilogram. He already weighs 3-4 kg per month.
• In the second month, the pet grows very quickly and at 2 months reaches a weight of 7-8 kg.
• In the third month , growing by 100 grams per day, the pet already weighs 12-14 kg by the end of the first trimester.
• A four-month-old Labrador puppy is already a fairly well-fed baby, weighing 17-19 kg. His height is approximately 46 cm at the withers.
• Having reached five months , the puppy no longer grows in size so quickly. Parameters range from 21 to 22 kg with a height of 48-51 cm.
• A six-month-old Labrador is no longer the plush bun that you brought into the house, but already looks like an adult dog. With a weight of 24-26 kg, his height is 50-55 cm.
• At 7 months , he is already a sexually mature teenager. However, you should avoid mating, as there may not be very pleasant consequences for the dog. Weight from 27 to 28 kg, height 52-56 cm.
• Reaching 8 months of age , the Labrador becomes a fully grown animal. He's not gaining as much weight anymore. Ranges from 28 to 30 kg and height 54-57 cm.
• At 9 months the dog begins to grow stronger. Growth has not changed dramatically. The normal weight is 29-32 kg, height 54-58 cm.
• At 10 months the indicators of an adult dog are present. Weight should be between 30 and 40 kg. Height at the withers is up to 58 centimeters. Despite its full size, the Labrador is still a young dog that requires full care.

Breed standard

There are 3 types of standards for the Labrador breed. The most common is the international standard FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale). The English standard is almost entirely FCI compliant. The American standard allows for errors in growth rates of 3-5 cm.

Exterior

The dog is large and strong. The body does not look overweight or stretched. Proportional addition. The dog is mobile, the muscles are clearly visible. Wide chest and forehead. Strong hindquarters.

Labrador retriever males are larger and more courageous than females and have a massive head. Bitches look more graceful, lighter built, the pelvis is larger than the head.

For males, the ideal height at the withers is 56-57 cm with a weight of 28-36 kg. For females, height ranges from 54-56cm, weight – 24-32kg. Deviations in height are allowed within 1 cm.

Weight indicators are not strictly regulated and are recommendations, however, you should pay attention to the consistency of the dog’s appearance and weight. Excess weight may indicate obesity; underweight may indicate poor nutrition or illness.

Head

Pronounced and large. The length of the muzzle corresponds to the length of the head. The line of the nose is almost parallel to the line of the skull, with a pronounced transition to the facial part. Sometimes there is a characteristic bump on the back of the head. The skin is tight, without sagging. The arrangement of teeth is linear. A straight bite is considered acceptable. The incisors are long, but not pointed.

The eyes are set deep in the sockets. Lively, expressing intelligence and interest. Eye color is predominantly brown.

The ears are hanging, but not heavy, triangular in shape. They fit tightly to the cheeks, but lag behind during movement.

Frame

The neck is well defined and of medium length. Provides high mobility. Without sagging or bulging, it has a pronounced scruff. The back is straight, without humps or sagging. The croup is wide and short. The chest extends beyond the line of the paws when viewed from the front. The ribs are well sprung. The stomach is tucked up, not drooping.

Limbs

The forelimbs are level, stand at right angles to the ground and are located exactly under the body. A characteristic feature: the shoulder blade forms a right angle with the shoulder, and the length of the shoulder blade is equal to the length of the shoulder.

The hind limbs are powerful. The lower leg is slightly elongated. The hock joints are set low. The croup is straight without slope. The paws are round, compactly gathered into a ball. The pads of the dads are spaced well enough to distribute the load when walking.

The tail tapers towards the end from a thick base, so its appearance resembles that of an otter. The fur on the tail is rough. In a calm state, the tail droops; when excited, it rises to the level of the back.

Coat and color

The coat is short and uniform, without bald spots. The undercoat is oily and water-repellent.

Colors: pure black, chocolate (liver) brown, cream, chestnut, yellow. A light star on the chest is allowed.

Character

The character is soft and obedient, active and playful. Loves to swim. Labrador is good-natured towards adults, children, and other dogs. Has good instincts and loves to hunt. Very efficient. Strives to please the owner.

According to dog attack statistics in America from 1982 to 2014, the Labrador ranks 9th out of 73 dogs. Despite the fact that the dog is not at all aggressive, it still requires attention and training.

The most common Labrador breed inconsistencies that you need to pay attention to when choosing and raising a dog:

• Males are similar to females.
• Aggressive or timid character.
• Long or short legs.
• Elongated or shortened body.
• White or colored spots, uneven color.
• Small head, short or narrow muzzle, uneven nose line.
• Semi-erect ears.
• Slanty eyes.
• Caries.
• Long neck.
• Narrow withers, pointed shoulder blades.
• Sagging back.
• Short or long tail.
• Narrow chest.
• Sagging belly.
• Small distance between fore and hind legs.
• Clubfoot.
• Heavyness, swaying of the croup vertically when walking.

The nominal weight of an adult Labrador (male) is 30 to 40 kg. Knots weigh 25-32 kg. As a result of poor nutrition, Labradors can gain weight faster, which can lead to heart disease.

The height of males at the withers is 56-58 cm, females approximately 54-56 cm.

We invite you to read: How much does a cat weigh: table of cat weight by age, norm and reasons for deviation from it

Head circumference – 46-56 cm.

Bust circumference – 70-86 cm.

Muzzle length – 7.5-10 cm.

Muzzle circumference – 28-32 cm.

The girth of the mouth is 11-14 cm.

What is the breed standard

A dog breed standard, including a Labrador, is a set of characteristics and physical attitudes for an animal that must be preserved for the purity of the breed and the health of the breed.

The standard was approved in 1987 for two varieties of breeds - American and English Labrador . The standard includes not only the exterior, but also the characteristics of the dog’s temperament.

In dog breeding, it is customary to focus on the English standard of the Labrador breed, because it was adopted somewhat earlier than the American one.

The American breed standard is not much different from the English, this mainly concerns the temperament of dogs - “Americans” are more active than “English”.

Puppy weight and sizes from 1 to 12 months

The weight of newborn Labradors ranges from 40 to 55 grams . Every day they increase to 120 g. From birth to the first month, puppies grow up to 23 centimeters, at three months they reach 40 centimeters, and by six months - 50 centimeters.

Meeting height and weight standards is necessary because this indicates the health of the puppy, as well as its purebred.

At exhibitions where Labradors are examined by experts, the first thing that is done is weighing and other essential measurements.

Therefore, the owner’s responsibility is not only to raise the pet, but also to monitor how it grows in size, strictly following the required diet.

Puppy weight by month

Let's start with how much a healthy dog ​​should weigh. Since the main characteristics are weight and height, we will also talk about what height is considered normal for babies. A special table will help us figure out the size of the puppy.

A healthy Labrador puppy's weight increases by at least 2 kg every month. And if we summarize the entire table, then the dog’s weight should increase 10 times on average in 10 months. The growth of a Labrador also varies from month to month and is finally formed by the year.

In order to monitor the parameters of a Labrador Retriever, you need to measure it at the withers. To do this, you will need, firstly, a centimeter, and secondly, the dog’s good disposition. The baby should not be hungry, and let there be a minimum of irritants around. The retriever grows up to almost a year, so significant changes occur every 30 days. For this reason, measurements are taken on a Labrador show puppy monthly, as it must meet standards in order to take part in shows.

As can be seen from the table, active weight gain occurs as early as 2 months - the weight increases almost 2 times. Already at 3 months, the puppy begins to gain an average of 3 kg in 30 days of life, but by 5 months the baby should already have two-thirds of the required weight. At 4 months, the dog’s growth at the withers also slows down. But at 6 months, a maximum of 8 cm should be missing from the norm. On the one hand, if you observe your four-legged friend monthly, then not such big changes occur to him: his weight increases by two kilograms, and his height increases by a couple of centimeters. One way or another, the puppy must follow the required parameters upon reaching a certain age, otherwise the path to exhibition events will be closed to him.

Related article: How to care for a puppy and an adult Labrador

To ensure that the pet does not deviate from the norm, the owner must provide it with proper care, a balanced diet and sufficient exercise. Excess pounds are just as dangerous as being underweight. Be attentive to your baby, because he is entirely dependent on you.

Compliance with the parameters is not only a sign of elitism, but also of health.

We recommend this article:

How to care for a puppy and an adult Labrador

Features of feeding and diet

Nutrition for puppies is important in principle, but for Labradors, who love to eat, it is doubly important. Newborns feed only on mother's milk, but here, too, a certain schedule must be followed:

• 12 times a day for the first week;
• 8 - in the second;
• on the third - 6.

The owner’s task in this case is to ensure that the female feeds the babies in a timely manner. But somewhere around 3-4 weeks the baby may not have enough maternal nutrition, so it is important to know what to feed your Labrador puppy during this period.

Natural nutrition

Natural products can be used as complementary foods for a growing body: the basis (50-60%) should be meat, a little less (30%) cereals and 10-20% vegetables. Boiled eggs, boiled sea fish, offal, cottage cheese or kefir will also fit perfectly into the menu. You should definitely avoid the following foods in your Labrador's diet:

• sweets;
• pickles;
• milk;
• fatty meats;
• potatoes, cabbage, onions.

Food for a puppy should not be cold or hot, salt and spices should not be added to it. It is advisable to introduce foods gradually, one at a time, monitoring the growing body’s reaction to complementary foods. Important! Labradors are easy to overfeed because they love to eat, but overfeeding in their case can lead to obesity. Therefore, it is recommended to remove leftover food immediately after feeding, rather than leaving it for the baby.

Dry food

Dry food can be given to babies starting from the sixth week, when baby teeth appear. To begin with, give one granule, then the next day a couple and so on, so that the addiction is gradual.

There are several points that play an important role in feeding with dry food:

• choose only high-quality brands that avoid the use of harmful substances in the composition;
• It is advisable not to change the chosen brand in the future, this may cause stomach upset in the baby;
• It is necessary to feed the puppy dry food 5-6 times a day;
• It is advisable to create a feeding schedule and stick to it day after day.

Dry food is an excellent option for babies, because their balanced composition contains all the necessary additives and microelements for the harmonious growth and development of a Labrador.

Labrador puppy sizes by month

The main characteristics in the development process of a dog are its height and weight. Each breed has its own norms, a significant deviation from which indicates improper development, nutrition and other deviations.

Development by day in the first month

A newborn Labrador puppy weighs about 400-550 g. Daily weight gain is about 100 g. Accordingly, weight indicators in the first month will be as follows:

• 1 day – 400-550 g;
• Day 7 – 1200-1350 g;
• Day 14 – 2000-2300 g;
• 21 days – 2700-2950 g;
• Day 30 – 3400-3800 g.

Thus, every week of life the puppy gains about 1 kg in weight.

Interesting! According to experienced breeders of these dogs, it doesn’t really matter what weight the puppies are born with, what’s important is follow-up care and genetics.

Height at the withers by the first month is about 23-13.5 cm.

Optimal weight gain and growth of a puppy is an indicator of its health and proper development

Development of puppies from 1 month to a year

In order to control the weight of a Labrador puppy by month, you need to focus on the norms for the development of the animal.

The table below will present in detail what the weight of a Labrador puppy should be by month:

As you can see from the table, the weight of a Labrador puppy increases by an average of 2-2.5 kg over the months. Compared to birth, by the age of one year the mass becomes 9 times larger. The height at the withers changes especially quickly from 1 to 8 months, after which the active development of the muscular system occurs.

Based on the table, we can conclude at what age a Labrador retriever actively grows.

Indicators by month:

• 1 month. The baby is born weighing only 400 g. In the first 30 days, a daily increase of 100-120 g is observed. Upon reaching the age of one month, boys weigh about 3.7 kg, girls - 3.4 kg.
• 2 month. The puppy is growing rapidly and gaining weight. By the 60th day of his life, his body weight reaches an average of 7-8 kg.
• 3 month. Gaining 100-120 g every day, by the end of the month the cable will weigh 13-14 kg, the bitch will weigh 12-13 kg.
• 4 month. A four-month-old puppy gains weight in the range of 17-20 kg. At the withers, the Labrador reaches 46 cm.
• 5 month. At this age, the puppy is actively gaining weight and increasing in size. By the end of the 5th month, the animal’s weight approaches 21-23 kg. Height at withers – from 48 to 51 cm.
• 6 months. By six months, the puppy becomes more like an adult dog. At the withers, the Labrador reaches 50-55 cm, with a body weight of 24-26 kg.
• 7 months. At this age, dogs reach sexual maturity, but mating should be strictly avoided. Early pregnancy in bitches will negatively affect not only their offspring, but also the health of the expectant mother. Puppies weigh 27-28 kg at this time.
• 8 months. By this age, weight gain occurs very slowly. Labradors during this period weigh from 28 to 30 kg. Their height is between 54-57 cm.
• 9 months. The dog's skeleton practically does not grow; there is an expansion of the chest and an increase in muscle mass. The optimal weight is considered to be 29-32 kg.
• 10 months and beyond. All parameters, starting from this age, correspond to an adult. Height at the withers is about 58 cm, weight 30-40 kg.

To monitor its growth, it is necessary to regularly measure the puppy at the withers. For this procedure you will need a centimeter and a good mood of the animal. Since active growth occurs during this period, measurements are recommended to be taken every month.

Advice! The best time to measure your Labrador Retriever is when he is not hungry and calm. This way you can get the most accurate values.

It is especially important to comply with the standards for dogs that are to be shown and participate in breeding. To ensure that the weight and height of a Labrador puppy corresponds to the norm and does not deviate from it, it is important to provide the baby with a complete balanced diet, proper care and sufficient physical activity.

Six-month-old Labrador puppy

Excess weight is undesirable and dangerous to health, as is its lack. Therefore, in the first year of a puppy’s life, it is necessary to closely monitor its development.

How to measure height correctly?

You need to use several tools: a centimeter, a ruler, a tape, a square. The height of a dog can be determined by extending a centimeter (tape) along the animal’s body: the end is applied to the floor and extended to the withers.

Height is the distance from the dog's foot to the withers.

Metric information is collected from a standing dog. The animal must be in good spirits and not hungry. The best way to measure a Labrador is at home, in a calm environment; you can cheer him up with a treat.

Gradually the dog will get used to such manipulations and will respond well to them.

The height at the sacrum can be measured with a centimeter (tape, ruler) - from the floor to the highest point of the croup, in maclocs.

To make accurate measurements, the instruments must be placed at the correct points so that they fit against the animal's body, but do not press in. If the hair is long, then to accurately measure growth you need to part the hair and apply a centimeter (ruler, tape) to the skin.

To measure body length, first apply the end of the centimeter to the shoulder, then to the ischial tuberosity. When comparing actual sizes and standards, a special index is used, that is, an indicator of one dog parameter to another.

Growth in this case is the main factor; other results are correlated with it. For example, they distinguish the elongation index (body length to height) and boneiness (carpal girth to height).

IMPORTANT!

Indices allow you to judge whether a four-legged pet meets breed standards.

All data in breed tables are approximate . Sometimes puppies are already fully formed by the age of six months, and often continue to grow after a year.

If the height of a real dog does not coincide with the ideal parameters from the table, then there is nothing to worry about . The totality of all measurements, the general constitution of the dog’s body, is looked at.

This helps to monitor how your pet is developing. It is the height-weight ratio that gives experts an idea of ​​how well developed the dog is, whether its ancestors were purebred Labradors or whether there was a crossbreed during mating.

At exhibitions, any measurements of an animal are allowed only in the presence of the owner . Service dog breeding usually operates with the indices of elongation and boneiness.

Approximate measurements for a Labrador Retriever puppy

Height at the withers of Labrador Retrievers: for males - 55-57 cm, for females - 54-56 cm.

How to take measurements correctly.

Dog measurements: 1-2 – height at the withers, 3-4 – height at the rump, 5-6 – oblique length of the body, 7-8 – length of the front leg, 9-10 – length of the muzzle, 10-11 – length of the forehead, 9 -11 – head length, 12-13 – chest depth, 14 – chest girth, 15 – metacarpal girth, 16-17 – head width at the cheekbones, 18-19 – front chest width.

Measuring tools should be placed exactly in the intended place and applied so that they fit snugly against the dog's body, but are not pressed into it. In long-haired dogs, the hair is removed in the place where the tool is applied. When taking vertical measurements, you need to make sure that the ruler is vertical; when measuring with a square, so that the plumb line does not touch the guide bar, and the tape is pulled tight and vertically. When measuring the length of the torso, first install the fixed end of the ruler to the anterior edge of the glenohumeral joint, and then carefully draw the movable bar and apply it to the ischial tuberosity. To compare the body proportions of dogs and compare exterior body features, indices are used. An index is the ratio of one measurement to another, expressed as a percentage. For different breeds of dogs, their own indices have been developed and defined by standards. The format (extension) index is the ratio of the length of the dog to the height at the withers. Boniness index (relative bone development) is the ratio of the girth of the pastern to the height of the dog at the withers. The high-leg index is the ratio of the length of the leg to the height of the dog at the withers. The massiveness index (relative development of the body) is the ratio of the chest circumference to the height of the dog at the withers. The long-headed index (relative head length) is the ratio of the length of the head to the height of the dog at the withers. The broad-brow index is the ratio of the width of a dog's head to its length. Thoracic index (relative development of the chest) is the ratio of the width to the depth of the chest. In the practice of service dog breeding, the first two indices are most often used. Indices serve as additional comparative data on the animal’s physique. Note: All these measurements are fairly approximate. Some dogs stop growing at 6 months, while others take up to a year to grow. Males are generally larger than females. Therefore, the measurements of your dog do not necessarily have to coincide exactly with those indicated in the table, which are fairly averaged. We hope that the given height, weight and other measurements of a Labrador Retriever puppy will help puppy owners monitor the development of their dog.

Brief history of formation

Much of its history remains a mystery; different sources offer numerous versions of its origin. One is definitely a dwarf Labrador - it came from an aboriginal dog - the Newfoundler, which was widely used to help fishermen. The dog pulled nets out of the water, could pick up fish, and actively participated in hunting small game.

• The Europeans, who had their eye on the bright dog, happily took several puppies for themselves, after which they immediately gained popularity.

The peculiarity of a non-conflict nature and diligence allowed the breed to be used as guide dogs. A kind character and acceptable appearance, the ability to interact with people, helped to gain a foothold in society, both among wealthy people and ordinary hard-working people.

The first Labrador standard officially registered with the Canine Federation was adopted in 1905. The breed is named after the peninsula of the same name.

Today, representatives are widespread throughout the world, and work is still underway to improve their breeding appearance and character.

Species in Labradors

Labrador is a retriever and the description of the Labrador breed does not provide for any varieties in size and characteristic differences in exterior.

The only differences between representatives may be in color and its saturation. All sizes of the animal are clearly stated in the standard descriptions; there is no talk of any varieties.

Types in Labradors are divided into basic differences in color and coat, as well as some characteristic differences in the animal's personality.

1. Golden ones are calmer;
2. Straight-haired - may be more wary and lazy;
3. Curly hair is the best guard for a home;
4. The Nova Scotian is an ideal guard, but is less predisposed to training;
5. Black is more obedient.

These descriptions are not directly related to the standard, the information only conveys the characteristics of behavior, but all descriptions are more common between owners. Officially, the first dog was a black Labrador, which was the only one for a long time, after which breeding of other colors was allowed.

Labrador Retriever breed standard

A standard is a set of specific, precisely established characteristics and parameters of a dog that are important to observe in order to maintain the health and purity of the breed.

General provisions of the Labrador Retriever standard Currently, there are two officially accepted standards for the Labrador Retriever breed - English and American.

The first was approved in 1988 by the English Kennel Club, the second, approved by the American Kennel Club on February 12, 1994, began to operate on March 31 of the same year. THE LABRADOR RETRIEVER BREED STANDARD INCLUDES NOT ONLY EXTERNAL CHARACTERISTICS, BUT ALSO TEMPERAMENT, AS WELL AS ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF THE ANIMAL'S CHARACTER Both of these standards regulate the physical and mental parameters of the dog that are characteristic of the breed. However, English is most often considered the main language. This is due to the fact that it was approved a little earlier. An important condition was that England is the second homeland of Labradors. THE LABRADOR RETRIEVER STANDARDS ARE PRACTICALLY NOT DIFFERENT IN ANY WAY, ALTHOUGH THEY DIFFER IN SOME PARAMETERS The standards set out the dog’s qualities, which are the main ones that are important for the breed. However, Labradors do not always meet all the proposed parameters and characteristics. Non-compliance with some standards should not be regarded as a sign of deterioration in the condition of the breed. In fact, nothing stands still, including animal data. Over time, new qualities begin to develop, and some old ones disappear. A beginner in dog breeding cannot immediately determine what corresponds to the standard and what diverges from it. An understanding of the standard cannot come immediately, because the described parameters are quite relative. But at the same time the meaning is official. standards cannot be belittled. In addition, new standards are not only focused on the practical side, but are also subject to fashion trends. However, experienced breeders are generally conservative. English Labrador Retriever Breed Standard The standard describes the physical and mental characteristics of the Labrador, so in order to use such a document, you need to know not only the anatomy of the animal and the mechanism of movement, but also how the dog’s mood manifests itself. General appearance The Labrador Retriever is a large dog. She looks very strong, helped by her athletic physique and well-developed muscles. These animals can work tirelessly for a long time and in any weather. The main criteria for dogs are exterior and condition. If we consider Labradors from these positions, it is important to note that Labradors come in two types: show and working. The first is massive, the second is a little lighter. However, both types of dogs must have a short, close-fitting coat that is water-repellent and provides protection from the elements. Characteristic of all Labradors are a tail like an otter, a head without bulges or depressions, a wide skull with a faint transition from the forehead to the muzzle, and strong jaws. Representatives of this breed should get along well with people, be smart and have a peaceful disposition. A standard is a description of the physique and proportions of all parts of the body. The standard lists disqualifying faults. However, the main thing is the harmonious build of the dog, which allows the animal to be used as a gun dog, rescue dog, or guide dog. The correct proportions of a Labrador allow him to move actively and beautifully. EXCESS FAT, POORLY DEVELOPED MUSCLES OR THINNESS NOT ONLY NEGATIVELY AFFECT THE APPEARANCE OF THE DOG, BUT ALSO WORSEN ITS WELL-BEING . It should be remembered that this breed was bred for hunting, so the dog must be strong, powerful and at the same time quite light and energetic. Condition is the physical condition of a dog, determined by the degree of its fatness and grooming. In addition, the pet’s character should show goodwill and a desire to help a person, but in no case anger or nervousness. Basic proportions The Labrador Retriever is a harmoniously built dog of medium height, with well-developed muscles. Deviations from the standard are unacceptable, because in this case hunting dexterity, endurance and some other qualities are reduced. IN ORDER TO ACCURATELY EVALUATE THE DOG'S EXTERIOR, YOU SHOULD CAREFULLY EXAMINATE INDIVIDUAL PARTS OF THE BODY - CHEST, BACK, WITHERS, ABDOMEN Height . You can measure a dog's height using a long ruler: from the level of the surface on which the animal stands to the highest point of the withers. To accurately measure a dog's height, comb the hair tightly to the body and touch the animal's elbow with the ruler.

Labrador females and males differ in height: females are always smaller. The ideal height for a male dog is 57–62 cm. In this case, deviations in one direction or another are possible by no more than 1 cm. The height of bitches should not exceed 50–55 cm, although sometimes deviations of up to 1 cm are acceptable. Weight. The normal weight for a male is 29–36 kg, for a female – 25–31.5 kg. Excessive weight means the deposition of excess fat, which will interfere with the activity of the animal. Insufficient weight indicates either poor treatment of the animal or some kind of disease. Breast . According to standards, a Labrador Retriever's chest should be lowered to the elbows or even slightly lower. The build, as already mentioned, should be harmonious, corresponding to the overall size of the animal. Deposition of excess fat or insufficient body weight is unacceptable. You should be aware that a properly formed chest tapers between the forelegs. This ensures ease of movement for Labradors. For a correctly built Labrador Retriever, the distance from the shoulder joint to the place where the tail is attached should be equal to or slightly exceed the height of the dog at the withers, that is, its height. Upper part of the body. A dog's upper body includes the neck, topline (back from withers to tail), back, withers and body. The neck size should be such that the dog can easily pick up game and present it to the owner, because retrievers were bred for this purpose. Therefore, a Labrador's neck should be neither too short nor too long. It is usually muscular, without bulges or dewlap. It is best if this part of the body is set high and has a slightly convex nape. The back , consisting of 13 vertebrae, should be straight and muscular. This structure allows the Labrador to be active for a long time. If the dog has a hunchback or sagging back, the quality of movement is reduced. In addition, this is a sign that the animal is sick. The hump may be a hereditary defect, while other defects are a consequence of improper living conditions. If the dog is still young, it is possible to get rid of the defects. This requires a large amount of physical activity and daily walks. A sagging back can appear in old age in bitches who have whelped many times. The loin is the transition from the front to the back of the body and performs the function of transmitting propulsion from the hind limbs to the front of the body. It consists of 7 vertebrae. The loin should be short, strong and powerful, preferably wide. It smoothly passes into the belt of the hind limbs. You should know that the withers consist of the spinous processes of the first five thoracic vertebrae and the upper edges of the shoulder blades. Internal organs of a Labrador Retriever : 1 – brain; 2 – cerebellum; 3 – spinal cord; 4 – nasal cavity; 5 – oral cavity; 6 – trachea; 7 – esophagus; 8 – lungs; 9 – heart; 10 – liver; 11 – spleen; 12 – kidneys; 13 – small intestine; 14 – large intestine; 15 – anus; 16 – anal glands; 17 – bladder; 18 – scrotum; 19 – reproductive organ Body body . A strong body is preferred, the top line from the withers to the point of attachment of the tail should remain straight both during movement and at rest. The body frame should be long enough to compensate for the square dimensions of the torso. This is necessary to ensure that movements are free, without straining the lower extremities. The Labrador's body should not look stretched out or, on the contrary, squat. The limbs should also be of medium length so that the dog does not seem tall-legged. For the body to have an athletic appearance, the lower back should be flexible and elastic, all movements should be energetic. Since Labrador Retrievers are characterized by a strong build, the entire body should look powerful, but not rude. Ribs . In order not to interfere with intense breathing, the dog's ribs should be well curved. To understand whether the chest is too narrow, just look at the Labrador from the front. If it is not visible between the forelimbs, then it is not wide enough. However, a barrel-shaped chest is considered a disadvantage. The lower line of the abdomen in dogs should be almost straight, and not tucked in or lean. Belt of forelimbs. This includes the shoulder blades, shoulders, elbows, forearms and paws. They must be properly formed, strong and flexible to support the Labrador's body and absorb the shock of running and jumping. The shoulder blades should be directed back, long and slanted. The angle between the shoulder blade and the shoulder is usually 90°. In this case, the movements will be free, with sufficient forward thrust. The length of the shoulder blade plays an important role. It should be equal to the length of the shoulder or slightly different from it. The Labrador's paws are strong, with short toes and well-developed pads. Dewclaws are usually removed. The forelimbs should be placed straight, perpendicular to the ground and directly under the body. It is then that the Labrador’s movements are unimpeded, beautiful and contribute to increased performance. The pasterns should be slightly sloping and strong. Hind limb belt. The Labrador Retriever has strong hind legs, with sufficient angulation, balanced with the forelimbs. The dog's thighs are muscular and powerful, and the shins are slightly longer than the thighs. The paws are oval or round in shape, arched, medium in size, with thick pads and tightly clenched toes. The hind limbs perform the same function as the front limbs, but less load is placed on them, although they are pushing. The knee joint is formed by the connection of the lower edge of the femur and the heads of the tibia and fibula. It is especially important that the knee joint is strong, because a large load falls on it when pushing. At the same time, the patella must remain in a fixed position both during movement and at rest. The angles of the knee joints protrude slightly forward. The backbone must be strong. The hocks of this dog are strong and low. The angles of connection of the hock and knee joints must be sufficient to ensure that the force of the push is distributed optimally and the limbs are carried out evenly.

The hip joint is formed from the junction of the head of the femur and the socket at the lower edge of the pelvis. If the pelvic bones are not positioned correctly, the dog develops a bouncing gait, which is easy to recognize by the way the croup rises with each step. When standing, the hind legs should be slightly pulled back so that a perpendicular drawn from the top of the ischial tuberosity to the surface on which the dog is standing passes in front of the toes. The croup is the articulation of the ilium and ischium, which make up the pelvis, as well as the sacrum, which is formed by 3 fused vertebrae. When looking at the dog from behind, the lower limbs should be straight and parallel to each other. All joints should not be too convex or, on the contrary, flat, because this not only spoils the appearance of the Labrador, but also interferes with free movement. If the pelvis is located at the wrong angle, the croup may be sloping. In addition, such a defect causes a saber or barrel-shaped stance. Head . An important feature that distinguishes one breed from another is the shape of the head. By the way the head looks, how the jaws and teeth are developed, you can determine for what purpose the dog was bred. The structure of the head also determines the type of constitution, overall body size and heredity. Labradors must have a fairly large and powerful head. It is clearly defined and does not have fleshy, drooping cheeks. The structure of the head is bony. The head should be flat, that is, without bulges or depressions. The skin fits tightly. The eye sockets are well filled, so the cheekbones do not protrude. Some Labradors have a bump on the back of their head The top of the skull is almost parallel to the nose. The transition from the forehead to the muzzle is not clearly defined; it can be determined by the brow ridges. The eyebrows protrude so that the skull looks solid. The length of the skull is usually equal to the length of the muzzle. The dog's mouth is formed by the lower and upper jaws and the soft tissues that are attached to them. The jaws of Labradors are powerful, which is due to the specifics of retrievers (they must carry a wounded bird). In addition, they are long, but not pointed. The lips fit tightly to the jaws, the upper lip should not droop. This structure is called dry. The upper lip has a smooth curve running from front to back towards the throat. A square shape of the upper lip is not allowed when it descends below the border of the lower lip in front and on the sides. YELLOW AND BLACK LABRADORS HAVE A BLACK NOSE COLOR, AND CHOCOLATE LABRADORS HAVE A BROWN COLOR, HOWEVER A LIGHTER SHADE IS POSSIBLE One of the important parameters is the shape and color of the nose . It should be wide, with well-developed nostrils. An adult Labrador should have 42 teeth. There are 22 teeth on the lower jaw, and 20 on the upper jaw. Teeth differ in structure and the functions they perform. There are 4 types of teeth: incisors, canines, premolars, or false roots, and molars, or molars. The arrangement of teeth in a Labrador Retriever: I – incisors (Incisivi), C – canines (Caninus), P – false roots, or premolars (Praemolares), M – molars, or molars (Molares) The teeth in the Labrador’s mouth are located as follows: on the right and On the left there are 3 incisors (front, middle and extreme). They are followed by fangs, then 4 false-rooted teeth, which gradually increase in size, so the first of them is small, and the last is the largest. It is called a carnassial tooth. In the lower jaw, in place of the carnassial teeth, there are the first molars. Labrador retrievers have 10 molars : 3 on each side of the lower jaw and 2 in the upper. The permanent teeth of a Labrador retriever grow with their roots into the bone tissue of the jaw. They are formed by a neck protruding from the jaw and a hard, enamel-covered crown. Labrador puppies are born without teeth. The canines appear first on the upper jaw, and then on the lower jaw. A little later, the incisors grow. MILK TEETH DO NOT HAVE ROOTS AND THEREFORE FALL OUT IMMEDIATELY AS SOON AS THE PERMANENT TEETH BEGIN TO GROW Molars appear only after all the front incisors have grown. Gradually, baby teeth are replaced by permanent ones. A healthy, well-developed Labrador should have all teeth. In addition, it is necessary that they have a healthy white color, since a yellow coating indicates some kind of disease. The teeth should be strong and linear. The bite is important because it affects the dog's ability to retrieve a shot bird. With a correct bite, the front surface of the lower incisors touches the back surface of the upper incisors. However, a direct bite is allowed, when the upper and lower incisors rest against each other. This occurs if the incisors have an incorrect angle or the lower jaw is somewhat elongated. This type of bite is undesirable because in this case the teeth wear down faster. An underbite occurs when the lower and upper incisors do not meet each other. This arrangement of teeth increases the load on the canines, so they wear down faster. When overbiting, the lower jaw incisors are located at too large an angle. This type of bite can also occur due to differences in jaw lengths. When overbiting, the fangs become deformed and begin to protrude too far, erasing the edges of the upper jaw. The ears of Labrador Retrievers are moderately pressed to the head and set far back. Usually in Labradors they are placed almost at the level of the outer corner of the eye and extended forward so that they reach the inner corners of the eyes. In addition, the dog must have excellent hearing. If there is any suspicion of deafness, such a Labrador is not allowed for breeding. The eyes are assessed very strictly. They must have a certain size, color and expression. Any deviation from the standard is considered unacceptable. The Labrador's eyes are medium in size and usually set wide apart. They should not be convex or, conversely, sunken. The color of the iris depends on the color of the Labrador: in black and yellow dogs it is brown, in chocolate dogs it is hazel. Black or yellow eye color is possible, although not desirable. It gives the dog a tough expression and an angry look. Small, round or bulging eyes are not typical for Labradors. In addition, there are practically no Labradors with close-set eyes. Black and yellow representatives of this breed have black edges of their eyelids, while chocolate ones have brown edges. Tail . It consists of no less than 18 and no more than 23 vertebrae. The shape of the tail is a characteristic feature of the Labrador breed. The tail is sometimes called an otter's tail because it is covered with short, close-fitting, thick hair, so it appears rounded, like an otter's. It should be very thick at the base and gradually taper towards the end. LABRADORS SHOULD HAVE A PEACEFUL AND AFFORDING EXPRESSION IN THE EYES, AN INTELLIGENT AND UNDERSTANDING LOOK, TALKING ABOUT THE SMART AND ENERGY OF THE ANIMAL. The length of the tail should not be excessive - not lower than the hock joint. When calm, the tail should form a single line with the back. A “cheerful” tail, raised up, is allowed, but in no case twisted into a ring and laid over the back. Coat . Labradors' coat is short, straight and very dense, hard to the touch. Labradors also have a soft undercoat that protects the animal from water, bad weather and thorny plants. As already mentioned, initially Labradors had only black color, later fawn dogs were bred from black parents. Currently, representatives of this breed have 3 types of color: fawn , black and chocolate (it is also called liver). The fawn color includes yellow in all shades, from light to dark red. A small white spot on the chest is not considered a defect.

Teeth

The jaws of Labradors are powerful, which is due to the specific nature of retrievers (they must retrieve a wounded bird). In addition, they are long, but not pointed.

To what age do they grow?

There are three stages of maturation and growth of a Labrador puppy:

1. The first four months are a pronounced growth.
2. From five to eight months – a slowdown in growth rates.
3. From nine months to one year – a slight increase in height and weight.

It is believed that from the age of one year dogs can already take part in exhibitions, their body is fully formed. There are three breed standards: international, British and American.

World and English are very close to each other, these are strict standards . They allow deviations from the reference height of up to one centimeter.

The American allows the dog to be three to five centimeters below or above the standard.

The weight of Labradors is not so clearly regulated, the main thing is the ratio of weight and height.

Video “Interesting facts about the Labrador breed”

From this video you will learn the secrets of the popular Labrador breed.

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First vaccinations

At the age of 1 month, the puppy needs to be dewormed.

The first comprehensive vaccine for dogs against distemper, infectious hepatitis, parvovirus enteritis, parainfluenza and leptospirosis is given 10 days after deworming. After 14 days, a second comprehensive vaccination is given, at this stage vaccination against rabies is also carried out. Quarantine lasts 10-14 days after the second vaccination, revaccination - once a year.

Puppies are vaccinated according to the schedule from the vaccine manufacturer. Veterinary clinics offer vaccines from domestic and imported manufacturers, for example, Biovac, Multikan, Nobivak, Vanguard, Duramun, Eurikan.

Labrador puppy sizes by month

Labrador Retriever puppies grow very quickly, so their growth rates change quite impressively every month. Below is the approximate height and weight of puppies, starting from 1 to 10 months of life.

That is, in 10 months the dog’s weight increases almost 10 times. From 8 to 10 months of life, growth is already completely formed and no longer changes.

Puppy named Alpha, 4 months old.

All indicated indicators are averaged, since the individual indicators of each individual representative of the Labrador Retriever breed depend on many factors, such as nutrition, lifestyle, and so on.

What affects a puppy’s parameters?

The future weight and height of the puppy is influenced first by uterine development, and then by the suckling stage . Did the mother receive good care during pregnancy, were there vitamins in her diet, were any pathologies detected in the embryos - all these factors already lay the foundation for the development of the puppy.

From birth, boys are larger than girls . If a male dog is smaller than his sisters, this indicates incorrect development; such a puppy needs to be fattened and checked for infections and other abnormalities.

If the litter is small, the puppies will be larger than in litters where many are born. If puppies are given early and correct artificial feeding, they will grow faster and gain significant weight, possibly becoming fat.

Factors that influence a dog's development include::

• Nutrition;
• Activity and physical activity;
• Lifestyle in general.

The basis for the correct development of a puppy (weight and height ratio) is the diet and living conditions. These are the fundamental factors before the age of eight months.

The younger the dog, the faster it grows, the more important it is to monitor its nutrition and give it a complete diet with vitamins . The animal should be cleaned of parasites and bone development should be monitored.

If the bones are poorly developed before six months (puppies can develop rickets or osteochondrosis due to improper nutrition and exercise), then it is unlikely that it will be possible to correct this later.

Puppies grow unevenly . At a certain period, certain parts of the body grow: short legs and a long body, elongated legs and a narrow chest, first - development in height, then in width.

This is normal, the Labrador will acquire the correct proportions by the age of one year. For example, dogs' ears are formed first; there is no need to be afraid that they are very large.

If the puppy is not gaining weight, you need to check it for helminths (worms).

Development from 3 months to a year

There are 3 types of standards for the Labrador breed. The most common is the international standard FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale). The English standard is almost entirely FCI compliant. The American standard allows for errors in growth rates of 3-5 cm.

Exterior

The dog is large and strong. The body does not look overweight or stretched. Proportional addition. The dog is mobile, the muscles are clearly visible. Wide chest and forehead. Strong hindquarters.

Labrador retriever males are larger and more courageous than females and have a massive head. Bitches look more graceful, lighter built, the pelvis is larger than the head.

Weight indicators are not strictly regulated and are recommendations, however, you should pay attention to the consistency of the dog’s appearance and weight. Excess weight may indicate obesity; underweight may indicate poor nutrition or illness.

Head

Pronounced and large. The length of the muzzle corresponds to the length of the head. The line of the nose is almost parallel to the line of the skull, with a pronounced transition to the facial part. Sometimes there is a characteristic bump on the back of the head. The skin is tight, without sagging. The arrangement of teeth is linear. A straight bite is considered acceptable. The incisors are long, but not pointed.

The ears are hanging, but not heavy, triangular in shape. They fit tightly to the cheeks, but lag behind during movement.

Frame

The neck is well defined and of medium length. Provides high mobility. Without sagging or bulging, it has a pronounced scruff. The back is straight, without humps or sagging. The croup is wide and short. The chest extends beyond the line of the paws when viewed from the front. The ribs are well sprung. The stomach is tucked up, not drooping.

Limbs

The forelimbs are level, stand at right angles to the ground and are located exactly under the body. A characteristic feature: the shoulder blade forms a right angle with the shoulder, and the length of the shoulder blade is equal to the length of the shoulder.

The hind limbs are powerful. The lower leg is slightly elongated. The hock joints are set low. The croup is straight without slope. The paws are round, compactly gathered into a ball. The pads of the dads are spaced well enough to distribute the load when walking.

Coat and color

The coat is short and uniform, without bald spots. The undercoat is oily and water-repellent.

Colors: pure black, chocolate (liver) brown, cream, chestnut, yellow. A light star on the chest is allowed.

Character

The character is soft and obedient, active and playful. Loves to swim. Labrador is good-natured towards adults, children, and other dogs. Has good instincts and loves to hunt. Very efficient. Strives to please the owner.

According to dog attack statistics in America from 1982 to 2014, the Labrador ranks 9th out of 73 dogs. Despite the fact that the dog is not at all aggressive, it still requires attention and training.

The most common Labrador breed inconsistencies that you need to pay attention to when choosing and raising a dog:

• Males are similar to females.
• Aggressive or timid character.
• Long or short legs.
• Elongated or shortened body.
• White or colored spots, uneven color.
• Small head, short or narrow muzzle, uneven nose line.
• Semi-erect ears.
• Slanty eyes.
• Caries.
• Long neck.
• Narrow withers, pointed shoulder blades.
• Sagging back.
• Short or long tail.
• Narrow chest.
• Sagging belly.
• Small distance between fore and hind legs.
• Clubfoot.
• Heavyness, swaying of the croup vertically when walking.

The height of males at the withers is 56-58 cm, females approximately 54-56 cm.

We invite you to familiarize yourself with: Age of a cat by human standards (27 photos): correspondence table. Determining how old a cat is in relation to a person

Head circumference – 46-56 cm.

Bust circumference – 70-86 cm.

Muzzle length – 7.5-10 cm.

The girth of the mouth is 11-14 cm.

Height at the sacrum

Interesting facts about Labradors

1. Labrador dogs have a high pain threshold, so without hesitation they rush into the epicenter of misfortune to save people. Thanks to this feature of the breed and their good sense of smell, Labrador retrievers often become assistants to the police and the Ministry of Emergency Situations.
2. Labradors are waterfowl dogs: they have water-repellent fur, webbed paws and a tail that acts as a rudder.
3. Labradors are used for canistherapy in cancer centers, hospitals for the mentally ill and to treat children with psychological problems.

What to do if your weight is below normal

Monitoring your puppy's development means weighing him periodically. If the dog does not gain weight for a significant period of time, it needs to be dewormed. Then introduce nutrition and vitamins into the diet.

If in this case the puppy remains small, then you need to contact a veterinarian.

NOTE!

There may be health problems: lethargy, reluctance to eat, very poor appetite are the first signs of this.

A dog can also lose weight due to a violation of mineral metabolism. This is typical for puppies and teenagers.