Thursday, October 3, 2013

Understanding And Caring For English Labradors

By Angel Dudley


Few owners truly understand their pets before bringing them home, which can lead to a lot of adjustment problems for both the pet and the family. Most just know they are a great with kids, or family members, and that is enough. It's essential to understand not only the needs of a dog, but also the breed itself. Even within breeds there can be some difference depending on what breed it is. For instances there are some very important differences between American and English Labradors, and knowing these differences is essential.

These differences can be an issue as pets attempt to adjust to families. It's always best for pet owners to understand the breed. Part of this is also knowing the requirements for care, and what the dog needs prior to purchasing any animal.

There are so many features the same in the American and English version that many people consider them the same breed, but they are not. The main difference between the two breeds is what their purpose was when they were originally bred. The two were bred for entirely different reasons, and because of this these predominate features in the personality still exist today. This basic difference should be strongly considered, especially since the American version is a working dog.

Though most of these dogs are no longer used for that today, that instinct is very much alive and well within the breed, which is what makes them such great police dogs, and seeing eye dogs. They also aren't going to be very satisfied with just sitting around the house. These dogs, without being walked, worked outside or played with are going to get restless, and may begin leaping about the house, or otherwise entertaining themselves to release energy.

Their English counterpart, on the other hand, tend to be less active, smaller, and were bred as sitters, and followers, and were trained for pet environments. They have an excellent temper, but shouldn't be considered for working dog projects. While initially the original reason for the two different species being bred may not seem significant in reality it is.

For those that may have some confusion telling one species apart from the other there are some basic things to look for. Pay attention to the personality of the dog, as American versions are almost always more restless and active. Taller versions, with a head that is thinner and sharper is usually an American species as well.

Smaller dogs, with a block build, with the need for far less activity are usually English. These dogs are calm, and are better at sitting in the house. They don't have the need to run and jump as much.

Because of this important difference in the two breeds it is very important before purchasing such a dog to consider these differences, and also consider what the dog is to be used for. Will it be possible to get out and walk the dog on a daily basis, play with the dog consistently, or is there a place for the dog to run are important considerations. Also important is if the dog will be used simply as a pet, or companion. Different breeds have different purposes today just as they did when they were bred. Knowing these important differences will make a better experience for both the owner and the English Labradors.




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