Labrador Retrievers are intelligent and friendly dogs. Most Labradors have short coats, but a rare variation exists called the long haired Labrador Retriever, also known as fluffy Labradors. These dogs have a softer long coat which gives them a unique and charming appearance. Long haired Labradors have long hairs around the ears, tail, and legs. This long coat is because of a recessive gene known as the FGF5 gene. But both parents must carry and pass this recessive gene to have a long hair lab puppy.
Many people ask the question, can these long haired labradors participate in dog shows? So this depends on the standards set by kennel clubs. We think American Kennel Club (AKC) do not consider long haired Labradors to meet the breed standard due to their coat variance but maybe if their hairs are trimmed. Now let’s talk about the life span of long haired labradors which is 10 to 12 years.
History Of Long Hair Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever started in Newfoundland, Canada and was developed from St. John’s Water Dog which contained the characteristics of both short and long coats. The long haired labrador was less useful for working dogs. And these long haired labradors are not the result of cross breeding. It’s better to get genetic testing to know the presence of the gene which is needed.
Size Of Long Hair Labrador Retriever
Long haired Labradors and standard Labradors both fall in same size almost:
- Males: 22 to 25 inches
- Females: 21 to 24 inches
Weight Of Long Hair Labrador Retriever
The weight for long haired Labradors and standard Labradors is also the almost same:
- Males: 65 to 80 pounds (29 to 36 kg).
- Females: 55 to 70 pounds (25 to 32 kg).
Temperament Of Long Hair Labrador Retriever
Long-haired labradors and standard labradors have the same temperament. These dogs are full of energy and can learn commands and tricks very easily. Long-haired labradors look very attractive because of their looks to their owners which makes them popular, and are more calm but this is not scientifically proven.
If you’re interested in exploring about Labrador color variations, check out our article on Red Labrador Retriever Puppies.
Grooming And Care
Long haired Labradors have longer hairs, thus they require special care. For this you need to do hair brushing 2 to 3 times per week that will remove loose hair and keep their coat looking neat and it will also manage shedding.
Give your long haired labrador bath after 4 to 5 weeks. If their hair overgrows around their paws, ears or tail, trim them. Must focus to keep their coat clean after swimming and playing otherwise they may feel skin irritation.
Use the following grooming tools:
- Slicker Brush
- Pin Brush
- Undercoat Rake
- Pet-Safe Clippers or Scissors
Health
Standard Labradors and long haired Labradors are generally healthy but still there can be health issues which they can face:
1. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia is a genetic disorder where improper joint development causes movement issues.
2. Obesity
Labradors like to overeat which can give rise to problems such as diabetes, joint strain, and heart issues.
3. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Progressive Retinal Atrophy is an inherited eye illness that may cause vision loss over time.
4. Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC)
It is also an inherited problem which causes muscle weakness.
5. Ear Infections
Labradors have loose ears which may hold moisture and cause ear infection.
Long Hair Labrador Retriever Puppy
A long haired Labrador Retriever puppy is a young Labrador with long hairs which gives them a fluffy look. Long-haired Labrador puppies can be easily identified from other standard labrador puppies because their coat is more healthy. And if we talk about their training we advise crate training which will help in teaching them good bathroom habits and make them friendly.
Long Haired Chocolate Labrador
This is a color variation in long hair labradors. They come in 2 different shades: brown color and dark brown color which resembles dark chocolate color. Fluffy look of the chocolate long hair labrador is very attractive.
Long-Haired Black Labrador
Fluffy look of black labrador with long hairs gives a glossy look. This color variation is unique and makes the dog look especially adorable.
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