Types of Labradors
There are technically two different types of Labradors. There is the American Labrador and the English Labrador. There is not much of a difference between the two and you will hardly hear someone describe their labrador as English vs American - but there are a few differences.
The American labrador is slightly taller than the English labrador. English labradors tend to have a ‘heavier’ look to them, with a larger chest and wider body. The American labrador is slimmer and has a more athletic body type. English labradors also tend to be more calm and less active, whereas the American labrador is ready to be a working dog and be very active. Historically, the Labrador was bred to be a fisherman's helper, so both types will have webbed feet that are great for swimming, great at fetching and retrieving, and a true companion.
The more common distinction between Labradors are their coat colors. You will often see people describe their Labrador as a “Black Lab”, “Yellow Lab” or “Chocolate Lab” or even the “Silver or Blue labrador” - which is slightly less common. These are not technically the different types of labradors but it is a common distinction for what your labrador will look like!
How Big Do Labradors Get
Labradors are a medium to large sized breed. As mentioned earlier, there is a difference between the American and English Labrador and there are slight size differences. In body build, the English Labradors will be heavier, stockier and wider. The American Labrador will be slimmer and more athletic looking. But, for the most part, both types of this breed will be relatively the same size. They will grow to be about 24 inches tall - which is what makes them a medium breed. But their weight and build is what pushes them into a large breed size bracket (but they are commonly known as being larger dogs).
They will stop growing and reach their full height at about 12 to 18 months. Their weight can range anywhere between 55 to 85 pounds, depending on their type and gender.
How Long Do Labradors Live
Labradors can live a long, healthy and happy life! No one wants to know when their best friend is going to pass, but it’s always good to be aware and be prepared. So it doesn’t hurt to learn. Labradors have a longer lifespan at about 10 to 12 years. There will always be many factors to a dog's life span, including diet, weight, health, diseases, and more that you can’t always control. But genetically, and on average, your labrador will live to be about 10 - 12 years old.
More recently through, it was discovered that a labradors life span may actually be expanding and be closer to 14 years old - which is very exciting news! The longest living labrador, according to The Labrador Site, lived to be 19 years old. The healthier and happier your labrador, the longer they will live. In any case, you and your labrador companion will be together for a long time.
Your life with labradors will be a very full one and they are a great companion to transition through all your life moments. From being young and adventurous to settling down and having children, your labrador will adapt and be right by your side through it all. They are gentle, kind, smart and loving animals and will be your protector as well as your best friend.
