The cross between a Newfoundland and an otter. This is often said when talking about the Labrador Retriever, a companion dog but also perfect for hunting, as it can swim fast on the surface of the water. This breed is most at home in retrieving and is often compared with the Golden Retriever, which is normally used in duck hunting. But what do they have in common and what is different? Getting to know them better with a comparison allows you to appreciate them even more and to exploit them in many daily activities.
When it comes to Golden or Labrador Retrievers it is difficult not to notice similarities because the breeds have acommon origin, water dog St. John can be considered their ancestor. The breed from Canada, but now extinct, arrived in England in the XNUMXth century.
Il St. John Bred to help fishermen pull nets in areas where ice formed due to its abilities in the water, it has remained a hallmark of the breed. In fact, both the Golden and the Labrador are excellent swimmers, but thanks to their intelligence and energy they have become excellent hunting dogs over the centuries.
The common origin has meant that on a physical level they have preserved peculiar traits over the years, in particular when it comes to body size. Next to this we must not forget the same webbed conformation of the legs and a waterproof cape, perfect for going out on the water.
Equipped with a double coat of hair they need special care, especially as regards the Golden. The long coat must be brushed often to avoid the formation of skeins especially in the areas where it is thicker such as ears, neck and tail.
Even if the consistency is the same, differ in colors, while that of the Labradors is chocolate, yellow or black, that of the Golden has shades ranging from cream to reddish.
Coming from the same breed, Labradors and Goldenrods share the same health problems as the high risk of tumors, hip dysplasia, ear infections and obesity.
Naturally active, these breeds need to do a lot movement. Often bred as hunting dogs, they are used to running, standing by their owner's side, swimming and exploring everything around them.
Particularly Intelligent they are able to adapt to any situation, in addition to hunting they are at ease as guide dogs, search or rescue dogs.
Perfect to have as a family, they love to be surrounded by their loved ones, ready to play or take long walks. This character particolarmente friendly makes them less suitable as guard dogs, but above all they do not like loneliness, so if you decide to have them you shouldn't leave them alone for a long time.