Photos Of Labrador Retrievers That Will Significantly Brighten Your Day
Labrador Retrievers have remained at the top of the list of most popular dog breeds for quite some time now. There's a reason why people love these dogs so much. They're friendly, they're loyal, they're easy to train, and they're eager to please. Also, they're absolutely adorable. Whether you're into blondes, brunettes, or jet black fur, there's a lab out there for you.
Labradors are often used as seeing-eye dogs and service dogs because of how much they like to help and be around humans. Keep reading to see some adorable dog pictures!
Put Your Paws Up!
Labradors are super smart dogs, and with the right training techniques, they can learn to execute several impressive tricks. Lab puppies actually learn commands quite quickly. They can, of course, learn all of the classics, like "bark", "roll over", "sit", and "play dead."
This pup seems to have learned to put his paws up on command. Either that or he's just trying to knock that hotdog out of his owner's hand. Maybe it's a bit of both.
Getting Into Trouble
Labs may be loyal and lovely, but whoever said anything about them being clean? It's a good thing Labs love water or else they would be perpetually dirty. If a Lab sees a puddle of mud, he's going to go roll in it. It's just in his nature.
Also, Labs shed a lot, so if you were planning on keeping a clean, fur-free house, you're either going to need to invest in a Roomba or maybe pick a cleaner dog.
A Special Silver Lab
Most Labrador Retrievers are either yellow, brown, or black, but some of them come out looking a little different. This is a picture of a silver lab, which is technically a cross between a lab and a Weimaraner. This dog has way more Lab blood in him though. The Weimaraner genes are pretty diluted.
These dogs first popped up in the 1950s, and to this day, many breeders refuse to accept silver Labs as real Labradors.
Made To Swim
If you have a cottage or a beach house, or if you just love the water, Labs make great swimming buddies. These dogs love water, and will often jump right into a lake or an ocean without any hesitation.
They enjoy splashing around in shallow water, as well as going for a serious swim in deeper waters. Labs even like taking baths, which is great because they often get really dirty after a long day at the beach.
Always Hungry
Labs are definitely good eaters. If your Lab doesn't have an appetite, there's probably something seriously wrong with him. These dogs love their food, and they also love your food if they can get their paws on it.
They will even eat dirt, leaves, sticks, rocks. animal carcasses, and even poop! If it were left up to them, they'd probably eat until their stomach exploded. The reason that they are bottomless pits when it comes to food is that they actually have a gene that causes them to be food-obsessed. Because of this, they are often prone to obesity. That's why it's important to monitor how much your Lab is eating.
Looking For Love
Labs are eager to please and they're always looking for love from their owners. They'll follow their owner everywhere they go, which leads many owners to name their Labs "shadow" (especially brown and black Labs).
Their willingness to please is often successful. Who could resist that face? It is quite difficult to be anything but happy around a pup as cute as this one. Labs are super emotionally intuitive and they can even tell when you're feeling sad.
Always Looking For Cuddles
A Lab may weight up to 70 pounds, but it will probably still assume it is a lap dog. They may be suffocating their owner and crushing his or her ribs, but they do so with nothing but pure love. They also often seem to sense when their owner is sad or upset, and will come cuddle with a head, or full body, on their best mate's lap. They even tend to be more calm and gentle with people who are vulnerable for one reason or another. They eat up affection and aren't shy about dishing it out as well.
The First Lab
Black Labs were the first Labs discovered, back in the 18th century in Newfoundland. They are the most popular of the breed, mainly because the black gene is the most dominant. Hunters and shooting enthusiasts love black Labs, and they are often bred for this type of work. Though it is hard to picture this sweet face hunting down pheasants. They are well known as skilled and courageous service dogs, but there is no doubt they still make great family pets and companions, as they have a happy, playful and loving temperament.
Red Fox Lab Puppies
These Red Fox Lab puppies are too cute for words! This particular color of the breed was very popular when they were first introduced to us as pets but then lost their popularity to the yellow, chocolate and black Labs. Breeders even started trying to "breed the red out." But in recent years they have become popular again, and many breeders have been specializing in this unique coloring. And how could they not? Any one of those perfect little faces is to die for. (Though they tend to cost a lot more if you are buying one.)
By Your Side
Part of what makes dogs such great companions is the fact that they never judge us. They don't care if we lay around in our cartoon-covered pj's all day. They don't care if our face is covered with zits. They won't laugh when we cry at the end of that Disney movie. They won't remind us how many calories were in that pint of ice cream. That won't tell us to be more organized when we are running frantically around the house looking for our keys. They think we are awesome no matter what. And we think the same of them.
Sleeping On The Job
Any dog owner knows that dogs in general sleep much more than we do. Any time of day is a good time for a pooch to catch a snooze. Adult labs will actually spend half of a day (12 hours) snoozing. Lab puppies that are younger than four months old may even sleep up to 20 hours a day. What a life! They are quite active dogs, so it's no wonder that they need to rest up. Not to mention they look pretty adorable when they are sleeping. Take this guy, for example. He looks as if he doesn't have a single care in the world.
He's Tired Of Being So Cute All The Time
After a long day of being absolutely adorable, it's nice to sit back, relax, and doze off on your owner's lap as they lovingly rub your head. At least we think it's nice. We're nowhere near as cute as this adorable Golden Labrador, but we can dream, right?
A Sunny Day
Did you catch a glimpse of the eclipse last August? This pup was super prepared so he wouldn't miss it! This adorable dog is Ceebee, a Golden Labrador. Here, Ceebee is showing off a pair of designer Pooch Peeper Protectors at Kettering town center, where people gathered to watch the eclipse on August 11th. These stylish specs were designed by Red Dog Trading, which is a co-operative run by adults with learning difficulties.
Playing Games
These adorable pups are battling for the ultimate prize...the yellow chew toy. Whoever wins will get bragging rights and will be the proud owner of the chewy wonder. Well, at least for a few minutes. This photo was snapped at the public swimming pool in Korb near Stuttgart in Germany on September 24, 2016. This public pool closes its doors to humans after the peak swimming season but remains open for dogs only one day per year!
Some Royal Pups
Corgis might be Queen Elizabeth II's breed of choice, but even she has to admit that these little Labrador pups are giving her Corgis a run for their money in the cuteness department. Pictured above are dogs named Elizabeth, Charles, Andrew, Ann, and Edward. These adorable pups are the Guide Dogs for the Blind's new recruits at their Tollhouse training Centre near Royal Leamington Spa.
They're fancy British pups, and one day, they're going to be able to add a whole lot of value to a blind person's life.
Just Goofing Around
Labradors are able to complete serious tasks as service dogs, but they also know how to goof off. These dogs work hard and play harder. They love playing fetch and running around with other dogs.
Almost all puppies are clumsy, but Labradors hold onto to that awkwardness as they grow up. Some people refer to Labs as eternal puppies because they stay in that goofy puppy stage for their whole lives. Even older Labs still make faces like this sometimes.
The Bond Between Dogs And Kids
Not all dogs find it easy to get along with little humans. Kids can be rowdy and chaotic and some dogs prefer to live in calmer, more stable environments. Luckily, Labs love a little bit of chaos. Labrador Retrievers are known for being great with kids, which is why they make such great family pets.
Labs have a natural instinct to take care of and protect their family, so they end up being good bodyguards for children.
They Love A Game Of Fetch
Yellow, Brown, and Black Labradors all love a good game of fetch. These dogs are retrievers after all. Retrieving is in their DNA.
Playing fetch with your Lab is a great way to tire them out and let them burn off any excess energy. Tug-of-war is a Lab favorite as well. They are even pretty skilled at playing Frisbee. Well, catching the Frisbees at least. Don't expect your Lab to be able to throw a Frisbee back to you.
The Best Of Friends
This group of yellow Lab pups look as happy as can be all snuggled up, enjoying the feel of each other's fur right up against their own. They all even seem to have the same facial expression!
Labrador Retrievers are very social by nature. They not only love to hang out with people, but also enjoy the company of other dogs as well as other animals. In fact, they get very lonely and depressed if they are isolated. That's why they are the perfect dog for a family or a multi-pet household. Who wouldn't want to take all of these puppies home?
Start Training Early
When it comes to Labs, there is a bit of a debate on what is the appropriate age to start training them. Some trainers believe you can start training your Lab as early as eight weeks old. Others say let puppies be puppies, and don't start training them until they are six months old. Studies have shown that they will still be able to reach the same level of training skill when they are an adult no matter which of those two ages you decide. Either way, be gentle, kind and loving in your training, and they will respond. But how could you not be with a face like this?
A Rainbow Of Labs
Though most people think Labradors only come in black, chocolate or yellow, there are actually a few more variations. Yellow Labs range from a pale white to almost a deep red. Black ones can be born with white patches or even (very rarely) a combination of colors. Chocolate labs come in a variety of shades, from medium brown to a very dark brown. But alas, there are even more varieties! There is actually a type called a Red Fox Labrador (though it is actually a dark shade of yellow), and, although quite rare, and controversial, there are silver Labs.
Old Yeller
Yellow Labs are the second most popular of the breed. As mentioned, yellow Labs come in a wide variety of shades. Labs with a deep yellow shade are often referred to as "golden labradors", though most breeders don't like to like this term. They are also popularly used as guide dogs to the blind. The reason for this is because is when properly trained, they are extremely obedient dogs. They are also very intelligent: they can open doors and help people get dressed and undressed! They take direction well and always give their all to any task.
Are You A Chocoholic?
Back in the olden days, breeders who were breeding black Labradors would get a big surprise when their dogs would pop out one or two brown, or chocolate, pups. This would happen when the parents secretly carried the less dominant brown gene. Surprisingly, breeders would get quite upset to see those brown little faces. Previously called liver labradors, chocolate Lab puppies in this brown shade began to get popular in the 1960's, and still remain so to this day. And quite understandably so; the beautiful brown coat is undeniably amazing. Imagine being disappointed upon meeting these sweet pups? Not a chance.
Super Popular Pups
It's no wonder why labs are one of the most popular breeds. They have so many endearing attributes, it is difficult to keep count of them all. They are great to cuddle with and are the ultimate playmates. Their endless energy is utterly contagious. They live to please and impress their owners. They are incredibly intelligent and quick learners. They are amazing with people of all ages, as well as with other animals. They are pretty low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. They know how to make us laugh. Not to mention they are delightfully adorable. Labradors may be the best dogs ever.
A Christmas Lab
We're not sure what's more impressive, the fact that this pupper can sit still long enough to take this adorable photo or the fact that the Christmas tree is still standing! Here Maverick's owners capture his first Christmas as he poses by his stocking like a good boy. This doggo has no idea that his paw print stocking is about to be filled with tasty treats and toys. Labs do pretty well in cold weather so Christmas is nothing but good times for them! There's no doubt this lab puppy will spread plenty of Christmas joy to his family and neighbors.
Munching Away
Photo by Juana Arias/The Washington Post/Getty Images
Being as cute as this pup means you work up an appetite rather quickly. And what better way to satisfy your appetite than with a huge burrito? Alright, this isn't actually a burrito but it sure looks like it. And honestly, the puppo would probably scarf down a burrito right now to us.
Coming up next: see how Labradors are proven to be the absolute best dogs.
Yeah, He's Always This Cute
Would you look at this Labrador Retriever puppy? That chocolate fur, those baby blue eyes..how is this amount of cuteness even possible? We don't know and honestly, we probably will never know. This adorable photo was snapped during a news conference on February 22, 2016, in New York at the American Kennel Club. At the event, the highly-anticipated annual list of the country's top dog breeds was released. To no one's surprise, the Labrador retriever held its title of America's most popular dog breed for the 25th consecutive year! This is the longest continuing reign as the nations top dog in AKC history.
Friends Forever
Is there anything better than coming home to your canine BFF and going on a leisurely walk together? We think not. And by the look on this adorable dog's face, he agrees! Walks with his owner are 100 percent the best. This photo was snapped as a beautiful labrador arrived with its owner on the second day of Crufts Dog Show in Birmingham, England. Crufts is the largest show of its kind in the world and the four-day event features thousands of dogs.
A Golden Squad
We told you this was the ultimate squad goals photo. Ben Prunchie snapped this photo of a group of Retrievers as they arrived with their owners on the second day of Crufts Dog Show in Birmingham, England. Crufts was first held in 1891 and is a huge annual event that features thousands of pups from all over the world. Every dog competes for the coveted title of "Best in Show."
Saying Hello
There is something about the contrast of chocolate fur and bright blue eyes that is undeniably adorable! This Labrador Retriever was attending the American Kennel Club as the group was presenting the nation's most popular dog breeds. Not surprisingly, the Labrador was crowned the most popular breed.
Going For A Swim
Ah, summertime and the living is easy! Is there anything better than taking a dip in a cool river on a hot summer's day? Jumping off a dock into those refreshing waters is one of life's simple pleasures — and clearly, this pup agrees!
Coming up next: a gang of five Lab puppies doesn't exactly make sure good guard dogs, but they sure look cute!
Always On The Lookout
Photo by: Auscape/UIG via Getty Images
How darn cute are these five Golden Labradors? If there is one thing cuter than a Golden Labrador, it's five Golden Labradors. We just love how they each have a somewhat intimidating look on their face, like a true guard dog...although, we're not sure how tough these little guys are just yet. While they may not be tough, they are definitely cute.
An Oldie But A Goodie
We love this photo because it proves that Labradors have been cool forever. As if you needed proof, he is a photo of Sandy the Labrador. Here, she is seen behind the wheel of the Animal Welfare Trusts newest Animal Ambulance. Dogs definitely can't drive but Sandy is pretty darn convincing if we do say so ourselves. This photo was snapped in March 1947 which only proves that Labs are way cooler than we will ever be.
Loving The Waves
Is there anything better than watching an ecstatic pup playing in the water? Anyone? Anyone? The answer is no. This is peak cuteness right here people. This photo, snapped by Ben Birchall, show Banjo, a 10-month-old Yellow Labrador, as he plays in the sea at Tenby, West Wales. As the weather was unseasonably warm late last years, pups got to enjoy more time playing in the water.
A Not So Delicious Burger
Alright, how stinkin' adorable is this Yellow Labrador swimming and eating a cheeseburger simultaneously? Okay, that's not a real cheeseburger, we want to imagine it is anyway. This photo was snapped during the dogs' bathing day in the public swimming pool in Korb near Stuttgart. Located in southwestern Germany, Stuttgart closes the public the pool each year as temperatures drop, but open the pool for one day for dogs and their owners.Sounds like a pool party we'd want to attend!
Banjo And Coco
Okay now, is there anything better than not one, but two adorable pups playing together in the water? We don't think so! This is absolute cuteness overload and we almost don't feel like we deserve to walk on the same planet as these cuties. This photo was snapped by Ben Birchall. On the right is Banjo, the 10-month-old Yellow Labrador and on the left is Coco the ten-year-old Chocolate Labrador as they play in the sea at Tenby, West Wales. Here, the mild temperatures attract lots of visitors to the area the unseasonably warm weather takes hold across the UK. We're sure these pups were just happy they got to play outside.
He Looks Like He's Smiling!
Just look at this Labrador Retriever's face! It almost looks like he is giving us a big ol' smile. This photo was snapped on day four of the Cruft's dog show, which took place at the NEC Arena on March 11, 2018, in Birmingham, England. The event takes place each year for four days and sees an amazing 22,000 pedigree dogs! The lab was trying his best to win 'Best in Show,' which is awarded on the final day. We're not quite sure if he won the award, but he's definitely won our hearts!
A Pup In The Snow
At Give It Love, we're not exactly partial to the cold — but if this cutie pie were accompanying us in the snow, we'd be all over it! While he looks a little cold, this furball looks like he's thoroughly enjoying his romp in the snow. This photo was snapped by Yui Mok who saw the Golden Labrador dog in the Parkland Walk nature reserve in London. At the time, heavy snow and sub-zero conditions were affecting Britain's roads, railways, and airports, which caused lots of delays and cancellations. Something tells us this pup wasn't too worried about that though and was just excited to have a snow day! (Photo by Yui Mok/PA Images via Getty Images)
Learning To Be Guide Dogs
Say hello to Oliver, Olwen, Opal, and Onyx — the most adorable six-week-old Labradors we have ever seen! The foursome isn't just cute though. These little guys are guide dogs in training! Once they grown into their paws a little more, they'll start their training at the Guide Dogs National Breeding Centre at Bishops Tachbrook near Leamington Spa. When they finally complete their training, they'll be matched with their forever home and grateful owners.
The Most Loyal Pup
What is it about older Labradors that makes them seem so wise? Perhaps its their off-wite fur and sweet but pensive looks? Whatever the case, we love this older pup because he looks so serious waiting for his owner to return. It just goes to show how loyal and loving Labradors truly are. This adorable guy just can't stand to be away from his beloved owner for too long!
