Is a lab a small or large breed

Mini Labrador: Guide to Owning a Miniature Lab Dog

Last Updated on July 6, 2023

Vivacious and fun-loving, Labradors are an instantly recognizable breed. However, their medium to large size is off-putting to some who want a smaller dog.

Is there a compact version of these gun dogs? Yes and no.

Most Mini Labradors are designer breeds such as the Cavador, Cockador, or the Chihuahua Lab mix. Purebred Teacup Labradors are not received warmly due to health issues which we will explore below.

Where Did the Miniature Labrador originate?

These dogs came from Newfoundland in Canada, and the breed took off with fishermen. Bred from lesser Newfoundlands, or St. Johns water dogs, they were originally black.

Black Labs became extremely popular with the hunting community, and other color variants were often culled at birth for being undesirable.

Today, you can find Labs in an array of colors, even the striking red coat of a fox or the silver-grey beauty known as Silver Labs.

To learn more, we have an article on Lab coat colors where you can read all there is to know about all the different shades that lie within the Black, Chocolate, and Yellow color categories.

Since these gun dogs were bred for hunting work and labor, the Toy Lab is a controversial topic.

Not only are they often Labradors with dwarfism, but a large portion is also bred with unscrupulous practices.

Dwarfism is a genetic mutation, which comes in various forms that will be further discussed in the health section.

It is unclear where the first Mini Lab made its appearance, but the propensity for dwarfism has always been a part of the breeds list of potential health problems.

While you can register your Mini Labrador Retriever puppy if its parents have the appropriate papers, it will be eliminated from the show ring for being too small.

What Does a Mini Lab Look Like?

Normal Mini Labs look like a smaller version of their bigger counterparts. They have the same otter tail, block heads, and proportions of a standard Lab.

The mini dogs that suffer from dwarfism usually have bent legs and bigger heads.

Dwarf Labs often look like Dachshunds, with their short legs and standard-sized body.

However, some Labs affected by dwarfism do not exhibit these symptoms and may look like a slightly shorter Labrador, with the same deep barrel chest, and athletic build.

This has to do with their genetics and how the dwarfism mutation is exhibited.

Take a look at Casper the dwarf Lab:

How big will a Mini Labrador get?

The Mini Labrador classifies as a medium-sized dog and its 2.5 inches shorter than a typical Labrador. Both female and male Mini Labs can grow around 20 to 22 inches (51 to 56 cm) and can weigh between 30 to 50 pounds (14 to 23 kg).

Miniature Labradors are considered full-grown when they reach their adult height anywhere between 12 to 15 months of age.

Mini LabradorPhysical Features	Male	Female
Height	20 to 22 inches(51 to 56 cm)	20 to 22 inches(51 to 56 cm)
Weight	30 to 50 pounds(14 to 23 kg)	30 to 50 pounds(14 to 23 kg)

Not many people know this but Mini Labradors are actually apartment friendly. If thats your concern, perhaps you should reconsider, since they are calm dogs that dont need a lot of space.

Coat: Are Mini Labs hypoallergenic?

If you are after a hypoallergenic dog, you will have much better luck with Labradoodles, which are Labs crossed with Poodles. They are an adorable and highly popular crossbreed that doesnt shed.

Unfortunately, the Mini Lab has the same tendency to shed as a standard Lab. Their thick double coats are waterproof on the top layer, soft and fluffy on the inner layer.

Thanks to their double coats, they can withstand heat and cold much better than their owners can. If its under 20 F (-6 C) you should offer your furkid a blanket or a warm shelter.

If its over 90 F (32 C), make sure there is shade and fresh, easily accessible water.

That being said, every dog is different and their preferences should be taken into consideration.

A house dog would not like being left out in the cold, whereas a dog used to winter would find your home too stuffy with the heating on.

Do Miniature Labradors make better house pets?

Purebred Labradors are known to be awesome family pets. They get along great with kids and are as loving as they are active.

Your Teacup Lab Retriever will be no different. Hell be a joy to be around and a wonderful addition to your family.

However, due to issues with their health, your Mini Labrador Retriever dog might be more time-consuming to take care of.

How To Take Care of Your Mini Lab?

Mini Labs bred with runts can have many health problems. According to Google, there are plenty of runts that live to lead healthy lives but they often have lower survivability in their puppyhood.

On the other hand, Labradors born with dwarfism will need a lifetime of specialized care and attention.

Exercising your Miniature Labrador Retriever

Mini Labradors have the same energy levels as their standard counterparts. The only difference is that they are even more susceptible to joint disorders such as hip dysplasia.

Therefore, its crucial that you dont overdo the exercise until they are at least two years old when their bones have had time to set.

These little guys tend to have shorter legs, so you want to make sure that they are able to keep up when youre hiking or jogging.

You also want to provide them with enough stimulation, lest they get bored and become destructive.

How often should Mini Labs be groomed?

Miniature or not, Labradors shouldnt be bathed frequently as this could destroy the balance of natural oils on their coat.

Too much shampooing can also cause their coats to dry out, which will either cause itchiness or an increase in oil production. Neither of which will do your dog any favors.

Check their eyes and ears frequently to ensure that there are no abnormalities. Nails need to be clipped every few weeks or when you can hear them clacking on the floor.

As you can see, they are quite low maintenance and only require a brush every now and then.

Any ole slicker brush you get off Amazon will do, although some pet parents like to use a furminator to get their annual shedding under control.

When they are blowing out their coats for the summer or winter, youll want to brush them on a daily basis.

How do you feed a Toy Labrador?

These small variants should be eating 1 of high-quality kibble per day. Even though they are a smaller size, they shouldnt be fed a Beagle or small-dog kibble. They will need the same nutrients as a large-breed dog.

Why? Large-breed dog kibbles are fortified with supplements for healthy joints and heart and arent too high in fat since special precautions should be taken to prevent obesity.

Miniature Labrador Health Issues

Depending on what caused your Labrador to be smaller than the breed standard, you might need to be prepared for a shorter than average lifespan.

Dogs with dwarfism might only live 5 years, whereas the breed average is 10 12.

They also suffer from certain physical disabilities such as short legs, bowed knees, swollen joints, turned-out feet, and a low slung back. Dwarf Labs also have proportionally large heads.

There are two main kinds of dwarfism, SD1, and SD2. The SD1 gene is called osteochondrodysplasia and will manifest as malformed legs.

These dogs will most likely develop dysplasia and cause pain and lameness, something that the Labrador breed is already susceptible to.

The SD2 is the more common form of dwarfism and it causes skeletal dysplasia and inhibits their bones from fully developing. This means that while their legs will be shorter, they will not have any deformities.

Another genetic mutation that might create a Miniature Labrador lies in their faulty pituitary gland.

A malfunction that inhibits their growth hormones naturally stunts their growth and leaves them smaller than other Labs. All three mutations can increase the risk for retinal dysplasia which causes blindness.

Smaller Labs bred with runts are often more sickly than regular-sized Labs. It isnt surprising for them to have weaker constitutions. However, they can also be just as healthy.

This popular breed of dog could also develop ear and eye problems, and hypothyroidism. The other health issues that Labbie owners should look out for are obesity and cancer.

How Much is a Miniature Labrador Puppy?

Lab puppies regardless of size should be around $300 to $1,000, depending on their pedigree. Most breeders do not advertise their stunted puppies as bigger Labradors are often more desirable.

Miniature Lab Breeders

If you come across a Mini Lab breeder, there are a few things you should consider. First of all, they should be breeding healthy Labradors who do not carry the gene for dwarfism.

Due to its controversy, there arent many Mini Lab breeders or kennel clubs, which means that you will need to source your little baby from regular Labrador breeders for dogs that are smaller than usual:

• Duckhill Kennels (Somerville, TN)
• Wildrose Kennels (Oxford, MS)
• Bayside Labradors and Gundogs (Montana)

Rescue a Mini Lab

Dog lovers who believe in adopting instead of shopping are commendable and giving dwarf Labradors or Toy Labs a second chance is an honorable thing.

You can call the following shelters to see if they have any Miniature Labrador Retrievers available, bearing in mind that most of them would be mixed:

• Lab Rescue LRCP (Annandale, VA)
• Labrador Retriever Rescue of Florida (Pompano Beach, FL)
• Golden Gate Labrador Retriever Rescue (CA)

Who Should Get a Mini Lab Dog Breed?

If youre in love with the Labrador breed but dont have the resources of a large dog, you can potentially adopt a small Labrador. Just be aware of the risks involved as they are unregulated.

However, if youre happy with any small dog, there are plenty of other dog breeds such as the Spaniel or Terrier that will offer you the same outgoing personalities in a much smaller package.

Cess Gamas( Head of Content Marketing and Editor )

Cess is the Head of Content Writing at K9 Web and a passionate dog care expert with over 5 years of experience in the Pet Industry. With a background in animal science, dog training, and behavior consulting, her hands-on experience and extensive knowledge make her a trusted source for dog owners.

When not writing or leading the K9 Web content team, Cess can be found volunteering at local shelters and participating in dog-related events.

Different Types Of Labrador Which Is Right For You

Two different types of Labrador have developed over the last fifty years. English Labs often have broader heads, thicker tails, a barrel chest and a healthy helping of enthusiasm for greeting every person and dog they meet. American type Labs have a leaner body shape, and turbo charged temperament, with a high prey drive, determination and intense bond with their owners.

Today I will share my experience of the differences between show bred English Labradors and working American Labs. And Ill help you decide which of these two different types of Labrador Retriever is the best pet for your family.

How your Lab behaves and what they look like will depend to some extent on their origins. So well look at how the two types of Lab emerged and how those origins have influenced your Labradors appearance and personality.

What are the two types of Labrador Retrievers?

The two different types of Labradors are American Labradors, also known as field bred or working Labradors, and the English Labradors, also known as show or bench Labs, bred for showing and as companion dogs.

Why are there different types of Lab?

Labrador Retrievers were developed as the breed we know today by a couple of English aristocrats in the 1800s who were passionate hunters of gamebirds.

Like all our retriever breeds, the Labradors original role was that of a working dog. The Labs job was to retrieve shot game for their master. And to deliver this valuable food source to hand, in a fit state for the table!

Labradors become pets

This is still the role of working Labradors today, but the popularity of the breed as companions, means that most of these lovely dogs now live out their lives as family pets

Labradors became popular as pets around the time that the first dog shows were springing up and exhibiting dogs in the show ring was becoming a fashionable hobby.

Naturally the role or purpose of dogs being bred, influences the breeders decisions about which Labradors to include in their breeding program. Show breeders focus more on looks, while those breeding hunting companions focus more on ability.

Dual purpose Labradors

At first many Labs were what is termed dual purpose. Capable of winning in the show ring and in the field.

But as Field Trial competitions became more demanding, field bred labs became more specialized, with a leaner build, and more speed and focus. Some (not all) lost their classic Labrador looks. While show bred Labs became a little more exaggerated, with chunkier bodies, heavier heads, and shorter legs.

It was these heavier dogs that became more popular as pets, and show breeders (who soon outnumbered the field type breeders) took over the role of providing puppies for pet homes.

In this way, the divergence between working type Labradors and show type Labrador became established. Breeding between the two types became less common. And the last dual Champion Labrador died many years ago.

English vs American Labradors

In the USA the two types of Labrador also acquired some new names English (for the show type) and American (for the pet type).

Well stick to those terms here as most of you are reading in America, but the terms American and working or field type Lab are interchangeable. And the same applies to the terms English and show or bench type Lab.

All Labs are in fact English in origin. These names have nothing to do with location, or place of birth, and everything to do with role. So for American read working type and for English read show type. Whichever country you happen to be in.

Which type of Labrador makes the best pet?

There has always been some flexibility in the roles that these dogs play. Labs of either type are incredibly versatile.

Many English Labs will do a passable job of fetching a bird for you. And many American Labs will do a good job of being your family pet. But each type has characteristics that may affect your choice. And its a good idea to understand those different traits before purchasing a puppy.

Youll see that show Labs are often chunkier and have a more classic chiselled Labrador head than American Labs. Some people prefer this look.

Labradors bred to be hunting companions dont just look different from Labradors bred for the show ring,they have different natures too.

American type Labrador

The American Labrador has a quick mind as well as a quick body, and is often a very sensitive soul that lives to please. Because of this sensitivity, the working strain Labrador is generally easier to train using the traditional methods still popular in the hunting community.

Extremes of sensitivity can occasionally lead to nervousness, and reactivity can be a problem in some working lines. Reactive dogs make very challenging pets and a robust confidence, with no trace of shyness, is an important characteristic to look for in the parents of your puppy.

Outdoors in the open, American Labradors may have very strong hunting instincts and be more likely to pursue your local wildlife. This can be a problem for those living in rural areas or exercising their dogs in countryside populated with rabbits or squirrels!

Some (not most) American Labs will have so much drive that an inexperienced owner will struggle to gain control on their daily walks together. Especially if they dont pay enough attention to the dog. This is something to consider if you like to relax and chat with friends whilst out walking your dog off the leash.

English type Labrador

English type Labs are often heavier than their field bred cousins, and shorter in the leg. Some lack agility, though I have known some heavyweight show type Labs that are surprisingly good at jumping.

All Labradors are boisterous when young, but show Labs tend to become chilled out as they mature, while some of their field bred cousins remain high energy dogs throughout their lives..

I had one pure working type Lab and one part work/part show type Lab that were close in age. My working type Labrador Tess, was quite sensible by the time her first birthday arrived. My part show dog Rachael was still not a grown-up at ten!

As juveniles, some English Labs can be over-friendly and distractible which can be a challenge, especially if you exercise your dog in busy dog parks around a lot of other dogs.

One final thought, in the UK, working labs are less likely to be prone to whining than show Labs. Simply because noise is a disqualifying fault in a field trial and has been bred out of working lines to an extent.

Before looking at which Labrador type might be best suited to your family, lets discuss another type of Labrador that I am often asked about.

What is a Drakeshead Labrador?

This question comes up quite a bit! There isnt actually a special type of Labrador that is known as a Drakeshead Lab. Drakeshead is actually just a British Labrador Kennel name. The Drakeshead Kennel is a famous kennel in England that breeds and competes (very successfully) working type Labradors. They also export Labradors to other countries.

If your Labrador is from the Drakeshead kennels, their pedigree will have the word Drakeshead as part of the registered pedigree Kennel Name of your dog.

There are other successful breeders of American or field type Labradors in the UK. And many well known breeders of field type Labs in the USA too.

Which is type of Lab is bestfor me?

The answer to which type is best? is of course never straightforward.It depends a bit on your expectations of your dog, and on your location.

If you want to get involved with some Labrador activities or sports, then a Labrador from working lines might suit you best.

American type Labradors for activities and hunting

Working bred labs respond best to lots of human contact, a structured training program, and a more managed approach to exercise outdoors. American Labs have good focus, tend to be attentive to their handler and responsive to training. This can be helpful if you want to get involved in a sport or activity that involves your dog.

Dog agility is a popular sport that American type Labs can excel at, while English Labs may lack the flexibility and speed needed to compete at a high level. If you want a pet that is also a hunting companion or retriever, then an American type Lab is your best choice.

If you dont want to compete in Field Trials, then consider a Lab bred with the average hunter or shooting man or woman in mind. Dogs bred for field trials in the UK and in the USA can be rather hot for the inexperienced handler.

English Labs for classic good looks

If agility doesnt interest you, and you dont want to train a hunting companion, but prefer long family walks through the countryside where your dog runs free, an English type Lab may be ideal.

You may find it easier to manage a show type Lab outdoors, due to their less intense hunting instincts.

But perhaps the main reason people not seeking a hunting companion may choose an English Lab is because they love their looks.

Different Types of Labrador Heads And Tails

One of the features that separates the two types of Labrador Retrievers is their heads. If you prefer a dog with classic Labrador good looks including a broad head, and a thick otter tail, you are more likely to find those features in a dog from English or show lines.

Beauty if of course in the eye of the beholder. And some of those at home with the working type Lab will find the head size and shorter legs of the English Lab unattractive. Both types of Labrador can make great family dogs though the English type may be less prone to shyness or reactivity.

Will Dual purpose Labs Return?

There are breeders whose goal is to recreate the dual purpose Labradors of the last century. Dogs of substance with thick tails, dense double coats, broad heads, a well focused brain and good retrieving instincts.

I think this is great news for Labradors as many working bred labs have quite poor conformation. Some show Labs suffer from a heavy build, too much loose skin around the eyes, and lack some of the focus and strong retrieving instincts of their working cousins.

I have been lucky with my working show mix dogs, but mixing lines can produce variable results and is always a bit of a gamble. You could end up with a dog with poor conformation and poor hunting and retrieving instincts. Its the chance you take.

Whichever type of Labrador you choose for a pet, make sure you select your breeder wisely. Getting a healthy puppy with the right start in life is more important than any of the above considerations.

The confidence and friendly Labrador temperament we expect from these beautiful dogs should be your number one priority.

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Different types of Labrador

Here are some broad guidelines that do not apply to all individuals of either type.

For a hunting companion or to fulfil your ambition to take part in Dog Agility, choose an American or working type Labrador. And for a more sensitive, focused and trainable dog, also go for a working type Labrador

For the classic Labrador tail, and chunky head, with robust and playful temperament, go for and English, or show type.

If you are a bit of a gambler and none of these things matter very much to you, then a mix between the two types might suit you. But remember that these are very broad guidelines. There are huge differences between litters, and between individuals in the same litter.

Whichever type of Labrador you choose, be sure to check out health clearances, and meet the parents to ensure great temperament. Build on those great genes with a thorough program of puppy socialisation and proper exercise and nutrition for your puppy.

The Labrador Site Founder

Pippa Mattinson is the best selling author of The Happy Puppy Handbook, the Labrador Handbook, Choosing The Perfect Puppy, and Total Recall.

She is also the founder of the Gundog Trust and the Dogsnet Online Training Program

Pippa's online training courses were launched in 2019 and you can find the latest course dates on the Dogsnet website