What color labs are healthiest

Labrador Life Expectancy Through Color: Chocolate Labs Are Less Healthy than Black or Yellow Labs

The color of their fur is not the actual problem. Rather, it's how they are bred that might be harmful to these animals' genes. And studies show that chocolate colored Labradors are less healthy than Black or Yellow labs.

One of the most popular dog breeds in the world is the Labrador Retriever. These animals generally come in three different colors: black, yellow (light brown) and chocolate (dark brown).

The relationships between coat colour and disease may reflect an inadvertent consequence of breeding certain pigmentations.

But a new study has suggested that among the Labradors, it's the ones with chocolate fur that have shorter lives and more health issues. Experts from Sydney and London did a study of 33,000 Labradors based on records from British veterinarians. Their findings were published in the journal Canine Genetics and Epidemiology.

More Health Risks for Chocolate Labs

The experts determined in their research that yellow or black coat Labradors live 10 percent longer than chocolate labs. The normal median age for the two sets of labs was at 12 years old, while the chocolate lab was only until 10.7 years old.

Chocolate labs also suffer more health problems frequently than their other counterparts. They are more at risks of developing ear and skin diseases.

The also experts determined that chocolate Labradors have more hot spots on their bodies than black or yellow Labs. Their skin is so sensitive that a minor hair trimming or an infection from pests like fleas or ticks could already cause wounds.

Targeting the Gene Pool

But the researchers made it clear that these dogs lifespan and health issues aren't linked to the gene pigmentation. Rather, this is the result of how they are bred.

The chocolate coat gene is apparently a recessive gene. To breed a chocolate brown Labrador, breeders have to make sure that the puppy's parents are carriers of this chocolate gene.

But then, when breeders do this then they are effectively narrowing down the Labrador's gene pool by targeting specific chocolate coat gene carriers only. The result may yield higher percentages of genes that are more prone to ear infections or skin conditions, which will ultimately affect the dogs lifespan.

RELATED:30 Healthiest Dog Breeds with Long Lifespans

Importance of Dogs' Coat Color

Coat color is a vital determinant in the health of some animals. For instance, the North American gray wolves have black fur to help them fight inflammation and infection, as per a study published in the Science magazine.

Lead study author Paul McGreevy said in the press release that perhaps the same principles apply with the chocolate Labradors. It's also possible the color of their coat has links to this breed's propensity for blindness or deafness.

The experts hope that with their findings, veterinarians and owners of Labrador Retrievers will be more prudent in their dog's regular health check-up, especially if their animal is chocolate brown. In general, however, a Labrador Retriever is one of the longest-living breeds of dogs, according to another study in the same journal.

Colors Matter in Labradors

Apparently, dog breeders associate different roles for Labradors depending on their coat's color. The yellow ones are more capable of working as blind guides and service dogs. The black ones are for hunting and working on the field, while the chocolate labs are for the show ring and as regular house pets.

The yellow labs have a calmer temperament and the black ones are quite active and agile than their other counterparts. The chocolate labs may also hunt but there are most fitted as family pets.

In recent times, especially in the U.K., other Labrador colors have also emerged. Aside from black, yellow and brown, you may also find pale lemon-colored Labradors, fiery red Labradors that look like foxes, and silver coated Labradors. These have also been developed by breeders.

READ NEXT:20 Labrador Retriever Facts You Didnt Know

The Best Labrador Color: Black, Chocolate, Yellow, or Silver?

Since the beginning, humans have been changing the look of dogs to look a certain way. Weve gone from a camouflaged assortment of browns to the striking spots seen on Dalmatians. Even within breeds, there is a variety of colors to choose from, including the Labrador Retriever.

With so many different options, we are able to pick which dog we find the most attractive. But is there a winner among the coats that we can find in the Labrador Retriever. Do they share the same temperaments as their siblings or do they have better features?

When given the question, which Labrador Retriever coat is the best?, it is important to keep in mind that this is a preference and not a fact. But, we will dive into the genetics and possible quandaries related to the distinctions in coat variation among Labs around the world.

How Many Coat Colors and Variations Do Labradors Have?

According to Wide Open Pets, the American Kennel Club classifies the breed standard coat as either being black, chocolate, or yellow.

Although there are three official colors found in Labrador Retrievers, the breed has a plethora of different variations and shades, all within each individual coat color. This makes for quite a diverse dog. But how can you explain this biological phenomenon?

A Background on the Coat Genetics of the Labrador Retriever

Although not everyones favorite discussion, having a basic understanding of genetics and how they relate to coating color plays a big role in your Labradors physical appearance.

As explained by an experienced Labrador breeder, the Oak Hill Kennel describes how the mother and father will both have either recessive or dominant genes or one of each. These then can be used to predict what the puppies will look like.

For instance, a black Labrador might have the genotype, Bb which means that it carries the potential to make different colored puppies since it has one recessive gene. Mate that with a chocolate Labrador, bb, and you will a 50 percent chance for black and chocolate puppies.

Still confused? That is perfectly fine. Some people find it easier to visualize this crossing. Watch this YouTube Video to better understand coat genetics and how to predict the coats of the puppies.

The Black Labs, or Black-coated Dogs

TheLabrador Sitetalks about how black has always been the most common for centuries. This is largely due to genetics as they have the dominant gene. This is different from the two other official colors found in Labs.

Black labs are supposed to be solid in color but can have a small white spot on the front for them to be AKC approved. Other variations not accepted include brindle markings or tan points.

The Chocolate Labs, or Brown-coated Individuals

Labs that have the chocolate coloration are that way because they have inherited the recessive gene. Going back to genetics, it only takes not having a dominant black gene to get this coloration.

The Chocolate Labrador can vary in coloration from a light brown to deep chocolate to be worthy of showing. Those with tan markings or that have brindle striations are disqualified.

Related: Is a Chocolate Labrador Retriever the Right Dog for You and Your Family?

The Yellow Labs, or Yellow-colored Pups

When looking at yellow Labradors, genetics can get a bit confusing. In simple terms, the yellow can override or switch off the black and chocolate genes. But, how can this happen?

This is because the yellow gene is made up of an entirely different genotype, or the eee genes.Labbiesexplains that the presence of ee or an Ee can negate the look of the dog altogether, making it possible to get a yellow Lab.

The Yellow Labrador has the greatest variation of the three solid coat colors. They often are seen ranging from a fox-red to a light cream. They can also have shading located on the ears, back and belly regions.

Related: The Yellow Labrador Retriever: An Identification Guide For Anyone

The Mystery of the Allusive Silver Coats in Labradors

Technically considered chocolate by the AKC, these dogs have made people wonder if this coloration is a myth as they look more like Weimaraners than Labradors. Some people think that they may even have Weimaraner in them for their appearance is strikingly similar.

Seeking to clear up any confusion,All Things Dogs reveals that the silver Lab is simply a diluted chocolate Labrador. And although they have the same gene as a Weimaraner, this coloration has been seen since the 1950s.

Related: Silver Labs: Striking Goldor Striking Out

Why Was Black the First Color of Choice in Labs?

TheLabrador Sitementions that the popularity of black-coated Labradors started in the early 1900s. The preference in those times was for a solid black dog.

Black Labs were so popular back then that breeders did not breed for other colors. Yellow and chocolate Labradors were simply not in demand.

It has been theorized that most of the puppies that came out the wrong color were often called, which is what happened in Germany to the grey ghost, or the Weimaraner.

Related: Mans Best Friend The Black Labrador Retriever

Will You Find Different Coat Colors in Separate Jobs?

Nowadays, every coat color is accepted by clubs. All except for the variations outside the standards. Interestingly enough, the three different coat colors can be associated with various jobs.

The yellow Labrador is more commonly associated with guide dogs, working alongside blind or handicapped individuals.

Black Labs can be found belonging to hunters. Perhaps this is because a gundog that is black is easy to see in the water. The less thought of chocolate Labrador tends to be a member of a home or found in the show ring. Are these choices and associations a hint to a possible difference in performance?

Are There Any Differences Between the Coats Besides Color?

For a long time, it seemed as though coat color did not make a difference in longevity or temperament, but a recent study has seemed to disprove this.

TheAmerican Animal Hospital Associationperformed a study in October of the year 2018, where they looked at over 33,000 veterinary patient records for Labrador Retrievers.

The findings revealed that chocolate Labradors experienced a higher risk of health problems than the other two coats. They also seemed to not live as long.

For instance, the average life span of the other colors was 12.7 years while the chocolate labs lasted 10.7, which is a difference of greater than 10 percent.

The Final Decision: Coat Versus Personality

The three main coat colors for Labrador Retrievers are black, yellow and chocolate. Each has its own variation, including some added markings that are not accepted by the AKC. The black Labrador was once the favorite but is now competing with the other two colors for attention.

Although more research needs to be done, it seems as though the chocolate Labrador Retriever deals with a shorter life span than the other shades.

On a grand scale, the temperament is not changed depending on the coat color and should not be the determining factor for your next dog. Instead, choose the individual that will make a loyal, lovable teammate.

Which Color Labrador Retriever is Best?

Labrador Retrievers are the most popular dog breed in the United States. But, not all Labs are created equal. Labradors typically come in three colors: yellow, black, and chocolate. Although all Labs are wonderful dogs, each color has its own characteristics that make it special to certain types of people or lifestyles. Read on to find out which color Labrador Retriever is best for you.

Main Colors of Labrador Retriever

You may come across a silver Labrador, but this breed generally has the following three coat colors.

Lets discuss the most common characteristics of these usual shades of Labs.

Black Labrador Retriever

Black is the most popular of all Lab colors. This coat color is often associated with dogs that are gundogs. These pups are bred over generations to be hunting dogs. They have a strong desire to please their owners and work closely with them in the field. Labradors were first bred as hunting dogs so its no surprise that the hunting gene stayed with this breed.

Chocolate Labrador Retriever

This is the most popular color of Labs in the United States. Chocolate Labradors are often associated with dog shows. This is because this coat color is considered the most desirable one by many dog enthusiasts.

Yellow Labrador Retriever

Yellow Labs are often thought of as the working dog. This is because they are often used as guide dogs for the blind. Similarly, they also serve as assistance dogs for people with other disabilities. Thanks to these duties, these Labradors are easy to train, well-behaved, and full of love.

Which Color Labrador Retriever is Best?

Each coat color of Labradors has its own unique traits that make it stand out in different situations. Therefore, there isnt really the best color for all situations as each Lab will show off certain features depending on its duties. For example, dogs used for hunting will be more active than others while service dogs will be more caring.

Similarly, several other factors must be taken into consideration when choosing a Labrador for your family. For instance, health, intelligence, and energy levels are some of the most important ones. Read on to learn which color Labrador Retriever is best for different situations.

Which Color Labrador Retriever is the Healthiest?

For a long time, it was believed that the color of your Labradors coat did not affect its health. However, some recent developments show that the color of a canines coat can have an impact.

The American Animal Hospital Association conducted a study in October 2018 in which 33,000 Labrador Retrievers were included. Researchers compared the veterinary patient records of all these dogs to conclude that chocolate-colored Labs are more prone to health-related problems. It was also found that the average lifespan of these pooches is shorter than black or yellow-colored labs.

Which Color Labrador Retriever is the Smartest?

Some people believe that black and yellow Labradors are more intelligent than chocolate ones as theyre often used for working purposes. However, this may have something to do with the individual personality of each dog rather than just their coloration.

Chocolate Labs can be less intelligent than other colors, but this is not because of their coat color. Its more dependent on other factors, the way they are bred. For example, most backyard breeders focus on getting a certain shade at the expense of everything else.

Which Color Labrador Retriever is Best for Hunting?

Black labs are considered ideal for this role because of their historical background. They have been bred for centuries as an excellent hunting companion that can track prey and retrieve game. This coat color makes it easier for them to blend in with their surroundings. This is quite useful when theyre going after the game.

The first Labradors that were bred were black. Its believed that other colors werent yet accepted by society and this leads to a theory. Some people say that Labs of other coat colors were killed off at birth in the early years. However, there isnt much evidence to back these claims.

Labradors were originally bred as hunting dogs so it makes sense that the first (black) labs are good gundogs.

Which Color Labrador Retriever is the Most Hyper?

Chocolate, black and yellow labs are all very energetic dogs. While each color has its own unique qualities, none of them can be regarded as more lively than another. However, chocolate labs are usually considered the most chaotic ones because they are often not bred properly. So, if youre looking for an energetic friend, any Labrador Retriever will work.

Which Color Labrador Retriever has the Best Personality?

There are many beliefs about the personality of Labradors, but theres no scientific evidence to back them up. Some owners say that yellow Labs have a gentle nature and black dogs are calmer than others. Others suggest that chocolate-colored labs behave wilder than their peers. However, there is no concrete evidence to back these claims and all of them are considered myths for now.

Which Colored Labrador is Best Suited for a Home?

A Labrador Retriever of any color would make a perfect family dog. However, black Labs are preferred by many owners because they offer several different traits. They have a calm nature and are quite friendly with children. In addition to that, they can be ideal for very active families that enjoy a lot of outdoor activities.

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