The Labrador - adorable, affectionate, energetic, intelligent - how could we do anything but love them?
Here at The Mirror, we’re championing Labradors in the battle to be crowned the UK’s favourite breed. Well, Black Labs in particular.
And while we’re chuffed to see them almost in touching distance of the top spot, we’re hoping they knock Staffies out of first place to be named the most-loved dog.
There’s still time to vote until the TeamDogs Favourite Breed competition closes on Saturday August 14.
Your vote could make all the difference.
One person who’s backing Black Labradors is owner Abigail Rabbett.
On why she thinks they should win, she said : “My black lab puppy, Shadow is all for the snuggles.
“Every morning, he bounds up to me and licks my whole face - it's like having a very cute superfan.
“He's incredibly intuitive too. I recently lost my mum and we brought Shadow to keep us company.
“During the grieving process, he has been the most amazing tonic.”
Black Labs have got Abigail’s vote, do they get yours?
Here are five interesting fact about the breed you might have not known:
1. The breed originates from Newfoundland
According to The Kennel Club, Labradors originate from the 16th century in Newfoundland. They were used to help fishermen retrieve nets and lost lines and pull carts loaded with fish.
Although, the dogs in Newfoundland were smaller than they are today. It is thought that they were crossed with hunting dogs taken there by English traders to form what we now know as the Labrador.
2. Black is the breed standard
Black is one of the four colours identified as breed standard by The Kennel Club - black, chocolate, liver and yellow.
Silver Labs are not identified as breed standard.
3. The black coat can come from either parent
The gene associated with the black coat can come from either parent of a puppy, and as it’s a dominant gene, it’s highly likely that a puppy will be black if one of the parents is too.
But that’s not always the case. One litter can produce a range of different coloured puppies, including black, chocolate and yellow.
4. Labradors love company
Black Labs are known for being affectionate and loving, and that’s not only with their owner - they love all company, including that of children and cats.
It’s not hard to see why they’re often chosen to be family pets.
But while they’re an extremely social animal, that does also mean that they don’t like being left alone for long periods at a time.
5. They’re prone to obesity
It’s not just Black Labradors but Labradors in general that are prone to being overweight. They love to eat and are motivated by food so there is a tendency to pile on the pounds if owners give in to this.
Treats should account for no more than 10 percent of a dog’s daily calorie intake.
Exercise is important too, Labradors need at least two hours per day of exercise.
