Guest post: Labrador retrievers are the most famous dog breed in the world. Most of us have seen or known at least one of these yellow or chocolate-coloured fur buddies in our life. But do you know there are silver-coloured labradors too?
Yes, there is a unique type of labradors who are silver-coloured! But don’t get confused. Just like any other retriever, the silver labs are energetic, intelligent, friendly, playful and loveable. Then how are they different? Well, let’s find out 7 interesting things about silver labs.
1. The Product of Diluted Genes
For years breeders and dog enthusiasts are trying to find the real reason behind their silver colour. There are also many theories. Some believe these labradors are the crossbreed between retrievers and Weimaraners. Others think of it as another breed. However, scientists have proved that the silver labs are the product of diluted genes. They are the diluted version of chocolate labradors. Because their genetic structure is almost the same. Many scientists also believe chocolate labradors were mutated to make silver labs. However, the first generation of silver labs was bred with other retriever breeds to continue this unique line of labradors.
2. Appeared In The 1920s
Labradors are one of the oldest family dogs. They have been petted for centuries. However silver labs are not as old as other retrievers. The first case of registered silver labrador dated back to 1917. Some believe that Silver labs were first found in 1800. They were first found in Newfoundland by some English elites. They took these labradors to England. But not many people knew about them. After 1920 these labs came to the US. They got popularity when a gun Magazine advertised a silver lab and this popularity is rising day by day. Still, they are one of the rarest breeds. That’s why silver labs are considered a premium breed.
3. Same Health As Any Other Labrador
Well, if they were not overbred, they must be healthy? No, they have the same health as any other labrador. They were not overbred but they have the same genetic structure as any other labrador. That’s why like any other behavior their health condition is almost the same as any other labrador. If they are properly taken care of, they can live 15 to 20 years. Silver labs also develop some common diseases like Patella Luxation, Hip and Elbow Dysplasia as any other labradors. But they can develop a particular disease called colour dilution alopecia because of their dilute gene. If a silver lab gets this disease, he/she may lose all hairs and never grow again. Moreover, this disease is not curable. But it can be avoided through mediation.
4. All Pedigree Registration Don’t Accept Silver Labs
Silver labradors may be a premium type of labrador. But most of the kennel clubs don’t accept them. As there are many controversies regarding their colour and breed, So most of the kennel clubs don’t accept them. For example, the American Kennel Club accepts a silver labrador to register. But the owner must register them in the chocolate colour version as silver labs are the mutated version of them. Again the United Kingdom Kennel Club does not accept them. They let the owner register the pup as an “Uncategorized” breed.
5. Silver Labs Are Expensive
We all know how expensive a purebred dog can get. Silver Labradors are not only purebred, but they are also unique too. The breeders take this chance and make a silver labrador a money-making breed. Moreover, because of their uniqueness, the elite peoples love to have a silver lab too. That’s why a silver labrador can cost from 1000 to 1500 dollars. But their price may depend on the availability and condition of the pups. However the good news is, to preserve their uniqueness, they are not bred frequently.
6. Easily Trainable
Before adopting a puppy most of us worry about the trainability of it. Well, don’t worry if you are adopting a Silver lab. Because they are one of the easiest ones to train.
Labradors are known for their intelligence. The silver labs are no different in this case. Moreover, because of their mutated gene, they are proved to be more intelligent than any other labrador retriever puppies. With just a treat in hand, you can train them the common commands in just a minute! Easy, huh? Well, you have to consider some other things too. Labradors are a very energetic and active breed. They require a lot of physical and mental exercise. If you have an active lifestyle and can give your pup enough time, Then you are suggested to have one silver lab. Because without proper mental and physical exercise your lab may get bored and not follow your command. But with proper exercise, you will get the best out of a silver lab.
7. They Have Cast Iron Entrails
This point may seem funny. But believe me, a Silver Labrador can digest anything. Labradors are famous for their digestibility. They can eat anything. A fully grown Silver Lab can be around 21-25” in height and weigh up to 80 lbs. An adult Silver lab will eat from 1700 to 2400 calories per day. Their weight also depends on the amount of exercise they get. However, a silver labrador will eat vegetables, fruits, chickens or anything they get. But you should be careful about a silver lab’s weight. Because plump labradors have more chances of getting diseases.
Moreover, some foods like onions, garlic, chocolates, grapes, nuts, avocado, Xylitol, alcohol, and cooked bones can get toxic for him. You should also do some research before giving your silver lab processed food. Because some processed foods contain ingredients that can be deadly to your silver lab.
As you can see, silver labs are almost the same as other labs. Like any other labrador retriever, these gentle fur buddies can be a great fit for your family. Moreover, if you pet a silver lab, his/her uniqueness can bring a new coruscation to your family.