Labrador Retrievers are very popular in both Great Britain and the U.S. They are, in fact, the most popular registered breed in both countries. Of the three colors, black, chocolate, and yellow, black may be the most numerous. Chocolate Labs, however, are gaining in popularity, and an increasing number of people seek information about them.
Chocolate Lab Coloring
Chocolate Lab facts often begin with attention to the color. The Labrador Retriever Club and AKC standards for chocolate Lab coloring requires that the dog be chocolate colored from head to tail. It may be medium or dark chocolate, but without white. A small white spot on the chest is permissible, but not desirable. There should be no striping or flecks of coloring. Chocolate Labs have brown eye rims, and brown or hazel eyes.
If you breed two chocolate Labs, you may or may not get chocolate puppies. The chocolate gene is recessive, and only two combinations of genes in the parents will produce chocolate puppies. Chocolate Lab puppies may be born from black Labs or yellow Labs who carry the genes.
Chocolate Lab Temperament
A properly bred chocolate Lab will have a loving temperament, and will be want a great deal of attention and love in return. It will be energetic, but fun to train, since it is eager to please. Its enthusiasm for you will rival its enthusiasm for food and exercise!
Chocolate Lab Grooming
A chocolate Lab does not require a great deal of grooming. You should, however, brush it once a week to keep its coat clean. Labs shed, or “blow” their coats twice a year, and need additional grooming at those times.
Chocolate Lab Origins
Chocolate Labs have been present from the beginnings of the Labrador Retriever breed in the 1800’s. Chocolate Labs have not been popular as long as black and yellow Labs.
Popularity is increased when dogs win shows, and chocolate Labrador Retrievers did not have a bench champion until 1964, in Great Britain. Chocolate Labs are still the rarest Labrador Retriever color in the show ring as well as field tests. Judges and spectators both continue to show prejudice against them. Some find them almost ugly, and not fit for the show ring. Others believe they are stupid and cannot win field trials.
We`re on our second chocolate bitch. They are lovely dogs but Polly at 21 weeks is growing rapidly, and in the middle of the chewing/biting/scratching stage. They are definately hyperactive dogs compared with blacks and yellows. Our last bitch, Biscuit, became overweight with table scraps, and this exacerbated a fairly mild hip problem to the point that she was on permanent medication, and died from a cardiac tumour at just over 9 years of age, almost certainly brought on by her obesity. We have learn`t a painful lesson, so please don`t overfeed these wonderful dogs.
I’m not surprised that Chocolate Labs are rare. As was pointed out, The chocolate lab is a recessive gene. If you are familiar with Genetics. There is a one in four chance, if two dogs a bred who have that gene, that the progeny will have a chocolate color.
I have “owned” 2 chocolate labs and some good friends had another one for years. All 3 dogs were very different. They were all “good” dogs. Each loved kids. All liked to eat and exercise. My first chocolate lab was the most intelligent dog I ever knew. She had so many feeling and she could not stop playing ball. She lasted until 15 but the last years were rough on her. My current one is not as smart and has selective hearing. But she is a wonderful animal. I rescued her and I believe she was mistreated as a puppy. But she is very lovable.
I adopted a Chocolate Lab mix about a year ago as a one year old dog. I don’t know if it’s breed character for them to be constantly wanting to roam, but it seems that I cannot trust him to stay around the farm. Consequently, I have to leave him penned up all day until I get home and even then, I have to put him on a leash to keep him around or else he will disappear for days on end. Is that normal? He’s a great dog and is super sweet and really great with children, but he doesn’t obey when I call for him. If anything, he stops, looks and me and then runs the other direction twice as fast. I have never abused him, but I wonder if his previous owner did by the way he acts sometimes. I am almost at my wits end with this dog and I don’t know what to do. Does anyone have any suggestions?
We have a 2 year old male Chocolate Lab called Chip, with a white spot on his chest, he is 5th generation pure bred. The white spot denotes him as a white chocolate, closer to the original St John’s Water Dog in New Foundland Canada.
Chocolate Labs are extremely noble, loving, and crazy!!!! we love him to bits and he loves us and everything.
Superb Dog in every way.
Dear Charnise,
I myself have a Labrador and he is very sweet and gentle. If you’re going to get one you should probably get a tennis ball and peanut butter. they love these thing a lot.
We got our choc lab when my boys were 5,4, and 8mths. He is now 14 years old! He has been the best dog and best friend to all of us! Always great with the kids, easy going, and truely their best teammate! He mostly sleeps all day now and we just try to keep him comfortable. My 19 year old son said the other day…”I don’t know what life will be like without him…” These dogs are amazing. Work through the puppy stage with patience and love, I know that’s a tough time, but it’s so worth it!
Hey! So I have had my chocolate lab since she was 2 years old(still puppy). I am 13 and have trained her myself the commands: sit, paw, roll over, lie down, come, other paw and additional to that go fetch(which is what I call when she goes between the legs), take socks off, put the toys away, and bring the phone over when its ringing. She has learned all of those with patience, energy(of course) and now its paying off really well. I do have 3 younger siblings. She helped my mom raise them. She was great help. I can’t even describe it using words. Only one problem: she has brown spots on her teeth… any recommednations? Thanks
I got Molly when she was 7 weeks old. She is a full blooded chocolate lab. Easiest ever to train. (Minds better than my kids sometimes) My 11 year old daughter actually did most of her training! She is awesome. Never potties in the house, hardly ever barks, but protective! Only growls at her buddy Milo when he tries to get in her food while she is eating! (soo cute!!) She is so loving and loyal, i wouldn’t trade her for anything!
i want chocolate lab but I’m not sure it will go with my 2 year old daughter very well. what should i do?
My choc lab bossy she is great housebroke gets all the attention she needs and wants im home all day or she goes with me where i go my thing is chewing basicsally shoes or my husbands work boots any suggestions on how to stop her. I mean she gets put in time out goes to her kennel but i dont like that idea, not rite to me help
excessive barking all night when put in his kennel – good all day- he is 5 months old –help the neighbors are not happy – don’t know how to help him–I walk him everyday and play with him -for about 5 hours or more- but the night barking is not good HELP
I have a ten year old chocolate lab who is has given our family so much joy. He is loyal, good natured and extremely smart. My three children are now teenagers and have grown up with him. He is truly a part of our family. Labs are wonderful dogs!
Someone dropped off and left a chocolate lab, I think he maybe mixed, not sure. But he is so sweet, strong, but sweet. I don’t know his name, but he hasn’t once barked he came right to me. I don’t want to take him to the pound, but I don’t know how to care for him. He sits when you say it after a few times, gives you his paw, rides in the van like he’s a human, lol, but what next….what should I do?!?!?. He’s at work with me now, just laying in the floor like he’s been with me his whole life! Any suggestions? Does he stay indoors, how often do I feed him, should I give him a new name?
I have a 3 year old chocolate lab that is a Hunting Retriever Champion and on his way to being a Grand Champion. He is an extremely smart dog. My huband loves to take him duck hunting. He is very well-behaved in the blind, has excellent manners in the house and wonderful with our grandbabies. He just became the father of a litter of 10 puppies…and I love his disposition so much I got one of his puppies!
my chocolate lab bites everything … he is teething though and i am trying to get him to teeth on his toys not on people or funiture or anyhting like that … he is very friendly when he meets new people but he likes to chew on peoples fingers although it is cuz he is teething … he sleeps quite a bit and he got his shots a while ago cuz of the parvo going around … he is great outdoors and he is the one of the 2 best dogs i have ever had the other best dog i have ever had was a german shepard named Button and my chocolate lab is named Henry 🙂 RIP Button i miss you BBG!!! Henry is sooo smart though 🙂 🙂 🙂
I have a lab/pitbull well my dad thinks so but hes a very lovable giant and he just has a big grin soon as i go to my dads every other weekend we love him and are brain is filled with loveable memories about him!! Hes very old but we love him no matter what and we hope he never dies but we know it almost time and soon as hes down you’ll never forget him/her they are like your husband that never leaves you but even more a friend a family member as soon as you get one you’ll never forget’em. You may say your dogs stupid but they are very smart.
I just adopted a 7 month old chocolate lab. I am amazed at what a great pup he is. He’s like the special forces of dogs! Been taking him up mountains and swimming in the waters of Oahu’s north shore. He loves fetch games and coconuts. He’s also an excellent chick magnet haha. I love my little Moses!
I have a chocolate lab that my boyfriend forced me to get on Halloween 2010. He came in the door like a mad man and I have to admit I was very worried. We named him Rambo. He suits it! A couple things. He is very energetic. He has selective hearing. He was very easy to potty train. Very impressed with that. He needs a lot of attention! I’m working at home right now so I am able to give this to him but I can’t imagine if I wasn’t. Full time job in the beginning. Gets easier but never ends right. I have three cats. I used to think they needed a lot of attention. No comparison. He loves walks, Frisbee, his toys, the cats toys (lol). He loves swimming. He won’t get out of the water. Just like a little kid at the park when you tell them they have to go home now! He sees the water and goes nuts.lol. I think he jumped in the pool at the hotel when he was 10 weeks old. just wasn’t afraid of water. That’s for sure. He’s excellent in the truck. He has eaten a lot of my panties and messed up a lot of shoes but I think that’s partly my fault for leaving them out? lol. Was kinda crazy on his leash until i purchased a choker 🙂 He sleeps like an angel. Seems to sleep long hours. Probably because he doesn’t stop when he’s up. active I tell you!!! Cannot stress this enough. Very loving. Loves to give kisses! So cute. Loves the couch and jumping in my bed every morning. sleeps in his bed every night. Seems to catch on to being trained very quickly…like he really wants to please me. excellent dog. never ending compliments from everyone who sees him so get ready to show him off! lol. He will not fit in those cute little outfits and they don’t make Halloween costumes in his size though! sad. will not fit in your purse either. lol. what can you do. He has definitely grown on us and become a part of our ever expanding animal farm. He’s my baby boy. I think he would protect me and he sounds scarier than he is. He loves everyone. some people find that annoying because he gets overly excited but once the novelty of someone wears off he’s on to the next one. He’s great with other dogs and with kids but he can get a little rough with younger kids that run around a lot. Maybe it’s because we don’t have kids and we usually don’t have them running around so he’s not used to it or he just thinks he’s smaller than he actually is. Loves table scraps (my boyfriend started this!) While he loves his tricks and seems to catch on quick he sometimes likes to act out or up. He’s a character. things with him only seem to get better. He’s a loving dog. Make sure you have a lot of time for him.
i have 2 choc labs amber and archie . we take them 2 our local beach thay love it!!!!! thay bhay both come on shoots with me and and are well trained .i nearly lost archie when 6 mths old ! fell in a river when we just had floods . i had 2 jump in as he was being sweeped down river at a rate of knots , thought he was a goner !!. would not be without them love em 2 bits
My nine year old Dante has been the best (loyal, obedient, smart) dog I’ve ever had. His father was a national champion back in 2000. Within three weeks, he went from slowly chasing the tennis ball to not being able to get up (hip/back) and in obvious discomfort. I am fearful that a euthanization is eminent. My family raised St Bernards and a few other breeds throughout my life…nothing ever came close to this dog. My three children (ages 9-16) are not handling this very well, and to be honest, I’m handling it worse. Tomorrow may be his last day on this earth and I wanted to express how much of a wonderful dog this Chocolate Lab is and aside from this extremely painful experience of watching his final days, there is nothing that would prevent me from getting another.
We have a 5 month old choc lab and he is WILD to the point that we don’t want him in the house. Our pitbull is better behaved than the lab. Any tricks to calm him down?! Thanks!
I got a Chocolate five years ago, and he is my buddy. I love him so
much. Some people say Chocolates aren’t as smart as the other-colored
Labs, but I can say without reservation that that is not the case for
my Chocolate; he is too smart for his own good. He loves swimming,
playing fetch, and going for hikes, a perfect match for a Colorado dog.
do chocalate labs have oiler coats than other labs?
My chocolate is 9 and still running around, he has been in my family since i was 6 and has been a loyal friend.
best dog ever! sooo nice and cute, great with kids
I am raising my second labrador–my first was a somewhat submissive female–that nipped quite a bit until her adult teeth were all in (6 mos). The dear girl passed in February and this time I have a assertive male–he’s 18 weeks and very nippy, jumps up, and begs to play “tug” as if we all were other dogs–so here’s what I think about Labs and children under six–don’t do it. Even my dear submissive female treated my then 5 year old like the “runt of the litter”–pushing her and nipping her–until those adult teeth came in –but still, the dog weighed more than the child for a few years (65 lbs.). With the more assertive male (dare I say alpha) i would not take a chance with children–not because of aggression, but because of “exuberance and sheer size and strength”. Labs are fabulous with kids once the labs are over 18 mos. But getting to the “self-control” stage takes time. IMHO, the best playmate for lab puppies is another lab–puppy or adult–but I’m only a sample of two. Standard poodles are good with kids too–from what I’ve seen at the dog beach.
hi I have a 9 month old chocolate bitch Milo she is a wonderfull dog and listens to all the basic commands although I have the problem when she is left alone she will get up on the counters or even if she can reach she will still steal food she is well fed not so much that she is over weight, what can I do to stop her doing this??? as it is starting to become a pain in the you know wher lol any help please
We have a chocolate lab name Meela Rae (aka) MiMi. She has been a wonderful “daughter” and is wonderful with my little grandson. She is full of personality and smart, smart, smart. The way she looks at us, my husband and I wish she could talk – we’d love to be able to know what she is thinking. She has been out of the crate since she was five months old, never chewed any furniture or ruined anything but an old pair of shoes. The scariest part of her is she will EAT anything that comes near her. She had surgery a few months ago because she ate a plastic glove ! We don’t know where she got it, she does not run the neighborhood, always on a wire or a leash. So new lab owners BEWARE – they will eat until they can’t eat any more. She ate a sock once and, yes, it came out the other end about 5 days later. We love her to pieces, wouldn’t trade her for anything & she’s a wonderful guardian – that’s our girl !
Our chocolate was 9 years old when he passed. 9 years old and not one, I say not one bad habit. HE was the best, and I will miss him forever.
Wow just drove for six hours to get a female chocolat lab. Is she ever tangly. She is 1 year old, spayed and when she gets excited she doesn’t listen….it’s all a game. A little agressive when it comes to that point though, the ignoring thing appears to calm her down. Wondering though? Ignoring the dog is not something I want to use as a tool to get her to calm down but would rather she would do it when told. Any help with this would be greatly appreciated. The second day now and even though, we need to work through this and get her used to our surroundings as well. We are the third owners in a short time and this may contribute to her behavior as well. energy thoughalt
I have a 3 year old chocolate lab. Energetic is an understatement, she is so full of life. She doesn’t listen very well, as my other lab does. But I couldn’t imagine my life without daisy. She is wonderful with other people and loves kids, it would never cross my mind to worry about leaving her alone with a child, she’s just that great. I recommend this dog to anyone who has the patience, time and energy to give this dog what they need. EXERCISE! This is not a dog to lock up in the yard, they are happiest playing and being around people.
I just got a chocolate lab today, and already am head over heels in luv with her. She is a sweet heart. Yes, they learn quick! Within 10 minutes of us being home and showing her a couple of times a trick she had it down. Yes, very energetic but i think well worth the time and effort. They r such a family dog. Ours luvs to play chase with the girls, especially when they chase her and she lets them get almost to her and then gets a burst of speed! So funny! Best Wishes to everyone who has one!
Ok… We just got our puppy a week ago she was 8 weeks on the dot when we got her. I need help she is very hyper I knew that about the breed and DO NOT mind it but I am having a hard time making her realize when she wants to play that my 15 month old son is not a toy!!!!! Any suggestions please help!!! I will. I am scared if she hurts him I will feel completely responsible and do not want to regret it!!
I have a 4 month old Chocolate lab pup. He is SO CUTE and really funny. he has a white patch on his chest as well. I got a lab because i heard they were great with kids and they like to run. as i have a 6 yr old girl and i am a runner as well. This puppy does not want to run or walk on the leash with me yet. any tips to help me get him off his butt?
I have a 5 month old chocky lab named Charlie, I brought him (much to my wifes disaproval) to be a play mate to my two children (four and two.) It has worked out perfectley!
I would have to prewarn you of a few things though:
1, Table surfing! Labs love food, which in one hand makes them amazingly easy to train, but you will have to keep an eye on their weight! Also it will really annoy you at 5 every morning when you hear the kitchen bin come crashing over!
2. Labs need excorsise, lots of it! I don’t care what anyone else says.. Two OFF THE LEAD walks a day is key or your adorable lab puppy will become a house chewing, stair eating gremlin!
3. Play, you need to play with your lab if you have children, with the children present as much as possible. Or you will find your youngest having him in headlocks and alsorts… Then your stair eating gremlin will start to think that the rough stuff is A OK.
4. Labs are a working dog, nothing makes them happier than helping you. Take them everywhere you go (whereever possible) mine loves a car trip, I take him everywhewre he sits in the front seat proud as punch. This also teaches him how to behave off the lead and with others, I have been doing this since the day I got him and I have never had to use a lead with him. He walks amazingly off the lead.
5. Training, as mentioned above labs are working dogs, train them daily and they will be very content and happy. 30minutes a day is all it takes.
To say my 9 month choc lab is hyper is an understatement, you can take him for a good hours run across open fields and he still wants more. Recently got him castrated to see if he would calm down and it has not made an ounce of difference.
He will eat anything and everything so you can see why weight control is important with these breeds, however I wouldn’t swop him for the world.
I have a 4yr old that was givin to me that pees every where we have tried everything to get him to stop . He also barks every time he is outside and doesn’t stop not fun trying to enjoy time oudoors when uhave to always listen to barking . But I can say he is great with my children
i have a chocclate lab and it awsome with the kiddies there a great PET !!!! IF THERE TRAINED
I definitely had no idea what was in store when i got my choc lab pup a few months ago…EXTREMELY high energy, nontheless, he is very lovable, loves attention….often gets himself into trouble, but quickly learns what he is and isn’t allowed to do. He chews alot though, with his teeth coming in, but isn’t as bad as he was when i first got him. He is a joy to be around, brings a smile to your face, lights up the room…gotta love em <3
We just got a chocolate lab puppy and she is an ANGEL! We love her so much and now can’t imagine not having her. She is so sweet and nice to everybody and everything! We have two other dogs which she loves and she loves babies and children.. like I said she loves anything! Her name is Lillie Mae and she is PERFECT! I would highly suggest getting a chocolate lab for anybody who wants a companion and if you have children they are great!!!
My lab loves people and other dogs. Although he is very lazy and loves to eat. He doesn’t do much either, but I still love him!!!!!!!
I have read so many comments I am planning to get one , its gonna be my second dog, my first dog was a crazy brown poodle that likes to hump and run away , he was very stupid and everyday I would suffer training with him one day he ran away and got lost ! He has been outside so many times and should relize where we live but NO he never came back but I stilled cried even he was a horrible dog I still miss him , I really think the chocolate labador is great very beautiful most of the comments are very touching I love dogs
My dog is a Straight up BEAST!:) He love me my bro and sis. We love him….His name is Rooker after an island in Florida
i have a chocolate lab called jack he is very dumb and loves to sleep and is like a vacuum cleaner wen it comes to food but they are good dogs tho lovely dogs 🙂
My daughter has a Chocolate Lab named Kola. We have had him since he was 6 weeks old. Let me tell you…this guy is a lot of love, and energy. He is so full of love that we are never lonely. I wonder how did we ever get along without him. He is great with my grandson who is 3 years old and my god-son who is 7. The only situation is even at 1 year old he is big, so we have to be watchful when he plays with the boys. He does not try to hurt them or anyone else but as I said before he is big and gentle….but big. If you want love, easy training get a chocolate Lab. Can hardly wait for the summer to get back to playing in the yard every day with Kola. He is so loving and smart.
I have my first American Chocolate, Jackson Browne. I’ve had 5 Blacks. Raised a litter of two with the mother on site. One lived 14 years, one 12 and one 10. Last blackie got bloat like in the movie. Died very suddenly. My brownie is a joker, loves attention, barks on command and with hand signals, uses the bathroom on command, sits, shakes, water retrieves, catches frisbee in the air. Great companion, protective, likes to sit on the couch with us or on his own bed in front of a window looking outside. I trained him to ride in a pickup but at 6 months jumped from a truck bed on the way for a vet visit.
Broke rear leg, had it set with titanium plate and 17 screws. Jackson has made a full recovery. I highly recommend to use a harness system when transporting your lab. We had a specialist from N.C. State University operate on our Jackson and my daughetr is a vet tech.
AGAIN DO NOT LET YOUR DOG RIDE IN A PICKUP UN HARNESSED IF YOU LOVE THEM. Very expensive lesson also.
$5,000.00.
I paid 400.00 for my pup, regestered out of a litter of 4 yellows, 4 blacks and 3 browns. Father was a black flathead, 100 pounds. Mom was a yellow 90 lbs. Jackson is 90 lbs. of pure joy.
Anyone who says chocolate labs are dumb, either are unable to train these dogs (which well, doesn’t take more than a good 20minutes max) or have gotten a horribly inbred lab from irresponsible “breeders” (aka: puppy mill). When I was a baby, my grandparents would lay me down on the floor with their adult black lab Smokey (supervised of course) and he would lay his paw around me and protect me or “clean” me like I was his puppy. Anytime someone he didn’t know wanted to pick me up, he would give a low, deep throated growl..not so much of an angry growl but a “what are you doing with my baby” noise. Labs are by far, one of the most gentle and nurturing dogs you can find. These memories of Smokey and my grandparents other labs made me want one of my own as an adult and I couldn’t be happier. Extremely intelligent, playful and a true teddy bear of a dog! I have never seen any breed more loyal to their family, yet completely friendly to someone they dont know — and can differentiate between someone you know/like, and someone you don’t.
And to the person who said more labs bite than pits: that is just not true. If anyone was bit in the face by ANY dog, don’t you think it would be reported? any dog will bite if provoked. and yes, that even means poodles.
I was bitten in the face by a Lab, on Feb.20, 2009. I was only 17 at the time and I am 19 now. Most people think pit bills are bad dogs but more Labs bite then pits but no one reports it. The dog ripped my bottom lip off and I had to get my whole face reconstructed and to this day I still have a lot of trouble doing normal every day things like brushing my teeth and eating. so just be careful when picking a Lab.
I got my chocolate lab when she was just four weeks old, although I think she was far too young to be taken from her pack she has proven to be an amazing companion. I have a shepherd, a border collie and my lab who is now 18months. While my other two dogs are smart as young children, the lab is unbelievable. She has been potty trained since she is six weeks old and has had only two accidents in the time I have her. If she has to go out or wants to go out and play she will go get my sneaker, if I ignore her she goes to get my other sneaker; if I continue to ignore her she goes and gets her leash! then she will put the leash and in my lap and then go sit in front of the door and stare, until I get up! she is hysterical!! When she wants affection she will come on my lap and put her face right up to mine sideways so I can kiss her snout! If I don’t’ kiss her she nudges me! I would have to say Mike above gave Great advice, unless you can give it a LOT of attention and play with him/her OFTEN I’d suggest a less hyper dog!
Good Luck!!
I got my chocolate lab at 3 months old , what a hand full, now he is 2 and i would not have any other breed. Its amazing how intelligent this breed is. But b prepared to work and walk. i walk mine 3 miles every morning and he is ready to play after that. i urge u not to get this breed unless you can give it a lot, a lot of attention, do that and u have a wonderful loving dog.
I suprised my husband with a chocolate lab last summer after not having his balck lab who passed away 20 years ago. I heard rumors that these labs were so hyper, not true, take a look at the ingredients on the packages of your treats and food. My husband noticed they all contained sugar! Once I got rid of the sugar and went with a holistic dog food, milk bones and pig ear strips, her energy level dropped way down. Before she was 10 weeks old she could sit, and shake her paws and by 12 weeks speak. I’ve never had such an intellegent dog! Training is easy with this pup also, she learns so fast!
I am so happy I finally got a Chocolate Lab. I have heard from many people that they are not a very intelligent breed, but that statement could not be further from the truth. Hunter is a very smart, lovable, kind,submissive, loyal, easy to train part of our family. I think that if you own a Lab, of any color, you need to spend a lot of time with them. Labs can easily get depressed if they do not have human contact. I own a business and can work from home, so owning a Lab was the right choice for all of us! We are actually looking to get another one in the spring. I love the way he listens for the school bus and waits patiently at the door for the kids to come in, then he kisses them all over! I think that with anything, if you spend the time with them teaching them what is acceptable, you will all be a lot happier in the long run!!!!! I will always be thankful Hunter came into our lives….
My family and I are thinking about getting a Chocolate Lab because we are moving to North Carolina from Mass and Me (the oldest child of 2) wants to learn about them. My Mom whos not a very big animal lover is letting us have one if we train it , feed it, clean its mess, and take good care of it. I read that it can shed… of coures my Mom will get mad if she finds hair all over the house! Does anyone know a way to not get so much hair in the house?
My Cocoa is the best dog in the world, I cannot believe how much love i have for this dog, hes around a year old and so full of love you would not believe. Cocoa is a pure breed Gundrift Chocolate Lab ans is very sensitive to skin irritations, apart from that he’s a friendly, loving, fun and energetic dog that loves cuddles and food!
Anyone wanting a Lab needs to be prepared to provide them with lots of love, attention and exercise. You will not regret getting a Labrador, in my opinion they are the best dogs anyone could get.
1 word cute
i love chocalte labs
Chocolate labs are awesome dogs and are wonderful smart pets but I would not suggest for little ones. Though the dog means no harm it could hurt small ones, especially when the dog is full size but still a puppy so it wants to play.
Chocolate labs are great dogs. I never ever regret I got one. He is indeed the best friend I have and he can easy adopt your life style. He is great with people but keep in mind: even he is the friendliest creature on earth-his power is unbelievable would not recommend very small kids play with him without supervision. He can harm without meaning to do so-even stepping on someone foot could be very painful. Also make sure to clip dog’s nails regularly. Beside that you will have loving companion..
we adopted a chocolate lab and hes the most amazing guy ever hes not extremely energetic, we have three kids the oldest is five. Hes very gentle with the kids doesnt knock them over and makes sure there ok when they cry hes the best dog ever.
I have a chocolate lab and have to say dumbest dog I have ever owned. Great with kids, as long as she isn’t running them over, but wow is this dog dumb. I do feel sorry since in all likely-hood it is caused by inbreeding done because so many people want labs. Friendly dog, but like labs I have owned before she is beyond dumb. Good dog though if you have small children.
Please note, I have raised and bred Heelers, hounds, basenji as well as others.
My choco lab is so nice he follows me around and he makes this cute noise. I’m gonna cry coz i’m so happy! :’)
our chocolate lab is a wonderful pet and companion to our family. we work long hours and it is always nice to be greeted with such unconditional love, and all he asks for in return is the attention and love he gives to us.
he has been easy to train and loves children. my husband can go out front and our dog will lay in the yard and never run off. like most, if not all other dogs, they will show lots of love and postive responsiveness if you spend the time to show and teach them those things. a dumb dog is only the result of the owner being as such, or just not spending the quality time the dog wants or needs.
i have had many pets…. dogs, cats, etc and i have never met such a loyal, loving, and smart pet than a chocolate lab. not to mention such a beautiful animal…their coats are soft and shiny if the pet is well taken care of.
charlie is the most loveable pet ive ever owned he will give me hugs kisses scratch my back retrieve what ever i ask him to he shuts doors for me all on command its unbelieveable i work 7 days a week some times 10 to 12 hrs very little time to train him he just seems to know and has never went the house even as a small puppy the smartest pet i have ever owned i would die if any thing was to happen to my scooby-do. i would suggest any one to have a choco lab your missing out if your a dog lover.
hey i have a chocolate lab he is very friendly he is very old i have had him since i was 4 years old. And i am now 11 he likes to play with his stuffed pig
I have an eight year old female choc lab. I love her to bits, she’s highly intellegent but is extremly stubborn and only listens when she wants to even though she is fully trained-she is getting a better listener now she’s aging. However, she gets on great with our other 2 dogs and anybody who visits, including children.
I would highly recommend as long as you’re prepared to be patient.
my chocolate lab is the dumbest dog i’ve ever known. i love her to death, but she is stupider and stubborner than a rock. please don’t blame the owner. she is the first purebred i’ve ever owned,a nd she will be the last. my other dogs have been trainable, and smart or at least average/. Maggie is a exuberant and incorrigable. I have always been able to visit friends with other dogs. Maggie has an eating disorder, and can not contain herself in people’s homes from screaming for food if there is anything out on counters. I have learned how to dogproof for her at home after many emergency trips to the vet including the ingestion of a bottle of lavender oil. she is crazy and dumb!
Just rescued a 6 month old lab. (was gonna be used for training a pit bull) This dog is awesome! Sits, stays, sleeps all night, rarely barks, and is a joy to be around. The only drawback, is when the neighbors dog is outside, Bo has selective hearing…He will not come when called. However at 6 months, we have a lifetime to correct this problem. Requires lots of attention which he gets and lots of exercise. GREAT Dog.
Dose your dog like balls our 2 year old lab is ball crazy thats how we get him in the house wonderfull dog.we adopted it a few mo ago. the best dog ever. good with kids and all people it is an alert dog barks at strangers. it will drop the ball at your feet and bark at it to play.
my black lab is so cute and playful. when i am sick he cuddles with me. he sleeps with me and he loves me alot and i love him alot too. i spoil him alot whatever i eat except chocolate he eats it too because i share everything with him.
We pick our brown male choc lab up on 2nd November – we are all so excited and can’t wait to bring him home. As we have not owned a dog before it is all new to us. It is really nice to read all the comments people have made.
I have a chocolate lab and they are not ugly they are very good tempered and playful mine has no white spots and her eyes are yellow very pretty dog and is great around kids 🙂
really want a choclate labrador i am a ten year old and i hve 2 guinea pigs i am wondering about the saftey of them they live outside i have studed them i know the facts but it doesn’t mean they wont harm them i know they are great with children my youngest brother is 4 any advice will be very apriciated rememmber i am 10 so dont think i am just a stupid kid !!
I have a 14 week old chocolate lab named Rocco. My girls and I have had him for a month now, and we are just loving him. He’s such a good boy! I’ve never owned a dog before and I got him for my girls and to watch over them and the house when I’m not home. I recommend puppy classes. The girls and I take Rocco every Thursday for an hour to class. I have also got him on a schedule and house training is going great. He is now letting us know when he has to go out. I walk him 3 or 4 times a day and run around the backyard with him. Next month when he gets his rabbies shot I will be taking him to the dog park to play with the other dogs and to swim in the lake. He loves the water and giving him a bath is so easy. He’s not a barker but he will nip at us because he is teething. I have lots of bones and chew toys and so far he has not ruined anything in the house. We also keep him crated at night and when we are not home and this also helps with potty training them. I would recommend this breed to everyone! I get so many compliments on how beautiful he is and he has the green eyes.
I have adopted a 1 year old male chocolate labe about 2 months ago. What a great dog and highly intellegent and highly energetic is an understatement. Sorry for the spelling. Just need to find a way to get him from trying to grab my calf when trying to come in from the back yard. Any suggestions are helpful. Fabulous around kids and other people. He has a very deep loud bark when strangers come to the door that are not suppose to be there. Has a high, ear peircing bark when he wants something. Drags food bowl around when wanting food.
To anyone wanting a chocolate lab, I highly recommend it. I have a six month old female, and she is absolutely brilliant. She will sit and bark at the moon, it takes her about two tries to get a trick down, and she minds excellently!!! She is the most lovable dog that many people claim to have seen, and she does extremelly well with my four young nieces and nephews.
My 3 1/2 year old male chocolate is my third. They are just the best dogs (friends) ever! Easy to train, loving and loyal. Who could ask for more?
I just got a 7 week old chocolate lab puppy 3 days ago. She is definitely a cute puppy. After I play with her for awhile, she gets pretty tired and then just plops down on the floor and takes a nap. When she sleeps, it just MELTS your heart, you ALL know what im talking about, if you had ever owned a chocolate lab puppy. Anyway, im really excited to grow up and train this dog to be as well trained as my babby girl Max who passed away. RIP max!!! Love ya 😉
i just bought a chocolate lab. She is two months old. She seems to cry for everything. When she is hungry when se wants to go outside, when she hasnt seen me for a few hours? I just wanted to see if this was normal cause im a little concerned.
My chocolate lab has my heart. He loves everyone — old and young. Very energetic and most intelligent….
Ive got an eight month old female chocolate.She has barked 3 times since Ive had her.3 SINGLE BARKS in six months.I also have a Yorkie that wont shut up.Ive tried everything that I can think of to get this dog to bark.Everyone I know thinks Im nuts for trying to get her to bark.I thought all dogs were suposed to bark.Have I got a defective dog?I love her,My Yorkie has a different opinion Im sure. Shes driving him crazy.But Im glad that I made the investment.Shes one of the smartest dogs Ive ever been arround.
I love our chocolate lab. He is awesome with my 4 year old son, they love to play together all the time. He is the smartest dog I have ever had…best decision we ever made was purchasing him! He is very protective of his family though and I have to lock him up when repair people come to the house, but it makes me feel safe to know he will always protect us
We have a chocolate lab we got when our kids were 2 and 3. He was definitely a rowdy puppy but sooooo good with our kids. He has never once snapped or even hinted at a growl. It took him a good two years to settle down a bit but I cant imagine life without our dog-son!
Mine are Great with kids. Zeus my oldest can drag me across the porch, but when playing tug with a 2 year old, he just stands there. Smart dogs!
High energy is an understatement!!!
Mine loves children and even though he doesn’t live with a child…he is always protective and mindful of all the kids he meets. Awesome dogs!! lots of energy!!
I was thinking of getting a chocolate lab puppy for my two year old daugther. I want to know anyone’s experience on raising the puppy along side young children. Please let me know your thoughts. Going to visit a breeder tomorrow about their puppies.
I have 2 female choc labs, 11 year and 3 year old. Both are as lovable as the day we took them in. The 11 y.o. is an american lab with arthritis in her back knees. 2 weeks ago we had a mast cell tumor removed from her front left leg. Now we have 2 choices of preventable care – radiation or chemo. Both expensive but chemo doesn’t require extensive travel every week. Anybody have any experience or heard of the chemo drug, Palladia?? Desperate for the best Quality of life option.
After owning bassets we ‘inherited’ a chocolate lab puppy who turned out to be the bestest dog EVER. He is so loving, easy going and has almost human like qualities. As a young pup, he was hyper but after a few years, he calmed down. He actually goes around the garden and sniffs the flowers and I swear he’s smiling. He just loves life and we just love him. He’s from a large father so this 120 lb big tub of goo thinks he’s a lap dog. He’s as gentle as they come. When grandkids are around or my 85 year old mom – he takes extra care while moving around near them.
I’ll never have another kind of breed. Chocolate labs are the best!
I have a chocolate lab, & she is a loving dog!!:-)
Fletcher, our 7 month old chocolate lab is the best dog. Only having Maltese dogs in the past, getting used to a big shedding dog is quite an adjustment, but worth it. We’re confident he loves us as much as we love him. I’m thinking he may be as smart or smarter than my husband and I put together. I believe it is shameful for an owner of one of these dogs not to train them because training creates a bond of love, understanding and fun for the dog and the owner. And besides, why would anybody want to constantly yell at a peeing, barking, jumping dog for years and years? Fletcher is the hit of our entire neighborhood due not only to his striking appearance, but to his friendliness, acceptance and last but certainly not least, his obedience.
Hi there. I have always had Boxer/Pitbull mixes. After getting my last boxer/pit puppy, he grew very lonely. We struggled with some adoption agencies trying to find the right friend for Brody. One night I was out at my car and I feel these two paws on my back. I thought it was a bear, but turned around to see a young, playful chocolate lab. After taking him to the vet, it was clear that he was used for breeding and then let loose. So my family took him in right away.
Keep in mind, I have only had boxers before this. Myles has turned out to be the most loyal, loving, playful (and a little stupid, but not in a mean way!) dog I have EVER had. Labs are completely submissive dogs, at least in my experience, and they love to please. The second I open my door before work in the morning, myles jumps out of bed and runs to give me a big morning hug. he still turns his head with every word I say, and I can’t help but laugh.
If ever a breed of dog inspired love in man it’s the Labrador Retriever. Having had a chocolate female for 13 1/2 years and now a male chocolate I’m definitely partial and totally in love with the breed. All three colors are cut from the same fabric and mold and respond quite similarly. I’ve often said I’ve never met a wet nose I didn’t like. With labs–the combination of appearance and disposition and personality are just so appealing that I couldn’t reccomend another dog more highly. Is it any wonder that the labrador has been the most popular breed both here and in great britian in recent years? To know a lab is to love one!!! Just thinking about spending time with my dog makes me feel hopeful, alive and happy !!!!
These are the best dogs you could possibly get in your entire life.
I have a choc lab named puff, the worlds best dog.Loves the kids I even think that he think he’s one of the kids.Some time he’s a handful but just like a kid he want to be talked too or played with.They love wood and food the baby share food and toys with him.
I have a choc lab called Miss Moo, she is the most loyal being I have ever had the pleasure to meet. If only these qualities could be found in humans, what a fantastic place it would be. I would recommend a choc to anybody they are what they are no side just 100% pure pleasure.
Hi, We am looking to adopt or rescue a female chocolate lab. We already have a 1 1/2 year old male and he needs companionship. We walk him a minimum of twice a day and play wiht him the whole day. He needs companionship of his own kind. He is getting bored. We will pay re-homing fee. (858) 395-7251
I have a 3 year old chocolate, she is absolutly a great dog, everything you could ask for. We go for a walk every day, and have since she was a pup; we walk in what is called the “Bosque” her in New Mexico (Wooded area along the Rio Grande River), she walks without a leash and never loses sight of me, she stays with me, I never have to worry, its pure pleaseure. Around the house she is a big couch patato (As long as she gets her walk) and is happy to just hang out. So here’s my words to those of you who are worried about your lab being hyper and never growing up, get up of your behind and exercise them everyday, every single day, rain or shine, all they need is some exercise, attention, and love, and they will be the greatest addition to your family you could ever hope for! Here’s the kicker to my story, I didn’t train my lab, my Rotweiler trained her, I had a 12 year old Rotti that my lab spent the first 18 months of her life with, and she was taught to do all the great things she does by that old girl rotti, who passed away from bone cancer, but not before ahe passed on everything her and I had learned together over the years. Now my Lab has taught the next dog, a little mix terrier we rescued, and she has taught her all the great things she knows. and their both fantastic dogs! You see, the key is to truly love your dog, get up off that couch and be with them, take for a walk, train them, spend time with them, every single day, and the love will be so unconditional it will over welm you and your family!
I rescued a chocolate lab I found running around in our neighborhood. I posted flyers to see if we could find her family. We found her owner but they could not keep her and said we could keep her if we wanted to. I am glad I kept her she is so beautiful and loving, but very much full of energy she digs holes in my back yard and everything else outside she can find. But when she is in the house she is very well behaved. I love her. Her name is Hershey. And she gets along really well with my other two dogs and also with my 14 month old grand daughter.
Ever since I can remember from 5 yrs. Old we have had a choc. Lab in our lives. I am now 40 yrs. Old. Our last lab was 14 yrs when we had to have her put down… By far the best dog I ever owned and raised with my children. I recently watched the movie Marley and Me for the first time and I can honestly say… If our family was to write that story it would be filled with many more amazing stories and acts love for a dog that attaches itself to a family. Cause that’s exactly what this amazing breed does. I would encourage anyone who is in the market for a family dog to choose a choc. Lab.
We now are in the process of training a male choc. lab who is 9 months old and loving every minute of it. I also see alot of questions here about food,training,tricks… Just love and spend time with your dog and you will be rewarded with a best friend for a good while!!
I raised my nephew and his choc. lab for over 10 years. when I got there the lab was fairly untrained, hyper and lived outside all year unless it was too cold for his heated house. He was allowed to come in the home to live when he was about 5 or 6 and has been quite the little ham. He thinks he’s a 10 pound chihuaua and wants to be a lap dog but his 75 lbs dont register to the light house if you know what I mean. They are just like most dogs/kids when they are young they like to run and play and get into a bit of trouble we call it “dumpster diving” no matter how much he eats if something is in the can and no one is watching Its HIS! he has had a couple seizers that scared the heck out of me but if you get to them and just calm them dowm and hold them down so they dont get hurt and pet them and everything will be ok. My newphew has since graduated and has moved on his own with his dog that I miss dearly. There is no better dog to own than a chocolate lab. My nephew is pretty good kid too!
my famly got a chocolate lab about a month back and i am teching him to be a bird hunter . he is a pain but wirth it.
we just got a puppy at 6 weeks but now he is 11 weeks really nice a little mouthy but i would reccomend a choco lab to anyone
I have a 1 year 1 month dog and I am writing a book about him but it will be fake and I need some help, if you have some funny memories with your puppy can you tell me.
my lab has shown some well its not aggressiveness but she will nibble when i leave the house for a while. when i come back she barks and wants to nibble your fingers
I am going to be getting a chocolate lab puppy soon,,,Do i get male or female and why?
Hi Andrew, Sorry to hear about your problems with your lab. Our choc lab dog, Jed is nearly 3 and he has been having fits since he was 6months old. Vet said at first it was excitement-try more excerise keep him away from stressful and excting situations not exactly easy when they are pups.He was finally diagnosed with canine epilepsy and it was a huge relief to know what the cause was.He is on 2 types of medication epiphen and potassium bromide, there are known side effects of these drugs but the benefits far outway the cons. His fits are much less severe than they were before – he has one roughly every 6-8wks. I know it is not is not nice to see your beloved pet having a seizure but in time you learn to cope with them. He is a very healthy dog in between times and he has brought so much happiness into our family. I suggest you read all you can about canine epilepsy and talk to your vet about it.need anymore info please reply.
Hello, I just want to say that I have owned many different breeds of dogs but my all time favorite now is my Chocolate Lab. I got him when he was 6 weeks old and he is a dream to train.. He was housebroken at 3 months old and he learned many tricks at a young age. He is very smart and loving. The only draw back I have found so far is they do not like to be left alone (seperation anxiety). He loves children and is very protective of my step children if he thinks they are being hurt. I would recommend owning a lab to anyone!!!
I have a chocolate lab and he is one. He was so hyper when he was younger and I have noticed lately that he is only hyper in spurts now. He is also extra protective. Why is this with my dog. Why is he hyper in spurts and what made him so protective of me?
I would recommend a chocolate lab to anyone!! I have my first lab who is now 6 months old, and she is the smartest, sweetest most loving little girl. She will lick you to death but that’s the only thing she will do to strangers or friends we have in our home. We haven’t had any problems with her chewing yet. When she was really young she had a lot or toys and her favorite were nylabones. Extremely helpful when she was teething. She loves to cuddle in bed and play outside in the snow. She either gets a walk or we run around with her in our back yard everyday. There are certain days in the week where we leave her for 7 hours and she does great in her crate. She also loves her crate, often puts herself to bed at night when she is tired. Have never experienced any aggressive behavior with people or dogs.
One thing I would recommend when your pup is young is taking them to a dog park nearby. We have taken her numerous times and she sometimes likes the people more than the dogs, but eventually just runs with all the other dogs. I would only take them once they have all their shots though, there might be a slim chance of them picking something up. Other than that it’s a great thing for your lab if they are the only dog in your home.
If you are having any doubts on getting a chocolate lab, don’t hesitate. I would recommend females, but heard males are just as sweet. We love Kaia for than anything in this world, and spoil her rotten.
We have a seven month old chocolate lab Sassy! We love her to death and she is such a great listener. We are trying to train her to hunt quail and she is doing wonderful. The only problem we have with her is that she “tinkles”. She will get so excited and worked up that she will leave a trail of pee across the living room. What can we do about this? It’s driving us crazy!
yeah i know what you mean i have had my dog for almost three years he is a mess but i love him
Our black lab would have grandmal seizures. He would race through rooms with a terrified look in his eyes, fall over and thrash arounjd while on the floor, loose control of his bowels. His epilepsy was controled by medication. Years later the medication stopped working and compassion dictated putting him to sleep.
We feel your pain Karen. That sounds like our Graham to the tee. Except he was supposed to be 2 y.o., but was actually 6 mos. and untrained. Crazy.
Well, my wife and are very pleased with our chocolate labs disposition. He’s an energetic 8 y.o., loveable and very loyal. There’s just one big problem: he’s dog aggressive. I’m not quite sure how he developed this behavior because he gets along well with the other dog that we have. Anyhow, we wouldn’t give him up for the world regardless, but most labs that I have encountered are very gentle and pleasant. He’s great with people and even young children. What more could you ask for really.
Our Chocolate lab is 2 1/2 years old. When we got her she was 8 weeks old she whined at the door when she had to go potty she never chewed anything up except her own toys. She hinks when people come over they are there to see her it takes her about 15 min to calm down. She loves I mean loves the water we take her to the ocean and she breaks waves and retrieves like crazy. She does anything to please. She gets along with my two cats and is really good with kids very gentle. Protective to a point she just lets strangers know that she is there and will protect me I guess. Labs are very good dogs would recommend
I have a 10 month old choc. lab from a rescue group. He has some white on his chest. Does anyone know if this is part of their genes or could he be mixed with another breed. Other then that he is all chocolate. Loves the beach and loves to chew. And takes up most of the bed..hahaha. thanks Ken
I’ll be bringing home an 8-week-old male chocolate lab this Saturday. I did a great bit of “studying” before deciding to get a Labrador. I have a good idea of what I’m getting myself into, but does anyone have any advice they wish to share with me? This will be my first large dog. I’m not worried about the chewing, as I’ve bought plenty of toys for him to chew on and plan on crate-training him in my 8.5 hr absence during the workday. I’m not worried about the excercise either, as I recently quit smoking and welcome more activity in my life, the more active the better. My roommate, however, has an older male toy poodle. Any idea how these two may cohabit in my home until the lease is up at the end of July?
I just had to put my girl down, she was hit by a car. She was by far the most loyale dog i ever had. My family was absolutely devistated as was i.We will be looking to fill that emptyness very soon with only but one breed of dog,the chocalate lab.
People always talk about certain breeds being aggressive or having bad behavior. The truth is, any dog of any breed can become whatever you want it to be. Go out and buy a pit bull, with the right training it can become the sweetest, most calm dog you know…and vice versa, without the proper training any dog can be misbehaved and overly aggressive. Everyone needs to stop listening to the generic stereotypes they hear about certain breeds of dogs. There are way more bad owners out there than there are bad dogs. They are timid and passive and therefore the dog thinks that he/she is the boss and in control. You cant let this happen.
Any color lab bred with any color lab can have any color combination of puppies…its genetics.
I seem to be experiencing some of the same things. It happened roughly a year ago and again in the past week or two. Seems to be something setting him off when we put him in the crate, and about four times it has happened where he just gets this look on his face and he freaks out.
My 3 year old chocolate lab grew to be over 120lbs within a year and a half. He is a monster but I have him now under weight control around 100lbs. I have aggression problems with him and have paid extensively to recieve help training him. Has anyone encountered a choc lab be very aggressive when being crated?
We have a 3 yr old chocolate lab. He is wonderful. We adopted him about 1 1/2 months ago from a ranch. He is very smart, loving, and playful. He seems to be protective over us which is great considering our lab/beagle is not at all. The only problem we are having is he constantly licks his paws. We tell him no lick he stops for a moment but eventually starts back up. Can anyone help?
We have two female 4 month old chocolate lab/rottweiler mix puppies. One of the sisters does have seperation anxiety while the other is just fine. They are wonderful dogs so far and doing fine with the start of training. We are keeping our fingers crossed that all continues to go well!
take her swimming. this is best for big dogs, low impact.
I have a 4 1/2 year old chocolate lab. He is a wonderful dog. He is very hyperactive. This should be expected.His name is Chett and he weighs around 95lbs, loves to play all the time. Frisbee is his favorite game play. My Wife and I wouldn’t trade him for any thing! Just be patient with them, they are smarter than you think.
If I breed my yellow male with my chocolate female, what color puppies could I expect?
My family just lost our Chocolate Lab who was almost 8 months old. She was the best dog ever. I would definitely reccommend getting a Chocolate Lab. If you are getting one though had we know earlier, if you notice any signs of not wanting to eat and not gaining weight, please have them tested for a liver shunt. After numerous trips to the vet and being told it was inflamation in her joints, we lost her last Thursday. It was a liver shunt that another vet found and believes she was born with it. After having many dogs, I think she was the most lovable, sweet, dog anyone could have asked for.
Hi, I am very seriously considering a chocolate lab. I recently lost my 1st dog (a Chow) My question is do labs get along with other dogs easily? My Chow never liked other dogs, cats she loved as family but not dogs. I have friends with dogs that I would love to take my new choco around. Any thoughts?
Thanks
I have a chocolate lab named Coco Santana. She is bright eyed and full of energy. She almost has a humanlike personality and I love her to death.She is loving and very devoted.
I have a 3 1/2 year old, purebread, female chocolate lab. We’ve had her since she was about 10 weeks old. This dog is the most amazing dog ever. So easy to train and she NEVER has chewed anything,or dug,or shown any agressive or distructive tendacies. Ever!! She meets any new stranger (kid, adult, man, or woman) and the worst she’ll do is lick you all over.:-) Choc labs are by far the best pets ever…I will own nothing else. And I have yet to meet an aggresive one. They are amazing with young children as well.
However, I do have a question about predisposed genitic health issues. As young as my dog is, she has been exhibiting joint pain since she was about 1 1/2 yrs old. Her front legs (elbow) can become quite painful and she’ll limp for days after exesive running or playing. I am starting to get very worried for her and I don’t know what to do. They say this is a genetic trait in labs. Has anyone else had issues like this and what have you done?
I have a 9 year old chocolate lab named mac and he is the best dog that i have ever had. he is very friendly and would not hurt a fly. he loves to be loved on and to play outside. he is always up for a ride in the truck and to go hunting which is his most favorite thing to do. most people say that the shedding of the lab is what turns them away but thats just part of the package when getting a lab. my lab is pretty tall but i have seen labs that are short,tall,and inbetween if you are thinking about getting a lab then chocolate is the way to go!!!
My son has a female Chocolate Lab.She is about 2 1/2 now. She was an apartment dog for a year and stayed in a huge indoor crate. She actually enjoyed her crate but misssed running and exercising during the day. Now she is in a huge fenced yard and has freedom to run and play which is mandatory in my opinion.
I kept her for 6 months and worked hard to build a nice, large fenced area in the shade. After 3-4 hours of non-stop barking, she became a very happy housedog!! (seperation anxiety) Labs desperately crave a warm body: human, dog, or cat. They hate to be alone. I am not sure there is any way to change this except to have another compantion dog. They are very social dogs and love to interact with others!
Our German Sheppard had terrible seizures and often more than one at a time. We finally found a dose of Phenobarbital that worked for him and he was seizure free for over a year before we had to put him down after he fell down the stairs and broke his back. He was eight and we miss him. We have a chocolate lab puppy as a new companion to us and our golden retriever. The lab is 10 weeks old and fully trained; a very intelligent dog.
IHAVE A 9 MONTH OLD CHOCOLATE LAB, HE IS HYPER AS U LIKE AND REQUIRES LOADS OF ATTENSION. I SPOKE 2 A MAN WHO HAS ALWAYS HAD LABS, AND HE SAYS THEY NEVER GROW UP PLEASE SOMEONE TELL ME HES WRONG AND THEY DO EVENTUALLY CALM DOWN.
AGE: can anyone help me here? We adopted a choc lab 4 yrs ago. We were told that he was 1 yr old. Three years go by, his face whitten up, paws and belly got white. Yesterday, we had an emergency visit to the vet. He was in pain in his joints and acting lethargic and stiff. Possible arthritis. Now, my question is how old do you think he is? What is the average age to get white on the face and paws? I hate to see him age and it seems he is declining fast. He is taking Rimadal and Rejuvanate. Itll take a couple weeks to see improvements. Im sad!
Choc labs are not agressive but mine is not crazy about the mailman. I could see that he comes everyday and its an invasion to his property. They are not stupid too. We adopted Rodney when hes already 5 (we thought he was 1), boy! he was totally untrained. After one year of hell, rodney is now trained and sweet and smart. hey, he is a dog, he will always want more food and curious about the garbage. thats normal. I wouldnt trade him for anything else. He loves children too.
I have owned labs most of my life they are all individuals. Each one has there own personality. I just had to put my black one down at 20 years. Have a chocolate coming Oct. 5. Can’t wait to go get her
chocolate labs are the best sweetest dog every i have a 7 year old one and when she was a puppy she never not once went potty in the house i would recommend a chocolate lab [they love to play ball]
We have a 3 year old chocolate labrador dog and we have had some problems with him. He started having fits after he was a year old and has continued every 2 to 3 months since. While Charlie is having a fit he shakes uncontrollably and his eyes are glaszed over and hes totally out of it. I hold him down to stop him from moving around too much and within five minutes his eyes refocus and hes as right as rain as if nothing happened. Has anybody else experienced this with their choc lab. He has been to the vet and he says its because he gets too excited which i dont believe it a reasonable answer.
Also he has two small bald patches at the back of his front legs, is this common?
He really is the most beautiful animal and it really upsets us all in the family when he has a fit. I will also say that they are very smart and crave attention and know how to get it lol but we love our labs so what can we do 🙂
My fionce and I have a one and a half old chocolate lab and he is so spoiled. Although his first year he has acted exactly like Marley, we just can’t help but to love this dog. He gives us these looks that makes us give in to him. Labs are so smart and they know how to play you. All I can say is if you want to see how a lab acts with out any training watch the movie Marley and Me:)
Victoria, if a stranger comes put a leash on him put him so he can see the person but not reach him and pet him and say good boy. Then tie him so he can still see him but not reach him and talk to the person for a while then he should calm down,then have that person try to pet him.
I love lab’s! Iv’e always wanted one. I want a chocolate lab. How tall do they get?
I have a 5 month old chocolate lab. I love him to death he is so affectionate, however he is so hyper I play catch wiht him for a couple of hours and I take him swimming at our local beach and that seems to tier him out wher he sleeps as so as i bring him in the house but if he sees the kids tierd or not he jumps on them wantng them to play wiht him, they always cry that he bites them( its not really hard jsut nipping) he used to bite at me when he was a puppy but no longer does but I cant get him to stop wiht the kids they no longer like him. Wich is upsetting to me becuase my 5 year old wanted a puppy for the longest time and we decided on a lab because I grew up with labs and love the breed. Also I’m haveing troublewith house training he was doing so good the first couple of months now its like he has to pee every 10 minutes, I dont knowif it is because he is reaching sexual maturiy because he has stared humping things as well.
I’ve been trying to get my 5 month lab to run on my tredmill but cant get him to run on it, however when I am on it he try’s to run on it wiht me wich is kinda a pain lol. How did you get your dog to sytart running on it?
Yes labs are know for chewing. Labs are real family oriented, if they dont get the attention they need they will chew.
I have and almost 2 year old choc lab and I would agree that the best thing that you can do for a lab who is high energy is excercise the heck out of them. I live in the midwest and hate walking in the cold so from the very beginning we taught Hershey (our choc lab) to run on a treadmill. She will get on for 15 minutes at about 4.5 mph and love every minute of it. It’s a long process so be patient. I spent most of the time rewarding her for just standing on it and sometimes we would let it run just so she would get used to the noise. Now – I say – “Wanna get on the treadmill” and she jumps on, and barks until I turn it on. Sometimes I get on it and she barks at me to get off…Don’t worry – I’m not that “whipped” by my lab. lol. I was todl that labs can be high energy until they are about 2-2.5 so be sure that you have the time to work with that high energy.
I feel the same about my Sophie. She acts the same way. She is six. They live to be around 13 or 15.
Hello!
We are looking at purchasing an 8week old chocolate lab puppy. Female. Could anyone tell me what to look for in a puppy. I have a 7 year old Golden Retriever named Dozer. No experience with chocolate labs.
Thanks for any advice
See the article: http://www.lovablelabradors.com/labrador-overview/how-long-do-labrador-retrievers-live-14/
The average life span for Labradors is 12.6 years but some live way beyond that.
Our chocolate lab, Pete, is a beloved member of our family. He is 8 years old now. When he was 1-2 years old, he was quite a handful. Because he is quite big (120 pounds) stands tall and has the nickname “bear,” he was quite intimidating when he would come running at your in his enthusiastic love! Now, he is very calm, extremely loyal, and the best watchdog ever! (really deep loud bark) of course, he’s as gentle as a lamb, but would give anyone pause if they thought they should enter our home uninvited!!!
What is the life expectancy of our beloved labs? I can’t imagine life without my Pete.
Hi Lisa,like the other reader pointed out, all dogs will chew. You need to keep plenty of chew toys around , until they are close to two years old.The bigger the dog the bigger the toy. We are onour thir lab and they have all been good dogs. If you want a pet, and not a hunting dog, I would go with a mix. keep in mind though what the mix is. One of our labs was mixed with a doberman, and while she was great with us she could be too agressive. The mos important thing with any dog is they need you time, and love. The need to know what is, and is not acceptable behavior. If you are willing to trian a Lab, you will not be dissappointed. Last od all if you husband wants a no effort, no chew, etc…… dog , he may need some training!
Thanks and good luck,
Paul
Labradors, as a whole, is a very smart breed. I don’t think the color of the labrador matters. It’s all in how you train them and how much time you spend with them. Also, each dog has a different personality. Some are sweet, some will be protective, some will be easy going, and some will be ultra hyper. Just like human beings, their personalities are different. Be patient with them. Teach them everyday, just like you teach your children everyday and be consistent. Repetivness is the key to a well behaved, trained labrador.
I believe patience in training is extremely important. You must continuously repeat what you’re trying to teach the labrador. One or two times and expecting the dog to be obedient, is not going to cut it. Your labrador needs structure and rules just like children. Think for a moment, for those who have children, everyday you are trying to teach your children something. Well, it will be the same with your labrador. Everyday, you have to teach them.
You will have the greatest labrador, no matter the color, and both of you will be happy.
Chocolate labs are the nuttier out of the three lab colors. I have yellows and they are soooooooooooooo sweet! Almost every yellow I have met is sweet, same thing with the black. I don’t like chocolates because everyone I have met has been possessive and territorial and they are nutty.
I have a chocolate lab male who is 2 years old. He is such a sweetheart. However, if a stranger, or someone he has never seen before comes into my home he will try and attack them. I heard Lab’s are very territorial when it comes to their family. It is the same when my baby nieces are around like he is protecting them. Is there something to curve his behavior?
You can breed any combination of color lab. The important factor is to have your female x-rayed to be sure she does not have hip displasia, and ask the owner of the male dog to provide proof of the same. When you breed labs, you can get any color combination. The color of the pups depends on what color genes both parents carry. You can get different colors in one litter. I have 2 chocolate labs, and when I bred them, they had 8 chocolate pups, but that is rare, because chocolate is a recessive gene.
My chocolate lab is one and half. We have had her for about 2 months. When we first got her she was very timid and she still is. She startles very easy. She snapped at my mom and growled at my brother for playing with my daughter. I am concerned her behavior is only going to get worse. My daughter plays with her all the time and “Alexis” does not act aggressive with her at all. She has never been aggressive with me, but she is jealous when I get my daughter dressed or have her sitting on my lap. She will “nose” my hand until I pet her and put my daughter down. Does anyone have suggestions on what I can do to curb her behavior.
Can a puppy born black turn into chocolate? I have two of them about three months old and both are starting to show brown on their boddies specially the head!
mine dose the same thing
Well i have a chocolate lab and it bites me to and it herts we got it like 3 weeks ago and it is 9 weeks old so it is still littil.
Hi. My chocolate lab is 3 and he has bitten my at least 3 times. I had stitches once. I do not know why he is this aggresive. He is crate trained, will sit, lay, shake, lay, and can jump very well. I also have a newborn and do not trust him. What makes him aggressive?
Our Chocolate Lab has proven her keep by an outstanding training program for gun dogs. She loves her Ducks as well as the children in our family see her as one of them. She’s extremely intelligent, and a sacrifice I welcome on a daily basis.
I also have a Chocolate lab who pulled on walks. My vet recommended “The Gentle Leader” which goes around the mouth/nose and fastens behind the ears. It took some getting used to, but it worked great. Now she walks directly beside me. It’s not a muzzle.
i have heard that chocolate labs were hyper too, until i got one i found him no more hyper than the others, if you train them from the time you get themthey are very good,i have one now he is 5 months old and very good with my grandchildren, he is smart and just as hyper as my black was,i do not believe in treats, he does very well on praising alone, because that is what they love is the praise, the first thing i taught him was sit, so when he would get hyper on a walk i would make him sit, then i would continue with the walk, so when he gets hyper make him sit then continue if he gets hyper again make him sit again, and then praise him, i always started by training my dogs in the backyard, obedience school does not train your dogs, it trains you on how to train your dogs, i am 52 and have been training my dogs since i was 13 and they are better trained than any dog that has been through obedience school, you can do it, it just takes lots of patience, it’s like training your kids to pee inthe potty, lots of praise, they are never to old to train so don’t let anyone ever tell you an old dog can’t learn new tricks
I have heard that chocolate labs are way hyper than regular labs, my son wants to get a pup, but I don’t think I would be able to handle a hyper dog, it’s bad on my back when I take them on walks.
tell ur husband that all puppies chew, it’s called teething, just like babies do, they grow out of it,when they chew on something you don’t want them to firmly tell them no and give them something else, i bought my puppies a kong ball, my 7 year old lab has had hers since she was a puppy, now i have a chocolate lab puppy, i got him when he was 8 weeks old he is now 5 months and that is all he chews on and he loves it, i have always found that labs are the best, very good watch dogs and excellent with children, i have 4 grandchildren and they are great with them, very loving, sometimes stubborn, but the best dog you will ever have, they give you love always, best of luck
Alison,
I would highly recommend the book “It’s Me or the Dog: How to Have the Perfect Pet ” by Victoria Stilwell. You can get it from Amazon.com and no doubt other places. You can easily train your dog NOT to pull on the leash by getting him to focus on you first of all with treats – and then without. She is amazing. Let us know how it goes.
My 3 year old chocolate lab pulls on the leash big time how do i stop her from doing this. Also how do we control her hyperness?
Sara I believe that no dog is “stupid or aggressive”….If the dog is considered “stupid” then what does it say about the owner? there are of course exceptions but overall a dog is only “stupid” as one that owns or trains one…a reflection of.
so cute when they are puppys
is it true chocolate labs are aggressive or stupid
I have had my Chocolate lab now for one month. He is 12 weeks old and already knows commands. At about 10 weeks i wanted to teach him how to sit. 3 times is all it took and he knows the command and does it every time. Now he knows Drop, Down, Come, crawl.
He is still a puppy and does the things puppies do, but wow.. im amazed on how easy to train they are. I have had dogs all my life and none of them are as easy to train as the lab.
Hi Lisa,
Let me tell you….labs shed lots! You will not find a more beautiful, well behaved, and loving pet than a chocolate lab. My Coco is 12.2 years old and was so easy to train and love. She loves the snow in the winter and will still dive into the pool in the summer. I hope you make the decision to adopt a chocolate baby, you will never be sorry. Congratulations and lots of luck!
I have a 7 year old choc. lab,”Misty” that tips the scales at 127. However she is as aglile as my 6 month old choc. lab.”Ginger”. She is also just as fast and playful. (Both akc registered)Misty was my 1st lab, and by far the best dog I have ever owned, and I have owned everything from Basset Hounds to German Shepherds. I truely believe she is almost human as she does everything to please.As far as training these 2 have been the easiest to train almost picking up commands within minutes of working with them! Both were house trained in a couple of days.(ps. don’t use pads in the house as they will use rugs like they would a pad!!!) These 2 are the most loving pets I have ever seen or owned. They do require lots of attention but most of all love! Marti is absolutly correct in saying if they don’t get the attention they need they will find a way to get it, mine dig up the yard!!! However they are very faithful pets! I do prefer females over males of any breed, i have found that they are by far more loyal and easier to train!
hi, i have a dog thaTS 10 years old and he weighs 95 lbs. is that over weight?
Hi Lisa,
Any dog can chew,you just have to teach him not too. I’ve had a black Lab that didn’t chew much and I now have a choc. that is all mouth.He chewed a lot as a pup,which is anxiety.He went from having somebody at home everyday for three months,then wetried him without the crate dumb!!!! I also suggest many toys while a pup.Lots of teething rings.Labs are the best,easy to train,smart,loving. I would highly recommend a male over female. Good Luck
I was planning on getting my first chocolate lab, well any lab for that matter. My husband heard from an unreliable source that labs chew. Now he doesnt want one. I am extremly dissapointed and hoping that someone may know if this is true or not. please help…thank you
Hi I have my first Chocolate Lab and I am completely in love. I have been using Ceasar Milan’s dog training methods and my pup (3 months) is a dream to walk on his leash and he is 98% house trained already. He is rambuctious which some may call agressive but there is nothing like walking your dog twice a day. I find that walking is THE MOST IMPORTANT thing to do for the labs. I also make sure that on one of our walks the dog park is included so he can run and be a dog with all the other doggies. Get a lab if you are willing to train and exercise it. If you don’t want to walk or discipline your lab, then don’t bother. The lab will only be destructive if you don’t give them what they need. Good luck!!!
I’m looking on gettin a chocolate lab (for my very first dog) but I was hoping for something not too aggresive. I hope they’re not as bad as it sounds. I also need to ask “how much do they shed”? My sister has a yellow lab and he sheds a lot. Hair everywhere.
i have a female black lab and she is aggressive towards men, but as my vet told me the reason she is, is because she was spayed at 7 months old and remembers it and that it was a male that performed the operation he said some forget and some remember and obviously she has a very good memory and that is why is shows aggression towards men other than that she is a very good dog especially with children, however she does not like adults especially men to much, i have had labs all my life they are great dogs but take alot of patience in there training, they are a people dog if you have any more questions about them i will be glad to answer them for you the one i have now is 7 my other one was 14 they are very stubborn cement heads lol
Hi Toria~
You can breed your chocolate with another chocolate. I have a 3 year old male and his “girlfriend” is another chocolate as well.
i was just wonering if it true that you can not breed two choclate labs, i was told that you can noy breed two choclate labs together becuz if u did it would be more painful on the females joints and hips, i just want to know if thats true before i go ahead and breed my dog.
Thanks
Toria
i have a chocolate lab and he is 10 months he is soo hyper wen we took him to the vet the vet said that he is of his head he is hard to tech but he knows how to sit lydown and giv both of his paws he dosent walk nice in fact i would say he is a disasster and needs lots of help but trust me i have tryed every thing
love labs 🙂
bye bye =]
Hi Lindsay,
I have benefited a LOT from the TV program “Its Me or the Dog” on the Animal Planet. Victoria trains all kinds of dogs including Labs for aggressive behavior and the results are absolutely amazing.
If you have never seen the program before you should record a few of them and eventually I know they will replay the ones I am talking about. It is well worth your time as she is a real PRO at training aggressive behavior in a quiet way that benefits you and the dog.
Good luck. Be sure to leave your comments again if you watch the program and benefit from it.
My one year old female is a good dog but has shown some aggresive behaviors. She is now being treated for seperation anxiety. Has anyone had issues like this with their lab?
our male chocolate lab is beautiful, smart, and is easy to train. he has proven to be a great addition to our family.
Chocolate labs rock but they can be really hyper at age 1.