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Standards

 
 

The Standard is the physical "blueprint" of the breed. It describes the physical appearance and other desired qualities of the breed otherwise known as type. Some characteristics, such as size, coat quality, and movement, are based on the original (or current) function for the dog. Other characteristics are more cosmetic such as eye color; but taken together they set this breed apart from all others.  No individual dog is perfect, but the Standard provides an ideal for the breeder to strive towards.

The Neck of the breed strong if medium length.  it should not appear throaty.  The chest should have both good width and depth, with ribs that are well sprung.

The Labrador Retriever's legs should be straight, of medium length, in balance with the rest of the body and should show good bone and muscle.  Feet should be compact with well arched toes and well developed pads.  The hocks must be well bent. The lab should have no appearance of cow hocks or of too much width behind.  

A lab's weight should be from 60 to 75 pounds for dogs and 50 to 70 for bitches; height should be from 22.5 inches to 24.5 inches for dogs and 21.5 inches to 23.5 inches for bitches; variation of more than on-half inch disqualifies.

The lab should move freely, smoothly, and effortlessly.  When viewed from the front, while it is in motion, a lab's elbows should be neatly close to the body, but the legs should not appear too close together.  When viewed from behind, the hind legs should move parallel as much as possible and should appear powerful and strong.

Lab colors are black, yellow and chocolate.  In black Labs, a small white spot on the chest is permissible.
 

 
   
 
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