Dogs and human beings have been living together for thousands of years, but how did it all get started? Researchers theorize that wolves first became attracted to human beings because of the food scraps we would leave uneaten.
What could be better than someone else going through the danger of hunting for you, and then leaving the scraps of the kill behind? The wolves realized that they could have a free meal if they just hung around these strange creatures that walk on two feet.
Thus the relationship between man and dog began and has been going strong ever since. We have not only domesticated wolves, but have bred them to have certain characteristics such as chasing vermin, scenting and chasing down other animals, and being hypoallergenic.
While some dogs have been bred to cause less of an allergic reaction, there is really no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. The only creatures that are actually hypoallergenic are scaly ones, such as snakes and lizards. Dogs that are touted as hypoallergenic are simply some breeds that persons with allergies can tolerate better. They will shed less than other breeds, but it’s best to keep in mind that it’s not only hair that causes allergies but dander and saliva as well.
As popular as some of the designer breeds have become, there is on dog that year after year is the most popular dog in the United States. The Labrador Retriever originated in Newfoundland and almost became extinct in the late 1800’s. The breed was revived in England and the first Labrador’s were registered with the American Kennel Club in 1917. Labrador Retrievers’ come in three colors recognized by the AKC, Yellow, Black, and Chocolate Brown with yellow being the most popular color choice. They are a large dog, with some weighing up to 80 pounds when full grown.
Labrador Retrievers are known to be fantastic with children because of the gentle disposition, even temperament, and loyalty. They are bred to be working dogs for hunters (they have webbed feet for swimming), search and rescue help during disasters and therapy work. They are a very intelligent breed and can be trained quite easily.
The Labrador is an energetic dog and needs to be walked or kept busy, as they are known to wander off if bored. They need plenty of room to run and lots of exercise to keep them in shape due to their love of eating anything they can find. Because of their big appetites they can become overweight very easily if not properly exercised.
There’s a reason the Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog; they are quite beautiful, very even tempered, great with kids, can hunt and retrieve, and are one of the most loyal companions on the planet.