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Miniature Labrador: The Smallest Labrador Retriever
A mini labrador? What kind of special breed is it that makes our beloved Lab appear in miniature form? If you’ve heard about the smallest Labrador Retriever lately and are wondering what this craze is about, this article will surely help you.
So let’s first deal with the question of what the smallest Labrador Retriever actually is…
What is a Mini Labrador?
A Miniature Labrador is a special breed of Labrador that only reaches a size of 40 to 45 cm. The Miniature Labrador does not differ from a normal Labrador except for the size. Its friendly nature and family-friendly character are the same.
Miniature Labrador Retrievers aren’t actually a breed of dog in their own right.
They exist because resourceful breeders bred them so small. Incidentally, with questionable methods and a number of possible problems that the dogs and their owners can face later.
Unlike other dog species, there are actually no Labradors in miniature format. Especially not as a recognized breed, as is the case with schnauzers, poodles or dachshunds, where there are actually recognized “teacups” or “mini” breeds.
Mini Labrador Retriever Size
A Mini Labrador Retriever usually does not grow taller than 40 cm to 45 cm. With this size they reach a maximum weight of up to 20 kg.
So they are not quite as small as one would imagine. A dog with a size of 45cm also needs space, a means of transport in the car and is by no means a sofa buddy like the very small dogs.
Miniature Labrador Experiences
There are no real long-term experiences with miniature Labrador Retrievers. The breeding of this Labrador Mix is simply too new for that.
However, there are very controversial discussions about how artificial small-scale breeding affects the health of dogs and what problems they will have to endure in their development later on.
To understand this a little better, one has to look at how miniature Labradors are bred in the first place.
How are miniature Labrador Retrievers bred?
Now comes the part of the article that I’m going to make a lot of enemies with.
Namely with the breeders who currently breed and offer Miniature Labradors.
The reason for this is relatively simple: As a visitor to my blog and dog lover, I can only explain to you what the reality is when breeding miniature Labradors.
I can neither speak nicely nor approve it.
Breeders use the small stature of the parent animals
Short stature occurs not only in humans, but also in dogs. It actually results from a genetic flaw that causes bone growth to slow down significantly.
End of the story: Too little bone growth = short legged Labrador Retriever.
I’ll explain it in a very simplified way and one or the other breeder will probably scold me. *wink*
Miniature Labradors are bred by crossing two Labrador Retrievers that have this exact genetic disorder. If both parents have a natural short stature and pass this on in their genes to the next generation, in the end a puppy is born that never reaches the full size, but remains a short legged Labrador Retriever.
If you were to do that with people, there would be a huge social outcry. And rightly so!
Nobody would dismiss that with a “but they are so cute”.
Crossbreeds with small breeds of dogs
There is a second variant that breeders use to be able to breed the smallest Labrador Retriever at the end of the day.
And that is mating with smaller breeds of dogs. A Labrador Retriever is crossed with a smaller but similar breed of dog.
In the end a smaller dog is born, but it is not purebred. To offer this dog as a pure-bred “Miniature Labrador” would almost be a deception. Because he is not purebred.
In addition, this type of breeding can lead to diseases and long-term consequences that do not make your four-legged friend’s life more pleasant.
Health Risks for the Smallest Labrador Retriever
By now we’ve talked a lot about the potential health hazards of Miniature Labs, but I haven’t pointed out any possible consequences directly to you.
Labradors are inherently a breed of dog that presents relatively few health problems.
Mini Labradors are very special breeds that bring a few risks.
https://petsroof.com/smallest-labrador-retriever/
Got A New Dog And Need Some Advice? Read This!
Sometimes our dogs can get a little fat. This usually happens do to dietary reasons and due to a lack of exercise. The excess weight isn't doing much for your dog's physical appearance or it's health. You can help your dog lose that weight by using the tips included below.
Your dog has teeth just like you, so it makes sense that he needs proper dental care. Invest in a dog toothbrush and brush his teeth often. Simply allowing the vet to do it at his regular checkups is not enough. You can also purchase treats that are specifically meant to help with your pet's teeth.
Your pet needs vaccinations, much in the same way that your baby does. Some common vaccinations that dogs require include rabies, hepatitis and distemper. Each pet is different, and each will have a different immunization schedule. Your veterinarian is a great resource when it comes to which vaccinations are right for the age and breed of your pet.
If your vet gives you medication to take home and administer to your dog, be sure and ask for ideas on getting him to swallow it. Dogs differ in their tolerance of pills and badly-flavored liquids, so have a few tricks up your sleeve in case he resists. Getting a dog to take medicine is important, but often challenging.
Hot summer days are harder for dogs to handle than humans. Always make sure your pet has enough water to drink. Provide them with a shaded area to rest if they are going to be outside for any length of time. And, if your dog begins acting in an unusual manner, call the veterinarian. Heatstroke could be fatal, so it is important to get medical care as soon as possible.
When giving your dog a bath, make sure that you only put on shampoo that is intended for canines. Using lukewarm water, get the entire body wet and then begin applying the shampoo to their face, working your way down their body. Wait a few minutes and then take a washcloth and wipe off the suds from your pet's face. Wash off the rest of the shampoo as well.
It is very important for you to keep your dog's ears clean. Keeping the inside of the ears clean will help prevent infections of the ear. This is also a good time for you to inspect the ear for fleas, ticks and any other pests that could have made your dog's ear home.
Try to provide your dog with plenty of opportunities to socialize. Take him on walks to the park or beach where he will be around people and other dogs. Encourage dog keeps licking lips and swallowing strategies and techniques with others and praise him for good manners. He'll be much more comfortable in any setting and generally happier too.
If your dog is a digger, make sure to protect him and your garden. Some plants are poisonous to dogs, not to mention the damage those paws can do to your prized flowers and produce. Put up an appropriately sized fence to keep him out or consider using an electric one.
If you breed your dog, do so responsibly. The AKC advises all owners of pure-bred dogs to make an effort to advance the breed and discard all other motivations, such as money or experimentation. Consider the repercussions of your actions before allowing your dog to mate and create a litter of puppies.
When taking your senior dog to the vet for an annual visit, make sure to request senior blood work. A blood panel can help your vet to identify any kidney, heart or vascular concerns. If caught early, treatment is often minimally invasive and less costly. This is a great way to keep your pet healthy for years to come.
When taking your senior dog to the vet for an annual visit, make sure to request senior blood work. A blood panel can help your vet to identify any kidney, heart or vascular concerns. If caught early, treatment is often minimally invasive and less costly. This is a great way to keep your pet healthy for years to come.
Check you dog for parasites and take preventative measure. Flea and tick collars are important. Keep in mind certain collar work better in different seasons and geographic areas. In addition, check your dog's ears. Ear mites are common. Also, check the dog's stool to ensure he hasn't picked up worms in his digestive system.
If you are having trouble training your dog, see a professional. A lot of people wait until their problems are enormous, but if you would see a dog trainer as soon as you start having difficulty, you will find training goes more easily. Not only that, but you will save yourself a major headache.
If you are planning on getting a new puppy, plan on investing in some training classes. These classes offer a great opportunity for your puppy to socialize with other dogs and learn basic commands. These classes will provide your new puppy with a great foundation for future training and will help them get a great start in life.
A dog needs plenty of love and attention. You should try spending at least a couple of hours a day with your dog. Play in your backyard or take your dog to the nearest park. You should get plenty of exercises before coming home and petting your dog for a while.
If you are going to bring a new dog into your home you should do a lot of the preparation ahead of time. You should have a nice place for it to sleep, food, grooming products and toys all on hand before they arrive. This will make the transition easier for everyone involved.
If your dog is ruining your home while you are gone, it is probably suffering from anxiety. This issue is very common in young puppies, especially if they are still getting used to being home alone. You should find some toys your dog can play with and let your dog have a shirt or a blanket that smells like you.
When you bring a new dog home, the first thing you should do is make sure they'll always be able to get back to you. Invest in a safe collar and a tag that contains both your name and phone number. Most lost dogs don't make it home, but with a good tag, you can be sure yours will.
Mastering dog care starts with education. You will be able to make your dog's life the best it can be. If you were in his position, wouldn't you like your owner to invest time into learning about you?
As a keen reader on Pets, I figured sharing that excerpt was a good idea. If you liked our blog entry if you please consider to share it. I enjoy reading our article about Dogs.