Is there a real difference between a White and Yellow Labrador Retriever? Why White Labrador Retriever is so expensive? Are White Labrador Retrievers real or they are more of a myth?
In this article, we will answer these questions and provide even more information on this white-coated dog.
Are you thinking about getting a White Labrador Retriever, or do you just know that this breed is for you, but you need to do more in-depth research?
No matter what the reason might be one is for sure – we have got you covered!
We all know that Labrador Retrievers are America’s most popular dogs and one of the most common breeds in the dog park, but did you know that next to yellow Labs there are also White Labs that come with wonderful personalities traits and amazing behavior? That is the case, as long as they are trained properly of course.
Keep on reading to learn if White Labrador Retriever is your next dog.
Are White Labrador Retrievers and Yellow Labrador Retrievers Different?
People are used to seeing Yellow Labrador Retrievers everywhere.
As one of the most popular dog breeds, these wonderful dogs are seen everywhere, from dog parks to public spaces, and even working as full-time rescue and search dogs.
After all, due to their personality traits, love toward people, and willingness to please it comes as no surprise that they are so popular.
Now, you may be used to seeing Yellow Labrador Retrievers who are easy to spot mostly to their easy movement, and yellow coat, but what about white-coated Labs?
Are White Labrador Retrievers the same as Yellow Labs? Simply said, yes.
White and Yellow Labrador Retrievers are not different types of dogs. They are the same breed with different coat colors.
The American Kennel Club recognizes white labs as yellow labs. White Labrador Retrievers should have pigmented noses and dark eyes and bodies covered in white fur.
Let’s elaborate more on the White Labrador Retriever’s appearance.
White Labrador Retriever Appearance
Before we continue, you should know that White Labs and albino dogs, although they are similar, they are not the same.
Not every dog with a white coat is an albino. This can be determined by checking the dog’s color for the nose and the skin around the eyes.
Dogs with white coats and pink noses and pink skin are labeled as albino dogs.
Good to know: Lab coats come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow, including variations of these colors.
Since Labs coats come in many variations of three main colors, it’s expected for the yellow coat to go from orange to a bright white. These bright white dogs are actually White Labrador Retrievers.
All in all, if your White Lab is American Labrador you can expect him to have between 70 to 100 pounds.
On the other hand, if your White Lab is an English Labrador, you can expect him to have between 60 to 85 pounds, they are lighter. English Labradores also tend to be smaller in size compared to American Labradors.
No matter how they might look a the end of the day, White Labrador Retrievers will always be full of love, loyalty, and affection toward their people.
They were bred to work closely with people and their devotion and hard work ethics reminded untouched to this day.
Do White Labrador Retriever Turn Yellow?
In general no, but there is an expectation. Some parts of the hair of White Labrador Retrievers, mostly around the tups of the ears, can turn yellow at some point.
What is the reason for this? It may sound unusual, but the main reason for this is sun exposure. Also, some Yellow Labs might be born white, only for their coat to change its color in the first few months of their life.
All in all, it is extremely hard to tell if a Labrador will be white during the first months of their lives.
White Labrador Retriever Origin
Did you know that Labs are actually linked with Newfoundland? Or that the Labrador name comes from the Labrador sea that actually surrounded the coast of Newfoundland?
Do you think about lovely Newfoundland dogs when you hear the term ‘Newfoundland’? If that is the case we cannot blame you.
Back in the 16th century early settlers spent their days mostly fishing to earn and eat. At that time, they were spending a lot of time with dogs, which is why they decided to put their skills, capabilities, and temperament into good service.
Hence, the working dogs could retrieve the fish and nets. Initially, they started breeding native Newfoundland dogs with other breeds, with one goal – to create ultimate water dogs.
Eventually, they had success and eventually created great dogs, who were awesome helpers and retrieves.
Due to these traits, hunters began preferring these dogs over other types of hunting dogs. The rest is history.
Are White Labrador Retrievers Rare?
Simply said, yes. White Labrador Retrievers are hard to find. As pale Yellow Labs, these dogs are hard to be found, especially if you want to deal with responsible dog breeders only.
For a White Labrador Retriever to be born, both parents must have the right gene in them and pass on genes that will allow this light color.
Are White Labrador Retrievers Purebred?
Another yes. White Are White Labradors Retrievers are purebred dogs as they are put under the Yellow Labrador Retriever category.
White Labs can be registered for shows and with the Kennel Association as Yellow Labradors.
If you are thinking about a show competition think about providing the best training possible and early socialization. These two factors are what make the great canine citizen and amazing competitors.
Not sure what dog sport might work for your White Lab? Think about dog agility as your first stop.
Is Demand For White Labs High?
Labrador Retrievers are among the most popular dogs across the States year after year.
Due to their great personality traits and willingness to please, people choose Labrador Retrievers to be their family dogs without thinking too much.
Once you get a Labrador Retriever you know that you are getting a polite, loyal, calm, and great family dog.
Although Labs of any color are highly popular, White Labs are becoming more popular. As such, they are also very expensive. Not only that they are easy to spot, but White Labs are great companions and amazing working dogs.
They will excel working as search and rescue dogs or being the first assistants on the hunt. When it comes to retrieving duties, people just choose them first.
Do White Labrador Retriever Puppies Stay White?
Some Labs may remain white-coated throughout their lives, while others will change coat color as puppies.
Bear in mind that the majority of WHite Labs are actually Yellow Labs that are born with a white coat. As result, their coat will naturally evolve to a yellow shade over time.
Are White Labrador Retrievers Expensive To Maintain?
Getting a dog is easy, but providing the best care possible is a completely different thing. This is why proper dog ownership is so important because it includes proper care that often costs.
To help your dog reach his scenario years without major issues, you should invest in the best care possible that including investing in:
- High-quality dog food
- Proper nutrition
- Dog equipment
- Parasite control
- Regular veterinarain check-ups
- Professional grooming service
Next to these regular investments add doggy daycare, a dog walker, unplanned expenses, and so on, and you will get to a higher sum for owning a dog.
Now, some breeds are easier to maintain, while some are very expensive to maintain.
By maintaining we are actually talking about keeping dogs healthy and strong.
Maintaining White Labrador Retriever won’t cost more than a Lab of any other color. Labs are in general prone to certain diseases, that range from mild to severe.
No matter how great care you might provide your dog still may experience some health disturbances.
As for the Labs, you can expect to see the following issues:
- Bacterial diseases
- Obesity
- Otitis externa
- Degenerative joint disease
Once you get a dog you are directly responsible for his weight. Some breeds are naturally prone to weight gain, while Labs are considered to be healthy dogs.
To keep the weight in balance provide the right food, know the best feeding practice and enable enough exercise.
No dog should experience weight gain if you want him to reach his senior years with strong joints.
The best way to keep your dog healthy and strong is to think in terms of prevention.
Prevention is the key when it comes to having a healthy and strong dog. In other words, deal only with responsible dog breeders, provide the right nutrition and exercise regime and add to that regular veterinarian check-ups and you will have a healthy and happy dog.
White Labrador Retriever Temperament
Labradors are great dogs. Not only that they are friendly and calm, but they are also great family dogs.
These dogs are affectionate, easy to train, and loving toward people in general.
They are kid-friendly which is why they are often the first choice as family dogs. Therefore, you can expect your White Labrador Retriever to act identically to any other Lab.
You can expect him to love water and to enjoy outdoor activities. Labs are great for active individuals or active families because this breed will expect to share every experience with you.
Long walks or hikes? Your White Lab will follow you without thinking about it twice.
Going for a nice swim? Expect your White Lab to be the first one to jump with you, if not before you. They have webbed feet and swimming is among their favorite activities.
Planning an entire beach day? Plan to take dog beach necessities with you, because Fido will join you.
Do White Labradors Shed?
All dogs shed. Some may shed less, than others, but they all have to shake off that debris.
If you are allergic to dog hair but want a dog double-think if this animal is the best pet option for you.
You can always think about getting hypoallergenic dog breed, but they still have debris.
If you have any pet allergies, talk with your doctor to see what kind of pet could enrich your life.
As for the White Labs and shedding you can expect some hair falling, especially during the shedding season. Not sure when shedding season occurs? During spring and autumn.
To keep dog hair to a minimum at your home, make sure that you provide regular brushing.
Weekly brushing with proper grooming tools should help you keep shedding to its minimum.
In general, Labs tend to shed a lot. They have a double coat (this is why they are usually very dry after a nice swim), which means that there is a lot of hair that you don’t see.
How Long Do White Labrador Retrievers Live?
On average, Labradors live between ten to twelve years. They can read their senior years with major issues as long as you invest in nutrition, exercise, and proper training.
Put extra care on the dog’s joints and provide regular veterinarian check-ups. Do not forget to keep your White Lab up to date on all shots.
Is White Labrador Retriever For You?
Do you have any experience with Labradors? If so, you know what to expect once you get a Whtie Labradors. They are great family dogs and amazing furry friends to children of all ages.
If you have no experience with dogs this breed should a fine choice as long as you invest in training and proper socialization.
Bear in mind that Labs are larger dogs in size, and they will need larger spaces to live in.
Labs are highly extroverted dogs which means that a regular walk to the dog park is a must. They are also great travel companions, and great at assisting with daily tasks.
It is well-known that Labs are great support dogs which is why they are a common part of different search and rescue teams.
White Labrador Retrievers are smart and people-oriented dogs who love to spend time both with humans and other pets.
