Labrador Retrievers are among the world’s most beloved breeds of pets. However, many people don’t realize there are two distinct types: the American Lab and the English Lab.
They are friendly and loyal, but there are some differences between these two kinds of dogs. These differences make one breed better suited for certain lifestyles than the other.
In this article, we will be sharing some of the differences that exist between American and English Lab puppies so that you can be in a better position to decide on the best one to bring home.
Physical Differences Between an American and English Lab Puppy
The physical appearance of both types of Labs seems to be one of the most noticeable differences between them. In general, English Labs are rather stocky, and their bones thicker. They have larger heads and a dense-bodied appearance. This makes them look more traditional or “blocky,” if you will. In contrast, the American labs are usually slimmer and taller, and their structure resembles an athlete’s.
Temperament: What Lab Corresponds to Your Level of Energy?
As for temperament, both an American and English Lab puppy will be a friendly, affectionate dog that loves the company of its family. However, American Labs are usually more active and have some sort of nervous energy. Most of them are bred for field jobs and are best at jobs such as hunting, running and swimming, etc. An American Lab is exactly what you need if you have an active life and like to hike or jog frequently.
On the other hand, the English Labs are known to be more relaxed and less active. They were bred for aesthetic and ornamental purposes rather than for hard work and labor. Hence, they are often calmer and can easily adjust to a new condition—whether they are in a noisy environment or a calm home. If you’re considering a breed to be around children and be a couch potato, then the English Lab might be preferable.
Training and Socialization
American and English Labs are friendly and receptive breeds; thus, training them is usually not very challenging. However, since American Labs have higher energy levels, they may possibly need more regular and more formal training. They thrive if they are given tasks to perform and thus are optimal for operational tasks, for instance, as rescue and guide dogs. Their motivation to be active can be beneficial during training, but on the flip side, they require more mental and physical challenges to be happy.
English Labs are a bit different, they are not as aggressive as their American counterparts and therefore you will not find them as energetic when training. They’re still very trainable but they won’t necessarily require the degree of stimulation that American Lab puppies need. If you are looking for a dog that is okay with following simple instructions and does not get excited easily while training, then an English Lab puppy may be ideal.
Conclusion
If you find yourself struggling between choosing between an American and English Lab puppy, think about how you want your dog to fit into your life. If your lifestyle is dynamic and you spend a lot of time outdoors, the American Lab might suit you better. However, if you want a calm and friendly dog for a family environment, the English Lab could be just what you are looking for.