Silver Lab: Facts, Temperament, and Care Guide

Earlier in 2019, the American Kennel Club (AKC) released its annual list of most popular dog breeds. For the 28th year in a row, Labradors topped the chart. In addition to the Yellow Lab, Chocolate Lab, and classic Black Lab that we all know and love, the Silver Lab puppy is increasing in popularity.

Like the traditional Labradors, adored for their friendly, outgoing personalities, Silver Labs are energetic, loyal, sociable, and lovable. The only difference is their unique grayish-blue color!

But wait – do these rare Silver Labradors actually exist? Or are they a different breed entirely? Some argue that they are a mix between a traditional Lab and a Weimaraner - another incredibly friendly and obedient breed. To make things more confusing, the AKC actually considers Silver Labs as a type of Chocolate Lab.

Are you considering a Silver Lab pup as the perfect family companion, but still a little puzzled? Let’s review what we know!

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Labrador History dates back to the 1800s in England. Hunters loved them for their innate ability to retrieve ducks and after a whole century of developing the breed and meticulously recording characteristics of each litter, Labradors were formally registered with the AKC in 1917.

Most kennels strived to breed Black Lab litters, but records include documentation of tan, red and brindles, in addition to the traditional Yellow and Chocolate Labs. But Silver Labs? No one seems to know quite where they come from.

Before an advertisement for “Rare Gray Labradors” appeared in a hunter’s magazine in 1950, there is no record of the modern Silver Lab. They emerged seemingly from nowhere, only adding to their allure.

When compared to other Labradors, Silver Labs have a typical life expectancy of 10-14 years - with an average of 12.5 years – making them the ideal addition to any family searching for a unique, eager to please pup. Labs generally are known for their friendly, gentle personalities and ability to bond with multiple family members. They are very patient and typically get along well with children and other pets. When socialized from a young age, they enjoy interacting with the whole family.

Silver Labradors are well suited for an active household, as they thrive with at least 60 minutes a day of vigorous walking, running, playing, and swimming. As they are natural born swimmers and retrievers, Silver Labs will be happy romping and splashing through water, or chasing a tennis ball.

Many owners love to combine the two! Start by finding a clean, safe source of water for your new pup. Then, let him practice his retrieving skills by tossing a ball or other toy that floats. Watch as your new furry friend blossoms into his instincts!

Be sure to keep your new Lab puppy physically and mentally stimulated to avoid destructive behaviors like chewing. Puppy puzzles are a great way to provide entertainment without getting outside.

When it comes to health, Silver Labradors, like their counterparts, can suffer Hip/Elbow Dysplasia and Patella Luxation. The first step in avoiding an unexpected health concern is buying a Lab puppy from a reputable breeder. Most kennels will provide health screenings to inform you of your puppy’s genetic risk. Still, any Labrador can develop these conditions.

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia occurs when a Lab’s hip or elbow joints develop abnormally. Overtime, this condition leads to pain, lameness, and even an altered gait. Though it sometimes requires corrective surgery, if caught early, it can usually be managed with medication and physical therapy exercises. Patella Luxation causes your Labrador puppy’s knee to dislocate and fail to extend. Most often, it’s successfully treated with corrective surgery.

Due to their diluted genes, Silver Labs have additional health risks. Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA) is a genetic disorder that causes flaky and itchy skin, as well as hair loss. The ‘D’ gene can cause follicular dysplasia, making it difficult or even impossible to achieve new hair growth. The first sign is thinning coat, which usually occurs at 6 months old.

Special shampoos or ointments may be prescribed by a veterinarian to treat CDA in Silver Labs. You can also help by providing your puppy with a healthy, balanced diet rich in essential fatty acids and Vitamin A. Coconut Oil is a great supportive supplement!

Speaking of diet, we should warn you that Silver Labs are just as eager and food motivated as classic Labradors. If there is food around, they will find it and eat it so keeping food secure is a must! Adult Labs require between 1650 and 2400 calories per day from a high-quality, protein-rich food. Most vets recommend splitting their daily needs into two meals, to make digestion easier.

When full grown, Silver Labs will measure out to 21-25” and weigh anywhere from 55 to 80 lbs., depending on sex, with females weighing about 10lbs. less than males. Both male and female Labradors are prone to unwanted weight gain and obesity. Monitoring their food and treat intake is essential to raising a healthy dog.

Labradors are a national favorite because of their trainability. They respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement, and reward-based methods, especially when rewarded with food or treats. However, they can get bored easily and training sessions should be kept short, but frequent. As mentioned above, they are highly food-motivated and should easily learn basic commands like sit, down, shake, stay, etc. with the help of small treats. Just remember to account for the extra calories!

When trying to decide between a Silver Lab and traditional Labrador, there are a few more things to consider. We’ve put together this list of Pros & Cons to help you make the final decision!

Pros:

• Silver Labs are highly trainable, like other labs
• Silver Labs have roughly the same health and life expectancies as other labs
• Silver Labs are beautiful and unique

Cons:

• Some people will rudely discredit your Silver Lab as a mixed-breed
• Silver Labs cost more than traditional Labs
• Silver Labs are at risk for Alopecia