Silver Labrador: Characteristics, Temperament, and Care

Silver Labrador Retrievers are a relatively new color variation of the classic Labrador Retriever breed. These dogs have a unique and striking appearance with their silver-gray coat, which is caused by a recessive gene that affects the pigmentation of their fur. While some people may mistake them for Weimaraners or other breeds, Silver Labs are purebred Labradors with all the same traits and characteristics of the traditional yellow, black, and chocolate Labs.

The most distinctive features of Silver Labs is their coat color, which can range from a light silver-gray to a darker charcoal color. This unique coloration has quickly made them a popular choice for dog owners who want a Labrador with a different look. However, it’s important to note that the American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize Silver Labs as an official color variety of the breed, and some breeders believe that the gene responsible for their silver coat may also be linked to health problems. They may be prone to color dilution alopecia, so only use the gentlest dog shampoos on them to prevent hair loss.

Despite some controversy surrounding the breed, many Silver Lab owners swear by their dogs’ friendly, loyal, and energetic personalities. These dogs are known for their love of people and their desire to please their owners, making them great family pets and companions for active individuals. Whether you’re a longtime Labrador lover or just discovering the breed, it’s vital to do your research before searching for Silver Lab puppies for sale near you.

It is important for pet parents who want a silver lab to invest time in researching these dogs and the possible challenges that may come with them, including health issues that may arise from bad breeding practices from breeders cashing in on the silver lab trend. Silver Labs can be lovely dogs, but they are energetic and can quickly become destructive without proper training and exercise.

These dogs may result from mixing a Lab with a  Weimaraner, but they may also come from other dogs with the blue gene like blue-nosed Pitbulls or Cane Corsos. It is also possible that a silver lab is just rare color mutation on a purebred dog, since this is a very complicated issue that people can get quite heated about It is important to note that there has been a spike of silver Labradors in shelters in certain cities, as these dogs can be very energetic and busy while they are puppies, leaving many unprepared owners overwhelmed.

The Complicated History & Origins of the Silver Labrador

The Silver Labrador, also known as the Gray or Blue Labrador, is a controversial color variation of the traditional yellow, chocolate, and black Labradors. While the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard only recognizes the three traditional colors, the Silver Labrador has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique and striking appearance. However, the United Kennel Club may allow you to register silver labs as “chocolate.”

So the history of this controversial color in labs (more controversial than long-haired Labradors or Dudley Labradors) is pretty intense. So buckle to get an overview if you really want to get into the debate. If not, skip to the next section where we talk about what Silver Labrador retrievers look like. 

Jack Vanderwyk states that only black, yellow, and chocolate colors are recognized in the Labrador Retriever, tracing back to the original St. John dogs in the 1800s. He delves into the ‘silver,’ ‘charcoal,’ and ‘champagne’ variants, stating they aren’t recognized as existing colors in the breed. He emphasizes the role of Kellogg’s kennels, who he thinks were instrumental in introducing the ‘silver’ Labrador in the 1950s, a color he believes was possibly introduced through cross-breeding, particularly with Weimaraners.

Kellogg’s Kennels, considered trendsetters and business-savvy breeders, started advertising ‘rare gray Labradors’ in the 1950s and are believed to have introduced ‘silver’ Labradors in response to emerging trends. They are known to have extensive experience in breeding various dogs and were adept at registering mixed breeds as full-bred dogs.

Dean Crist of Culo Kennels and Beavercreek kennels in the 1980s and 1990s, respectively, followed in the footsteps of Kellogg’s kennels specializing in ‘silver’ Labradors. Dean Crist calls himself the ‘most experienced breeder of silver Labs in the world’ and refers to ‘silver’ as a ‘mutation of chocolate.’

CPLR, the club of dilute breeders, defends their breeding of silver Labradors and equates Dean Crist to the founders of the Labrador Retriever breed, praising his contribution to bringing the Silver Lab into the spotlight. They blame the hound-like appearance of some ‘silvers’ on an English Labrador from the 1970s, emphasizing that it’s not due to cross-breeding with Weimaraners.

Frances O Smith, DVM, PhD Chair, on behalf of the Labrador Retriever Club, Inc.  states that he Genetics Committee firmly declares that a silver Labrador is not a purebred Labrador retriever and alleges that the pet-owning public is being deceived into believing that ‘silver labs’ are rare, purebred, and desirable.

Robert Young of AKC in 2000 states that the AKC is based on parentage, not color, and all pups from purebred AKC registered Labs should be registered. However, ‘Silver’ should not be an acceptable registration color, he recommended registering them as Chocolate instead.

Silver Labrador Population Analysis by Dean Crist and Beavercreek: Initially, silver Labs were heavily inbred due to a lack of known ‘silvers’ to breed with. By the early 2000s, with more breeders entering the field, the silver Labrador population expanded, offering a more viable gene pool with seven distinct lines. Despite disagreements and controversies surrounding the silver Labs, they have become a significant population.

European Perspective: Currently, ‘silver’ Labrador breeding in Europe is a marginal activity, executed by a small group of people. These breeders are not part of the mainstream Labrador community and are often secretive about the ancestors of their dogs. Vanderwyk asserts the importance of awareness and critical evaluation among puppy buyers to understand a breeder and a puppy’s background.

In summary, while some experts and breeders, like Dean Crist and CPLR, defend and advocate for the ‘silver’ Labrador, attributing its existence to mutations or specific breeding lines, others, like Jack Vanderwyk and Frances O Smith, are skeptical and strongly against recognizing ‘silver’ Labradors as purebred, emphasizing the lack of historical evidence and potential ethical implications in breeding and selling them. The debate seems to be deep-rooted and involves intricate details of breeding history, genetics, and breed standards.

Physical Characteristics: What does a Silver Labrador Look like?

Silver Labradors  have a distinctive silver coat that ranges from a light silver to a darker charcoal color. The coat is usually short and dense, with a smooth and glossy texture. Silver Labradors have a broad head, a strong jaw, and friendly, expressive eyes. Their ears are medium-sized, hanging down close to their head.

Their eyes are often yellow, amber, green or even blue.

How big does a Silver Labrador get?

Silver Labradors are medium to large-sized dogs, with males typically being larger than females. Males can weigh between 65-80 pounds and stand between 22-24 inches tall at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller, weighing between 55-70 pounds and standing between 21-23 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a muscular and athletic build, with a deep chest and strong legs.

Coat and Color

As previously mentioned, Silver Labradors have a distinctive silver coat that is caused by a dilution gene. The coat color can vary from a light silver to a darker charcoal color, and some Silver Labradors may have white markings on their chest or toes. Their coat is easy to maintain and requires regular brushing to keep it looking glossy and healthy.

It is important to note that the silver color variation is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) as an official color for the Labrador Retriever breed. However, they are recognized by some other kennel clubs and are still considered purebred Labradors.

In conclusion, Silver Labradors have a unique and striking appearance, with a silver coat that ranges from light to dark. They are medium to large-sized dogs with a muscular and athletic build, and their coat is easy to maintain. While not recognized by all kennel clubs, they are still considered purebred Labradors and make great family pets.

What is the Silver Lab controversy?

Worldwide, most kennel clubs officially recognize three Labrador Retriever colors: Black, Yellow, and Chocolate. However, there’s this kinda new kid on the block, the Silver Labrador, causing a bit of a stir.

How Lab color works is that it’s down to genes. Typically, there are 2 pairs of genes, B and E alleles, controlling the coat color. But this silver shade? That’s down to a different, lesser-discussed gene, called the ‘d’ gene. If two recessive ‘d’ alleles pair up as ‘dd’, you get this dilute, silver color. Some argue that a ‘pure Labrador’ can’t carry this dilute gene, meaning they must be ‘DD’.

This blue-gray silver color is a result of a recessive gene that dilutes the black coat color into a grayish-silver shade, similar to a Weimaraner or a blue French Bulldog or Blue German Shepherd.

Silver Labradors weren’t mentioned or seen until around the 1950s, when they suddenly appeared in adverts. Before that, even back to the 1800s, there were records of various Lab colors, but never silver. This sudden appearance fuels speculation that the dilute d gene might have been introduced later, possibly implying Silver Labs aren’t purebred.

A prevailing theory is that the Silver Labrador might have Weimaraner genes, another breed known for the dilute d gene and their distinctive silver color. This idea riles up Labrador purists because it shakes the very essence of maintaining pure breeds. However, there’s no solid evidence supporting the Weimaraner theory yet.

As it stands, the AKC does allow Silver Labs to be registered but categorizes them as Chocolate, while the UK Kennel Club labels them as ‘non-recognized’. Many traditional color breeders outright refuse to accept Silver Labs as purebred, primarily due to the unknown origins of their color and potential deviation from breed standards.

Despite the controversy, Silver Lab breeders are adamant that their dogs are pure Labradors, often tracing back their pedigrees to showcase their lineage. However, if you want a purebred silver Labrador from a breeder, ask them for a DNA tests on their dogs to ensure you are not being scammed (as well as extensive health tests). 

So, the Silver Lab debate is all about whether they’re truly purebred Labradors or a deviation brought about by an unforeseen gene or potential crossbreeding, with neither side willing to back down as of now. Keep an eye out for any new developments in this canine controversy!

Temperament and Personality Traits of Silver Labradors

Silver Labradors are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are affectionate and loyal dogs, making them great family pets. Working gun dogs tend to be trainable than show dogs, but also have more energy. Labs are also intelligent and easily trainable, making them popular choices for service and therapy work. 

Studies show these dogs love water so much, they will choose playing in water over socializing. This means that having regular access to water is important for a Labrador’s mental and emotional wellbeing. 

Silver Labradors are typically very social and enjoy being around people. They are known for their high energy levels and love to play, making them great companions for active families. However, they can also be quite content to simply relax and cuddle with their owners.

These dogs are also known for their love of food and can be quite food-motivated. This means that they may be prone to overeating if their food intake is not monitored. Studies show there are genetic reasons that Labradors always act hungry.  It is important to provide them with a balanced diet and to ensure that they get plenty of exercise.

Overall, Silver Labradors are friendly, loyal, and intelligent dogs that make great companions for active families. They do require a lot of time and investment, but their affectionate personalities and trainability make them well worth the effort.

Health and Lifespan

Common Health Issues

Like all dog breeds, Silver Labs are prone to certain health issues. However, with proper care and regular visits to the veterinarian, most of these issues can be prevented or treated early on. Here are some of the most common health issues that Silver Labs may experience:

• Hip and elbow dysplasia;
• Eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy;
• Ear infections;
• Skin allergies and irritations; and
• Obesity.

It’s important to note that not all Silver Labs will experience these health issues, and some may not experience any at all. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and proper grooming can all contribute to a happy and healthy Silver Lab.

How long do Silver Labs live?

The average lifespan of a Silver Lab is around 10 to 14 years. However, this can vary depending on various factors such as genetics, diet, and lifestyle.  They are usually full grown around a year, but it usually takes around two years before they mature into an adult dog.

Research shows that Labradors are prone to quite a variety of genetic health issues, so if you choose a breeder for your silver lab, make sure to ask for the genetic test results for the parent’s health. If you don’t know what to ask for, the UC Davis Veterinary Medicine University lists specific genetic health tests for Labradors.

By providing your Silver Lab with proper care and attention, you can help ensure that they live a long and healthy life.

Here are some tips for helping your Silver Lab live a long and healthy life:

• Regular exercise: Silver Labs are an active breed and require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy.
• Healthy diet: Feeding your Silver Lab a balanced and nutritious diet can help prevent obesity and other health issues.
• Regular check-ups: Regular visits to the veterinarian can help catch any health issues early on and ensure that your Silver Lab is up to date on vaccinations and preventative care.
• Proper grooming: Regular grooming can help prevent skin irritations and infections, as well as keep your Silver Lab looking and feeling their best.

Overall, with proper care and attention, your Silver Lab can live a long and healthy life.

Training a Silver Labrador

Training a Silver Labrador requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. These dogs are intelligent and eager to please, but they can also be stubborn and independent at times. Here are some tips for training your Silver Labrador:

Start Early

It’s important to start training your Silver Labrador as soon as possible. Puppies have a shorter attention span, so keep training sessions short and frequent. As your puppy grows, you can gradually increase the length of the sessions.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Silver Labradors respond well to positive reinforcement, such as treats, praise, and playtime. Avoid using punishment or physical force, as this can damage the bond between you and your dog.

Focus on Basic Commands

Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. These commands are important for your dog’s safety and will make it easier to control your dog in public places. Use treats and praise to reward your dog for following these commands.

Socialize Your Dog

Socialization is important for Silver Labradors, as they can be prone to separation anxiety and aggression if not properly socialized. Expose your dog to different people, animals, and environments to help them feel comfortable in all situations.

Be Consistent

Consistency is key when training your Silver Labrador. Use the same commands and rewards every time, and avoid confusing your dog with mixed signals. Stick to a regular training schedule to help your dog learn and retain the commands.

By following these tips, you can train your Silver Labrador to be a well-behaved and obedient companion. Remember to be patient and consistent, and always use positive reinforcement to build a strong bond with your dog.

Diet and Nutrition

The Silver Labrador requires a well-balanced diet to maintain optimal health and energy levels. A healthy diet for a Silver Labrador should consist of high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

It is recommended to feed Silver Labradors with a diet that contains around 30% protein, 10-15% fat, and about 50% carbohydrates. It is important to choose a high-quality dog food brand that meets these requirements and is specifically formulated for large breed dogs.

In addition to a balanced diet, it is important to monitor the amount of food given to a Silver Labrador. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which can cause health problems such as joint pain and heart disease. A good rule of thumb is to feed your Silver Labrador twice a day, using a measuring cup to ensure proper portion control.

It is also important to provide fresh water at all times, as proper hydration is essential for a healthy dog. Avoid giving your Silver Labrador table scraps or human food, as this can lead to digestive issues and weight gain.

Overall, a well-balanced diet and proper portion control are key to maintaining the health and longevity of a Silver Labrador.

Grooming Needs

Silver Labradors have a short and dense coat that is easy to maintain. They require minimal grooming, but regular brushing and occasional bathing are necessary to keep them clean and healthy. Also, don’t forget a canine mouthwash to keep their dental health up to scratch.

Brushing your Silver Labrador’s coat at least once a week will help remove loose hair, dirt, and debris, and prevent matting. A slicker brush or a rubber curry brush can be used to remove any tangles or knots in the coat. You may also want to use a deshedding tool during shedding season to remove any excess hair.

Silver Labradors also require regular ear cleaning to prevent infections. Ear wipes for dogs can be used to gently clean the ears and remove any wax or debris. Pet nail clippers should also be used to trim your dog’s nails regularly to prevent them from growing too long and causing discomfort.

When bathing your Silver Labrador, it is important to use a gentle dog shampoo that won’t irritate their skin. You may also want to use a dog mouth rinse to freshen their breath and prevent dental problems.

In addition to regular grooming, you may also want to use eye cleaning wipes to keep your Silver Labrador’s eyes clean and free from discharge. This will help prevent eye infections and keep your dog’s eyes healthy.

Overall, Silver Labradors are low-maintenance dogs when it comes to grooming. With regular brushing, occasional bathing, and proper ear and nail care, your Silver Labrador will look and feel their best.

Pros and Cons Of A Silver Lab

Silver Labs are a unique and beautiful variation of the Labrador Retriever breed. However, like any breed, there are both pros and cons to owning a Silver Lab.

Pros

• Unique Appearance: Silver Labs are a rare color variation of the Labrador Retriever breed, which makes them stand out from other Labs.
• Friendly and Social: Silver Labs are known to be friendly and social dogs. They love to be around people and other dogs, making them great companions for families with children or other pets.
• Intelligent and Trainable: Labrador Retrievers are known for their intelligence and trainability, and Silver Labs are no exception. They are quick learners and eager to please their owners, making them easy to train.
• Active and Energetic: Silver Labs are a high-energy breed, which makes them great for families who love to be active. They love to play and exercise, and they make great running or hiking partners.

Cons

• Health Concerns: Some breeders have been known to breed Silver Labs with Weimaraners to achieve the silver color, which can lead to health issues such as hip dysplasia and eye problems.
• Shedding: Like all Labrador Retrievers, Silver Labs shed quite a bit. They require regular brushing and grooming to keep their coat healthy and shiny.
• Separation Anxiety: Silver Labs are very social dogs and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. They need plenty of attention and exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
• Suitability with kids and other pets: Silver Labs are generally great with children and other pets, but like any dog, they should always be supervised when around small children or other animals.

Overall, Silver Labs make great family pets for those who are willing to put in the time and effort to properly care for them. They are friendly, social, and intelligent dogs that love to be around people and other animals. However, potential owners should be aware of the health concerns and grooming needs that come with owning a Silver Lab.

Breeding and Genetics

Controversy in Color Genetics

The Silver Labrador is a controversial color variation of the Labrador Retriever. Some breeders believe that Silver Labs are a unique and distinct breed, while others argue that they are simply a product of breeding two Labrador Retrievers with a recessive gene for dilute coat color.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize the Silver Labrador as a separate breed. However, they do allow Silver Labradors to be registered as purebred Labrador Retrievers, as long as they meet certain breed standards.

Breeder Selection Tips

When selecting a breeder for a Silver Labrador puppy, it is important to do your research and choose a reputable breeder who is knowledgeable about the breed and follows ethical breeding practices. Here are some tips to help you find a good breeder:

• Look for a breeder who is a member of a recognized breed club or organization, such as the Labrador Retriever Club.
• Ask for references from previous customers and speak with them about their experience with the breeder.
• Visit the breeder’s facility and observe the conditions in which the dogs are kept.
• Ask to see health clearances for the parents of the litter, including hip and elbow evaluations and eye exams.
• Avoid breeders who offer Silver Labrador puppies at prices that are significantly higher than those for other colors of Labrador Retrievers, as this may indicate that they are exploiting the controversy surrounding the breed for financial gain.

How much do Silver Labrador Puppies Cost?

The cost of a Silver Labrador puppy can vary depending on the breeder, location, and other factors. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,500 for a Silver Labrador puppy from a reputable breeder.

It is important to note that the cost of a puppy is just one aspect of the expenses associated with owning a dog. Other costs, such as food, veterinary care, and training, should also be taken into consideration when deciding whether or not to bring a Silver Labrador into your home.

Adopting a Silver Labrador

Adopting a Silver Labrador can be a great decision for those who are looking for a loyal and loving companion. However, it is important to consider a few things before adopting one.

Firstly, it is essential to find a reputable breeder or rescue organization that specializes in Labrador Retrievers. Labs4rescue, Inc., Lab Rescue LRCP, and American Lab Rescue are some of the organizations that can help you find a Silver Labrador that needs a forever home.

When adopting a Silver Labrador, it is important to understand that they require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They are an active breed and need a lot of playtime and exercise to stay healthy and happy. Therefore, it is important to have enough space and time to provide them with the attention they need.

Another thing to consider is the cost of owning a Silver Labrador. They require regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and grooming, which can add up over time. It is important to have a budget in mind before adopting a Silver Labrador to ensure that you can provide them with the care they need.

Overall, adopting a Silver Labrador can be a rewarding experience for those who are prepared to provide them with the love, care, and attention they need.

Related Posts:

• Labs4rescue, Inc.
• Lab Rescue LRCP
• American Lab Rescue

Best Names for a Silver Labrador Retriever

Choosing a name for your new Silver Labrador Retriever can be exciting, but also overwhelming. There are so many options to choose from, and you want to make sure you pick the perfect name for your furry friend. Here are some of the best names for a Silver Labrador Retriever that will suit their unique and stunning coat color:

• Silver – A simple and classic name that perfectly describes your dog’s coat color.
• Ghost – A cool and mysterious name that fits well with the Silver Labrador’s striking appearance.
• Storm – A strong and powerful name that is perfect for a dog with a bold personality.
• Misty – A soft and gentle name that complements the Silver Labrador’s elegant and graceful nature.
• Luna – A beautiful and unique name that means “moon” in Spanish, perfect for a dog with a silver coat that shines like the moon.
• Echo – A fun and playful name that reflects the Silver Labrador’s energetic and lively personality.
• Smokey – A name that perfectly describes the Silver Labrador’s beautiful coat color and gives them a rugged and tough image.
• Ash – A short and sweet name that is perfect for a dog with a cool and collected personality.
• Steel – A strong and powerful name that reflects the Silver Labrador’s resilient and enduring nature.
• Glacier – A unique and beautiful name that reflects the Silver Labrador’s cool and icy appearance.

When choosing a name for your Silver Labrador Retriever, it’s important to consider their personality, appearance, and unique traits. These names are just a few of the many options available, but they are sure to help you find the perfect name for your new furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Silver Labrador is a unique and beautiful breed that has gained popularity in recent years. While there is still debate over whether or not the Silver Labrador is a purebred, there is no denying that these dogs have many desirable traits that make them excellent pets for the right family.

One of the most striking features of the Silver Labrador is their coat color. This color is caused by a dilution gene, and while it is not recognized by all breed standards, it is still a desirable trait for many owners. Additionally, Silver Labradors are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and friendly demeanor, making them great family pets.

However, it is important to note that Silver Labradors are not for everyone. They require a lot of exercise and attention, and may not be suitable for apartment living. Additionally, some Silver Labradors may be prone to certain health issues, so potential owners should do their research and choose a reputable breeder.

Overall, the Silver Labrador is a unique and beautiful breed that can make a wonderful addition to the right family. With proper care and training, these dogs can be loyal and loving companions for many years to come.

Meet Your Experts

Tamsin De La Harpe

Author

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.