Silver Labrador retrievers are some of the most gorgeous dogs you will ever see, but they also come with a certain amount of controversy attached to them. What are these issues and have breeders been able to move past them? Let’s look into the history of these magnificent animals.
The rise of the Labrador is a very compelling and surprising story. Like many dog breeds, they have not always existed, but actually evolved from earlier breeds. The tale of the Labrador traces its origins back to Newfoundland.
It was in this area that the native water dogs bred with Newfoundland pups to create different dog varieties, among them the St. John’s Water Dog, according to Labrador Training HQ. These new offspring eventually became the lovable labs that we know today.
These dogs were beloved for a long time until the major kennel clubs began to exclude them, instead recognizing only three colors of labs – yellow, black and chocolate.
So why not the silver Labrador?
There are many theories as to why these dogs are not recognized as a distinctive version of Labradors. Leading dog organizations, including the UK Kennel Club and American Kennel Club, still don’t recognize the silver lab. Here in the States, silvers can only be registered as chocolate labs, while across the pond, silver labs can be registered but with a “non-recognized” caveat, says Labrador Training HQ.
Some against the inclusion of silver labs say that these dogs have been given a diluted gene, which makes these dog lovers believe that the animals are not purebred. They also often believe that inbreeding may have been used to create these dogs – a practice that could cause numerous health problems for the dogs.
In the end, these concerns are unwarranted. We practice a conscientious and safe breeding program to produce beautiful and healthy silver labs, and the words of those who object are simply that – words. Multiple breeders have offered a reward to anyone who could prove claims to a diluted or inbred genetic line, and not a single so-called expert has come forward. You can trust that a silver Labrador is not only happy and healthy, but incredibly rare and unique and sure to be a loved member of your family.
At Lankas Labs, we pride ourselves on raising beautiful pointing Labradors in all colors, backed by more than 64 years of family experience. To find out more about our available silver labs or any of our Labrador retrievers, check our Up-N-Coming Litters page or call us at 785-626-9313 today.
