During the past few decades, Silver Labrador Retrievers have gained popularity. They are a relatively new color variation of the breed. Their lighter gray coat, which has an almost “shimmery” appearance of silver, can be used to identify them.
What Are Silver Labradors?
The Labrador Retriever Club’s breed standard traditionally specifies the following colors: black, yellow, and chocolate.
Since Labradors have topped the popularity rankings for dog breeds for the past 30 years, previously unusual hues and variants are becoming more common.
In addition to the great popularity of the three primary hues, colors that were originally thought to be unique or uncommon, such as fox red Labs, white Labs, and silver Labradors, are now becoming increasingly prevalent.
One of those new colors is the lustrous silver coat of the silver Labrador, which is the result of a diluted “d” gene.
Despite some criticism, Silver Labs have gained popularity over the past few decades.
Controversy Involving Silver Labradors
There are a lot of passionate views in the Labrador community regarding silver Labs and whether or not they are recognized as “purebred.”
Some purists claim that silver Labs are not entirely purebred Labradors but rather partially Weimaraners because of the recessive gene present in the mating of silver Labs.
The reason for this is that the Weimaraner, a different breed of field dog commonly used for hunting wild game, has the “d” diluted gene and is clearly silver in color.
Although it hasn’t been proven, there is some theory that the first silver Labradors may have been produced by the crossbreeding of Labradors and Weimaraners many years ago.
Others point out that the Labrador Retriever breed was developed over hundreds of years by crossing a variety of dogs, including the St. John’s Water Dog, with one another. This resulted in the dog that we now know and refer to as the Lab.
The puppy should be regarded as a purebred Labrador as long as both parents are Labradors, according to their viewpoint.
Many breeders may steer you away from silver Labs in favor of some of the more conventional colors and will not breed or sell them (or color variations or subsets). Many of them are strongly committed to this!
If you’re considering purchasing a silver Lab, you’ll also come across a lot of other breeders who adore silver Labradors, regard them as equally purebred as the other Lab colors, and will exclusively breed for silver.
According to the American Kennel Club and the Labrador Retriever Club, silver Labs are registered as chocolate Labs since they come into the chocolate coat color category.
To better explain, breeders occasionally refer to their silver Labrador puppies as “diluted chocolate.”
Silver Labradors in the Show Ring
Be aware that diluted colors are not allowed to be show dogs in the United States if you’re thinking about perhaps showing your Labrador Retriever.
Your silver Lab can make a great family pet and hunting partner, but at the moment, it is not permitted to compete in the majority of show ring events.
Most Lab parents won’t be competing in show rings with their Labs, so this won’t be a concern for them, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re wanting to compete in shows in the future.
What Is the Lifespan of Silver Labradors?
The average lifespan of a Labrador Retriever is 10 to 14 years, however, current research suggests that chocolate Labs may be more likely to live for only 10.7 years on average.
Given that silver Labradors are thought of being a milder form of chocolate, it’s possible that their longevity will be comparable to that of chocolates (and slightly shorter than other Lab colors).
Your choice of breeder is essential if you want to get a dog that may be less likely to experience health issues and have a shorter lifespan because your dog’s lifespan depends so heavily on good health.
Make sure to conduct in-depth research about your breeder and make a careful choice of a Lab breeder if you want to extend the lifespan of your Lab.
How Large Can Silver Labradors Grow?
Your silver Labrador should mature to around the same size as Labradors of other colors.
The average male Lab weighs between 70 and 85 pounds, though many are bigger. At the shoulder, height is frequently around 24.5 inches.
Females typically reach a shoulder height of 21.5 inches and weigh 55 to 70 lbs.
Additionally, you might hear some Lab breeds referred to as “American Labs” or “English Labs,” which can also relate to size variations.
English Labs tend to be shorter and stockier, while American Labs tend to be taller and thinner.
Additionally, you can find an English Lab without traveling to England! Both American and English Labrador breeders can be found in the United States.
Silver Labrador Puppy Prices
Depending on where you live and where you purchase your puppy, the average Labrador puppy will cost between $500 and $2500.
While specialty Lab breeders may be on the pricier end or even above it, lab rescue groups and shelters may have puppies closer to the lower end of the pricing range.
Due to the rarity of silver Labs compared to other colors of Labrador Retrievers, you might find that breeders charge more for silver Lab puppies, particularly if there aren’t many breeders in your neighborhood.
If you’re determined on acquiring a silver Lab, be aware that you might need to travel to find a breeder who specializes in them.
Are Silver Labradors Safe Around Children?
Because Labs are great family pets, the Labrador Retriever has been the most popular dog breed for the past 30 years.
Your silver Labrador should have the same appealing character features as Labs of other colors, including intelligence, athletic prowess, friendliness, and level-headedness.
Families should think about getting a Lab, and a silver Lab should exhibit the same beautiful traits as any other Lab.
Always conduct your homework on breeders and ask about the parent dogs’ personalities to get a sense of what kind of puppy you’re more likely to get!
Silver Labradors: Is He the Dog for You?
Despite the fact that labs are very well-liked, not everyone should own one.
Do you have the stamina necessary to keep up with an athletic, active dog?
Do you have access to an outside area where your Lab could recharge each day?
In addition to the possibility for unexpected and unplanned (and perhaps expensive) vet appointments, can you maintain a routine for medical treatment and ensure that your dog receives the required health care?
Are you prepared to handle Labrador shedding, which may be a major issue for most of the year?
If you’re dedicated to the Labrador breed, you can consider the color of Labrador Retriever you think is best while keeping in mind that each individual dog has a different temperament and personality.
Even though silver Labs are more widespread than they used to be, you probably won’t encounter as many inquiries or raised eyebrows as you did in the past. Be aware that there is ongoing debate on gene dilution and breeding when you make your choice.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)
Are Silver Labs prone to skin issues?
Skin issues are not always caused by coat dilution. The majority of silvers are in fact free from alopecia, and not all dogs with the dd gene carry the defective alopecia variant. Therefore, the health of a silver Lab is generally comparable to that of any purebred Labrador.
How do you calm a silver lab?
Your dog's level of excitement can be reduced by moving quickly but calmly around, which will allow you to regain control of the situation. You can utilize time out indoors. Put an end to all playtime and leave the dog alone in a crate or room for a while so he can settle down.
What color labs do you breed to get silver?
A Chocolate Lab with two recessive genes will have a lighter variation of the normally solid color. It results in a Silver Lab. Yellow Labs are known as Champagne Labradors, and Diluted Black Labs are known as Charcoal Labradors.
What is the personality of a silver lab?
The Silver Lab is renowned for having a pleasant and cheerful attitude. This devoted and lively dog is normally well-behaved and gets along with both people and other dogs. It will take patience while still young because it is typically a little prone to nipping or playful biting.
