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A spectacular breed derived from the beloved Labrador Retriever breed. The red fox retriever was first bred at the same time as the Labrador retriever in Newfoundland in the early 1800s. The breeders did not have a specific color in mind before breeding the red fox retriever. To make a red labrador retriever, a breeder must breed the deeper red coat hues and ensure that both parents have the desired traits, temperament, and health.
They are called “red labs” due to their coat color, which differs from the other Labrador Retrievers. “Red fox” refers to the deep chestnut red coat color, resulting from the dominant genes of black and chocolate coat colors with yellow as the recessive gene.
History and Origin of Red Fox Labrador Retriever
The red labrador, considered a shade of yellow in The UK Kennels Club, was re-established by two English breeders in the 1980s, but it was bred long before that by St. John’s retriever. These breeds originated in Newfoundland, and today’s Redfox labs are more significant than the first ones.
St John’s retrievers eventually reached the land of England by jumping aboard finishing boats. John and Glenda of Balrion and Mac Bedford of Wynfaul Labradors showed a passion for this shade of red fox labradors, which resulted in the gentrification of this breed. The AKC has recognized Fox red labradors from the early days of Labrador Retrievers, but they are recognized as “yellow,” so it’s hard to tell how many red lab dogs are registered worldwide due to the mix in names. But this color has only recently gained more and more popularity.
They are primarily recognized in the American Kennel Club’s sporting group and the United Knennel Club’s gun dog group.
Red Labrador Retriever’s Physical Traits
Coat :
You can’t find red labrador colors in shades other than vibrant golden red or deeper mahogany. This is precisely what sets this breed apart from others. They are blessed with this distinctive color, which adds to their allure and makes them unique. They possess a dense, water-repellent coat that is short and thick. A baby fox red lab can exhibit a range of red shades; some may seem slightly more yellowish initially. This is due to the developing and dominant genes, but as they grow, you can see the prominent russet to burnt orange coat.
Appearance:
Their appearance is much more than just their impressive coat. Although Fox Red Labs have the same physical characteristics as other labradors, they have dazzling features.
They are known to have well-built, thick, muscular bodies with broad heads and long, otter-like tails. They also have solid legs and are thick in the chest. Their paws are webbed, which excels in their physical activities.
Looks:
A red fox retriever’s friendly and eloquent face has the power to make you smile—a face that can instantly warm people’s hearts. They have kind and expressive almond-shaped eyes. Add their fluffy, floppy ears and pervasive swinging tail with their facial expressions, which emit lots of joy and keenness, and you can’t resist loving a dog like this.
Weight:
An average full-grown male fox red labrador can weigh around 65 to 80 pounds.
A full-grown female can weigh about 55 and 70 pounds.
They can be around 25 to 34 kg.
Height:
The average height of a female redfox labrador is 21.5 inches to 23.5 inches, and an average male can be around 22.5 to 25.5 inches.
Quickly, they can stand tall between 55 and 62 cm.
Lifespan:
Red fox labradors live about 10 to 12 years. Proper care can ensure they live happily and healthily these years.
Temperament of Red Fox Labrador
Fox-colored labradors resemble a wild red fox, which is the name of this breed, but their temperament is far from that of a wild red fox. These dogs make a great impression with their spectacular personalities. Their temperament is not much different from that of Labrador retrievers, who are wanted for their genetic traits. Thanks to their outstanding characteristics, Labrador retrievers have become the most registered dog in America for the past 30 years.
Red fox labrador is the breed in which you can find a friend who is:
- Affectionate
- Attentive
- Chummy
- Helpful
- Peaceful
- Sympathetic and understanding
- Welcoming
- Playful and energetic
- Social and friendly
- Protective
- Intelligent
- Eager to please
- Family orientated
- Cooperative
- Trainable
- Have a gentle spirit
Fox Red Labs are not just fond of the people they live with. Trying to socialize them early with other animals and humans will create a healthy environment for them to nourish themselves adequately.
Their fabulous temperament contributes to their popularity worldwide. They are known to be an exceptional companion for individuals, a family-oriented home, or even a home with other pets like dogs or cats.
The strong and muscular body of red fox labradors allows them to be acquainted with different activities like hunting and retrieving. Also, their webbed paws make them excellent swimmers. Their intelligent and trainable nature sets them apart as exceptional and makes them well-suited for families with small children and people who want to bring a dog to their homes for the first time.
However, the Fox Red Lab’s sensitivity can sometimes spill over into reactivity, nervousness, and fear of strangers. These traits can sometimes appear in your dog even after thorough socialization. So, you must make careful choices when looking for a breeder.
Health problems
Red fox labradors are prone to a few diseases and common health problems that can be found in any type of dog. But don’t worry; vaccinations and occasional vet checkups will help avoid these health problems and other diseases. If detected early, many diseases can give your dog a healthy and happy life until it grows old.
They are prone to health problems like obesity, diabetes, hip dysplasia, Progressive retinal atrophy, Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tear, Otitis externa, ear infections, dental and gum diseases, Arthritis, Skin issues, some types of cancer, and bloat.
These problems are not specifically related to this breed variation, but any kind of Labrador retriever can suffer from such health problems.
Also Read: Miniature Labradoodle – Your Complete Guide
How do you take care of your red lab mix?
These dogs can very easily and quickly become obese. Even though you might enjoy giving them a treat every time they do something good, overfeeding them can cause obesity in them very quickly, which will affect their health and mental stimulation. Under-exercising is also one of the main reasons your dog can end up obese and unhealthy, which will result in exacerbating other joint disorders and secondary health issues, which can also lead to hip dysplasia. Larger dogs are more likely to suffer from this condition, which occurs when the hip joints develop improperly or become severely arthritic in their senior years. In some cases, weight gain also leads to cruciate ligament tears, common in red fox labradors.
If you don’t take care of your dog correctly and don’t give them the essentials like:
- Regular baths
- Dental care like brushing teeth
- Ear Cleaning
- Other proper grooming and hygiene practices
Your dog can develop odors and unpleasant smells or ear infections.
Taking care of your dog’s diet, skin conditions, and overall health will also help keep its scent neat and clean.
Pet care with prevention can help minimize future health problems. It allows your veterinarian to regularly monitor the weight and growth rate of Labradors, screen for diseases, assess their current health, and give personalized recommendations to make your dog live a healthy and free life.
The Labrador Retriever breed is also curious and can be mischievous, primarily as puppies. They ingest foreign objects such as clothing, toys, and other unhealthy items. Be sure to keep an eye out to avoid any of these types of incidents.
Exercise
Red Fox Labradors are highly energetic and active breeds. Regular exercise is essential for them, or they may engage in destructive behavior, boredom, and not feel their best.
Exercising regularly tones their muscles in good shape and manages their weight, decreasing the chances of many health risks. It plays a significant role in strengthening the heart and supporting overall mental stimulation. Activities like brisk walks, walks in parks, runs, swimming, and interactive play. Hikes or just running around the backyard or park are fun ways to stay active with your pup or
You can even throw a Frisbee into a lake or stream. These pups were bred as water retrievers, hence the water-resistant coat, and they enjoy being in the water. This will make them very excited and happy.
They need at least two hours of daily exercise. Because they are incredibly clever and genius dogs, these exercises are essential for their mental growth.
They do best with families that can give them the attention they need. If you cannot do that and spend most of the day out of the house, invest in dog daycare to ensure they get what they deserve.
Grooming
A fox red labrador who is regularly groomed differs from one who is not. Gaily grooming these dogs is vital to their lives as it maintains their short, dense, water-resistant coats. Brushing their coat at least once a week helps to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Bathing should be done using a dog-friendly shampoo to keep their coat clean and healthy.
Be careful not to use harsh materials or brushes on your dog. They are solid and muscular, but these minor irresponsibilities can cause skin issues and irritations. Your dog’s grooming routine should include attention to its ears, nails, and teeth. It is also good to remember that grooming means making it look good and plays a role in its well-being.
English and American Red Fox Labrador
No matter what you say first, the Red Fox English Lab or the English Fox Lab, they are the same. They have a darker shade of red instead of the “fox red english lab.” These two differ because of the changing breeding practices over the years.
Different breeding practices have shaped the characteristics of these dogs over time.
An American labrador has an athletic and muscular build. On the other hand, English red fox labradors also have a narrow neck and long muzzles to fit their streamlined appearance. Their coat is thinner than that of the thick-furred British breed, and they have a broader tail.
Conclusion
There is a specific charm and loyalty to owning a fox-red Labrador. They act as your perfect family companion. From their distinctive appearance and their loving nature, they can make any house a lovely home. Your fox red Labrador will flourish in your home with the proper care and training.
Be attentive and make an informed decision when choosing a reputable breeder to find your red fox Labrador.
Filled with intelligence, these are kind, affectionate, loyal dogs. Initially bred as hunting companions, Red Labs tend to be from working lines, which makes them high-energy, high-speed dogs with extra enthusiasm. These sensitive dogs are keen to please and make their owners happy and responsive to training.
