What is a silver Labrador retriever? 4 Facts, Characteristics, And More!

Labradors are extremely prevalent dogs that come in different colors comprising yellow, chocolate, black, as well as silver. What is a silver Labrador retriever? A silver Lab is a Labrador retriever that contains an exceptional fur of blue-gray or shimmery metallic-gray coat.

Thus, if you need a silver lab, you can think about years of companionship, dedication, and affection. With a nutrition strategy, a lot of activity, and appropriate veterinary care, these gorgeous dogs can stay happy and healthy for numerous years. Continue reading and learn everything about this dog.

What is a silver Labrador retriever? Meet the Silver Lab

A Silver Labrador retriever is a chocolate Lab that holds a dilute gene. This gene makes a silver-gray color coat. Although the gene is not noticeable in Lab puppies, silver coats will generally show up in mature Labs. 

This genetic dissimilarity can occasionally take place in any Lab breed, although they are much more noticeable in Silver Labs because of their double-dilute gene. These labs are certainly exceptional and attractive canines, and they are very popular with numerous lab owners.

The Silver Labrador is a comparatively new and uncommon color variant of the traditional Lab. Silver Labradors have the same features as any other Lab, including intelligence, faithfulness, and an enthusiasm to please. Silver Labradors are renowned for their gray or silver-hued furs.

They might also have white spots around their chests as well as paws and lighter-colored eyes compared to their traditional yellow or brown counterparts. These Labradors are accepted as purebreds by the American Kennel Club.

Together with their unique coloring, silver labs contain soft, short basecoats and medium-length outer furs. They might also have a lighter snout, tail tip, and additional parts of their body. A Silver Lab is a smart, friendly, and trustworthy dog that can make pleasing family pets, attentive guard dogs, and keen athletes.

This rare dog is becoming progressively prevalent and is part of an enhancing number of designer dogs. It is significant to note that dog breeders must work to make sure outstanding health and personality standards in the breed. Thus, be sure to find breeders cautiously before getting a Silver Lab puppies home.

Remember that several designer breeds of dogs might have underlying health problems because of their inbreeding and that these silver Lab babies might also need extra training than other Labs because they are a new breed. Therefore, be sure to completely discuss any possible puppy’s heritage and health needs with the Lab breeder before promising.

Overview of Silver Labrador Retriever 

Size:  Medium

Weight: 55 to 80lbs

Coat Color: Silver Gray

Personality: Sweet and gentle

Temperament: Sociable, faithful and affectionate

Hypoallergenic: No

Labradors are one of the most prevalent breeds of dogs, and they are indeed beloved by numerous owners. At a glimpse, these beautiful and sociable animals can look very similar. But, the rare and exceptional silver lab holds a distinct appearance and personality that makes it different form from the rest. 

The Silver Lab also contains a similar lifespan as the other Labradors. Whether you are seeking a sophisticated silver friend or just an extra-special Labrador, a Silver Lab can make an outstanding addition to your house.

History of the Silver Labrador

The Labrador Retrievers were grown in Newfoundland and were initially presented by the Europeans to British settlers through the ships trading amongst Canada as well as Poole. Labs were primarily bred for duck retrieving, helping in fishing voyages, and hunting canines. However, with time, their reputation grew more as family pets, and to this date, particularly in the Western world.

The Silver Labrador isn’t as old as the other counterparts. They first appeared in 1917. They weren’t thought pedigree Labradors by the Kennel Club and were supposed to be a hybrid dog between Chocolate Lab and Weizemarnier.

It is clear that their distinctive fur colors are because of the presence of the recessive gene pair observed in the Labrador gene pool. The origin of that dilute gene is what makes their particular origin vague. Because of this reason, the profile of Silver Labradors remains debatable for the most part.

Silver Lab Facts

• Silver Labs have blue eyes as pups.
• They are more susceptible to skin issues, such as Color Dilution Alopecia, compared to other Labradors.
• They are outgoing and friendly.
• They are smart and easily trainable.

Silver Labrador Retriever Appearance

Silver Labradors undoubtedly have the most distinctive silverish-gray color that leaves an influence on the observer. Their eyes are a gorgeous shade of yellow, on which a comparatively small black pupil appears striking. They have elongated floppy ears that are flat on the sides.

Their nose is brown. These Labradors have a tremendous charm that continues winning individuals over. Owners can be drawn to their extensive skulls and muscular physique. Their robust tail wiggles non-stop upon your vision, presenting you’re greeted and loved!

Now, look into some concrete physical characteristics of a Silver Labrador:

Size: Labrador is a large-sized dog breed. The normal height range for all mature Silver Labradors is between 23.5 to 24.5 inches.

Weight: The male Silver Labrador retrievers have bulkier bodies than the female Labrador. Usually, the weight of a mature Silver Labrador ranges from 55 to 80 pounds. The weight range for female Labs is 45 to 70 pounds.

Coat: Silver Lab contains a double fur to guard them against harsh cold weather. Their interior fur is denser and thicker in contrast to their outer fur, which is thin and short. Furthermore, Silver Lab’s inner fur is water-resistant, which means they can like water sports for a longer period without any influence on their health. Their fur is smooth and glossy, and feels overjoyed to pet.

Color: The other color dissimilarities Labradors can be found in are Black, yellow, as well as Chocolate. Yellow and black are common fur shades in Labrador Retrievers. On the other hand, silver and chocolate are rare.

Silver Labrador Temperament and Personality

Talking about Silver Lab’s personality, just like other Labs, they have friendly, loving, and caring personalities as well. They are a smart breed that makes the best mate for their family.

This high-spirited dog matures physically; however, it stays childlike at heart, invigorating the mood around the home by being cheerful, goofy, jumpy, and loved by everyone unconditionally.

The Silver Labrador retriever holds an easy-going character, which means they like every action with you. They just need to feel your touch; it doesn’t matter what you do. It is due to their attachment to their loved ones; because of this reason, they are susceptible to showing signs of separation anxiety once left alone for a longer period.

Furthermore, it is a friendly breed that flourishes on consideration and being around individuals. These sweet animals are the best friends of children. Silver Labs are easy-going and kind toward kids; they can be their friends for hours without exhaustion. One of the best potentials of these dogs is they survive well with other canines and pets.

These dogs are not aggressive toward outsiders at all. In contrast, they become excited at the sight of another person, hang out with them and try to excite them with how calm they are. And above all, they aren’t much of a woofing breed either, apart from when they are slightly nervous. They can also chew upon objects because of anxiety.

The Silver Labrador is an active dog breed, similar to the black Lab as well as the yellow Lab. They must stay inspired spiritually and physically to keep them away from negative behaviors. They can be a little susceptible to nipping; thus, they need much of your consideration. 

And above, if you love outdoor adventures such as hiking, then Silver Labradors will prove to be an astonishing friend to you.

Silver Labrador Health and Care

Labrador Retrievers’ requirements can be a little devastating for lazy owners. However, they aren’t that of a high-maintenance dog breed. Because of being double-coated, they shed a reasonable sum of hair, particularly the Silver Labrador, due to skin issues.

Grooming Requirements

1.      Brushing

As I discussed above, Labrador retrievers shed quite a bit. It means you can collect a tolerable quantity of hair from your house, particularly during peak time. Because of this reason, most owners brush their dogs every day to decrease shedding.

Utilizing coconut oil at least once a month can keep their fur neat, glossy, and soft. Massage the oil for about 5 minutes and then clean using a towel.

2.      Bathing

Bathing your Lab once a month is tolerable. Before bathing, brush them and dry them appropriately when you’re done. Use warm water and shampoo; it will retain their skin preserved. Several Labrador Retrievers don’t provide you a difficult time with bathing; thus, you can wash them easily.

3.      Nail Trimming

Cut your Silver Labs nails after every two months. But, if you start observing your Lab’s nails scratching against the floor while running, walking, and jumping around, cut their nails quickly.

4.      Ear Cleaning

Their delightful floppy ears have to be checked as well as cleaned normally to prevent any infection. Always comprise ear cleaning in their grooming period.

Common health problems in Silver Labrador

Every dog breed may face minor or main health problems. And I have listed all the likely health disorders your Labrador Breed could get. When having a Silver Labrador, always find a trustworthy breeder.

1.      Color Dilution Alopecia ( CDA)

CDA is an inherited condition in color-diluted variants of dogs, such as the Silver Lab itself. It takes place because of the presence of a latent gene. In this disorder, your dog faces skin problems, comprising hair loss, discomfort, scaliness, and flaky skin.

Hair thinning/ breakage occurs because of the destruction of the hair follicles, which cannot grow back in several circumstances. It makes your pooch’s fur look ugly but doesn’t affect your dog’s general health much, except for slight anxiety.

There’s no appropriate cure for CDA. Vegetarians give treatments to treat secondary skin infections. They also recommend using mild grooming products like shampoo that are gentle on your pooch’s skin and help in reducing follicular plugging. Do not use brushes with harsh bristles.

2.      Hereditary Myopathy

As the name describes, hereditary Myopathy, also called ‘centronuclear myopathy,’ is a hereditary ailment that creates muscular frailty. The lack of type II muscle fibers generates weakness, causing stunted growth, difficulty swallowing, hard arched back, skeletal muscles, and low exercise ease.

The hereditary Myopathy symptoms start in a 6- to 8-week-old puppy; however, they aren’t as long-lasting. They gradually become worse and are the most noticeable in a five-month-old puppy.

Sadly, several puppies with CNM are subjected to euthanization because they fail to function routinely. No dog holder should ever have to experience this painful moment.

3.      Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

In this condition, your dog’s ball and socket joints don’t rotate, flex, or extend normally, affecting the movement in dogs. This progressive problem in both joints causes trouble in climbing stairs, jumping, and running.

It is a painful problem that considerably affects the worth of your dog’s life and needs you to take extra care of your dog.

4.      Exercise Induced Collapse

Labs and their endless affection for playing as well as exercise is not something concealed; their energy drive is extraordinary. EIC talks about the recessive autosomal inborn trait. Your Labrador dog, in spite of feeling weak, will try to be energetic.

It will show symptoms like dragging their rear limbs to move, shaky limbs, unnecessary panting or dribbling, and a body temperature more than normal. Then, after 5 to 10 minutes, they die.

Extreme workout sessions are to be prevented in canines with this problem. But, it’s significant to keep your Silver Lab active; just do not go overboard with the necessity because it can cause weakness as well as EIC.

5.      Ear Infections

Silver Labs are the results of Chocolate Labradors. Chocolate Labs are more prone to ear infections compared to yellow Lab and black Labs; approximately 23 % of these dogs are susceptible to having them.

Bacteria backlog, yeast, foreign pests and objects, and allergies can cause ear infections in canines. These consequences include extreme discharge from ears, redness, irritation, foul smell, and head shaking.

Otitis Externa is one of the most prevalent ear infections in Silver Labs, considered by ear canal redness. Ear infections are nasty and painful and cause anxiety in your dogs. Consult a local veterinarian immediately if you observe any of the above signs.

6.      Over Eating

Labrador Retrievers are pretty prevalent for being foodies. Some experts link it with an inherited mutation. Currently, overconsumption alone isn’t a big issue; however, the secondary health issues are obesity, diabetes, and stomach difficulties. Occasionally, overconsumption might also show an underlying serious health problem, such as hypothyroidism.

Silver Labrador Retriever Diet & Nutrition

Your high-energy Lab requires a high-quality, nourishing, and protein-rich diet to perform healthily. The quantity of dog food you offer them might vary a bit with their size as well as weight. For instance, your Silver Lab of 50 pounds will require approximately 2 and a half cups of high-quality dog food every day.

The calorie need for an 80-pound Silver Lab is a bit higher; they will require around 3 and a half cups of food to achieve their 1,629-calorie necessity daily. Offer dog food that has sufficient calcium for joint growth.

Remember that dividing the meals into three to four intervals is always better for good digestion. These greedy animals can release their internal ever-hungry beast at the view of food, which causes a distended abdomen.

Silver Labrador Retriever Exercise Requirements

The Silver Lab fits into an active dog family. To keep them physically as well as mentally inspired, 60 minutes of exercise daily is vital. And if your Lab is very active, make it one and a half hours.

Labs like playing fetch, going on walking, running, and being silly. Therefore, their exercise session can comprise any activity; just ensure they exercise regularly! Give your dog one hour of your time every day, and give them attention and affection.  

In addition to playing and exercising, you can have them busy with interactive and inspiring toys. Those toys also aid them in providing coziness once you leave them alone in your house.

Silver Lab Training

Silver Lab’s trainability makes these dogs one of the most prevalent dog breeds regarding family pets. They are a very intelligent dog breed and can be trained easily. They can please their loved ones. They are a comfortable addition to most families.

Positive reinforcement methods work well with these dogs; their affection for food makes it relaxed to appeal to them to do anything you need. All you need is a preferred dog treat, toy, or any admiring food, and boom, your Lab turns into the most respectful boy in the world. Like children, teaching them good behaviors or tricks from an early age is effective. They are easier to manage as pups, although the adult Labs are larger and can be a bit stubborn. Generally, it’s really easy to train these dogs.

Life Expectancy

Silver Lab dogs characteristically have a lifecycle between 10-14 years. It can differ from dog to dog depending on health problems, atmosphere, and other influences.

Silver Labrador Puppies

A Silver Lab puppy is one of the most beautifully attractive sights to the eyes worldwide. The glossy blue eyes and the cloudy grey shade make a conspicuous contrast. But their eyes don’t remain blue. As time passes, they become dark. Their eyes become yellow after the Silver puppies cross the age of six to eight months.

How to buy a Silver Labrador puppy: Buying tips

If you want to carry a silver Lab puppy into your house, finding a responsible Lab breeder is very important. You’ll require a dog breeder who health examines all their dogs before mating and whose canines are a part of their lives.

Fortunately, breeding silver Labrador pups is not incompatible with being an accountable dog breeder. But you must be attentive to avoid puppy mills and wrong breeding practices.

Silver Labrador pups should only be bought from breeders that have confirmed the puppy’s parents for health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, congenital blindness, and CNM. Keep in mind that a silver Labrador, if recorded with a kennel club, will be listed as chocolate.

Silver Labradors And Kids

As Silver Labradors are very energetic, kids above five years old are a better fit for this dog. Their faithfulness and friendly nature mean that these dogs will do good with younger kids, but everybody will be in high spirits if this dog keeps some ‘older’ children to play with! Because a puppy, particularly, might unintentionally knock over your child who is not yet sturdy on their feet. A grown-up lab will be calmer and a perfect friend to your young children.

Pros and cons of silver Labradors

One of the disadvantages to taking a silver Lab into your life is that you can experience disagreeable reactions from people who think silver Labradors are ‘ruining the breed’.

Cons

• Some individuals may be offensive about your dog
• You won’t compete your Lab in the show ring
• You might have to pay a higher fee than you would for a consistent color Lab
• It can be difficult to find a responsible dog breeder in your region
• There might be a danger that your pooch will get alopecia 

Pros

• Your silver Labrador is expected to have the health and wellness of any other Labrador
• This Labrador will be as adorable and trainable as any other Lab retriever
• Your Labrador will perhaps be a great family dog
• You will have the desire to own a rare dog

There are also queries about registering silver Labradors born in the future. You must be conscious that individuals are demonstrating to have silver Labradors de-registered. Should they succeed, it could upset those who have to breed from their canine or want to participate with their dog in field trial competitions open to recorded pedigree dogs.

Dogs Similar To Silver Labs

Other similar dogs to the Silver Lab are the Labmaraner, the Golden Retriever, as well as the German Sheprador.

Labmaraner: This European hybrid between a Labrador Retriever as well as a Weimaraner is a large-sized pooch that shares several qualities with its Lab parent dog breed.

Golden Retriever: This prevalent dog shares numerous qualities with its correspondingly sized relatives. This dog is also easy to train and sheds a lot, too.

German Sheprador: This breed is sporty, easy to train, and the same size as a Silver Lab!

Some popular Names For Silver Labs

Although Silver Labs are a newer variation, here are some of the most prevalent names for grey dogs:

• Blueberry
• Dusty 
• Atlas
• Poppy
• Storm
• Willow
• Luna
• Greyson
• Asher
• Crystal

FAQs

How rare are silver Labs?

When it comes to fewness, there aren’t any precise numbers. But Silver Labs aren’t as common as other Labradors. They are still extensively available and are just as cherished by their owners; thus, you don’t have to rush when seeking one.

What is the rarest Color of Lab dog?

The rarest Lab color is a pure white Lab. They contain light eyes, red-brown snouts, and red skin near their eyes as well as nose. Awkwardly, albinism can also lead to deafness as well as health issues, for example light sensitivity.

Final thoughts:  What is a silver Labrador retriever?

Silver Labrador dogs have all adorable characteristics, like the traditional ones. They are outgoing, active, sweet, smart, and devoted furry friends. Their sociability towards children, outsiders, and other pets makes these dogs great canines for families.

You can experience a little trouble finding trustworthy silver lab breeders once you get a Silver Labrador retriever. Not to declare the scowls you’ll acquire from the self-declared lab supporters about Silver Labrador ruining the Lab dog breed. However, don’t let these things impact your desire for Silver Labradors. Follow your emotions and go for it!