Why Labradors Are So Popular
It's no surprise to find Labradors at the top of the
list. First recognized by AKC in 1917, they didn't
make it to the top ten unit until the 1970's. They
reached the top spot in 1991, and it's a position
they haven't let go of since.
Judy Heim, a longtime breeder and handler in
California, told AKC that Labradors are popular
because of their temperament and intelligence
and their ability to be light-switch dogs.
" Turn them on, turn them off," Heim said. " If I
want to go for a hike, run, swim, play ball or
Hunt, they are up and ready to go. However, if I
want to stay home and eat a gallon of ice cream,
watch the Super Bowl, or watch a movie, they are
thrilled to hang right there, too."
She also called them one of the most intuitive
breeds, a quality that makes them great
companions.
"I started in Labradors 49 years ago, have handled
all breeds and I have wondered if I would find a
breed I preferred to the labrador," she said. " I
have not."