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Labs are one of the most popular dogs in the US. And no wonder because Labrador Retrievers are beautiful, athletic, friendly dogs that are great with most families.
Would you like to adopt a dog that’s similar to a Lab but not a Lab? If so, you’ve come to the right place!
We’ve put together a quick overview of the Lab and then created a list of dogs that look like Labs. Let’s get started!
What is a Lab?
A Lab, properly called a Labrador Retriever, is a dog that originally came from Newfoundland, an island off the Atlantic coast of Canada. The dogs were developed to help fishermen; however, today, they’re still working dogs who are sometimes adopted as family companions.
Labs are very affectionate with their families and great with kids and other dogs. They’re filled with energy and need plenty of mental stimulation, as they are highly intelligent dogs.
These dogs are athletic, muscular dogs with down-pointed, triangular ears, a long tail, and friendly faces with round eyes. Labs have short coats that are easy to care for. They come in three colors: black, yellow, and chocolate.
Labs usually stand between 21 to 24 inches tall and weigh between 55 to 80 lbs. They have a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.
This is a quick overview of Labs, so you can get an idea of what the dogs are like. Now, let’s move on to our list of dogs that are similar to Labs!
Our List of Dogs That Look Like Labs
Here’s our list of dogs that look like Labs—we hope you find the perfect fur baby in this list.
1. Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is a large dog that looks like a Lab. This dog breed originally comes from German, where the dogs were bred to be hunting dogs. The dogs were bred to be brave, intelligent, fast, and strong. They were used for hunting bears, deer, and wolves. The dog breed continues to have these characteristics today.
Weimaraners have a distinctive look with their silver-gray, shiny coats and amber, gray, or blue-gray eyes. These dogs have an elegant, noble appearance. They tend to look aloof; however, they are very people-oriented and want to be near their families most of the time.
These dogs have a ton of energy and stamina. As a result, they require plenty of daily exercise. And because they’re also highly intelligent, Weimaraners also need a lot of mental stimulation. What’s more, the dogs have a strong prey drive and may chase small dogs, cats, and other small pets.
The dogs are independent thinkers and like to test their pet-parents boundaries. They can be challenging dogs, so they’re not recommended for inexperienced pet parents. However, with the right family, the Weimaraner is a wonderful companion and friend.
2. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Next on our list of dogs that look like Labs is the Chesapeake Bay Retriever (also called Chessies). These dogs were bred to hunt waterfowl in the rough waters of the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland. These dogs love water, much like Labs, and they are usually strong swimmers.
These dogs have a reputation for being great hunting dogs. They have excellent noses and a stubborn streak that makes them tenacious. Chessies also excel at competitions such as obedience, flyball, agility, and other dog sports.
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are friendly, obedient, intelligent dogs. They are known for having a mind of their own, so they’re not recommended for inexperienced pet parents. However, experienced pet parents will know how to work with these dogs, providing them with the structure and discipline they require.
The dogs need plenty of training and socialization; even so, they can be aggressive with other dogs. They do, however, get along with kids. The kids should respect dogs and understand how to properly treat and play with them.
3. Flat-Coated Retriever
The Flat-Coated Retriever is another dog that looks like a Lab. These dogs were originally bred to hunt and retrieve waterfowl. This dog tends to mature slowly, so they’re often called “Peter Pan” retrievers. They stay puppies for years! So, that means they’re full of energy and are very playful dogs.
The dogs are eager to please and love to be the center of attention. They’re also friendly and tolerant and get along well with other dogs and kids. And they will warn if a stranger is approaching; however, Flat-Coated Retrievers are too friendly to be watchdogs.
Because these dogs are so energetic, they don’t make the best apartment dwellers. The dogs need at least 45 minutes of exercise every day. While these dogs are not right for everyone, they thrive with pet parents who understand how to handle the dogs and with families who are pretty active.
4. Curly-Coated Retriever
Next on our list of dogs that look like a Lab is the Curly-Coated Retriever! The dog breed was originally developed in England and was brought to the US in the late 1960s. These dogs also resemble Labrador Retrievers, except that they have curly hair.
Curly-Coated Retrievers look like a cross between a Poodle and a Retriever; however, this is a purebred dog breed. They’re also one of the oldest recognized dog breeds.
These are large dogs that were bred to hunt. They have the same drive and determination as other retriever dog breeds. The dogs are also full to overflowing with energy and are highly intelligent. Curly-Coated Retrievers are also very athletic, strong dogs. If you’re looking for a jogging buddy, this dog may be right for you!
The dogs are very loyal to their families and have an even temperament, much like other retriever dog breeds. They can be somewhat wary of strangers; however, they will eventually warm up to people they’re not familiar with.
Many people think the dog’s curly coat must be challenging to care for. But we’re happy to say the Curly-Coated Retriever’s coat is pretty easy to care for.
These are great dogs for active families. They love to be outside with their families yet are happy to relax indoors, too!
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Ask a Vet Live NowSumming It Up
So, there you have it! This is our list of dogs that look like Labs! They’re all friendly, active dogs who do best with active families.
No matter which dog you may choose from our list, we’re pretty sure you’ll have a loving, fun companion for years to come!
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Julie
Julie is a graduate of the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, where she studied Animal science. Though contrary to the opinion of her parents she was meant to study pharmacy, but she was in love with animals especially cats. Julie currently works in an animal research institute (NGO) in California and loves spending quality time with her little cat. She has the passion for making research about animals, how they survive, their way of life among others and publishes it. Julie is also happily married with two kids.
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