Red Colored Labrador Retrievers: A Comprehensive Guide

Author

Reads 549

Close-up of a Labrador Retriever with a Red Collar Standing in Sunlight
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up of a Labrador Retriever with a Red Collar Standing in Sunlight

Red Colored Labrador Retrievers are a rare and stunning variation of the breed, and as such, they have a unique set of characteristics.

They are born with a recessive gene that causes their coat to be a rich, reddish-brown color. This gene is responsible for the production of the red pigment eumelanin.

Red Colored Labradors can be a bit more challenging to find than their black or yellow counterparts, but with patience and persistence, you can find a breeder who specializes in this beautiful color.

Their temperament is no different from that of other Labradors, however, with a friendly, outgoing, and loyal nature that makes them an excellent family pet.

See what others are reading: Yellow Labrador Color Chart

Origins and History

At one time, almost all Labradors were black, but the potential for red fox Labs has always existed.

Chocolate and yellow Labs were less common, and yellow or brown puppies were often culled at birth.

Nowadays most Labs are companion dogs, and yellow and chocolate Labs are no longer considered undesirable.

The breed has now spread across the world, making it a popular dog breed globally.

If this caught your attention, see: Chocolate Labrador vs Black Labrador

Breed Characteristics

Credit: youtube.com, Fox Red Labrador: Everything to Know About The Stunning Ruby Labrador!

The Red Fox Lab's appearance is truly stunning, with a rich, reddish coat that ranges from a vibrant golden-red to a deeper mahogany shade.

Their coat color is a result of a recessive gene that occasionally appears in Labrador litters, adding a touch of uniqueness to this already beloved breed.

Red Fox Labs possess the same physical characteristics as other Labrador Retrievers, including a well-built, muscular body with a deep chest and strong legs.

Their webbed paws make them excellent swimmers, a trait inherited from their retriever lineage.

Red Fox Labs typically stand between 21.5 to 24.5 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 55 to 75 pounds.

Their almond-shaped eyes are warm and soulful, exuding intelligence and kindness, and are often accompanied by a friendly and expressive face.

Their friendly and gentle nature makes them great companions for individuals and families alike, and they are highly sociable, forming strong bonds with their human family members.

Good Family Pet

Labrador Retriever Dogs Playing
Credit: pexels.com, Labrador Retriever Dogs Playing

Labradors can make great family pets, especially for active owners with older children. Their energy levels are best suited to families who can keep up with their exercise needs.

They require thorough training, which can take one to two hours of exercise each day once they're adults. With proper training, they can thrive in a family environment.

Red fox Labradors love to explore outdoors and swim, making them a great fit for families who enjoy the outdoors.

American Type

American Type Labs are often taller and more athletic in appearance than paler yellow Labs.

They have a slimmer build, with narrower heads and chests than show Labs.

Their stronger prey drive can make them a bit more challenging to manage, especially if you have other pets in the house.

Despite this, many American Type Labs will still have the friendliness and outgoing personality typically associated with Labs.

Their intelligence and sensitive nature make them highly trainable, but they do require a gentle and patient approach.

English

Golden Labrador Retriever in Autumn Forest
Credit: pexels.com, Golden Labrador Retriever in Autumn Forest

If you're looking for a typical English lab, you'll need to look for a dog with a show background or at least some show blood in their pedigree.

English labs are known for their stocky body and blocky head, which can be a bit harder to find in working labs.

To ensure your pup grows up healthy, both parents should have good hip and elbow scores.

A clear eye test and a PRA clear certificate are also essential.

You should check with your veterinarian for a list of current tests required for Labs, as these can change over time.

Worth a look: English Labradors

Appearance and Characteristics

Red Fox Labs have a rich, reddish coat color that ranges from a vibrant golden-red to a deeper mahogany shade.

Their coat color is due to a recessive gene that occasionally appears in Labrador litters, giving them a unique appearance that sets them apart from other Labrador Retrievers.

Red Fox Labs have the same physical characteristics as other Labrador Retrievers, including a well-built, muscular body with a deep chest and strong legs.

Photo of a Labrador Retriever Dog Near Water
Credit: pexels.com, Photo of a Labrador Retriever Dog Near Water

Their webbed paws make them excellent swimmers, a trait inherited from their retriever lineage.

Red Fox Labs have almond-shaped eyes that are warm and soulful, exuding intelligence and kindness.

Their facial expression is friendly and expressive, with floppy ears and an ever-present wagging tail that radiates joy and enthusiasm.

Red Fox Labs typically stand between 21.5 to 24.5 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 55 to 75 pounds.

Their proportions give them a balanced and athletic appearance.

Red Fox Labs are known for their friendly and gentle nature, making them great companions for individuals and families alike.

They are highly sociable, forming strong bonds with their human family members and often getting along well with other pets.

Their coat color does not affect their health or temperament, and the red shade comes from a recessive gene that occasionally appears in Labrador litters.

Recommended read: Fox Red Lab Retriever Puppy

Care and Grooming

The short, reddish coats of red Labrador Retrievers don't require much grooming, but regular maintenance will keep them looking and feeling healthy and happy.

Brushing your red Labrador Retriever weekly with a slick or bristle brush will keep their coat shiny and reduce shedding.

A weekly brush also helps reduce shedding, which is a great bonus for any dog owner.

Lifespan of Retrievers

Crop black woman kissing cute Labrador Retriever dog on bed
Credit: pexels.com, Crop black woman kissing cute Labrador Retriever dog on bed

The lifespan of Retrievers is a topic worth discussing, especially if you're considering bringing one home. On average, they live between 10 and 12 years.

Labradors, including Fox Red Labradors, are generally a healthy breed with no major concerns. The color of their coat has no bearing on their health.

As a responsible dog owner, it's essential to understand that Retrievers share the same health issues as any other Labrador.

Retriever Grooming and Care

When it comes to grooming your Fox Red Labrador Retriever, a weekly brushing is essential to keep their coat shiny and reduce shedding.

Regular brushing also helps to prevent matting and tangling, which can be painful for your dog.

You can use a slick or bristle brush for this purpose.

Some owners prefer to brush their dogs daily, but a weekly schedule is sufficient for most Fox Red Labradors.

The written guarantee for one year on hips and genetic defects that comes with your puppy purchase includes regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your dog's health.

See what others are reading: Lab Gun Dog

Popularity and Recognition

Credit: youtube.com, Labrador Colors: Your Complete Guide to All 6 Popular Labrador Colors!

Red colored labrador retrievers have gained significant popularity in recent years. Their striking appearance has made them a favorite among many dog owners.

Their unique coat color is the result of a genetic variation that affects the production of the pigment phaeomelanin, which is responsible for the red color. This variation is relatively rare, occurring in about 10% of labrador retrievers.

As a result of their distinctive appearance, red labradors have become a recognizable breed, often featured in dog shows and competitions.

Retrievers Gained Popularity

The Fox Red Labrador Retriever gained popularity in recent years due to the rarity of the coloring and the high demand for the breed. This shift in perception has led to more breeders aiming to achieve the Fox Red coloring.

The Fox Red coloring was initially considered undesirable because of the desire to breed lighter-colored dogs. This led to attempts to deliberately breed out the coloring.

The rarity of the Fox Red coloring and the popularity of the Labrador Retriever have brought the coloring into favor.

Recognition of Retrievers

Credit: youtube.com, Why Are Labrador Retrievers So Popular? 🐶

The Fox Red Labrador Retriever isn't recognized by any formal dog clubs, despite their growing popularity.

The original intention to breed out the Fox Red color has had a lasting negative effect on its recognition.

Unique Facts and Images

Red colored labrador retrievers have a unique genetic trait that allows them to display a range of red shades from a light golden red to a deep, rich red.

Their coat color is determined by the production of the pigment phaeomelanin, which is responsible for the red and yellow hues in their fur.

These dogs can be born with a variety of markings, including white markings on their chest, paws, and face.

What's Unique About Retriever Puppies?

Fox Red Labrador Retriever puppies are a unique addition to the Labrador family, and one of the things that sets them apart is their temperament. They're friendly and outgoing, just like their classic Labrador cousins.

Their appearance is certainly distinctive, but it's worth noting that they're Labradors through and through, sharing the same traits as their yellow, chocolate, or black cousins. They're just as loving and intelligent as other Labradors.

Brown Labrador Retriever Standing on Brown Concrete Floor Near Swimming Pool
Credit: pexels.com, Brown Labrador Retriever Standing on Brown Concrete Floor Near Swimming Pool

One of the most interesting things about Fox Red Labradors is that they're just as likely to succeed in all the jobs that Labradors excel at. This includes as family pets and as working dogs in roles like drug-and-explosive-detection, search-and-rescue, and therapy work.

If you're considering bringing a Fox Red Labrador into your family, be aware that puppy reservations are typically made with a deposit, and if you place a deposit before the puppies are seven weeks old, you'll be given the opportunity to pick your puppy at that time.

Top 3 Unique Facts About Retrievers

Retrievers are incredibly intelligent, with some studies showing they can learn over 1,000 words and commands.

Their exceptional intelligence is just one reason why Retrievers are so popular as family pets.

These dogs have a strong instinct to please their owners, which makes them highly trainable.

In fact, Retrievers are often used as therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, and service dogs due to their ability to learn complex tasks.

Their friendly and outgoing nature also makes them a great fit for families with children.

For your interest: Labrador Family Dog

Images and Stock Photos

Black Labrador Retriever Lying on Green Grass
Credit: pexels.com, Black Labrador Retriever Lying on Green Grass

There are over 134,900+ fox red labrador stock photos and images available online.

You can browse through these images to find the perfect one for your project or start a new search to explore more stock photos and images.

Fox red labrador stock photos are a great resource for anyone looking to add a unique touch to their work, whether it's a blog post, a social media post, or a marketing campaign.

Comparison and Selection

Red colored Labrador Retrievers are a rare breed, making up only about 1 in 1,000 Labradors. They have a unique genetic variation that causes their distinctive coat color.

To choose a red colored Labrador Retriever, consider their temperament, which is often described as friendly and outgoing. They are highly social dogs that thrive on human interaction.

In terms of health, red colored Labradors are generally prone to the same health issues as other Labradors, including hip dysplasia and obesity. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help prevent these issues.

Puppy Prices

Close-Up Shot of a Labrador Retriever Dog on Gray Background
Credit: pexels.com, Close-Up Shot of a Labrador Retriever Dog on Gray Background

When considering the cost of a puppy, it's essential to be aware of potential price variations based on color.

Paying an unusually high price for a red Lab puppy can be a red flag, as it may indicate a breeder cutting corners on health or other important matters.

Most respected breeders sell puppies of different colors for the same price.

Puppies

Puppies are a bundle of energy and excitement, but they also require a lot of care and attention. At birth, Fox Red Labrador puppies are noticeably darker than the average yellow Lab, but they will darken even more over the first few weeks.

By three weeks old, your puppy will start to look more like a Labrador, and by the time you take them home at 8 weeks old, they'll have that lovely fox red shade. Your brand new 8 week old red Lab puppy will need frequent meals, close supervision, and plenty of socialization to thrive.

Here are some key areas to focus on as you bring your new puppy home:

  • What To Expect From A New Puppy
  • Potty Training
  • Raising A Puppy When You Work
  • Obedience Training

Versus

Credit: youtube.com, Evolution 1: Natural Selection vs. Artificial Selection

Red Fox Labs can be divided into two types: working retrievers and show-type Labradors, with the working type being more popular among hunters.

The main distinction between Red Fox Labs and Yellow Labs lies in their coat color, with Red Fox Labs exhibiting a deeper reddish hue.

Red Fox Labs and American Labs share a common ancestry, originating from the working type of Labradors in the UK during the mid-20th century.

Yellow Labs can range from light cream to dark yellow, but Red Fox Labs specifically have a deeper reddish coat color.

Both Red Fox Labs and Yellow Labs share similar traits, including their temperament, trainability, and physical characteristics.

Consider reading: Yellow Labs vs Black Labs

Training and Exercise

Red Fox Lab puppies are highly energetic and intelligent, making them excellent hunting companions and service dogs.

They require thorough training and early socialization to channel their energy effectively, and regular exercise is crucial to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.

These Labs have a natural retrieving instinct and can excel in activities like agility, obedience trials, and scent work.

It's essential to find a healthy and friendly puppy from a reputable breeder, as the color variation and pricing of red fox lab puppies can vary.

You can use a Fi Smart Dog Collar to watch their location and keep track of daily exercise, especially during training.

Finding

Person Walking a Labrador Retriever Dog
Credit: pexels.com, Person Walking a Labrador Retriever Dog

Finding a reputable breeder is essential when searching for a Red Fox Lab. Research and recommendations from trusted sources like local dog clubs, veterinarians, and fellow dog owners can lead you to a trustworthy breeder.

You should look for breeders with a proven track record of responsible and ethical breeding practices. A reputable breeder prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs over profit and conducts necessary health screenings on their breeding dogs.

Meeting the breeder and dogs in person allows you to assess their professionalism, the condition of their dogs, and the environment in which the dogs are raised. Pay attention to cleanliness, socialization efforts, and the overall well-being of the dogs.

A reputable breeder will provide a health guarantee for their Red Fox Labs, ensuring the puppy is in good health at purchase time and may offer scope for certain hereditary health conditions. Be sure to study the terms of the contract carefully before committing to an investment.

  1. Research reputable breeders in your area and seek recommendations from trusted sources.
  2. Look for breeders with a proven track record of responsible and ethical breeding practices.
  3. Meet the breeder and dogs in person to assess their professionalism and the condition of their dogs.
  4. Ask about health guarantees and carefully study the terms of the contract.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a red Lab a purebred?

A red Labrador is considered a purebred Labrador Retriever as long as it's not mixed with any other breed. This means it meets the breed standards and can be registered with a kennel club.

What is the rarest colour of Labrador?

The rarest color of Labrador is Silver, which is not a recognized standard color by reputable breeders. This is because Silver Labs are not a natural variation of the breed, but rather a rare occurrence.

How much does a fox red lab cost?

A quality Fox Red Lab puppy typically costs between $1,500-$2,500. Be cautious of prices under $1,500, as it may indicate a lack of transparency about the puppy's history and lineage.

Are red fox labs rare?

Yes, Red Fox Labs are relatively rare compared to other Labrador Retriever coat colors. Their popularity has been increasing in recent years, making them a sought-after choice for many dog owners.

What is a red Labrador called?

A red Labrador is commonly known as a "Fox Red Lab." This variant of the Labrador breed is prized for its striking appearance and desirable traits.

Edwin Grimes

Senior Assigning Editor

Edwin Grimes is an accomplished Assigning Editor with a passion for curating engaging content. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the publishing industry, Edwin has established himself as a trusted expert in his field. Edwin's areas of expertise include canine diet and nutrition, where he has successfully overseen the development of numerous articles and series.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.