The array of Labrador colors, including yellow, black, and chocolate, presents a delightful variety for these loyal and sporty dogs. Labs are great family pets, are very smart and make wonderful service companions too. We have a complete guide to help you research Labrador colors for your next breed offering companionship for years.
3 Standard Labrador Colors
The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized three standard colors for the Labrador Retriever: Yellow, Black, and Chocolate (Brown)
Yellow Labrador – Responsible breeders who focus on yellow Labradors carefully select parent dogs with the desired coat color traits. They use genetic testing to ensure that both parents carry two copies of the recessive “e” allele at the E locus. This breeding strategy guarantees that the offspring will have a yellow coat.
Black Labrador – When two black Labrador Retriever parents are bred together, they pass on the dominant “B” allele, guaranteeing that all their puppies will inherit a black coat. Since both parents carry at least one dominant “E” allele, the E locus, which determines black or yellow expression, becomes irrelevant in this scenario. Thus, the focus is solely on the dominant “B” allele, ensuring a consistent black coat color for the offspring.
Chocolate Labrador – In order to produce chocolate Labrador Retrievers, both parent dogs must possess two copies of the recessive “b” allele. When two chocolate labs are mated, each parent passes on one copy of the “b” allele to all their puppies. As a result, every offspring inherits two copies of the “b” allele, ensuring that they will exhibit chocolate coats. This genetic inheritance guarantees the characteristic chocolate coloration in the litter of puppies.
3 Rare Labrador Colors
What is a silver Labrador? A silver Labrador, also known as a Charcoal Labrador, is a rare color variation within the Labrador Retriever breed. They have a unique silver or charcoal-colored coat that sets them apart from the more common yellow, black, and chocolate Labradors.
Are silver Labradors recognized by kennel clubs? No, the silver coat color is not officially recognized by the major kennel clubs such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the Kennel Club (UK). It is considered a deviation from the 3 accepted labrador colors of black, yellow and chocolate for Labrador Retrievers.
A Redfox Labrador, also known as a Fox Red Labrador or Red Lab is a color variation within the Labrador Retriever breed. Even with a unique name, Redfox Labradors are not a different breed but a shade of coat color within the Labrador Retriever gene pool. Their coat color can range from a rich, deep reddish to a dark golden labrador colors.
Redfox Labradors have the same physical characteristics, temperament, and qualities as other labs. They are known for their friendly and outgoing nature, intelligence, loyalty and companionship. They are versatile working dogs for sport or farming and make excellent companions for families and individuals.
White Labradors, also known as “ivory” or “cream” Labradors, have a distinct and unique color variation within the Labrador Retriever Colors. The White Labrador is created when specific genetic combinations and variations in coat pigmentation occur.
How is a White Labrador made? The white coat color in Labradors is attributed to the presence of a recessive gene called the “e” allele at the E locus. This gene influences the production of eumelanin, the pigment responsible for black and brown colors in Labradors.
What are some common questions about labrador colors?
Are yellow Labradors always the same shade of yellow?
No, yellow Labradors can range from very light cream to deep fox red. The shade of yellow can vary within the breed, and some labs may have lighter or darker yellow coats.
Can Labradors have markings or patterns on their coats?
No, Labradors typically have solid-colored coats without distinct markings or patterns of mixed colors. But, some Labradors may have small white markings on their chest or toes, but extensive markings are not typical for the Labrador Retriever.
Do different color Labrador Retrievers act differently?
The color of a Labrador Retriever does not directly determine or influence their behavior or temperament. Labradors of different colors, such as yellow, black, or chocolate, share the same breed characteristics and traits. They are known for their friendly, outgoing, and sociable nature.
The variations in coat color are purely genetic and do not have a direct impact on a Labrador’s personality, trainability, or intelligence. The behavior and temperament of a Labrador are primarily shaped by genetics, socialization, training, and individual experiences.
Labrador Retrievers come in a captivating array of colors, offering a delightful variety to these devoted and active dogs. With shades like yellow, black, and chocolate, Labs not only make fantastic family pets but also excel as intelligent companions for service and assistance work. Whether you’re considering adding a Labrador to your family or seeking a loyal companion, our comprehensive guide on Labrador colors will assist you in exploring the diverse options available. From their remarkable temperament to their long-lasting companionship, Labradors are an exceptional choice for those seeking a loving and devoted canine companion.