Fox Red Labrador: A Complete Guide to Their Unique Traits
The Fox Red Labrador Retriever is a stunning and unusual variant of the traditional Labrador breed. With a deep, rich red coat, the Fox Red Labrador is just like any other Labrador in temperament, intelligence, and adaptability, but with a marked difference in color.
In the following guide, we take you through its origins, appearance, temperament, and how to care for it.
About the Fox Red Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is among the most favorite breeds of dogs in the world, loved for their friendly disposition and loyalty. The Fox Red Labrador is another colored variant of this popular breed.
Looking at first glance like a different breed, the Fox Red Labrador is a yellow lab with a deeper, richer red color. These dogs are as affectionate, smart, and adaptable as their Labrador counterparts. Color Variation in the Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers have three primary colors: yellow, black, and chocolate. Fox Red Labradors are under the term “yellow” category for some, who feel they are darker and almost more full-bodied than lighter-colored yellow labradors.Â
The Color Fox Red ranges from reddish-brown to highly intense and burnt orange. Because of this range, they assume that they have quite another breed from others while, once again, it is not categorized for breed standard.
Breed Overview
| Breed Group | Sporting group (American Kennel Club), gun dog group (United Kennel Club) |
| Height | 21.5 to 23.5 inches (females), 22.5 to 24.5 inches (males) |
| Weight | 55 to 70 pounds (females), 65 to 80 pounds (males) |
| Coat Length & Texture | Short, thick, and deep yellow |
| Coat Color | Dark yellow, appearing almost red. Coat color varies based on the variety |
| Exercise Needs | High |
| Intelligence | High Intelligence |
| Barking | When necessary |
| Life Span | 10 to 12 years |
| Temperature | Friendly, loyal, and happy |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Origin | Canada |
Evolution of the Fox Red Color in the Labrador Retriever Family
The Fox Red color has been a part of the genetic past of the Labrador Retriever for many years, though definitely more so in working dogs.
It is believed that in the founding dogs of the Labrador breed, specifically the dogs of St. John’s from Newfoundland, the scale of colors as we view them in contemporary Fox Red Labs was presented.
Over time, when Labrador Retrievers were bred for hunting purposes- retrieving game from the color faded into the lighter shades of yellow and made Fox Red a rare color.
During the last few decades, with selective breeding by dog breeders, an interest in the Fox Red Labrador has resurfaced; however, it is still less popular than that of the regular yellow or black Labradors.
Generally, Labrador Retrievers were bred in Newfoundland, Canada, during the early 19th century. Such dogs were bred to help fishermen recover nets and catches from the water.
The breed was developed by crossbreeding local dogs such as the St. John’s dog with the already extinct Newfoundland dog and, most probably, some spaniels.
Such color difference probably arose naturally in these initial crosses. It remains unknown when, but popularity certainly surged once dogs were brought to England during the 19th century and fixed as the Labrador Retriever breed.
Why”Fox Red”?
The name “Fox Red” probably comes from the similar reddish color found in the coats of red foxes. The color is a darker version of the yellow Labrador’s coat but retains all the same physical and behavioral traits.
Fox Red English Lab vs American Lab
There are two main types of Labradors : American and English Labradors. While they share the same general characteristics, the breed has a bit of variation, mainly in looks and function.
English Labrador
Blockier head, broader chest, and stouter. These were the Labradors bred primarily for conformation and show purposes. Fox Red Labs, especially those bred for shows, tend to be of the English variety.
American Labrador
Thinner and taller, American Labs were bred to work at performance and, as a result, thrive at tasks such as hunting and agility work. Fox Reds can exhibit in either style but are more typical of the English type.
Fox Red Labrador: Physical Characteristics
In every other aspect, Fox Red Labradors are part of the general physical profile of Labradors, but for this one exception: their color.
SizeÂ
Labradors, with Fox Reds, are medium to big dogs. A male’s shoulder runs between 22.5 and 24.5 inches tall. The female runs from 21.5 to 23.5 inches tall.
Weight Â
Fox Red Lab’s weight ranges from approximately 55 pounds to 80 pounds. Males usually fall on the heavier end of the charts.
Coat ColorÂ
The coat of the Fox Red Labrador is on its ends at times deep reddish-brown and intense golden-red shades. Notice that the coat is expected to be uniform without a color difference in shading.
Texture
Their coat is, of course, dense, short, and water-resistant, and this contributes to them being great swimming machines. Their fur must have regular maintenance to remain healthy and clean.
Fox Red Labrador: Temperament and personality
Labradors, of which there is a Fox Red variant, are gentle and extremely friendly. They are social animals to an extreme; therefore, they like staying and getting along with children, other pets, and strangers.
Best as a Family Dog or a Working Dog?Â
Fox Red Labradors make wonderful family dogs because they are loyal, smart, and patient with children. They are versatile working dogs and can be fantastic hunting companions, service animals, or even therapy dogs. Their high energy and desire to please make them perfect for family life and active working roles.
Common Health Problems of a Fox Red Labrador
Fox Red Labradors, like any Labradors, live a long and happy life but they are prone to some common health problems.
So, it is important to keep their vaccination updated with frequent visit to the vet, to prevent any disease or other health issues.
Obesity
Labradors easily put on weight due to their nature if not exercised enough. Obesity comes with a host of problems and joint issues.
DiabetesÂ
Overweight Labradors are more likely to be diabetic, which demands ongoing management through diet and exercise.
Hip Dysplasia
It is a genetic disease, caused due to malformation of the hip joint leading to arthritis and pain. It affects nearly all of the larger breeds and Labradors.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
PRA is a degenerative eye condition that can lead to full blindness of Labradors. Breed stock should be screened for PRA.
Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Tear
CCL tears are quite common with Labradors. Their knees may be seriously impaired when left untreated. Such dogs live with chronic mobility issues that may go unchecked if ignored.
Otitis Externa Â
Ear infections can occur when the floppy ears are unsanitary, painful Labradors. When labradors do not care for them, loss of hearing ensues.
Caring for Your Fox Red Labrador Retriever
If you are getting a new fox red lab puppy, then they can be quite difficult and overwhelming to take care of, just like any other puppy breed.
But in general, they are known to be a friendly dog breed and are easy to train. Although it is still important to puppy-proof certain areas of your house to restrict entry. So here are a few things that you need to take care of when you bring a Fox Red Labrador home.
Exercise
Labradors are one of the high-energy breeds, and Fox Red Labs are certainly not different. They need daily exercise, including long walks, playtime, and sometimes swimming. Exercise is very important for the dog not to become overweight and have behavioral issues. Â
Like any other labrador, a fox red lab is a very clever and energetic dog breed and needs a lot of mental stimulation. So, they thrive best when they are surrounded by their family and loved ones.
GroomingÂ
Their short coats are low maintenance but require regular brushing, which removes dead hair and helps them maintain that healthy, shiny coat. Routine ear cleaning is important because these dogs tend to develop otitis externa.
Trimming their nails once a month and brushing the coat twice daily is very important for their grooming process. Along with this it is important to clean their ears on a weekly basis and brushing their teeth and gums daily is important to maintain their upkeep.
Diet & NutritionÂ
Labradors, Fox Reds included, are prone to obesity and require being fed strictly as well as in a balanced amount. Always consult with the vet on the amount of food to be provided, considering the age, the level of activity of that animal, and the animal’s health.
The daily food intake of your lab should contain 90% of the prescribed diet and only 10% should comprise the daily treats and snacks. You should never give your pup too many treats a day.
Cost
The price of a Fox Red Labrador depends on location, the breeder’s reputation, and quality, whether it is for show or as a companion. It generally costs between $800 to $2,000 or even more.
Wrapping Up!
The Fox Red Labrador Retriever is quite the beauty among the already famous Labrador breeds distinguished by its warm, rich coat and personality, being friendly, intelligent, and very versatile.
Regardless of their status, whether a working dog or the closest companion to the family, Fox Red Labrador is simply a multi-functioning breed that makes them so loved and cherished.
Knowing all this on physical needs, potential health risks, and grooming requirements, a Fox Red Labrador owner can keep his loved breed happy and healthy.
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