The yellow Labrador Retriever with a dark red tint is known as the red fox Lab. These loving, devoted dogs, full of intellect, were originally developed to be hunting companions. Red Labs are typically from production lines. Here, we’ll take a closer look at the fascinating world of Red Fox Labs, examining their unique traits, personalities, requirements for training, and much more.
History of the Fox Red Lab
I regret to inform you that the majority of fox red Labradors were euthanized at birth, just like the majority of Labrador colors in the breed’s early history. The black labrador was greatly preferred by the hunting community over all other colors since it was a working dog employed for hunting. Red labs were therefore comparatively rare. In contrast to the current trend, the more prevalent yellow hues in the early days of the breed were dark yellow to fox red.
In actuality, the lighter yellow and cream hues that we now consider to be typical were rather uncommon. Actually, a dark golden hue was the first yellow ever recorded.
Appearance and Characteristics
Red Fox Labs are well known for their unusual appearance, drawing attention with their eye-catching traits and gorgeous coat. Let’s examine their appearance in more detail and discover the special qualities that captivate us about them.
Coat Color: The rich, reddish-brown color of the Red Fox Lab’s coat gives rise to its name. Their fur mimics the color of a red fox, ranging in tone from a vivid golden red to a richer mahogany. They are more attractive and stand out from other Labrador Retrievers because of their distinctive coat color.
Physical characteristics: Other than their striking coat, Red Fox Labs are otherwise similar to other Labrador Retrievers. They are able to excel in a variety of physical activities because of their well-built, muscular frame, which includes a deep chest and strong legs. Their retriever ancestry has given them webbed paws, which let them swim very well.
Red Fox Labs’ expressive and amiable visage has the power to instantly win people over. Their almond-shaped eyes radiate friendliness and intellect; they are warm and soulful. Their happy, enthusiastic countenance is complemented by their floppy ears and constant tailwag.
Size and Proportions: Red Fox Labs are in the typical Labrador Retriever size range. They usually weigh between 55 and 75 pounds (25 to 34 kg) and stand between 21.5 and 24.5 inches (55 to 62 cm) at the shoulder. They appear balanced and athletic because of these proportions.
Exercise and training
Due to their high levels of energy, Labradors require at least 60 minutes of daily exercise. He has to engage in high-intensity exercise to maintain his mental and physical stimulation. It is crucial to expend that productive energy. This can be going for a swim in the nearby lake, finding sticks, or taking part in agility competitions.
The Fox Red Lab is unquestionably no different from other Labrador puppies in that regard. This is a major factor in the popularity of Labradors as blind people’s assistance dogs. They also excel in many other vocations.
Grooming
These canines’ short, reddish coats don’t need a lot of maintenance. Even so, your pet will remain healthy and happy with some routine upkeep. These dogs have dense, short fur, so the best way to keep it shining and minimize shedding is to brush them once a week with a bristle or slick brush.
Approximately once a month, nail trimming can help prevent breaking and overgrowth, which impede a dog’s ability to walk. Ear infections are common in Labrador retrievers. To lower the risk of ear infections, wash your ears once a week and after any swimming sessions. Any dog, particularly Fox Red Labs, can have dental and gum problems. To maintain their dental health, brush them every day.
Health
The typical lifespan of a Red Fox Labrador is ten to twelve years. He is a healthy dog overall, so there aren’t any serious issues to be concerned about. His coat color has no effect whatsoever on his health. He therefore has the same health problems that affect all Labradors.
Any potential Labrador owner should be informed of the following health concerns, regardless of the dog’s color: It is advised that his parents get tested for elbow and hip dysplasia. Exercise Induced Collapse is another condition that needs to be ruled out. It occurs when a person engages in intense exercise and then loses control of their muscles. Additionally, since some conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy, can eventually result in complete vision loss, he ought to get an evaluation by an ophthalmologist.
Diet and nutrition
Given their propensity for obesity, fox red labs require a healthy diet. Large-breed dog food bearing the AAFCO mark is excellent for feeding dogs that fall within the breed standard weight range. This seal attests to the food’s excellent quality and compliance with dietary requirements.
About 90% of your red fox lab’s diet should consist of ordinary food. Treats may account for the remaining 10%. The best person to ask about food portioning is your veterinarian, who may suggest altering it if your pet suffers from an illness like obesity. A 70-pound, neutered dog typically requires 1,500 calories each day. Generally, these calories are divided between two meals, unless your dog is under four months old. Puppies in Red Fox Labs should be fed three or four times a day.
Popularity
Paler Labradors were uncommon in the early days of the breed. They were more sought-after as they stood out from the crowd. As a result, breeders deliberately bred for lighter colors in an effort to meet consumer demand.
Reds eventually declined as a result of this behavior, which actively “bred the color out.” It virtually vanished as a result of the dark red coat’s lack of appeal. But the darker red labs became even more sought-after as a result of their newfound scarcity. They are the ones that stick out in the current era among those with lighter skin tones.
In order to satisfy the demand of those who desire the rarer color, many breeders are currently using selective breeding to attempt to produce litters of reds. Everything has come full circle.
Are Red Fox Labs rare?
True, red coats would be uncommon in wild Labradors. Recessive in and of itself, the e gene inhibits the formation of eumelanin. Puppies that receive the e gene from both of their parents are the only ones with coats on the yellow spectrum. Then, one or more additional genes regulate how much pheomelanin those puppies generate, resulting in cream or red fur.
Breeders can infer that these genes are also recessive, despite the fact that their exact location is still unknown. and may be impacted by the existence or lack of additional unknown genes. So, litters of red puppies would be quite uncommon if Labradors were to breed randomly in the wild.
A Good Family Pet
This fox-red Labrador can make a wonderful friend, just like any Labrador. Families with older children and active owners would benefit most from their high energy levels. Although kids might be awkward and noisy, an older rescue dog might get along well with smaller kids. It’s crucial to train your red fox Labrador puppy thoroughly. And once you’re an adult, you should aim for one to two hours of activity per day.
In addition to their broader functions as assistance dogs, Labradors are among the most popular hunting companions in the world. Red fox labs, in particular, enjoy swimming and exploring the outdoors.
Red Fox Lab Puppy Prices
Dogs that are trendy in color might get pricey; this is partially the case with reds. I would advise against buying a red Lab puppy for an exceptionally high price. It’s possible that a dishonest breeder is skimping on health care or other essentials. The majority of reputable breeders charge the same price for puppies of any color, so your best bet is typically to get a healthy puppy from a reputable breeder.
Finally, the Red Fox Lab presents a distinctive variation on the cherished Labrador Retriever breed. With their gorgeous reddish color, amiable disposition, and trainability, these Labs are great companions for both individuals and families. Despite the differences in their appearance, they still have the same caring spirit. Experience the happiness a Red Fox Lab may bring into your life by giving them a try.